The Emperor's low chuckle reverberated through the great hall like ripples across a still pond. "A competition?" he mused, swirling his wine as if this entire night had been lacking just that one drop of chaos. "Let the court be entertained."
Across the hall, excitement shimmered like heat on stone. The young ladies leaned forward with glowing eyes and delicate hands clasped just so. A few older officials adjusted their postures, feigning disinterest. The nobles loved games. Especially the kind that looked harmless.
I set my teacup down and waited, sending up a quick prayer that she wasn't that predictable.
But sure enough, she rose to her feet as everyone turned to look at her.