A line of elegant carriages approaches the grand entrance, their wheels rattling over the stones. Footmen in powdered wigs stand at attention, their uniforms crisp in the fading light. Inside the palace, chandeliers flicker to life, casting prisms across marble floors, and the distant sound of a string quartet floats through the corridors.
King Louis-Charles, a young monarch with uncertain eyes, stands at the center. He is flanked by Queen Marie-Aline, regal and composed, her pale blue gown trailing behind her. "Tonight, we celebrate the dawn of a new era for France," he announces, his voice both hopeful and wary.
Duchess Renée de Villiers, sharp-eyed and ambitious, leans close to Count Étienne d’Arcy, a loyal advisor. "The king is too trusting. The people grow restless, and revolution whispers in every salon," she murmurs, her gloved hand trembling ever so slightly. "We must guide him, or Versailles will fall," he replies, his gaze fixed on the glowing chandeliers.
Queen Marie-Aline glides through the crowd, her mask adorned with sapphires. She pauses beside King Louis-Charles, offering her hand. "Let us show France that hope still dances within these halls," she whispers, and together they spin beneath the glittering ceiling, momentarily forgetting the world outside.
Duchess Renée de Villiers intercepts King Louis-Charles as he retreats from the celebration, her voice urgent. "Your Majesty, hear me—there is danger in beauty’s disguise. Trust must be earned, not given freely," she pleads. "I will not let fear rule my heart, Duchess," he answers, though his hands betray a faint tremor.
Count Étienne d’Arcy stands alone in the garden, contemplating the uncertain future. "Change is upon us, but hope endures as long as courage remains," he whispers. Inside, King Louis-Charles gazes out over his kingdom, vowing to face whatever trials the new century may bring.
