The grand banquet hall of the OrionHeart Palace hosted a spectacular celebration to honor their victory. Crystal chandeliers cast a warm glow over the polished stone floors. Musicians played lively tunes from a raised balcony.
Nobles and regional elders mingled around the edges of the room, raising their goblets to toast the survival of their realm.
Rias discarded her shredded velvet curtain for an elegant crimson gown that flowed beautifully around her ankles. She linked her arm through Rudy's tailored sleeve and pulled him directly toward the center of the hall.
"You promised me a dance, Rudy," Rias smiled brightly. Her glowing red eyes sparkled with sheer joy.
Rudy chuckled and spun her gracefully into his arms. "I promised you breakfast first. Fortunately, I can easily multitask."
