Chapter 495: The Game Begins

Ethan's POV

The grand hall was already alive with movement—staff rushing to ensure every detail was flawless, security stationed at every entrance, and the elite of the empire preparing to arrive in their finest. The chandeliers blazed with golden light, casting a glow over the polished marble floors.

And Classic had no choice but to make it happen.

I found him standing near the balcony overlooking the preparations, his expression unreadable. He had pulled it off—millions spent in mere hours, every luxury imaginable displayed for the world to see. Yet, beneath the extravagance, there was unease.

"You did it," I said, stepping beside him. "A grand ball with no reason. Just as your father ordered."

Classic exhaled, adjusting his cufflinks. "And yet, I still don't know why he ordered it."

I smirked. "You will. Soon."

He shot me a sharp glance. "You know something."

"I always do."

Before he could press further, the trumpets sounded—the first wave of guests arriving. Diplomats, generals, influential families—every power player in the empire now under one roof.

And then came the ones who really mattered.

Christiana, draped in midnight black, stepping through the entrance with her usual air of authority. Eyes sharp. Guarded.

Skylar, a vision of controlled grace, watching everything unfold like a queen overseeing a battlefield.

And then—

Chris.

The entire hall seemed to shift as he entered. The room quieted just enough to notice. Not because he announced his presence, but because he didn't have to.

Classic turned to me, his voice low. "He's here."

In odded. "Now the real game begins."