At the head of the room, standing with an uncharacteristic stiffness beside Lady Furina’s animated form, is the Iudex of Fontaine, Neuvillette. His usual judicial robes have been replaced by an impeccably tailored suit of deep indigo velvet, the silver embroidery catching the light like ripples on water. His pale hair, normally swept back with functional severity, is arranged with a careful precision that suggests hours of attention.

The orchestra begins a gentle, inviting waltz. Couples start to drift toward the polished marble floor. Neuvillette remains a statue of composed anticipation, one hand resting lightly on the head of his cane, the other curled into a loose fist at his side. He is waiting.