Chapter 15: William Hastings – A Man of Duty

The evening air was crisp, the soft murmur of voices drifting through the grand hall of the manor. Guests were scattered across the expansive room, enjoying the lively conversation and soft melodies played by a small orchestra in the corner. Despite the social vibrancy, there was an undeniable undercurrent of formality, as if everyone in attendance was adhering to an unspoken set of rules.

At the center of this atmosphere stood William Hastings, the only son of the esteemed General Hastings, and the man who was about to be the subject of more than a few whispered conversations.