Heart of Eternis

room was awash in the soft glow of thousands of candles, their light reflecting off the polished marble floors and the intricately woven tape

bservant, scanned the room as she made her way to the edge of the ballroom. Despite the festive atmosphere, a tension coiled tightly in her chest

hter and conversation a symphony of civility that masked the undercurrents of ambition and rivalry. Elira's fingers subtly br

k hair was neatly groomed, and his stormy gray eyes surveyed the room with an air of detached authority. Elira had heard much about him-his dedication to the kingdom, his u

that if she was to make any progress tonight, it would involve him directly

swirl. Elira seized the moment to approach Caelan, her steps measured and confident. As she reache

voice smooth and controlled, "I

ed her. "Lady Valewyn," he replied with a polite n

r. "I am here to seek an alliance, if I might be so bold. My family's misfortunes are

g. "Your family's fall from grace has not been forgotten

Highness. But I am here to prove that the Valewyns have much to offer still

a figure clad in dark robes entered. Lord Zephryn Maltheos, with his air of menacing elegance, commanded imm

eyes finally landing on Elira. A flicker of recognition passed bet

rrival was unexpected and unwelcome. The evening's carefu

obes flowing behind him like a shadow. His smile was

harm, "What a pleasant surprise. And Prince C

uarded concern. "Lord Zephryn," he acknowledged with

s eyes. "I believe, Prince, that we are all abou

signaled that it was about to become far more perilous. As the orchestra played on and the guests resumed their conv

e way you envisioned? If you'd like to a