The east wing hall felt heavier that evening. More cushions had been arranged in a wider, tighter circle. Black roses sat in shallow bowls, their scent thick in the air.
Candles burned in dense clusters, throwing warm light across the room. The silver fractures on every chain and necklace had grown thicker overnight, branching wider across wrists, throats, and hips.
The women entered quietly. Cat and Lulu took cushions next to each other, their shared private chamber still giving them quiet confidence. Bri and Luna sat close, shoulders touching.
Elara and Lira arrived together and exchanged steady looks with Isolde. The circle of allies was no longer a secret. It showed in the way their eyes met and small nods passed between them.
The husbands stood behind the circle like silent servants. Their locked cocks strained visibly under thin robes. Watching had become its own constant humiliation.
