Heidi couldn't believe her eyes at her own reflection. She looked like any other noble lady right now.
The gown was a masterpiece of delicate silk and intricate embroidery, shimmering with a soft, ethereal light. The base of the gown was a pale, moonlit blue, like the gentle hue of a summer sky at dusk. Delicate silver threads danced across the bodice, weaving a pattern of interlocking flowers and vines that seemed to shimmer and move in the light.
The sleeves were long and flowing, with tiny, sparkling beads that cascaded down the length like a river of stars. The neckline was high and rounded, framing Heidi's face with a delicate lace that resembled the intricate patterns of a snowflake. She also had matching gloves on her hands.
The skirt fell in soft, flowing folds to the floor, with layers of sheer tulle underneath that gave the gown a whispery, romantic texture. The hem was edged with a delicate silver trim, shaped like the petals of a flower.
Heidi's hair was not left out. Her ginger brown hair was woven intricately and held in place with hair pins. While the rest of her hair cascaded down her back in soft, loose braids.
A veil covered the lower part of her face such that only her eyes were visible. She wore beautiful crystal heels which added a wonderful touch to her looks. Overall, Heidi was taken aback by the gown's magical power.
She only had to try her best to blend in with the crowd and find a perfect opportunity to take the flower. She also needed to keep her distance from Anna and Charlotte, and the slaves. The last thing she needed was undue attention but funny enough, her appearance commanded attention.
Heidi walked slowly in the heels, as it was something she wasn't used to. The slaves usually wore sandals but thankfully the heel of her shoes were short.
As she walked into the grand celebration hall, Heidi could feel a thousand eyes boring holes into her gown. She was suddenly grateful for the veil. She took a deep breath as she took a seat in the most inconspicuous place, quietly praying that no one would ask for a dance.
Viktor followed the queen mother through the opulent ballroom, she had a wide smile on her face as she eagerly introduced him to the guests.
Viscount Thomas watched the royal family with interest, his eyes glinting with mischief as they met Viktor's gaze. "Ah, Prince Viktor, it is an honor to finally meet you," the viscount said, his deep voice dripping with fake sincerity as he bowed slightly, his velvet coat whispering against his legs.
Viktor offered the viscount a small, enigmatic smile, his gaze lazy on the viscount's face, his eyes narrowing slightly as he didn't fail to notice the mock sincerity. "I understand, Viscount," Viktor said, his voice low and smooth, like honey dripping from a spoon. "I missed myself too"
The viscount's face fell slightly, a flicker of surprise crossing his features before he regained his composure, his smile never wavering. "It must have been hard being at the war front," he said, his voice dripping with concern, "but you have shown yourself worthy. Rising through the ranks in such a short time."
Viktor let out a small yawn, his eyes flashing with boredom as he surveyed the viscount's face. Most of the guests here didn't have his good interest at heart, they only wanted to get in his good graces, to bask in the reflected glory of his power. "It is for the interest of the empire, after all," Viktor said, his voice dripping with ennui, his gaze drifting away from the viscount like a leaf on a lazy stream.
"Duke Abbott" Emilia's voice came, her voice dripping with honeyed sweetness, "it is an honor to have you here."
Viktor's gaze fell on the Duke, his eyes narrowing slightly as it fell on the duke's rugged features, and the subtle scent of leather and smoke that clunged to him.
The Duke bowed, his movement gracious, "it is a greater honor to meet the first prince of Blood stone. This is my daughter, lady Niyassa." The Duke said gesturing to his daughter who stood beside him, her porcelain skin glowing in the soft light of the chandeliers.
Niyassa bowed, her raven hair cascading down her back in curly waves. "It is a pleasure to meet you prince Viktor." She said stretching her knuckles, adorned with delicate gloves for a kiss.
Viktor's gaze flickered to her hands, his copper green eyes cold as ice, before he replied. "The pleasure is mine." However, he completely ignored her outstretched hands leaving her feeling like a rebuffed child.
Niyassa retracted her hands back to her side, her face falling in shame as Viktor had obviously ignored her.
"You are quite a pretty one, lady Niyassa." Emilia said with a smile. Niyassa bowed slightly, forcing a smile on her face.
"If you would excuse me" Viktor said, bowing slightly as he walked away from them.
Taking a glass of wine from a passing butler, Viktor leaned against the wall with his eyes closed.
"You should be nicer to the ladies, you know" a voice came bringing a sly smile to Viktor's lips.
"And why is that? little brother" Viktor asked, his voice low and smooth. He raised an eyebrow, his gaze sparkling with amusement.
Markus took a sip of the wine in his hands, his eyes narrowing slightly as he regarded Viktor. "The rumors of you being cursed are enough trouble already. I wouldn't want another rumor spreading of you being allergic to women."
Viktor's chuckle was loud, irking Markus who wasn't expecting the outburst. Viktor's eyes crinkled around the corner as he smiled, his expression filled with mischief. "I feel blessed that you are worried about me Markus. It warms my cold heart."
Markus gritted his teeth, his jaw clenched in frustration but managed to keep a smile plastered on his face. "It is only normal that I worry about my brother. Besides grandma must share the same thoughts as I."
Viktor arched his brows as he spoke again. "Really?"
Markus smiled at viktor. "You haven't danced with a single lady brother. The guests are beginning to murmur, this celebration is in your name after all"
"Very well, little brother," Viktor said, his voice dripping with fake sincerity. "I shall indulge in the pleasures of a dance"
Viktor's eyes sparkled with mischief as he scanned the room, his gaze lingering on the ladies gathered near the dance floor. His gaze soon moved away from them, stopping at a particular lady.
His copper green eyes narrowed as he observed her. Unlike the other ladies who stood near the dance floor, waiting to be asked out, she sat rather inconspicuously. Her ginger brown hair glowed in the light and her doe like brown eyes remained fixated on her gown. A veil covered the lower part of her face, leaving only her eyes visible.
Viktor walked towards her gathering attention as he passed by. His footsteps came to a halt in front of the unsuspecting Heidi. He stretched out his gloved hands, his lips curving into a charming smile, revealing a hint of mischief.
"Dance with me, milady"