Velaris Grand Hall – The Summoning
The Grand Hall of Velaris glittered with chandeliers, polished marble floors reflecting a thousand tiny flames. Courtiers filled the chamber, their silken robes rustling as whispers surged like restless waves.
At the far end, upon the dais, sat the Duke of Velaris — Kaelrin's father. His sharp gaze commanded the hall, but tonight, all attention was drawn to the guest standing proudly beside him.
Tall, striking, and clad in emerald velvet, the newcomer radiated confidence. His dark hair was neatly bound, his smile practiced, his posture regal.
"Presenting Lord Darius Valemar of House Valemar," the herald declared.
The hall buzzed with intrigue. Valemar was a wealthy house from the eastern provinces — ambitious, cunning, and known for their political maneuvering.
Kaelrin's hands clenched into fists at his sides. So this is Father's play…
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Lyra's Entrance
The massive doors opened again, and Lyra stepped inside, every head turning as she entered. She wore a gown of soft silver, embroidered with delicate threads that shimmered like moonlight. Her lavender eyes betrayed her unease, but she held her chin high.
"Lady Lyra Elowen," the herald announced.
Darius Valemar bowed deeply as she approached the dais. "My lady. Words do little justice to your beauty. The tales I have heard pale beside reality."
Lyra inclined her head politely, though her heart twisted. Out of the corner of her eye, she searched the hall until she found Kaelrin, standing rigid among the courtiers. Their gazes locked for the briefest heartbeat — a silent storm.
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The Dance of Words
The Duke's voice filled the chamber. "Lord Darius has come with an offer of alliance. House Valemar proposes a union that would strengthen both our lands and secure peace across the eastern borders."
The courtiers murmured approval.
Darius stepped forward, his eyes never leaving Lyra. "I ask only the chance to prove my devotion. To walk beside Lady Lyra, not as a duty, but as one who sees her worth beyond politics."
The words were smooth, charming, calculated.
Kaelrin's blood boiled. He dares—!
Lyra forced a smile, her voice calm though her chest tightened. "Your courtesy honors me, Lord Darius. Yet worth is not proven in halls and speeches. It is shown in the quiet moments, where no audience applauds."
A ripple of surprise went through the hall. Some smiled at her wit; others whispered at her boldness.
Kaelrin almost allowed himself a smirk — almost. But then he caught his father's icy glare, warning him to stay silent.
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The Observer Moves
In the shadows above, hidden behind the carved arches of the balcony, the cloaked figure watched with predatory delight.
"Yes… tension sharpens. Whispers ignite. Let the boy burn in silence while the girl is paraded before another. Let jealousy eat them alive."
He raised a hand ever so slightly, and in that instant, a servant carrying wine stumbled, spilling crimson liquid across Lyra's gown.
Gasps filled the hall.
"Oh, forgive me, my lady!" the servant stammered.
Before Lyra could respond, Darius swiftly removed his velvet cloak and draped it over her shoulders with gallant flourish. "A rose should not be stained. Allow me, Lady Lyra."
The courtiers erupted in murmurs of admiration.
Kaelrin's heart twisted. He wanted to step forward, to shield her himself, but duty rooted his feet. This isn't fate… this is someone's hand pushing against us.
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The Private Aftermath
Later, as the hall emptied, Kaelrin finally found her near the moonlit corridor.
"Lyra—" he began.
She turned, her expression unreadable. "He is everything your father would want. Wealth. Power. A flawless smile."
His jaw tightened. "Do you want him?"
Her eyes softened, pain flickering beneath the surface. "Want has nothing to do with it. This is a game bigger than us, Kaelrin. And I… I am so tired of fighting fate."
She brushed past him, her silver gown whispering against the stone.
Kaelrin stood frozen, the wooden bird in his pocket pressing against his palm like a cruel reminder.
Above them, the Observer smiled from the shadows. "Yes… let despair bloom."
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Chapter End – To Be Continued