Phew... I exhale a tiny, invisible breath as the applause finally dies down.
I know for an absolute fact that no one in this room was clapping with their actual hearts.
Most of them are probably already plotting my downfall. And yes, my father, the Emperor, and the High Consort are definitely going to pull me aside for a terrifying "family chat" after this Convergence is over.
Whatever. The message was delivered. Now, it is time for the real battlefield: the mingling. This entire event is essentially an excuse for every important, overpowered person from both empires to meet, assess each other's weaknesses, and scheme.
Lucian and I begin our slow, graceful descent down the sweeping red staircase. Below us, the nobles have already resumed their elegant posturing, swirling expensive red wine in crystal glasses and whispering behind their fans.
