Adela spun in the gown her maids had just prepared for her. This was her favorite part of dressing up: the swishy skirts. Today’s ball was some sort of victory event for some noble that went out and succeeded in defeating some guys? Or maybe they were monsters? In any case, that noble had made a contribution to the Starcrest Empire by defeating their enemies. The purpose of the celebration did not matter to Adela. All that mattered to her was that she was expected to make an appearance at the ball as a child of the imperial family, the only princess of the Starcrest Empire.
Today’s gown was blue, one of the colors of that noble’s household. It was a deep blue, the color of the sky after the sun had set. Adela actually enjoyed this color quite a bit, so it did not matter to her if the color was part of a dress code. If the girl wanted to wear it, the gown would be worn, regardless of dress code, and who would dare say anything in criticism of it?
The girl laughed in excitement, enjoying the brief period of freedom between changing into the gown and the next part of her preparations for the ball: hair and makeup.
She was in a good mood today, in any case. Today was the day she was going to see him. She was going to look her very best and behave in that charming manner that had endeared herself to nearly the entirety of her family’s empire.
*
“Announcing Her Highness, Princess Adela Starcrest!”
Making her entrance through the grand double doors, Adela swept across the floor, her every move the picture of perfection. Her eyes sparkled like rubies and her face was framed with glorious silver hair that had been twisted and teased into an elaborate style that showed decadence and elegance. She wore a beautiful blue gown that moved like an evening breeze, but adornments in the same blazing red color as her eyes.
If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.
As she entered, the various guests in attendance began murmuring amongst themselves about the beautiful young princess who was still yet to be wed.
Following the princess’ entrance were the four imperial princes, the empress, and the emperor. The emperor stood before his throne and spoke with a commanding tone,
“Duke Citriver, step forward!”
A man dressed in black clothes with blue adornments stood before the emperor, and Adela froze.
This man was so handsome! He had a strong, handsome face, straight black hair, and blue eyes the same color as her dress. Furthermore, if she looked closer at his body, she could tell with a bit of a close look that it was well-developed with some impressive muscles. Her face flushed, and she felt her heartbeat quicken.
The emperor was commending the duke on his achievements.
“Blah blah blah, monsters. Blah blah blah, your bravery will be rewarded. Blah blah blah, this is what I’m giving you. Blah blah, if you have a request of me, I will hear it out.”
Adela was studying the duke’s demeanor the whole time, not paying much attention at all to what the emperor was saying. When the duke opened his mouth however, she devoted herself to his every word.
“I thank you for your high praises, Your Majesty. As I led our troops against the monsters, my only thoughts were how I might bring victory and peace to the citizens of this beloved empire. I have no desires apart from the safety and well-being of my people.”
The emperor laughed. “If half of our nobles had your loyalty and dedication, then our empire would be truly blessed. If you have nothing to request as a reward for your service, then I would like to put forth a reward of my own. I would like to offer you the hand of my daughter, Princess Adela. I can think of no finer man in the empire for her.”
The duke’s expression betrayed a hint of apprehension. “With all due respect, Your Majesty-”
“It was my own idea, but I must admit, to think of this pleases me quite a bit! I expect you are still a bit wearied from your travels home and have many affairs to settle in your domain, so I will allow you some time to think about my offer. I trust that such a fine citizen of my empire will make an equally fine decision on his marital partner.” The emperor clapped. “Now, let us celebrate the return of this fine hero, Duke Osmar Citriver!”
And the ball commenced.