Party...
Big expensive and bright chandeliers hung overhead, lighting the big ballroom. It was gathering of noble vampires, well formerly nobles as they had their titles revoked, they danced on the dance floor listening to slow classic music.
This was no ordinary gathering – it was a party for alliance members. This alliance was made to ensure they retain their noble status by helping each other to keep out the commoners and plebians.
"Congratulations, Thadeus!" boomed a hearty voice. A portly vampire, his face flushed red with wine, raised his glass towards a tall figure. "I hear you're close to securing a Viscount seat! You've done well, old friend."
Thadeus smiled and chuckled. "Indeed, Reginald. It's all thanks to this tournament. That I had a chance to elevate my House's status, a blessing wouldn't you say?"
Reginald let out a laugh. "That is one way to put it. This whole competition. Makes you wonder what the Queen was thinking. You know?"