Guest of Honour

'How tiring,' Cecilia thought as the workers busied themselves, meticulously preparing her to look as flawless as possible.

The process was truly troublesome—layers of makeup, perfectly styled hair, an elaborate gown—all of it just for her birthday. It wasn't quite as suffocating as the past, when women had to endure corsets and countless other uncomfortable garments, but it was still exhausting.

Yet, this time, Cecilia didn't mind it as much.

Because, for once, she wanted to look her best—for a certain someone.

She felt her heart flutter for a moment, and she took a slow breath to steady herself. The final touches were being added now, the workers stepping back as they placed the tiara upon her head.

"There, Your Highness," one of them said, admiring their work. "You look beautiful."

Cecilia glanced at her reflection, seeing the elaborate hair, the delicate makeup, and the tiara that completed the look. She looked regal, every bit the princess she was supposed to be. But all that mattered to her now was what that certain someone would think.

"Thank you," she said politely to the workers, rising from her seat. The weight of the gown, the ornaments, and even the tiara felt heavy, but she straightened her back, determined to bear it all gracefully.

Today wasn't just about appearances or keeping up with formalities. Today was about making an impression.

Cecilia left her room, her attendants following behind, and began walking towards the banquet hall. As she approached, she met up with her parents and her brother, joining them as they moved together towards the grand celebration. Each step echoed in the palace's expansive hallways, her heart beating a little faster with anticipation. Beside her, her father, Emperor Quinn, walked with his usual regal demeanor, while her mother, Empress Adeline, looked calm and graceful. Her brother, Crown Prince Valerian, kept his expression composed, though there was a hint of nervousness in his eyes.

The grand hallway stretched on, lined with opulent decorations—ornate chandeliers hanging above, polished marble beneath their feet, and towering columns adorned with banners of crimson and gold. The Slatemark crest glistened proudly, a reminder of the family's lineage and authority. Cecilia maintained her poise, though the flutter of her heart grew stronger with each step.

Finally, they arrived at the entrance of the banquet hall. Cecilia took a deep breath, composing herself. This was her moment, her time to step into the limelight and face the nobles, the guests, and... him.

The grand doors opened, and together they walked in, the royal family entering the hall with a commanding presence. The room fell silent, all eyes turning towards them in awe. Emperor Quinn led the way, his gaze steady as he surveyed the gathering of the world's most powerful families. Empress Adeline followed beside him, her smile calm and gracious. Prince Valerian kept his head high, his eyes darting across the room with a mixture of curiosity and determination. Cecilia walked with an air of confidence, her gown flowing elegantly behind her.

Her gaze moved subtly over the crowd, noting the familiar faces, until they finally reached their seats at the raised platform, overlooking the entire hall. Each of them took their place, and as soon as they were seated, the herald stepped forward to announce the beginning of the greetings.

One by one, the prominent guests began to approach, offering their respects to the Imperial Family.

Cecilia smiled politely at each guest, exchanging pleasantries as her father and mother spoke in turn. The greetings were formal, full of practiced warmth, and Cecilia maintained her composure, even as the interactions began to blend together.

Then, she saw them—the Nightingale family. Her heart gave a slight flutter, but she kept her expression serene, her gaze fixed on Arthur for just a moment longer before shifting to his parents.

Lord and Lady Nightingale approached the platform with dignity, and she watched as they bowed deeply before her father and mother. Arthur followed, inclining his head in a respectful bow, his composure steady.

"Your Imperial Majesties," Lord Nightingale began, his voice unwavering. "It is an honor for the Nightingale family to be present on this joyous occasion. We extend our sincerest congratulations to Princess Cecilia."

Her father's sharp gaze lingered on Lord Nightingale before he gave a nod of acknowledgment. "We are pleased to have you here, Lord Nightingale. Your family's loyalty to the Empire has always been appreciated."

Cecilia remained still, her eyes on Arthur's parents as Lady Nightingale stepped forward, offering a beautifully wrapped gift. "A humble token for the Princess, Your Majesty. May this day be filled with joy."

Empress Adeline smiled graciously as she accepted the gift. "Thank you, Lady Nightingale. Your presence honors us."

Cecilia then turned her attention to Arthur, her expression softening just slightly as her gaze met his. She couldn't help the warmth that came into her voice when she spoke. "Arthur, it's good to see you."

He bowed once more, his eyes meeting hers briefly. "Thank you, Your Highness. It is an honor to be here for your special day."

She studied him for a moment, a faint smile tugging at her lips. There was something comforting about seeing him here—amidst the formalities and the crowd of guests, he was a familiar presence that made the day feel more meaningful. "I hope you enjoy the festivities tonight. Please, feel free to partake in the celebration."

Arthur nodded, his composure unwavering as he stepped back, allowing his parents to finish their greetings. Cecilia watched as they moved away, her eyes lingering on Arthur for a heartbeat longer before she shifted her focus to the next approaching guest.

For just a brief moment, the formalities felt less burdensome, and Cecilia allowed herself a fleeting touch of excitement. Tonight would be long, but seeing Arthur here made her look forward to it a little more.

Even after the unexpected arrival of Magnus Draykar, the Martial King, her heart hadn't reacted the way it had when she first caught sight of Arthur.

She wanted more.

She licked her lips unconsciously, her thoughts focused entirely on him.

She wanted to see more of Arthur. She wanted him to seek her out, to rely on her when he stumbled, to watch him rise and grow stronger. Her feelings toward him were contradictory, layered with a complexity she couldn't quite unravel.

She wanted him to be strong.

She wanted him to be vulnerable.

Above all, she simply wanted him.

Her gaze drifted across the hall, finding Arthur speaking with Rose. A subtle spark of jealousy flared up as she watched them, and without realizing it, she began biting her lip.

'Interesting...' her thoughts trailed off as she studied him.