A chandelier encrusted with gold, silver, and countless gemstones hung from the ceiling, scattering light in every direction.
Beneath it, a floor of pure white marble reflected the glow so perfectly that it almost felt like standing atop still water.
Tables stretched across the banquet hall, laden with food and drink prepared from rare regional specialties—dishes whose names alone probably cost more than my monthly pay.
Crystal glasses chimed softly, and the air carried the mixed scents of wine, spices, and perfume.
At a glance, it was unmistakably the domain of high nobility.
For someone like me—whose entire financial experience consisted of a baron's allowance and a servant's wage—the scene was less breathtaking than intimidating.
…How much would all of this cost?
The thought alone made my shoulders tense. Instead of admiration, a strange sense of pressure settled over me, as if I didn't quite belong in the same space as all this excess.
