Chapter 293 Uncursed Love
Kastel Celesthall, Aula Concordia
Three days after the Rite of Binding.
The sky over Elysvarre was darkened by ominous rain clouds, evoking a sense of foreboding and unease outside. However, inside the Aula Concordia, the flickering light of torches and lanterns danced playfully, casting moving shadows on the grand marble walls and adding a dramatic touch to this crucial gathering. Nobles, high officials, and royal advisors had assembled, each bringing with them a balance of hope and fear, like two inseparable sides of a coin in this moment of destiny.
In the center of the hall, Sheena stood tall, her dress simple—a pure white adorned with a deep purple ribbon, symbolizing personal sovereignty and her aspirations for transformative change. Beside her stood Fitran, clad in a flowing black cloak intricately adorned with the golden embroidered symbol of Excalibur, representing strength and authority. Within Sheena's heart, a fierce desire to be recognized as more than just a mere heir to a power often seen as trivial surged like a tide. She aimed to establish that her presence was not solely about lineage but embodied a bold and inclusive vision for a better and more equitable future for Elysvarre.
Lord Caereth sat upon his throne, his face betraying no emotion. Yet, the sharpness of his gaze scrutinized every reaction in the room, like a lion observing its prey; he recognized the potential dangers concealed within the doubts of the nobles.
"The people have heard the rumors," said an elder noble, his voice trembling with a mix of fear wrapped in anger. "That the Lady's curse has changed."
"They say she can touch living beings without turning them to gold," another noble added. Whispers of skepticism floated through the crowd, creating a tension that was palpable in the tight air, as if every word could disrupt this fragile power; wealth could slip away just as easily as their hard-won political positions built over many years of effort.
The voices mingled in a cacophony, a chorus of dissent and anxiety that echoed off the towering walls of the Aula, amplifying the palpable tension within the hall.
"This violates the ancient pact!"
"If the curse is lifted, Elysvarre's wealth will be destroyed!"
"The people will panic!"