She awoke once more, her gaze revealing three figures before her. Two of them stood tall; the initial figure's sword was engaged with Seraphina's, while the second's blade rested gently against her neck.
As she focused, their forms grew sharper and clearer. She recognized one of them immediately: Ambrose. The second figure belonged to Ivan, and after that recognition, her consciousness slipped away.
"You had better stop here, Lady Seraphina," Ambrose commanded, his voice resonating deeply.
"Refrain from harming Lady Eveloria any further," Ivan warned, retracting his sword from her neck, exposing a slight cut on her throat. Seraphina nodded slowly, her gaze shifting upwards towards the duo, a mix of fear and anger swirling within her. They loomed over her, weapons still bared, their posture ready for imminent combat.
'I don't get it. Why are they protecting her?' She pondered inwardly.
"Why did my brother shield Eveloria?" Briana's internal query echoed.
Agnes fixed her gaze on Ambrose, captivated for a moment, before turning and gracefully walking away. Ivan parted from Seraphina's side, approaching Eveloria, while Ambrose released his sword from Seraphina's grasp. With careful tenderness, Ivan carried her in his arms, resembling a bridal embrace, and exited the arena, Ambrose trailing closely.
"The victor of this match is none other than Lady Seraphina!" proclaimed the heralds, inciting a momentary eruption of cheers from the crowd. Seraphina bowed with respect and then retreated from the arena, leaving it behind.
Gavriel's mischievous smile revealed a desire that began to build up again.
' That weak expression of yours Eveloria, I must make sure I see it again. '
' Lady Eveloria, what an exceptional young woman,' pondered Alistair, a hint of admiration in his thoughts.
The king's gaze shifted to Lucian, his question clear: "Why did your daughter not employ your family's technique?"
"Your majesty, she struggled to master it," replied Lucian with honesty. A silence lingered, during which Lucian continued, "Had I known she wouldn't grasp the Ravenshield family's technique, I would not have allowed her to partake. My apologies, your majesty. It's a disappointment for both my lineage and the kingdom."
Before the king could respond, the queen interjected, her voice firm yet supportive, "Indeed, it's unfortunate. However, instead of succumbing to her inability to grasp the Ravenshield family's technique, she chose to demonstrate that she remains the daughter of one of the kingdom's most formidable swordmasters. She embodies the essence of a skilled swordswoman more than most." The queen's words resonated with pride. "Duke Ravenshield, you should hold your head high."
Alistair and the king, offered a slight smile and nodded in agreement.
"Indeed, your majesty," acknowledged Lucian, a faint smile on his lips. He looked away, though, clenching his fist as he grappled with his emotions.
The king rose to his feet, and the cheers of the crowd subsided as all eyes turned towards him.
"Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed participants, and cherished spectators,
Today, with the lingering echoes of the remarkable coming-of-age ceremony in our hearts, I stand before you with profound joy and anticipation. The journey undertaken by our young contenders on their path to adulthood has exemplified dedication, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence.
In the spirit of celebration, it is my great pleasure to make a special announcement. A splendid spectacle awaits us on the horizon—a grand debutante ball that will serve as a tribute to the accomplishments of our exceptionally talented participants. This elegant event, fostering camaraderie, will aptly honor the extraordinary journey these young minds have embarked upon, and it is set to take place next week.
To those who have showcased their mettle in the coming-of-age ceremony competition, your endeavors have not gone unnoticed. Your tenacity and dedication merit a celebration that befits your achievements. This ball will undoubtedly become a cherished memory.
Moreover, I extend this invitation not only to the participants but also to every noble within our kingdom.
In conclusion, I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to share in this enchanting event with each and every one of you. Let us unite once again to commemorate the achievements of our participants and craft memories that will endure for generations to come."
The king's commanding voice resonated through the air.
As soon as the royal speech concluded, the crowd erupted into wild applause. The resounding sound reverberated across the arena, filling the space with jubilation.
In a momentary lull amidst the cheers, the announcer stepped forward and declared, "With that, today's coming-of-age ceremony comes to a close!"
***
Three days later... as dusk settled in,
Marlene entered Eveloria's room, bearing a basket brimming with three letters and a few gifts.
Once inside, she softly shut the door and set the basket down on the floor, beside the bed.
Rising to her feet, she cast her gaze upon Eveloria, who remained in a state of unconsciousness. Seating herself beside the bed, Marlene lightly rested her hand on Eveloria's forehead, detecting a lingering warmth—a residual fever still present.
'Even after two days, the fever persists,' Marlene thought with a furrowed brow, her concern evident. She took a small cloth and submerged it in the bowl of fresh cold water she had brought earlier, before arranging the contents of the basket. Placing the damp cloth on Eveloria's forehead, she observed as Eveloria stirred slightly in response.
Mid-motion, Marlene halted as Eveloria's eyes fluttered open with gradual recognition. "Marlene?"
A soft smile tugged at Marlene's lips, and she responded with equal tenderness, "Greetings, my lady. How are you feeling?"
Eveloria blinked, her gaze slightly dazed before she replied, her voice husky yet reassuring, "Fatigued."
While her voice exhibited signs of strain, Marlene's concern remained measured. Returning to her task, she continued to delicately dab the damp cloth across Eveloria's forehead.
"By the way, Lord Ambrose has been visiting frequently to inquire about your well-being," Marlene spoke softly, her hand continuing its soothing motion across Eveloria's forehead.
Eveloria's brow furrowed slightly, and she muttered under her breath, "... What does he think he is doing?" She closed her eyes, allowing Marlene to carry on with her gentle care.
A few minutes passed, during which Eveloria reached out, her fingers lightly grasping Marlene's wrist as she withdrew her touch from her forehead.
"Is everything alright?" Marlene inquired, her concern apparent as she observed the distress etched on Eveloria's features.
Eveloria took a deep breath before responding, her voice steadier now, "Yes, I'm fine. How long have I been unconscious?" With those words, she eased her hands away from Marlene's grip, propping herself up slightly.
"Three days, my lady," Marlene replied.
"My lady, please, take a sip of this," Marlene offered, presenting a small cup containing medicine. Though Eveloria hesitated, she eventually acquiesced. Marlene attentively watched as Eveloria sipped the medicine before reclining against the pillows once more.
Eveloria passed the small empty cup to Marlene, who gently placed it on the bedside table.
Just as Eveloria was about to settle back into slumber, a brief pause halted her, her attention drawn to the basket. With a puzzled expression, she turned her gaze back to Marlene and queried, "Are these gifts from Gavriel?"
"Yes, and also from Lord Ivan. Most of their gifts consist of the remaining medicines I've used to care for you. One letter is from Ivan, another from Gavriel, and the last from the royal palace," Marlene explained.
"Bring me the letters, please," Eveloria requested.
Marlene retrieved the trio of letters from the basket and handed them over to Eveloria.
Eveloria selected the first letter, Ivan's, and began to unseal it. As her eyes traversed the words, her countenance gradually illuminated, each sentence lifting her spirits further.
"My Dearest Friend Eveloria,
I hope this letter finds you in sound health and good spirits. I wanted to convey my gratitude for the privilege of bestowing this gift upon you. The contents may not be of great material value, but their significance resonates deeply.
It is my hope that the enclosed medicines aid in your recovery and provide solace. I hold optimism that they will alleviate any discomfort you endure. Your well-being holds the utmost importance to me, and I offer my earnest prayers for your swift recuperation.
May this letter carry the warmth of my sentiments and the strength of my wishes for your healing. Take care, dear Eveloria, and be aware that you are always in my thoughts.
With sincerity,
Ivan"
Upon finishing the letter, Eveloria passed it to Marlene.
Next, she selected Gavriel's letter, but with a sigh, she promptly let it fall onto the bed without a second thought. She then reached for the missive from the royal palace.
Eveloria's delicate fingers gingerly traced the surface of the letter, pausing at the golden seal affixed to the parchment. The seal bore the emblem of the royal family, meticulously crafted with exquisite detail. The insignia depicted a regal lion, its mane flowing gracefully as if caught in a perpetual breeze. The lion stood proudly on a backdrop of ornate scrollwork, symbolizing both strength and refinement.
She carefully opened the parchment and began to read.
"
To the Noble Young Lady Eveloria,
Greetings and good tidings unto you. By the grace of the heavens, I extend an invitation most cordial. I humbly request your presence at a private tea, to be held tomorrow within the walls of our royal chambers.
we shall gather to partake in the soothing drinking of tea.
Should my invitation find favor with you. Let me know immediately of any dietary preferences or comforts you require, so I will ensure your visit be as pleasant as the first bloom of spring.
With reverence for your presence,
R. G.
[Queen Rowena Goldcrest]
"
' A private tea invitation from the queen herself? ' Eveloria thought.