It's the second day of the ball, and the atmosphere is even grander since today officially marks Auden's birthday.
The ballroom is resplendent with glittering chandeliers casting a warm glow over the richly decorated hall.
Lexzandra moves gracefully through the throng of elegantly dressed guests, her eyes fixed on Ivelianna, who appears to be in a heated conversation with her father.
Though the topic of their discussion remains a mystery, the tension between them is palpable, evident in their stiff postures and intense expressions.
Lexzandra's curiosity is piqued as she observes Ivelianna's animated gestures and her father's stern responses.
Sipping water—Nikolai having firmly prohibited her from trying any alcoholic beverages as he had the previous day—she feels the weight of several pairs of eyes on her.