Chapter 113: Reference
Ephyra finished there when it was mid-afternoon and drove to the address of the banquet venue Jania had given her. The location of the hall was in the heart of the upscale district. Ephyra’s car rolled through the ornate gates, flanked by towering evergreens dusted with snow. The driveway curved gracefully toward the entrance, where a line of trucks was already parked. She parked and stepped out, her heels crunching softly against the gravel as she adjusted her coat against the biting winter air.
A valet approached her with a polite smile, offering to take her keys. "Welcome, Miss Ephyra, Please proceed inside; someone will guide you from there."
Ephyra handed over the keys and strode confidently toward the main doors. The entrance was bustling with activity as workers moved in and out, carrying last-minute decorations and trays of hors d’oeuvres.
Ornate chandeliers cast a warm glow across the marble foyer, where decorators added final touches to the grand floral arrangements and shimmering drapery. The scent of fresh pine and winter roses hung faintly in the air, blending with the crisp cold that seeped in from outside.
A worker dressed in a formal black ensemble greeted Ephyra as she stepped through the doors. "Mrs. Aelion, we’ve been expecting you. Please follow me."
Ephyra offered a curt nod and trailed behind the woman, her eyes scanning the opulent interior. The venue was nothing short of breathtaking—a mix of modern luxury and timeless elegance. The walls were adorned with intricate gold accents, and the high ceiling showcased an expansive skylight, through which soft snowfall could be seen.
As they walked, the worker gestured toward the main ballroom. "The masquerade banquet is set to take place here. Miss Jania wanted every detail to reflect sophistication and mystery. The finishing touches are being applied now."
Ephyra stepped into the ballroom, and her breath caught for a moment. The space was transformed into a winter wonderland. Frosted branches, twinkling fairy lights, and cascading crystal decorations framed the room. The tables were draped in silver linens, each centerpiece featuring candles nestled in glass domes surrounded by delicate white flowers.
Jania emerged from the crowd of bustling workers, her phone in hand, followed by a woman in a bodycon dress with a clipboard tucked under her arm. "There you are," she said, approaching Ephyra with a smirk. "What do you think?"