Court of Conquest

Chapter 24

The day had finally arrived, and the weight of anticipation hung in the air. The day when clarity would dawn, revealing the impact I could have on my kingdom. In the midst of the bustling preparations, I found myself engulfed in the meticulous details, ensuring every element of the grand event was perfect.

A lingering concern clawed at my thoughts—the challenge of introducing Stelaran dancing to Malachi's men. However, the memory of his surprising adeptness during our dance lesson offered a reassurance never to underestimate them. Still, the worry persisted, fueled by a desire for the night to be flawless.

An hour before the ball, Felicity, with an exasperated yet amused expression, finally managed to redirect my attention to my quarters for preparation. It was then that a sudden realization struck me—I had forgotten to prepare a dress for the night. Panic threatened to take hold, but as we entered the room, a sight greeted me that dispelled the rising anxiety.

Hanging elegantly before me was the most perfect dress, a vision of beauty that surpassed any expectation. I shot a confused glance at Felicity, who sported a giant smirk. "A gift from the king," she announced, the revelation leaving me blushing and smiling simultaneously.

Malachi's thoughtful gesture, providing me with a dress that embodied everything I could desire, hinted at a deeper connection. In the whirlwind of preparations and worries, the significance of this gift tugged at the strings of my heart. As I prepared for the night, donning the exquisite dress, I couldn't help but wonder if this was more than just a gesture. The ball, now looming on the horizon, held the promise of not only perfection but also revelations that might reshape the course of my destiny.

Malachi providing the perfect dress left me elated, and Felicity swiftly prepared me for the upcoming event. As I admired the reflection in the mirror, reveling in the enchanting attire, a sudden touch on my waist startled me. In the mirror, Malachi's figure emerged behind me.

"You look exquisite," he murmured, his lips pressing a kiss to my shoulder. Attempting to turn and face him, he held me in place, taking a moment to savor the image of us together in the mirror. A quiet acknowledgment passed through my thoughts—we were indeed quite a pair.

Malachi's kisses ventured to my neck, a sweet assault that evoked laughter from me. As much as I relished the playful moment, the urgency of the impending ball seized my attention. "We have to go, Malachi!" I urged, met with a disgruntled growl of disapproval.

"Not quite yet," he declared, releasing my waist. Before I could comprehend his next move, a beautiful necklace appeared before me. The precious stone adorning it surpassed anything I had ever seen, its beauty and rarity leaving me breathless. The realization struck—the necklace alone could possibly rival the worth of an entire palace.

The weight of the jewelry against my skin as Malachi fastened it around my neck felt like a tangible token, a symbol of Malachi's affections. Despite the urgency of the approaching ball, this moment lingered, etching itself as a precious memory within the dark tale unfolding before me.

"Thank you," I whispered, my gratitude sincere, encompassing the dress, the necklace, and the trust placed in me for the grand event. The weight of responsibility and the opportunity to contribute to shaping the world left me genuinely thankful.

As Malachi whispered, "Come, it's time," the grandeur of the moment swept over me. Walking alongside him, guarded by soldiers who treated us as the most precious entities in the world, I felt a sense of significance and power. The path to the ballroom unfolded like a journey to destiny, each step resonating with the weight of the impending encounter with the Stelaran nobility, old and new.

Approaching the grand doors of the ballroom, the announcement of our entrance echoed in the air. We stood at the top of an immense staircase, ready to descend and be greeted by the assembled nobles. The honor bestowed upon me, entering together with Malachi as equals, overwhelmed my senses.