The Grand Festival: The Opening Ceremony (1)

Despite the recent turmoil, the Capital's energy remained vibrant as the Grand Festival commenced. Citizens donned their finest attire, eager to catch a glimpse of the imperial family. The streets buzzed with excitement, and those fortunate enough to receive invitations arrived in elegant garments crafted by the renowned dressmakers of Hera Fortress, known for their unmatched skill in fashion.

"Regardless of the rumors surrounding their family, it's undeniable that the Hera Fortress produces the finest dresses and suits in the entire Empire," remarked a young noblewoman, twirling in her exquisite purple gown.

"Mine is adorned with jade," boasted a young man nearby, proudly displaying his attire.

"I've heard the youngest Hera will make an appearance today," another attendee noted, sparking curiosity among the crowd.

At the Hera residence, preparations were in full swing. Maids and ladies-in-waiting bustled about, ensuring everything was perfect. Fionella, after a refreshing bath, was dressed in a stunning traditional gold gown, embellished with white and silver linings and adorned with diamonds. Her hair was elegantly curled and accented with delicate ornaments.

As she gazed into the mirror, Fionella hardly recognized herself. The transformation was remarkable, and she appeared every bit the noble lady expected at such a grand event.

"You look beautiful, my lady," Cassandra complimented as she entered the chambers.

Cassandra herself wore a sleek black dress that accentuated her slim figure, accessorized with necklaces and bracelets, her hair styled in a sophisticated bun with soft curls framing her face.

"You too," Fionella replied with a smile.

"The main attraction of this festival may be the imperial family, but truth be told, everyone is eager to see you, my lady," Cassandra remarked.

Fionella sighed, "I never wanted this much attention, but I suppose I can't avoid it forever."With a resigned smile, she rose to leave. As the doors of her chambers opened, she was escorted by her attendants to the awaiting carriage—a magnificent golden vehicle drawn by flying golden horses, a sight she hadn't seen since her arrival.

Outside, her family awaited her. Thealaine and Rozel greeted her with warm smiles, while her uncle Leon appeared momentarily speechless at her beauty. Her mother, however, remained stoic, her expression unreadable.

"You are exquisitely beautiful," Leon finally said, breaking the silence.

Rozel and Thealaine nodded in agreement. "You look stunning, Fion. You should wear dresses more often," Thealaine added.

Uriel approached, standing before Fionella. "Your carriage is ready, my lady. I will accompany you along with your mage," she informed.

Fionella nodded, stepping into the carriage with Cassandra, while Uriel took her place beside the coachman. Once everyone was settled, the carriage ascended gracefully into the air, bound for the festival.

As the procession continued towards the castle, the streets of the Capital were alive with vibrant displays and bustling events. Fionella's eyes sparkled with excitement as she peered out of the carriage, captivated by the scenes unfolding below.

"Your eyes are shining, my lady," Cassandra remarked, noticing Fionella's enthusiasm.

"Look at the streets, Cassandra! There are so many shows and that stall over there is selling figurines! I'd love to get one," Fionella exclaimed, unable to hide her excitement.

Cassandra smiled warmly. "You'll have a better view later, my lady. There's a grand parade that will travel through Dragon Alley to the Central Alley."

"Really?" Fionella's eyes widened with anticipation.

Cassandra nodded, and Fionella squealed with delight. Memories of the festivals in the West, filled with dancing, games, and delicious food, flooded her mind. She couldn't wait for the night's festivities, especially the fireworks display she had been eagerly anticipating since her arrival.

At the castle grounds, where the opening ceremony was set to take place, the attendees with official invitations began to gather. The crown prince and second prince, resplendent in their golden attire, took their places on their thrones, embodying the grandeur of the imperial family.

A black carriage bearing a well-known crest arrived at the entrance, prompting the attendees to stand and bow in respect. Gerald Haris, head of Haris Fortress and General of the Empire's military forces, stepped out, accompanied by his wife. Following closely was their heir, Kairon Haris, dressed in a black suit with gold embroidery and the crest of his fortress. His golden hair and handsome features caused a stir among the noble girls in attendance.

"Welcome, Lord Gerald, Lady Divine, and Young Lord Kairon," a herald announced.

As the guests began to take their seats, a red and golden carriage arrived, bearing the crest of the House of Lionel. The Head Mage Howell and several prominent mages, dressed in their finest mage robes, disembarked with an air of sophistication.

The Haris family bowed in acknowledgment. "It's good to see you again, Lord Gerald," Head Mage Howell greeted.

"Likewise, Lord Howell," Gerald replied. Kairon scanned the House of Lionel's entourage, searching for a familiar face.

"Zoren won't be attending today's Grand Festival," Lord Howell noted, noticing Kairon's search.

 "He has matters to attend to in Lionel."

Kairon nodded, "I see. It's a shame; I was looking forward to speaking with him."

"Visit Lionel when you have time, Kairon. It's been a while since our young mages have seen you at the tower," Howell suggested.

"I will, Lord Howell," Kairon promised with a respectful bow.

After exchanging pleasantries, both families took their seats just below the imperial thrones. They greeted the crown prince and the second prince with formal bows, which were returned graciously.

Finally, the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived. The white and golden carriage of the Hera Fortress made its grand entrance, its flying horses landing gracefully at the main entrance. The crowd's attention turned to the elegant crest of Hera.

The first to step out were Lady Germaine and Lord Leon, followed by their eldest child, Rozel Hera. Rozel's striking white hair caught the attention of many, and the crown prince, Rozel's best friend, smiled warmly at his arrival.

Next emerged Thealaine Hera, the heiress of Hera Fortress, stunning the crowd with her beauty in a silver gown. The entire Averia Empire knew of her unmatched elegance.

"Young Lord Rozel is so handsome. Look at his mature features," a young girl murmured in awe.

"Lady Thealaine has grown even more beautiful over the past year," another remarked.

"If only I could marry her," sighed a young man, captivated by Thealaine's grace.

Despite the admiration for Thealaine, the crowd's anticipation reached its peak as the final carriage arrived. This was the moment everyone had been waiting for, including the imperial family—the arrival of the youngest Hera, the Keeper of the Arrow of Life. The atmosphere buzzed with expectation as all eyes turned toward the carriage, eager to catch a glimpse of the mysterious and revered figure who had recently returned to the Empire.

To be continued