As the music shifted once again—this time into a livelier, more playful tune—the flow of dancers naturally evolved. Couples gently separated and rejoined with new partners, a tradition among long-form banquets that encouraged interaction, understanding… and sometimes subtle challenges.
Asher found himself spinning away from Shae-Luren, who gave him a mysterious wink before vanishing into the crowd. Before he could fully turn, a soft hand reached for his, and he was suddenly paired with Veyra.
She blinked up at him, slightly surprised. "You again?"
"I don't remember leaving," he said with a crooked grin, guiding her into the next movement.
Veyra wasn't a master of formal dances, but she had grace—and with Asher leading, she easily found her rhythm. "You're actually good at this," she murmured.
"Military galas. Nobility lessons. I hated all of it, but the skills stuck."
