The next morning began with trumpet fanfare, three footmen arguing over chair placement, and Gabriel threatening to dissolve a noble house over ribbon texture.
Damian, wisely, stayed silent until he'd poured Gabriel's tea.
The Coming-of-Age Ceremony had once been a modest affair: a tradition of presenting young heirs, commanders, and scholars to the Emperor for formal recognition. Now, with Damian on the throne and Gabriel at his side, it had become something else entirely.
A stage. A spectacle. A testing ground where alliances sharpened like blades under silk.
And this year, it was personal.
Not only was it the first anniversary of Damian claiming Gabriel publicly, but it was also the first time in decades that a dominant omega, seven months pregnant with the imperial heir, would be presiding over the ceremony as the Emperor's consort.
Gabriel's name had been written into every protocol.
And every House knew it.
—
