[: 3rd POV :]
As Jivian stared at Melira, the Empress who commanded nations with her very presence, his lips curved into a slow, sinister smile.
The light of the chandeliers reflected in his eyes, glinting with the darkness of hidden intentions.
He watched every movement she made, every delicate motion of her fingers as they traced the stem of her wine glass.
'Come on… a little bit more…' he thought, heart pounding with excitement and malicious glee.
The soft music and laughter around them felt distant, meaningless.
His entire world narrowed to that single moment, the moment the Empress of Humanity would lift the glass to her lips and unknowingly seal her fate.
The House of Valcroft was renowned across the continents for its mastery over soul enchantment and perception arts.
They could twist emotions, manipulate spirits, and shatter minds with a mere whisper of mana.
