The soft hum of conversation faded into a hush as the first notes of the music floated through the grand hall, delicate and deliberate, weaving a spell over the gathered crowd.
Elysia's heart pounded in her chest, not from nerves—but from the weight of everything that had led to this moment. The wedding, the plan, the dagger hidden beneath her gown... and the woman standing before her, hand outstretched.
Malvoria.
The Demon Queen's gray eyes held a glint of mischief as she waited, her crimson lips curling into a knowing smile that sent a shiver down Elysia's spine.
Reluctantly, Elysia placed her hand in Malvoria's, the warmth of her touch startling against Elysia's cool skin.
The world around them blurred as Malvoria pulled her close, one hand resting lightly on Elysia's waist, the other holding her hand with a firm yet gentle grip.
The music swelled, a slow, haunting melody that resonated through the hall, and they began to move.
