Olivia Thornrow, the heiress to the throne of Adrelyne, stood before the window, her thoughts consumed by the impending Harvest. The night sky twinkled beautifully, but Olivia's mind was elsewhere, troubled by the mysterious disappearance of her father, King Edward III, and the eerie whispers that followed. The upcoming Harvest, a dreadful event where a blue-blooded sacrifice would be chosen to maintain peace between the human and mystique realm, only added to her anxiety.
As she gazed out the window, Olivia's thoughts drifted to her stepmother, Eleanor, and the mask she wore within herself. Eleanor's words echoed in Olivia's mind: "Never show your true face; the mask is your only face before the world." Olivia realized that she, too, had been wearing a mask to hide her true feelings. She had been pretending for so long to be strong and confident, but inside, she was scared and uncertain.
A knock on the door broke her reverie. It was Penelope, her half-sister, who entered with a gentle smile. "Olivia, you look lovely tonight. Are you meeting someone?" Olivia shook her head giving her a sign that Eleanor wanted her that way, and Penelope's expression turned serious. "Don't let Mother control you. You are who you are, and this is your life. Live it how you want."
Olivia appreciated Penelope's words, but a hollow feeling lingered in her heart. Penelope noticed her unease and asked if she was afraid of the Harvest. Olivia hesitated, unsure of how to respond. Penelope's eyes sparkled with curiosity, and she said, "We all have been trained for tomorrow, but that doesn't mean we can't fear the unknown."
The conversation was interrupted by Eve, Olivia's maid, who reminded them of the grand ball about to commence. The sisters exchanged nervous glances before laughing at the queen's stern reminder. Penelope departed, leaving Olivia to ponder her words. She felt a surge of courage and determination, knowing she had to be strong for herself and her sisters, especially Penelope, whom she worried about the most.
With a deep breath, Olivia placed her diamond tiara on her head and gazed at her reflection. She forced a smile, remembering Eleanor's words about the mask. Tonight, she would put on a brave face and face whatever lay ahead. She would wear her mask with confidence, just like Eleanor did. Olivia took a final glance at her reflection, ensuring her boldness shewed forth. She descended the stairs, joining the whirlwind of excitement below. The grand ball unfolded before her like a tapestry of music, laughter, and sparkling lights. With each step, Olivia's mask slipped further into place, her smile and grace captivating the crowd. Yet, beneath the surface, her mind raced with thoughts of the Harvest and the unknown fate that awaited her.
As she danced and laughed with the guests, Olivia's eyes met Penelope's across the room. Their gazes connected, and Olivia sensed a spark of understanding between them. They both knew the truth – that their masks were fragile armors against the darkness that loomed ahead. But for tonight, they would wear their masks with confidence, just like Eleanor did.
The night wore on, and Olivia's anxiety grew. She couldn't shake the feeling that the Harvest was a ticking clock, waiting to strike. But she refused to let fear consume her. With every step, every smile, and every laugh, Olivia Thornrow, the future queen of Adrelyne, wore her mask with grace and determination, ready to face whatever lay ahead.