Chapter 49: Unpredictable Duke
The ballroom shimmered like a dream painted in gold.
Silk banners fluttered gently overhead, embroidered with stars and vines that glowed faintly under spell-light. Strings of magical lanterns floated across the high ceiling like soft fireflies, casting a warm hue over marble floors polished so perfectly, Evelisse could see her own nervous reflection in them.
Guests streamed into the room in waves—nobles in elaborate gowns, foreign dignitaries in embroidered robes, warriors polished to perfection. Musicians played a lilting waltz from the corner stage. Somewhere, a tower of candied fruits exploded into flame because the Royal Mage’s apprentice tried to "improve" it with a sparkle spell.
She stood between her mother and father, her gloved hands folded primly before her, tiara resting gently on her braided curls. Snugglewuff sat at her feet like a furry loaf, tail thumping gently with the rhythm of the music. Her seven brothers were scattered strategically throughout the room—distracted but ever-watchful. Marcus and Lucien chatted with minor nobles. Jared, in a wine-red cape, twirled a diplomat’s daughter dramatically before dipping her into a laugh. Leo and Lance flanked the entry, scoping anyone suspicious. Felix was scribbling observations about the magical lighting patterns.
Evelisse tugged her gloves tighter and tried not to fidget.
’So many people,’ she thought, scanning the crowd.
The ball had officially begun.
And still—no sign of the Duke.
Fluffy peeked out from her hair bun. "You’re sweating royalty. Should I mop your brow with a lace napkin or faint in your place?"
’I don’t sweat,’ Evelisse replied primly. ’I glow. I’m a princess.’
"Right. You’re glowing like a squirrel in panic."