Rin and Leo stepped into the grand hall of Caulem Manor, and Rin froze, her breath catching in wonder. The huge room glowed like a magical dream, its high ceiling covered in bright murals, their colors shining under the pulsing light of mana-charged chandeliers that hung like glowing stars.
Nobles moved through the crowd, their silks and jewels sparkling in a swirl of color.
The air carried the soft scent of jasmine and the warm spice of wine, while a string quartet played a tune from a golden balcony above, their music weaving through the lively chatter like a silver thread.
Rin whispered, her voice soft, "It's… breathtaking."
Leo's crimson eyes scanned the room, a quiet chuckle escaping. "Of course. It's Lucian's birthday. He gets the best."
His gaze caught Erin across the hall, her violet eyes meeting his for a brief moment before she vanished into the crowd. He muttered, "That girl..."
Rin glanced at him, her brow furrowing. "What?"
