The carriage glided smoothly along the road, an effortless journey that mirrored Emerald's poise. Sitting tall with her chin held high, she projected an air of confidence and elegance. Ignoring her mother's intense gaze, she focused intently on the road ahead, her composure unwavering. Lady Aviante, however, couldn't contain her thoughts any longer and let out an exasperated sigh.
"You should be happy. Your sisters wanted this," she asserted, irritation clear in her tone.
Emerald met her mother's gaze with calm assurance. "Let them have it."
"Such ingratitude," Lady Aviante retorted sharply, but quickly continued, "You need to stay close to the Prince tonight. Speak only when necessary, and remember everything you've been taught. Show the utmost respect to the king and queen. And don't forget—"
"I'm confident she remembers everything, dear," Lord Edward interjected smoothly. He turned to Emerald, a warm smile gracing his face. "Just be yourself. You're unique, and the prince is fortunate to have you. You would make a magnificent queen. My only wish is for your happiness." His reassuring gaze ignited a sense of strength within her.
Emerald returned his smile, her heart swelling with pride. Her father's belief in her lifted her spirits as she took a deep breath, ready to embrace whatever lay ahead on their journey to the palace.
Upon arrival, the palace thrummed with life and vibrancy. The grand hall buzzed with laughter and animated conversations. A stunning chandelier sparkled overhead, casting a brilliant light across the room, while rich, red curtains accented the windows, giving the space a regal elegance. Servants moved gracefully through the crowd, offering wine, while groups of noblemen and women engaged in spirited debates about politics and the crown prince's impending wedding to Lord Edward's eldest daughter.
As more guests arrived, they flocked toward the king and queen, who welcomed each one with gracious nods and warm smiles. When Lord Franklin made his way through the crowd, King Charles turned to his wife and asked, "Where is George?" His voice was steady, confident, and filled with authority.
The queen, maintaining her composure, replied gently, "He'll be here soon, my dear," aiming to ease any concern as the guard dispatched to fetch the prince had yet to return. Scanning the gathering with a discerning eye, her brown hair framed her shoulders, while her hazel eyes shone brilliantly under the light.
Just then, Lord Edward and Lady Aviante entered, followed closely by Emerald, who exuded confidence with every step. They approached the throne, bowing before the king and queen, who greeted them with warmth.
"We're delighted to have you here, Lord Edward," the king declared, sincerity in his voice. "It's our utmost pleasure, Your Majesty," Lord Edward responded with equal warmth.
"Lady Aviante, I believe we have much to discuss," the queen stated before her gaze shifted to Emerald. Stepping forward, Emerald performed a graceful curtsy, her radiant smile lighting up the hall. "You're truly a beauty, dear," the queen complimented, and the king nodded in agreement.
"I'm flattered, Your Majesties," Emerald replied confidently. "If you would excuse me for a moment?" She felt the atmosphere becoming stifling, so she took the initiative to step away from the group. "Of course," the king replied kindly. She curtsied again before departing, purposefully ignoring her sister's disapproving glare. "You should at least try to be happy for her," Bolton, her eldest brother, remarked, his voice slicing through the tension as her sisters scoffed.
As Emerald stepped into the cool night air, she took the left path, relishing the refreshing breeze. Her curiosity about the prince simmered beneath the surface, eager to see what awaited her. Pausing to admire the statue of the first king of Rivenwood, she took in the sprawling beauty of the palace grounds, with meticulously trimmed bushes lining each pathway.
Suddenly, the sound of clashing swords caught her attention from behind a cluster of trees. Intrigued, she stealthily approached the source of the noise. Positioning herself behind a tree, she observed a tall man training with impressive skill and agility, expertly wielding his sword.
At that moment, he paused and turned toward her, catching her gaze. Realizing she hadn't concealed herself as well as she thought, she met his piercing eyes without flinching. "Do you often spy on people?" he asked, his deep voice calm yet commanding.
Emerald stood tall, fully prepared to respond, ready to seize this unexpected encounter with confidence and grace.
Emerald stood her ground, surprised for only a moment before stepping away from the tree and curtsying with poise. The man before her had the unmistakable air of nobility. "No," she replied, chin high and expression steady. "I planned to take a walk when I heard you training. I couldn't resist stopping to watch."
He raised an eyebrow, his expression unreadable. "You'd rather watch me train than mingle at the party?"
"I might learn a thing or two," Emerald said, her voice steady despite the teasing tone. She noted the amusement in his eyes and refused to be fazed by it.
Instead of dismissing her, he asked, "Do you know how to use a sword?"
"I do," Emerald responded confidently, unfazed by the fact that he was a stranger. He nodded, clearly intrigued.
Just as he opened his mouth to continue, another young man strode in, interrupting the moment. Emerald felt a flicker of disappointment. The newcomer, a blond man, smirked. "You sure know how to disappear at the wrong times, don't you?"
"I was about to come in," the dark-eyed man replied, turning back to Emerald. "It was a pleasure meeting you. You should head inside and enjoy the party." He turned away, walking off with purpose, while the blond man nodded in her direction before following.
Emerald took a moment to gather her thoughts, then strode confidently into the palace. That dark-eyed stranger was undeniably striking.