The mansion on Velorum Island was filled—with illustrious guests, some 200 in all, each representing a different faction of high society. The atmosphere was one of tense harmony, with rivalries carefully hidden behind polite smiles. The sound of, music wafted through the hall, adding a touch of sophistication to the scene as the guests moved elegantly among each other.
Meanwhile, Mia, Ava, and Henry watched the scene intently, each lost in their own thoughts and formulating their plans. Their expressions revealed a mixture of veiled intrigue as they sensed positions shifting before their eyes. Ava, known for her cunning and determination, could not hide her dissatisfaction. "Interesting, isn't it? She whispered to Mia and Henry. "I suggest we take action and see how this plays out."
Mia and Henry exchanged glances, realizing the gravity of the situation. Mia was determined to convince Lady Elizabeth. She knew that the Star Harmonica, a rare and magnificent musical gem, would be the perfect touch to enhance the evening's atmosphere.
With a charming smile, Mia approached Lady Elizabeth. Her presence was gentle and determined, capturing the hostess attention. "Aunt, you look beautiful this evening," she began with a respectful curtsy. "There is something we would like—to ask of you, something we believe will make this evening even more memorable."
Lady Elizabeth, a woman of great grace and wisdom, looked at Mia with curiosity. "And what might that be, my dear?"
Ava, who was discreetly standing next to Mia, added in a soft tone, "It's about something—very special you were given, the 'Star Harmonica. We believe it can not only illuminate this night in a unique way but also honor the occasion of Adam and Damián."
Elizabeth thought for a moment, her eyes reflecting thoughtfulness. She longed for a truly special night, but also wanted to keep the focus on the current celebration. Still, she was moved—by young people's desire to share something so meaningful.
"Certainly," she finally responded with a gracious smile. "Let's do this. Organize those who wish to perform a musical presentation, but it can't be too many; tonight belongs to Adam and Damián, and we shall have surprises."
Mia and Ava's eyes gleamed with gratitude. This moment promised to be a brilliant addition to a night already filled with intrigue and surprises.
The cuisine of the night reached five-star standards. The flavors, with smoky, spicy, bitter, and salty notes, remained distinct and memorable. The combinations of ingredients surprised me with their originality, creating a harmonious fusion of terrestrial and marine elements, carefully orchestrated.
Indeed, the night was filled with unforgettable moments. Damián looked at the friend in front of him with a deep desire emanating from his soul that Aster would find happiness. Even though it seemed like a mistake, even aware that the odds were against them, it was an uncertain gift. He acknowledged the folly of his hopes, already anticipating inevitable failure.
When everyone was seated at the table, Lord Mallet began a brief speech. With a serious and solemn tone, he declared, "Today, we have the honor of welcoming new members." Some may have withdrawn from our history, but our families are starting anew here and now."
Directing his gaze at Aster and Damián, he continued, "From this moment forward, I ask that you exercise caution in your words and actions, as you represent these families. I am truly pleased that we have all gathered here."
Aster and Damián listened attentively and showed cooperation. They demonstrated genuine interest in the stories that Lord Mallet shared about the Kadman family islands and their historical struggles against pirates. These narratives elicited laughter, even from Lord Malcolm Kadman, as it was the history of his own family.
Aster and Damián understood the sincerity of Lord Mallet's words and interests. As magnates with remarkable family backgrounds, they were now welcoming them with a genuine posture, even if they were considered outsiders in some ways. If the situation weren't so serious, it could even be seen as comical.
Reflecting on past frustrations rarely leads to a positive place. Damián redirected his attention to the task of simply waiting for that night to end as quickly as possible.
The mansion on Velorum Island was truly phenomenal, an imposing structure that gleamed with crystalline splendor rivaling the very sun.
For a moment, Damián raised his head to widen his field of vision.
His gaze fell upon Adam, who was engaged in conversation with some people, elegantly dressed in a tailored tuxedo. That alone was enough to trigger his internal alarms, but the tall, slim body concealed behind the tuxedo left him stunned.
However, despite all the impressive displays of masculinity before his eyes, he finally realized what was in front of him.
Wow. Simply, wow.
With impeccable grace, Adam raised his glass in Damián's direction. Faced with all that magnificence of masculinity within his reach, all Damián could do was stare, his expression a mix of shock and admiration.
Adam's gaze upon him changed... As if a shield had been removed from his eyes, revealing an overwhelming life force that took his breath away. The powerful magnetism he emanated intensified, becoming an almost palpable presence of boundless and vigorous energy. Acting on pure instinct, Damián understood that this reaction was chemical, a result of an AO connection.
Adam's bright blue eyes were keen and inquisitive, and Damián felt they were fixed on him. His heart began to beat faster, and his lips parted with accelerated breathing.
The scent he exuded was enticing—not cologne or any artificial fragrance. It was intoxicating, just like him. They were his pheromones, as if they were tuned exclusively to him. There was electricity—a connection between them, like an invitation to intimacy.
Lady Elizabeth, dressed in an elegant evening gown, discreetly raised her champagne glass, capturing the attention of all the guests. Her gesture was gentle and determined, commanding the room's attention. With a gracious smile, she began to speak.
"Dear friends, it is an honor and a joy to have you all here on this special night. We celebrate the love of two hearts that have found each other, Adam and Damián. However, as you all know, this night would not be complete without a touch of magic."
She made a brief pause, leaving everyone curious about what was to come. Her eyes, filled with curiosity and determination, glanced at Mia, Ava, and Henry, recognizing the importance of their desire to make this night memorable.
"It is with great pleasure that I wish to present something extraordinary to all of you, a very special gift from my dear husband, Lord Malcolm." Her eyes shone with deep love as she mentioned her husband's name.
At this moment, the double doors of the hall opened, and properly uniformed staff, carefully carrying various boxes adorned with golden details, as well as musical instruments like a cello and violins, strategically positioned them around the piano. Curiosity grew in the hall as all eyes turned to them.
With a gracious gesture, Lady Elizabeth invited Lord Malcolm to join her in the center of the hall. Staff opened the boxes reverently, revealing the "Harmonic Star," a rare and magnificent musical jewel. The precious electronic components sparkled in the light of the chandeliers, creating a spectacle of colors and brilliance. They were directly connected to a large screen.
"This is the 'Harmonic Star,'" Lady Elizabeth continued. "A unique piece that represents the harmony and beauty of music, classifying it through performance and notes. And today, we wish to share this beauty with all of you."
Lord Malcolm, with skill and grace, gave a brief speech about the melody that Lady Elizabeth would play connected to the "Harmonic Star." Soon after, the hall filled with a celestial melody. The sound was so pure and captivating that all the guests fell silent, absorbing the magic of the music.
As the melody unfolded, the lights in the hall dimmed, creating an ethereal atmosphere. The music enveloped all those present, uniting them in a moment of pure enchantment.
When the final note was played, silence lingered for a moment before being broken by enthusiastic and admiring applause. Lady Elizabeth and Lord Malcolm shared a look of complicity and love as the hall filled with praise for the incredible performance.
And so, immediately, the "Harmonic Star" became the highlight of the evening, rating:
Instrumental/Vocal Technique
Expression and Interpretation
Rhythm and Synchronization
Dynamics and Articulation
Tuning
Timbre and Sound
Communication among musicians
Memorization and mastery of the score
Improvisation (if applicable)
Stage presence and communication with the audience
Lady Elizabeth's notes were exceptionally high, with 7 stars. The addition of musical instruments created a richer and more immersive atmosphere for the scene.
Mia, as Lady Elizabeth's niece and renowned in the world of classical music, positioned herself to be the next to play and be evaluated by the "Harmonic Star." Her love for music had always connected her with her aunt, who was equally passionate about enchanting melodies. However, Mia had other plans for this evening.
While Mia prepared for her performance, Penny was tasked with introducing and presenting the piece that would be performed on the piano. What the guests did not know was that this musical presentation carried a hint of provocation, aimed at Damian and Aster.
Mia's performance was excellent, and her piano skills earned her a 5-star rating.
Ava and Henry, aware of Mia's plan to embarrass Damian and Aster, decided to approach Lord Mallet and his aunt Sarah with a suggestion. They had learned that Aster was an exceptional musician and that Damian also had notable musical abilities, and they approached Lady Sarah with curiosity.
"You know, Lord Mallet," Ava began with a shrewd smile, "I've heard that Aster here is an exceptional musician. And Damian, well, he also has remarkable musical talent, doesn't he?"
Henry, with a gentle tone, added, "It seems that both of them share a passion for music, and it would be a shame not to give them a chance to showcase their talents tonight."
Motivated by curiosity and a willingness to see what these two omegas were capable of, Lady Sarah considered the suggestion with a faint smile. "That is interesting indeed. It would be a test to see how prepared they are. Very well, let's give them this opportunity."
Ava responded promptly, "Aunt Sarah, my cousin Callum's Wife role is extremely important. It is crucial that Aster and his friend are assessed in terms of education and culture."