The ballroom quieted as the Master of Ceremonies stepped forward, staff in hand.
The chandeliers dimmed just slightly, allowing the glow of the golden platform to draw all attention to the front of the great hall. Musicians lowered their bows, and the air settled into anticipation.
Min-jae lifted his chin, his expression smooth, gaze forward, posture composed. Even with nerves curling soft and careful in his stomach, he would not show it.
He refused to let anything, past, present, or imagined future..shake him now.
Meical watched him for a moment, intending to say something reassuring, but Min-jae stepped forward before he could..ignoring him.
He didn't need reassurance.
He was Kim Min-jae and he wasn't going to let anyone crush him.
The Master of Ceremonies raised his voice, deep and commanding:
"Announcing His Majesty, King Radomir Volkovich Dragomirov, Sovereign of Aldoria!"
The doors opened in shimmering fanfare.
