Chapter 31 - "When Legends Walk Among Us"
Inside Celestia's chamber, she stood before a large ornate mirror, her white dress flowing elegantly and accentuating her refined figure. The fabric shimmered faintly, a testament to her royal status. She studied her reflection with a critical eye and murmured, "What a terrible face." Her tone was sharp, and her expression stern.
Celestia sighed, her fingers lightly brushing the edge of the mirror as she continued, "Though I was revered in the God Realm for my beauty, it was also a curse that brought countless troubles." Her voice was tinged with bitterness. She tilted her head, attempting to soften her features, and finally allowed a faint smile to form. "Hm, this will do. I doubt anyone could compare to this demeanor."
Her reflection revealed a figure of such elegance and allure that it seemed almost otherworldly. Her beauty was striking, her aura commanding, and her presence both seductive and regal, qualities that had often sparked jealousy and disbelief among her peers.
Minutes later, Celestia completed her preparations. She adorned herself with a pair of delicate earrings and a crown encrusted with gems, a symbol of her royal heritage. Every detail of her attire radiated nobility and sophistication, making her stand out as a beacon of grace.
Finally, she stepped out of her room, flanked by two maids and a butler. The butler offered gentle reminders, his voice measured and respectful, "Your Highness, remember to maintain a dignified expression and carry yourself with the grace befitting your station." Celestia acknowledged his words with a slight nod but remained silent as they proceeded toward the Grand Hall.
The Grand Hall was a luxurious and spacious venue reserved for the most prestigious events. Its high, arched ceilings adorned with intricate carvings and chandeliers of crystal gave it an ethereal glow. As Celestia entered, her presence commanded immediate attention. Nobles of varying ranks, counts, earls, and marquises, paused their conversations to steal glances at her.
The baron, who had been assigned as the announcer for the evening, stepped forward and proclaimed in a voice that resonated throughout the hall, "Presenting Her Royal Highness, the Second Princess of the Elyndor Kingdom, a beauty whose name will be etched into the annals of history!"
All eyes turned to Celestia, their gazes a mixture of awe and admiration. Among the crowd, young noblemen whispered to one another:
"Look at her… She's mesmerizing," one said in hushed tones.
"Indeed," his friend replied wistfully. "But she's untouchable. Even the King himself couldn't force her into a marriage alliance."
As Celestia descended the grand staircase, guided by her maids and butler, the nobles were captivated by her regal poise. Yet, beneath her composed exterior, a flicker of discontent lingered. She masked it well, maintaining an air of indifference as she gestured for the knights to disperse the crowd encroaching on her path.
Finally, her gaze landed on her younger brother, Kayne, who stood near the center of the hall. Her expression softened as she called out to him, "Kayne."
Kayne turned toward her, his eyebrows lifting in surprise. "Sister Celestia? Do you need something? Ah, wait, don't tell me you want me to be your shield again against these nobles?" He sounded resigned, his tone light with a hint of teasing.
To his surprise, Celestia shook her head. "No, Kayne. I'm not here for that. I simply missed you." Her voice carried a warmth he hadn't expected.
Kayne blinked, taken aback. "You've changed, Sister Celestia," he said, smiling. "You used to stay locked away in your room, barely acknowledging us."
Celestia frowned but chose not to respond. Kayne gestured toward a nearby table and said, "Come, sit with me. The ancient families will be arriving soon, and we must present ourselves with dignity. We can't afford to embarrass Father."
Reluctantly, Celestia took a seat beside him. Her thoughts wandered as she surveyed the gathering. The ancient families… she mused. Although she had read about their histories, they had never interested her much. To her, the people of this world were insignificant, mere ants compared to the grandeur of the God Realm.
But as she sat there, a shadow of doubt crept into her mind. Will my master find me in this timeline? Or has the butterfly effect made it impossible? She clenched her fists subtly, her heart heavy with worry. "Ugh," she muttered under her breath, "I can only hope my master reaches me soon. Even I don't know how to return to the God Realm."
Her anxious thoughts were interrupted by the baron's booming voice, signaling the arrival of the ancient families.
"Now presenting the esteemed representatives of the Thirteen Houses!"
The crowd fell silent, their attention riveted as the baron began the introductions.
"Duke Wein of the illustrious Starborn Family, guardians of celestial wisdom and bearers of the constellations' favor!"
A tall man with golden-blonde hair stepped forward, his handsome features radiating confidence. He waved at the crowd, his demeanor lively and approachable. Despite the Starborn Family's formidable reputation as the strongest among the ancient houses, Duke Wein's charisma put the audience at ease.
"Duchess Efrela of the mighty Blaze Born Family, masters of the eternal flame and paragons of unyielding strength!"
Efrela entered with her eldest daughter, Ileana, both exuding an aura of fierce determination. Their fiery presence was a stark reminder of their family's history of dominance and war.
"Duke Mydan of the venerable Stonehaven Family, steadfast defenders of the unshakable earth and bastions of resilience!"
Duke Mydan, a man of immense stature, walked in silence, his expression stoic. Beside him stood his equally imposing son. The Stonehaven Family's reputation for strength and isolation preceded them, and their presence filled the room with quiet intimidation.
One by one, the remaining representatives of the ancient families were introduced, their legacies and power woven into the fabric of the kingdom's history.
Celestia observed them all with a keen gaze, her mind racing. These families are strong, but none of them compare to the beings of the God Realm. Even so, she couldn't shake the unease in her heart as she awaited the night's unfolding events.