On the evening following the filing of their mutual divorce application, the Grand Ducal couple of Belov stood side by side in the Grand Ballroom of the Imperial Palace in the capital, Estella.

The social calendar of the Empire was not idle enough to accommodate a couple's personal affairs, and as long as the final procedures were not complete, the two were still legally a perfectly fine Grand Duke and Grand Duchess. Thanks to that, even the day after applying for divorce, they had to attend the same banquet in full formal attire. It was a finishing touch to a rather diligent married life.

The snow that fell a few days ago remained white at the edges of the palace gardens, and beyond the glass windows, a bitter winter wind shook the tree branches. In contrast, the inside of the hall was excessively warm with the heat from chandeliers and fireplaces, and imperial figures and high nobles were busy exchanging greetings.

On the surface, the Belov couple seemed no different than usual. Ivan did not miss any necessary greetings and did not seem to have any intention of publicly embarrassing Guest. At least, that was the case until the first song began.

As the prelude flowed, nobles attending as couples began to reach out to one another. Dancing the first dance with one's spouse was an old custom, a piece of etiquette that, while not strictly law, there was no reason to break. Especially for those of high status who drew all eyes, like the Grand Ducal couple. Naturally, several gazes turned toward them.

Ivan could not have been unaware of this fact.