“Announcing the newlyweds!” The herald’s voice boomed through the dining hall. “King Darreth Vireylon, and Queen Aster Silvercrest-Vireylon, Protectors of the Realm!”

Aster had to resist the urge to make a face. His name sounded so wrong with that tyrant’s name tacked on. Still, he kept his smile on as he and his husband glided onto the dance floor in the center of the hall. Some waltz or another began to play, and Aster was swept into Darreth’s arms. ...