The Duskveil carriage rolled into the majestic Pendragon territory, a sight that always stirred awe in those visiting for the first time. Towering stone walls and the grand spires of the Pendragon castle stood proud against the sky, casting long shadows across the sprawling gardens that surrounded the estate. Ryan leaned back in his seat, feeling more amused than anxious. With his parents being the hidden bosses of this world, he thought with a smirk, he didn't need to worry about offending anyone.
As the Duskveil family approached the grand banquet hall, Ryan's eyes swept over the crowd. Even at their young age, the children of the noble families already carried themselves with an air of importance. He could see the future in each of them, knowing that the games of influence and power were already starting.
Leo Lionhart: Leo, though only a boy, carried himself with the confidence of someone well beyond his years. His bright blue eyes shone with intelligence and curiosity, framed by neatly kept blond hair that fell just above his eyebrows. Wearing a fine navy-blue tunic with the Lionhart family crest embroidered on his chest, Leo already had the bearing of a future leader, standing straight and composed as he observed the gathering with quiet interest.Cedric Thorne: Cedric's attire reflected his knightly upbringing, yet suited the grandeur of the event. He wore a deep maroon tunic adorned with silver embroidery, subtly referencing his family's martial heritage. His strong jaw and focused gaze gave him a serious demeanor, even though his outfit was formal. The disciplined posture that came from years of training was evident in the way he carried himself, marking him as someone shaped by the knight's code of honor.Vivienne Rosenthorne: Vivienne's sharp green eyes were ever-watchful, even at her young age. Her chestnut hair was tied back in a delicate braid, revealing her aristocratic upbringing. Clad in an emerald-green gown, she moved with a grace that belied her years, her calculating gaze hinting at the ambitious and manipulative nature that would come to define her in the future. A slight smile played on her lips, never quite reaching her eyes.
As Ryan stood to the side, surveying the room with practiced ease, Vivienne approached. Her steps were graceful, her expression poised.
"Ryan Duskveil," she said, her smile polite but not quite genuine, "I hear your family's influence has been rising lately. Impressive, considering your... distance from the capital."
Ryan met her gaze without flinching, his tone calm. "Thank you, Vivienne. My parents have been diligent in managing our territory."
Vivienne's eyes sparkled, though Ryan knew better than to trust that gleam. "Diligent, yes. But I wonder, what plans do you have for the future? Surely you don't intend to stay in the shadows forever."
Ryan gave a slight smile, his words measured. "We all have our paths, Vivienne. Some are more visible than others."
Her smile sharpened. "Of course, every noble has their secrets. But do remember—those who stay hidden too long may be forgotten."
Before Ryan could respond, a voice interrupted. "Vivienne, leaving your poor prey already?" Leo Lionhart entered the conversation, his voice light and teasing, though his eyes were observant. "You can't scare away every guest."
Vivienne gave a mock sigh. "How boring, Leo. I was simply having a friendly chat."
Leo turned to Ryan, offering a respectful nod. "Ryan, it's been a while. How have you been?"
Ryan returned the nod, keeping his expression neutral. "Doing well, thank you. And yourself?"
"Well enough. These gatherings always reveal more than they intend, don't they?" Leo's gaze swept over the room.
Ryan tilted his head slightly. "Indeed, there's always more going on than what's presented."
"Exactly," Leo agreed. "Best to keep our eyes open. There's always someone watching."
Cedric Thorne approached then, his serious expression never faltering. "Are you discussing something I should know about?" he asked, his tone direct.
Leo chuckled lightly. "Nothing too secretive, Cedric. Just reminding ourselves to be cautious at these kinds of events."
Cedric gave a small nod, his sharp brown eyes assessing each of them. "Caution is always wise."
Ryan observed them carefully, but without the nervous energy typical of someone his age. His previous life had prepared him well for these moments. Why would Vivienne and Leo even care about a small countryside noble like Duskveil? Ryan thought inwardly, his mind calculating. Do they know something? But outwardly, his expression remained calm and composed, revealing nothing.
Finally, his gaze settled on Seraphina Pendragon, the star of the evening. Her raven-black hair shimmered under the glow of the chandeliers, cascading down her back in soft waves. Her silver eyes, bright and full of life, shone as she greeted her guests with a grace beyond her years. Clad in a flowing white gown, her presence commanded attention without her even trying.
The Duskveil family entered the grand banquet hall, and Ryan couldn't help but marvel at its splendor. The golden chandeliers overhead cast a warm, inviting glow. Conversations were soft, but every word seemed to carry weight. Servants moved quickly between the nobles, offering trays of delicacies and drinks, while the ensemble played softly in the background.
The Pendragon estate itself was vast and imposing. Outside, the perfectly manicured gardens stretched as far as the eye could see, dotted with fountains and statues that spoke of the Pendragon family's wealth and power. The castle's towers loomed in the distance, a reminder that this was not just a gathering of nobles, but the seat of one of the most powerful families in the kingdom.
Ryan remained relaxed but alert. His parents might be the hidden bosses, but he couldn't rely on them for everything. The future was full of uncertainties, and the people he saw here—Leo, Cedric, Vivienne, Seraphina—were not just characters from a game. They were real, with ambitions and secrets of their own. Do they know more about me than I thought? He needed to play his cards carefully.
to be continued....