Chapter 6 - The Council of SovereignsIn late September 2026, the grand ballroom of the Drake Hotel in Chicago was packed to absolute capacity for the annual Brooks-Vance Global Design & Maritime Gala.
Over three hundred prominent business leaders, supreme court justices, corporate titans, and foreign diplomats gathered beneath the sparkling crystal chandeliers.
Standing at the main presentation podium, wearing an immaculate black tuxedo, was Julian Vance.
Beside him stood five-year-old Leo, Maya, and Toby, dressed in formal evening attire, holding small silver awards for their foundation's youth initiatives.
Julian adjusted his microphone, his gray-hazel eyes sweeping across the quiet room before settling on where Emily sat at the head table.
His deep, resonant voice carried cleanly through the high-fidelity speakers:
"Five years ago, a foolish man believed that a woman’s worth was defined by her circumstances," Julian announced with deep, genuine pride. "And then Emily showed the world that true royalty is forged in unbroken courage, quiet strength, and maternal love."
Julian held his champagne glass high under the glittering lights.
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"To my Chairwoman, my inspiration, and the queen of my life: Emily Brooks-Vance!"
"To Emily!" the entire room echoed in a warm, triumphant chorus, three hundred crystal glasses clinking together under the open sky.
