The maids bustled about Khione's room, each moving with precision and care. It had been nearly an hour since they started, carefully dressing her in an exquisite gown tailored specifically for her fifteenth birthday. The fabric was a deep sapphire blue, chosen to complement her striking azure eyes. Embroidered with intricate silver patterns that shimmered like constellations, the dress hugged her figure in an elegant yet modest manner. The sleeves flowed gracefully down her arms, while the neckline was adorned with subtle crystals that caught the light with every turn.
Her silver hair, usually left to cascade down her back, had been swept up into an intricate braided updo, with a few soft strands framing her face. A delicate tiara, a family heirloom, rested atop her head, its gems reflecting the legacy she carried. The maids had carefully applied makeup to enhance her natural beauty—a soft blush on her cheeks, a hint of color on her lips, and just enough shadow to make her eyes sparkle like the stars.
When they stepped back to admire their work, one of the maids whispered, "You look like a true princess, my lady."
Khione glanced at herself in the mirror, momentarily stunned. For once, she felt every bit the noblewoman she was born to be. A faint smile graced her lips as she turned to thank the maids.
Just then, there was a knock at the door, and Selene entered, her own gown flowing around her like a cascade of midnight. Her dark hair was pinned elegantly, and she exuded a regal air that only she could carry. When her eyes landed on Khione, a smile of genuine pride spread across her face.
"You look breathtaking, Khione," Selene said as she stepped closer, her tone full of admiration.
Khione's cheeks warmed at the compliment. "Thank you, Selene. You look stunning as well."
Selene chuckled softly before her expression softened. She reached out, placing a hand on Khione's shoulder. "I know this is a big night for you, and I can sense you're a little nervous. But trust me, there's nothing you need to worry about. You're going to be the star of the evening, as you should be."
Khione nodded, though her hands still fidgeted with the folds of her dress. "What if I mess something up? There are so many important people attending…"
"If anything happens, Cedric and I will be right there," Selene assured her. "And besides, you're a Briston. You've got this."
Khione gave a small laugh, grateful for her sister's unwavering confidence in her. "Thank you, Selene."
The two talked a little longer, Selene sharing stories of her own coming-of-age celebration to ease Khione's nerves. Soon, the time arrived for the ball to begin. Selene offered her arm, and together they made their way to the grand ballroom.
The grand staircase leading to the ballroom was flanked by glowing chandeliers, their light reflecting off the polished marble floors below. The room was already filled with high-ranking nobles dressed in their finest attire, their chatter filling the air. As Khione and Selene reached the top of the staircase, the herald's voice rang out.
The grand staircase leading to the ballroom was illuminated by golden chandeliers, their warm glow casting a regal ambiance across the polished marble floors below. The air was thick with anticipation as the nobles waited for the hosts to make their entrance.
The herald's voice rang out across the room.
"Presenting Lord Cedric Briston and Lady Selene Briston of the Briston Dukedom!"
All eyes turned to the top of the staircase as Cedric and Selene appeared. Cedric's commanding presence, matched with Selene's refined elegance, made for a striking pair. Cedric wore a finely tailored black suit adorned with silver accents, his expression composed yet sharp, while Selene's midnight gown shimmered with a subtle brilliance. Together, they descended the stairs with practiced grace, their every step exuding the authority of the Briston name. The whispers among the nobles were a mix of admiration and respect, acknowledging the heirs of one of the empire's most powerful families.
Once they reached the bottom and took their places, the herald spoke again.
"Presenting Duke Lorian Briston and Duchess Elara Briston of the Briston Dukedom!"
Lorian and Elara appeared next, arm in arm, radiating dignity. Lorian's stately appearance in a deep navy tunic embroidered with silver made him every bit the formidable figure he was known to be. Beside him, Elara was the epitome of grace in her flowing emerald gown, a jeweled necklace resting elegantly on her collarbone. The couple moved with a quiet confidence, the room falling silent for a moment as their presence commanded attention.
Finally, the herald's voice rang out one last time, and the crowd seemed to hold its breath.
"Presenting Lady Khione Briston of the Briston Dukedom!"
At the top of the staircase, Khione appeared alone, her sapphire gown catching the light like the night sky filled with stars. Her silver hair was swept into an intricate braided updo, and the subtle shimmer of her tiara only enhanced the ethereal aura she exuded. She hesitated for the briefest of moments, feeling the weight of every gaze in the room, but then she straightened her posture and stepped forward, her hand lightly resting on the polished banister.
Each step she took down the staircase was deliberate, her movements smooth and poised. The chandeliers overhead illuminated her, and she seemed to glow under their light. The nobles whispered among themselves, some marveling at her beauty, others commenting on how effortlessly she carried the legacy of her family.
When Khione reached the bottom of the staircase, her parents, Cedric, and Selene were waiting for her. Lorian gave her a small nod of approval, Elara smiled warmly, and Cedric and Selene exchanged brief glances as though silently agreeing that their sister had exceeded expectations.
With the family gathered, Lorian stepped forward and raised a hand to address the room. "Let the ball begin!"
The orchestra struck up a lively tune, and the nobles began to mingle, the room alive with conversation and movement. Khione stood beside her family for a moment longer, taking in the grandeur of the event and feeling a flicker of pride at how flawlessly she had handled her entrance.
It wasn't long before a few noble boys approached her, clearly eager to introduce themselves. However, as they neared, their steps faltered, and a visible chill ran down their spines.
Khione followed their line of sight and found Cedric standing a few feet behind her, his arms crossed and his gaze sharp as a blade. She couldn't help but stifle a laugh, grateful for her brother's protective streak.
Moments later, a young girl around her age approached. She had auburn hair tied neatly in a bun and wore a pastel green gown. Her demeanor was bright and cheerful as she gave Khione a respectful bow.
"Lady Khione, happy birthday," the girl said with a warm smile. "I'm Irene Ambrose, daughter of Marchioness Celeste Ambrose."
Khione returned the smile and nodded politely. "Thank you, Lady Irene. It's a pleasure to meet you."
"I've heard you'll be attending the Imperial Academy next year," Irene said, her eyes lighting up. "It's an incredible place. I started last year, and I absolutely love it. You'll learn so much there, and the instructors are excellent."
Khione's interest piqued at the mention of the academy. "I've been looking forward to it," she admitted. "My siblings have told me a lot about their experiences there."
The two continued to chat, with Irene enthusiastically sharing stories about the academy. Khione mentioned her upcoming trip to the Isles of Azeroth, and Irene's eyes widened in surprise and admiration.
"That sounds like such an adventure!" Irene exclaimed. "I've always wanted to visit the Isles. I've heard they have the most beautiful coastlines and fascinating magical traditions."
Khione nodded, feeling a growing sense of anticipation for the journey ahead.
Out of nowhere, two hands covered her eyes, and a playful voice spoke from behind her.
"Guess who?"