Page 95 of The Soulbond and Her Beloved

The lanterns in this part of the festival were grander, their delicate frames made with gold and silver linings, their glow lighting up the night like scattered stars. Noble lords twirled their ladies across the smooth marble floor, their silk gowns flowing with each movement.

Others gathered in small circles, drinking, cheering, laughter spilling between them. Some stood apart, discussing official matters, their wives and consorts by their sides, murmuring in low voices.

It was their first time among such a crowd of Urekai. Sensing Aekeira's nervousness alongside her own, she squeezed her sister’s hand in reassurance and led her further in, their gazes sweeping over the grand gathering.

And at the center of it all stood the grand rulers.

Grand King Daemonikai and Grand Lord Vladya stood tall, addressing a group of high lords with serious faces. In their rich, regal red attire, embroidered with gold thread glowing under the lantern, they looked magnificent.

In unison, their noses flared, and they inhaled deeply. Then turned, eyes settling upon Emeriel and Aekeira.

The hard lines on their faces smoothed simultaneously as if a button had been pressed.

Butterflies fluttered in Emeriel’s belly.

She and Aekeira drew near and curtsied gracefully.

Both Grand Rulers offered their hands, and in turn, Emeriel and Aekeira placed their hands upon theirs, allowing their males to bring their offered hands to their lips, kissing them.

"You look stunning, my radiant star," Daemonikai said in a deep voice as he looked down at her.

Heat rushed to Emeriel’s cheeks and she beamed, lowering her gaze. "Thank you, Your Grace."

Beside her, Lord Vladya addressed Aekeira. "You look incredibly enchanting, my soaring dove."

Now, Aekeira mirrored her sister's blush.

Daemonikai Emeriel her away to a corner, leaning down, his breath brushed her ear. "I have been waiting to dance with you."

"Dance...?"

"Oh yes. You know that dance you practiced with your sister a week ago? Now is the time to show me."

"Your Grace," Emeriel looked around. The thought of dancing for him before all these people made her incredibly shy.

"Come now," he coaxed, chuckling freely. "Show me that swirling move."

Emeriel was enchanted by his laughter. She loved seeing him this way. After all they had been through, and were going through, she wished to bottle his laughter and store it away.

"But people will see—"

"Of course they will," he said, unapologetic, brushing his thumb against her knuckles. "And I will be proud to show you to them. Here—go on. Show me."

Emeriel could not refuse those expectant green eyes. So she stilled her nerves and stepped back.

He crossed his arms over his chest, amused as he waited.

If I did it quickly, perhaps it would not draw too much attention, right?

Emeriel raised one hand above her head, the other resting just below her belly, mimicking the position as if being held by an unseen partner. Then, taking a deep breath, she spun.

The silk of her gown flared around her, catching the glow of the lanterns as she moved in a perfect, practiced twirl.

The thing was, Emeriel was quite certain she had come to a stop. But it did not seem that way, for her world continued to spinand spin.

Her stomach churned as if turned upside down, her vision narrowed, darkness creeping in at the edges.

Then, she was falling.

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