As the days flew by, Elisha already found herself at the realization that the week had passed in a blur, and now the banquet day had arrived. As she sat before her vanity, her maids worked diligently, brushing through her hair, pinning intricate braids into place, and smoothing the fine fabric of her gown. Their hands moved with practiced grace, tightening corset strings and adjusting the delicate lace trim of her sleeves. Despite their careful attention, her mind remained distant, occupied with the events of the past days.
Progress had been made with the Lionhearts on the port deals—a step forward in securing her family's economic future. Her father, once a distant and imposing figure, now spoke with her more frequently. Their conversations were still measured, but she could sense a shift. He saw her efforts, and he acknowledged them.
More surprising than anything was how she had spent her time with her youngest brother, Julian. The boy had latched onto her with an endearing mix of curiosity and admiration. Their outings had been simple, visiting markets and strolling through the manor gardens, yet they had given Elisha a sense of normalcy she had never expected to find in this world.
"My lady," one of the maids, Nia, spoke gently, pulling Elisha from her thoughts. "It is almost time."
Elisha exhaled slowly and glanced at her reflection. The deep sapphire gown draped elegantly over her frame, the color chosen to compliment her eyes. A silver chain adorned her neck, subtle yet refined. This was a far cry from the girl who had stood before an execution just days ago, shaken by the cruelty of this world. But she couldn't afford to dwell on that now.
The banquet was not merely an event; it was an opportunity. A chance to secure alliances, to observe the power dynamics of the nobility, and, above all, to prove her worth in this game of politics.
A knock at the door signaled the arrival of Leonard, who had been tasked with escorting her. He stood at the entrance, dressed in formal attire that emphasized his stature. His piercing gaze swept over her before he gave a curt nod.
"You look presentable," he remarked.
Elisha rolled her eyes but allowed herself a small smirk. "I don't recall escorts talking."
"Don't let it get to your head," he said dryly, offering his arm. "Come. Father is waiting."
The grand hall of the palace was a masterpiece of opulence. Chandeliers hung from the high ceilings, their golden glow illuminating the finely crafted tapestries and marble pillars. Nobles adorned in silks and jewels mingled, their laughter and hushed whispers blending into an elegant hum.
Elisha maintained her composure as she walked alongside Leonard. Though she had studied noble etiquette, this was her first real test. Every step, every glance, every word spoken had meaning in a gathering like this.
Her father stood near the central table, engaged in quiet conversation with a group of men who exude authority. He turned as they approached, his gaze briefly meeting hers before shifting to address someone else.
"Duke Lionheart, I trust you have met my daughter?" her father said, introducing her to a man who looked to be in his late forties. His hair was graying at the edges, but his sharp eyes missed nothing.
"Indeed, I have heard much about her recent endeavors." Duke Lionheart said, studying Elisha with keen interest. "A pleasure, Lady Elisha. It is not often one hears of a young noblewoman taking such an active role in negotiations."
Elisha offered a polite smile, inclining her head. "The pleasure is mine, Duke. I merely wish to see my family thrive. I'm pleased to finally meet the man behind the lion dukedom."
"A polished one, aren't you," he mused. "Perhaps we shall discuss more in detail later. For now, enjoy the banquet."
As the night progressed, Leonard left Elisha's side to do 'Leonard' things, which include flirting, and yeah... only that. As Elisha was alone, she found herself navigating conversations with various noble women. Some were intrigued by her involvement in trade affairs, others merely curious about the daughter of the Duke. Just as she was beginning to settle into the rhythm of the evening, a familiar voice broke through the crowd.
"Elisha!"
Luna appeared, dressed in a flowing emerald gown, her fiery curls pinned up elegantly. She grasped Elisha's hands, her eyes gleaming with excitement.
"You're finally attending one of these properly!" Luna teased, then leaned in, lowering her voice. "And making quite the impression, I hear."
Elisha chuckled. "Gossip travels fast, doesn't it?"
"Faster than you think," Luna grinned, then tilted her head slightly. "You look at ease, but I know you. What are you truly thinking?"
Elisha hesitated. "That I have much to consider. And even more to prepare for."
Luna sighed dramatically. "Politics will consume you at this rate. We should dance before you drown in scheming."
Before Elisha could protest, Luna pulled her toward the dance floor, laughter in her eyes. The music swelled, and for the first time in days, Elisha allowed herself to let go, if only for a moment.
As she danced in rhythm, with Luna; everything was quite smooth. In regards to that Elisha had only 5 minutes to teach herself dancing. One step at a time turned into two, and so on. Before Elisha knew it she was going to fast with her rhythm and steps. As the final chorus hit, Luna took out her hand to catch Elisha, but things didn't go as the dancing predicted.
"...Careful!" Luna tried cautioning her. Elisha slipped on her heel and found herself tripping backward. But with a swift swoop, she found herself being caught. "You okay?" A man's concerned voice asked.
"Oh thank... you." Elisha felt her voice strain as she looked up, to see who had saved her from embarrassment. That black hair, and brown eyes.
It was, the prince...