On the other hand, Lucian drained the last of his wine, letting the warmth slide down his throat while his sharp eyes continued to scan the party. Glints of light from the crystal chandeliers reflected off the nobles, each engaged in conversation, their hidden agendas masked by polite smiles.
He leaned against the wall, idly toying with his empty glass, and sighed. He then gazed out the window at the night sky, observing the glittering stars scattered across the inky expanse. For a moment, his mind wandered—calculating his next move, strategizing, and weighing the risks.
Laughter from the guests in the hall broke his reverie. He glanced back towards the ongoing festivities, his sharp eyes catching figures that piqued his interest. In a corner of the room, Duke Reynald Florence was speaking with someone—his tone flat, but Lucian sensed something hidden beneath the surface.
