The Banquet (Part 2)
As Orion and Elara stepped into the grand banquet hall, their eyes widened slightly in admiration. The hall was a masterpiece of luxury, its vast interior adorned with hanging crystal chandeliers that cast a warm, golden glow. The high, arched ceiling was painted with mesmerizing celestial patterns, giving the illusion of a starry night sky. Ornate pillars lined the sides of the hall, each wrapped in delicate golden embroidery, while the floors gleamed like polished obsidian, reflecting the dazzling light.
Elegant servants moved gracefully between guests, carrying silver trays filled with an assortment of starters and refreshments. The aroma of exquisite delicacies filled the air—roasted meats glazed with honey, buttered pastries, and sweet fruit wines. Guests in luxurious attire were engaged in lively conversations, their laughter and chatter creating a harmonious symphony. Noblewomen in flowing gowns gathered in small groups, exchanging pleasantries, while men in regal suits discussed politics, business, and cultivation.
As more guests slowly arrived, the hall became even more vibrant, a spectacle of status and wealth. Orion's sharp gaze swept the hall, searching for his mothers, but they were nowhere in sight. His brows furrowed slightly. They must be arriving later... maybe with Father?
Beside him, Elara tugged lightly at his sleeve. "Let's eat something first."
He nodded. "Good idea."
They made their way to a grand buffet table where a variety of starters were arranged with artistic perfection. Plates of honey-glazed meat skewers, golden-crusted pastries, and spiced seafood lay in elegant formations, their aroma tantalizing. Orion picked up a small platter, taking a selection of dishes, while Elara did the same. Finding a quiet corner, they stood side by side, savouring the exquisite flavours.
As time passed, more and more guests arrived, their extravagant attire marking their noble lineage. The sons and daughters of noble houses gathered in groups, exchanging polite conversation or indulging in fine wines. The atmosphere was both refined and lively, a perfect display of aristocratic elegance.
"I wasn't expecting this many people," Elara murmured between bites, glancing at the ever-growing crowd.
Orion smirked. "A noble banquet is just another battlefield, but with silk gloves instead of swords."
Before Elara could respond, the room stirred with a subtle shift in energy. A group of young nobles had entered, their presence commanding attention.
Soon, a familiar presence entered the hall.
Edric and Arin Vale strode in, their presence immediately commanding attention. Edric, the elder, wore a black and gold embroidered tunic, his jet-black hair slicked back, his sharp features exuding confidence. Arin, younger yet equally refined, donned a deep navy ensemble that accentuated his striking blue eyes—eyes that mirrored those of their mother, Lady Sera.
Alongside them walked several of their classmates, all sons and daughters of noble houses. Their finely tailored outfits and carefully practiced smiles reflected their status. But his gaze falls on woman who standing between their group -- Lysandra Voss.
With golden blonde hair cascading down her back in soft curls and emerald-green eyes shimmering like polished gemstones, she looked breathtakingly beautiful. She wore a pale green gown that hugged her curves gracefully, the delicate silver embroidery along the bodice accentuating her refined beauty. The off-shoulder design revealed her smooth collarbones, while the flowing fabric of her dress added an ethereal touch. Every movement she made carried a noble elegance, as though she were born to command attention.
As they entered, Edric and Arin's gazes instinctively fell upon Orion and Elara, who were still enjoying their starters in the corner. Then, both barely spared Orion and Elara a glance, scoffing under his breath. With an air of superiority, he led his group away, choosing to ignore them completely.
Lysandra, however, hesitated.
Her gaze met Orion's for a fleeting moment—brief, but telling. A soft, polite nod followed, accompanied by a small smile.
Orion, ever composed, returned the nod out of courtesy. Elara, standing beside him, mirrored the gesture, though her smile was noticeably colder.
Lysandra turned, vanishing into the sea of nobles.
Orion exhaled, ready to take another bite of his pastry—
Then, A familiar presence stirred behind him. A faint scent of floral perfume mixed with a teasing warmth sent a shiver up his spine.
He turned—only to be greeted by a bright, mischievous smile.
A woman stood before him, her presence commanding yet playful. Her Black Hair was styled into an elegant updo, with a few loose strands framing her delicate face. Her Golden eyes sparkled with mischievous delight, and her lips, painted a deep red, curved into an enticing smile. She wore a stunning scarlet gown that accentuated every curve of her figure, the fabric clinging in just the right places. A thin golden chain rested on her delicate collarbone, adding a touch of grace to her already striking appearance.
Orion blinked. "Laura?"
She chuckled, tilting her head. "Surprised?"
He exhaled, shaking his head slightly. "Yes, actually. By the way, what are you doing here?"
Before Laura could respond, Elara's sharp voice cut through. "Indeed. And how did you get in?"
Laura turned to Elara, her smile deepening. "Oh, dear Elara," she drawled, emphasizing the word. "I was invited by Aunt Sera, of course."
Elara's eye twitched. The way Laura casually referred to her mother—it irked her more than it should have.
Laura seemed to relish Elara's reaction, her golden eyes dancing with amusement.
Orion sighed, sensing the tension. "Alright, so Mother Sera invited you. But why?"
Laura placed a hand on her hip, pouting playfully. "What? Are you unhappy to see me?"
Orion saw her reaction, but when he opens his mouth said something. But –
"Then it's fine," Laura interrupted with a wink.
Before Orion could respond, she glanced at his plate and smiled. "Oh, Honey and almond pastry! This is my favourite!" Without hesitation, she plucked a small piece from his plate and popped it into her mouth, her expression one of pure delight.
Orion blinked, startled. "Hey—what are you doing?"
Laura tilted her head innocently. "You don't, see? I'm eating."
Elara's patience snapped. "Hey! How dare you steal food from Brother Orion's plate?! If you want something, take a plate from the servants!"
Laura turned to Elara with a seductive smirk. "Oh? I just thought I should get closer to your brother. While eating from his plate.
Orion felt his head grow slightly dizzy at Laura's flirtatious tone, while Elara, on the other hand, was fuming.
"You—! You don't need to get close to my brother!" she snapped.
Laura tilted her head in feigned innocence. "Why not?"
Before Elara could retaliate, a sudden voice rang through the hall.
"Announcing the arrival of Lord Viscount Theo Vale, Lady Sera Vale, and Lady Celia Vale!"
All heads turned toward the grand entrance as the three figures entered.
Viscount Theo, dressed in a luxurious golden robe with intricate black embroidery, walked with a powerful, commanding presence. His sharp black eyes scanned the room with indifference, his jet-black hair neatly combed back. Though undeniably handsome, there was a coldness in his gaze, an emotionless detachment that made him seem unapproachable.
Beside him, Lady Sera and Lady Celia walked with effortless grace.
Lady Sera, dressed in a deep sapphire-blue gown, looked breath-taking. The silk fabric wrapped around her figure perfectly, emphasizing her elegance and regal aura. Her bluish-white hair cascaded in soft waves, and her deep blue eyes carried an air of intelligence and quiet strength.
Lady Celia, on the other hand, wore a stunning white gown with silver embroidery. The off-shoulder design revealed her fair, flawless skin, and the way the fabric draped over her form made her seem ethereal. Her soft yet commanding presence was enough to captivate any man's heart.
In the land of Eldora, those with high cultivation retained their youthful beauty, making age almost impossible to discern. Both women appeared as though they had never aged, their beauty timeless and untouchable.
As the three reached the centre of the hall, all the nobles bowed in unison.
"Greetings, Lord Viscount! Greetings, My Ladies!"
Viscount Theo simply nodded, showing no emotion, while Lady Sera and Lady Celia returned the greeting with polite smiles.
With that, the grand banquet officially began