Kaida steps up to the podium.
For such a formal event, she is in her full Queenly regalia.
The crown she wears tonight is a spiked halo nestled in the bed of her braids. It is a polished gold, embedded with pearls and clear gems.
In Cal's absence, Kaida chose to represent the fire of House Calore in a brilliant carmine red gown.
A red drape of silk curved around her bust and the embedded corset was hand constructed by none other than Jordani Viper.
Elara's previous stylist had found current employment under Queen Kaida.
It was his vision to ensure she was a glinting Ruby in a sea of Silver.
"Good Evening everyone and welcome to the annual Summer Ball, as we head into a fruitful summer period."
Kaida makes it known, Norta had everything they could ask for, in excess.
Thanks to Cal and her.
Kaida wasn't looking for praise, she was making a point.
A Red could rule.
"So much has changed over this past year. First and foremost, I want to thank you all for embracing this change. Now we stand, united. Under one Banner."
Her tone turns warm, and she smiles at her guests, playing the role.
"And thank you to those who travelled to get here. The effort is greatly appreciated."
It had been a bustle of people into Archeon for this very occasion.
We wouldn't have had to travel, if you didn't banish us from our own city.
The bitter tone sticks in Kaida's brain and her smile falters.
Her eyes shoot to the owner of the thought, of the scathing unsaid words.
Samson Merandus's eyes flash wide when Kaida's glare lands on him.
Oh. She heard that.
He shields his mind before cheekily raising a glass at Kaida and smiling.
She gives him a fiery once over in return.
Samson's cousin, Elara Merandus, had told him about Kaida.
He did not want any part of his cousin's affairs, for it was a royal mess.
But he was scorned that her death meant a fall in his social status and standing.
"Let's not stall any further. Let the festivities commence."
Kaida refocuses, and as she ends her introduction the orchestra's melodic notes flood the air, quickly gliding across the Hall.
Kaida makes her way to the floor and Yuri follows close behind her.
A number of people greet the Queen, bowing and curtsying and flattering.
Yuri would whisper their names and any other useful information so Kaida could make adequate small talk.
There was so much to remember and Kaida was thankful for her right hand woman's support.
The Reds in attendance flock to Kaida.
The newly instated Lords and Ladies have abilities as mighty as the Silvers, but blood as Red as spilt wine on cream carpets.
They adore Kaida.
The Silvers try to copy. They bare their teeth in silent smiles, twisted imitations of true emotion.
YOU ARE READING
𝐓𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐄𝐃 𝐓𝐇𝐑𝐎𝐍𝐄
Romance[Completed - Book 3 of the Blood Court Series] ❝ You manipulated me. Did you think I would be happy? To see you sit on my throne. The throne you stole from me, while you let me die. Me...
