The chandeliers glowed like suspended constellations, pouring golden light onto every polished surface of the ballroom. Lady Taryn had spared nothing for tonight's event. Silks draped the high arching windows, the marble floors gleamed like still water, and the scent of fresh peonies wafted from every intricately carved vase. It was a ball meant to exude grace, refinement, and quiet opulence, and it succeeded effortlessly.
Lady Taryn stood at the top of the curved staircase with her daughter at her side. Avarine looked ethereal in pale rose silk, the fabric catching each flicker of candlelight as though lit from within. Together, they watched as finely dressed guests trickled into the vast ballroom. Lords in embroidered coats, and ladies adorned in gemstones that glittered like drops of fire across their necks and wrists.
