Chapter 8

As Isolde steps out of her chambers, the soft glow of her candlelight meets the warm, flickering torches that line the castle's corridors. The air is filled with the sweet aroma of freshly baked bread and the distant strains of a lively melody, a testament to the festivities already underway in the great hall. She glanced around observing the staff in full swing they were celebrating and for once she was glad Elias forced her out.

"It appears everyone is having a great time." She remarked following alongside her friend, Elias smiles, his earlier fluster completely forgotten as he walks beside Isolde.

The flickering candlelight dances across his features, highlighting his easy smile. "Indeed, and I'm thrilled you decided to join us. It's not often we have such a splendid occasion to let our hair down, so to speak."

As they round a corner, the grand double doors to the great hall come into view Isolde felt her stomach twist this would be her first time in such a place. "I wonder what it looks like in there?" She whispered her fingers fidgeting with her hair.

Elias leans in, his voice conspiratorial, "I've heard whispers of a grand feast, with dishes from every corner of the realm. And the musicians, they say they've been practicing for weeks. But that's not all, Isolde." He pauses, his eyes gleaming with anticipation.

 "The royal family is attending." Isolde stopped in her tracks, fear creeping up in her chest, tugging on Elias's sleeve, "They attend these events?"

Elias's eyes widen slightly at Isolde's sudden halt, his smile softening with concern. "Yes, it's tradition. The royal family always attends the autumn harvest festival. They greet the people, lead the first dance, and even join in some of the games."

He looks down at her hand on his sleeve, then up into her eyes, his voice gentle but firm. "Isolde, you don't have to be afraid; we're residents of the castle it's only natural we will run into them from time to time."

"I'm not afraid just....its unexpected that's all." Elias's eyes shine with understanding and a hint of admiration as he listens to Isolde's words.

He gives her hand a gentle, reassuring squeeze before releasing it. "I know it's a lot to take in, but remember, you belong here just as much as anyone else. You're technically a mage of the Elynorian court now." He smiles warmly, his gaze never leaving hers. "And besides, I'll be right beside you the whole time, kay?"

Isolde takes a deep breath, her eyes meeting Elias's, his words, spoken with such sincerity and belief in her, bolster her confidence. She straightens her shoulders, a determined glint in her eye. 

With a nod of resolve, she steps forward, Elias falling into step beside her once more as they approach the grand doors to the great hall. Elias grins, his eyes sparkling with excitement as he pushes open the heavy wooden doors. "After you, my lady," he says with a playful bow, gesturing for Isolde to enter first. As she steps through the threshold, her breath catches in her throat.

The great hall is a vision of opulence and festivity. Hundreds of candles flicker from chandeliers and wall sconces, casting a warm, inviting glow over the assembled crowd. The aroma of roasted meats and sweet pastries mingles with the heady fragrance of autumnal flowers adorning every surface. The crowd is a mixture of nobility and staff, Isolde's eyes widen as she looks further ahead catching a glimpse of the king and Queen, "There they are..." Elias follows Isolde's gaze, spotting the royal couple. "Indeed, they always make an entrance at the start of these events."

He guides her towards a table near the center of the hall, his hand gently resting on the small of her back. As they weave through the crowd, Isolde notices the various groups of people. Some are engaged in animated conversation, others are already dancing to the lively music played by the orchestra on a raised platform. Isolde's gaze is drawn to the royal couple as they make their way across the hall. The king cuts an imposing figure in his ornate robes, his crown gleaming under the candlelight. Beside him, the queen is a vision of elegance, her crimson gown shimmering with every step. As they approach the dais, the music swells, and the crowd parts in deference.

Suddenly, Isolde feels a tap on her shoulder. She turns to see Rose, her eyes sparkling with mischief as she leans into whisper, "Isolde I am so glad you are here, I must say, I didn't expect to see you here tonight." Rose's sweetness doesn't match her sharp words as she leans closer.

Elias's brow furrows slightly as he observes the exchange, He notices how Rose's words and actions are at odds, but he knows better than to cause a scene with her. Rose continues, speaking more loudly this time. "Oh, look! They're about to start the grand march."

She gestures dramatically towards the dais, where the royal family is positioning themselves. Elias's hand touches Isolde's arm, his contact firm yet reassuring. "Isolde, why don't we find a good spot to watch the grand march?" he suggests, his voice smooth and composed.

"Yes, let's get closer." Rose falls into step beside Isolde, her perfume heavy and cloying as she continues her whispered commentary. Isolde hates the way it makes her dizzy just what was she wearing? 

The great hall is filled with a festive air, Laughter and merriment abound as the orchestra begins a lively tune. Isolde stands with Elias near the edge of the dancefloor, watching the royal family position themselves on the dais. Rose continues to lean close to Isolde's ear, her whispers sharp and biting even as her tone remains sweet and friendly. Isolde doesn't pay attention to her only offering pleasant smiles and nods as she cranes her eyes towards to the couple. 

Suddenly, Isolde tenses as she realizes Prince Elynor is approaching the dais as well, Rose squeezes Isolde's arm noting the look in Isolde's eyes, "Isn't he divine?"

Isolde shifts as she watches Prince Elynor ascend the dais, Rose's words sending a shiver down her spine. She feels Elias's reassuring presence beside her, but her focus is solely on the prince. His regal bearing and handsome features command attention, and Isolde finds herself captivated despite her reservations, his frame is taller than almost everyone in the room. He was close to being an exact copy of his father but somehow his features were sharper, making him appear less human and more like a God from the tales of ancient times.

As the prince takes his place beside the king and queen, the orchestra swells into a grand march, the first notes of the grand march echo through the great hall, the crowd begins to part, forming two long lines that stretch from the dais to the far end of the room.

Isolde watches in awe as the royal family leads the procession, the king and queen at the head, followed by the prince. The couple's dance is a spectacle of grace and elegance, their every movement in perfect synchronization. She had heard stories of the King and Queen's love, their journey was filled with tales of heroism, sacrifice, and an unbreakable bond. Their son, Prince Elynor, followed closely behind, his steps as sure and confident as his parents his partner was gleaming with excitement it was clear to spectators she was having the time of her life. His presence alone was enough to draw all eyes, and whispers of admiration and speculation followed him.

Rose's grip on Isolde's arm tightened slightly as the prince passed by, her earlier sweetness giving way to a possessive quality in her touch Isolde stole a glance at the woman beside her before quickly turning away was that? - no it can't be. 

As the grand march continues, the music swells, and the crowd begins to clap along with the rhythm, the atmosphere in the great hall grows more electric. Isolde's eyes remain fixed on the prince, his every move captivating her attention. His stride is confident, his posture regal, and his smile - when it breaks out - is dazzling.

Shit.

Elias leans in, his voice low and conspiratorial. "Isolde, I must confess, I've been meaning to ask you something." His eyes dart around, ensuring no one else is within earshot. "What exactly happened between you and the prince? I've heard whispers, but I want to hear it from you."

Isolde's eyes widen slightly, why was he asking her that again? Did he mean to bring up her blunder again in front of Rose? her gaze flickering from Elias to the prince and back again, her fingers twisting together nervously.

Rose leaned in as well, listening to their private conversation, "Oh yes, do tell, your secret is safe with me." Isolde's face twisted in an awkward smile as she shot Elias a glare Isolde swallows hard, feeling the heat of Rose's interest and Elias's curiosity burning into her.

The grand march continues around them, the music and laughter a stark contrast to the weight of the moment.

"Nothing! Truly, I just happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. Although he did essentially ban me from the stables!" As Isolde's words escape her lips, a nervous laugh accompanying them, Rose's grip on her arm loosens slightly, her eyes narrowing as she takes in Isolde's response.

Her sweet smile turns into a thin, calculating line, and she leans in even closer, her voice barely above a whisper. "Oh, I see. So, you're the reason he's been so... irritable lately? Interesting."

Isolde glanced at Rose, curiosity getting the better of her, words slipping her tongue, "Are you and the prince close Rose?" Rose's smile tightens at Isolde's question, a flicker of something - annoyance? - passing over her features.

She leans back slightly, her grip on Isolde's arm falling completely as she raises an eyebrow. "Close? I suppose you could say that. After all, I am to be his bride." Her voice carries a note of pride, but there's an undercurrent of something else - defensiveness perhaps.

Isolde's eyes widened, a blush spreading across her face, "Oh, Congratulations! forgive me I had no clue!" As Rose's words sink in, Isolde feels a flush of embarrassment and realization.

She had indeed heard whispers of the prince's impending nuptials and the pressure for him to marry, but the news still comes as a shock..

Elias, noticing the sudden shift in the conversation, steps in with a smooth, "Indeed, congratulations, Rose."

 Rose's smile returns, though it doesn't quite reach her eyes, "Thank you, Elias. I'm sure you understand the importance of proper decorum and respect for one's betrothed. I make it my priority to put his wellbeing above all others." Her words carry a subtle edge as she glances meaningfully at Isolde.

As the music swells to a crescendo, signaling the end of the grand march, the crowd erupts into applause. The royal family takes their places on the dais once more, the king raising his hand for silence. "Lords, ladies, and friends of Elynor," he begins, his voice carrying easily across the hall, "tonight, we celebrate the bountiful harvest and the prosperity of our great kingdom." As he speaks, Isolde finds herself increasingly aware of Rose's presence beside her, it felt like she spoke anything else she would have her head for dinner.

The queen stands beside the king, her smile warm and welcoming, while Prince Elynor stands to the side, his gaze scanning the crowd. He pauses momentarily as his eyes lock with Isolde's, his expression unreadable.

Isolde's breath catches in her throat, her heart pounding, "look at that, he's looking at me, seems he can't take his eyes of a me." Rose giggled beside her, Isolde quickly looked away, instead she focused on the ceiling above her if she focused hard enough, she may be able to fly away. The king's speech continues, detailing the kingdom's achievements and expressing gratitude for the hard work of its citizens. As he speaks, the atmosphere in the great hall grows more festive, with servants beginning to circulate with trays of food and drink.

"Take one Isolde, it's amazing." As Rose takes a sip of her wine, a hint of red staining her lips, she leans in towards Isolde, her voice barely above a whisper. "You know, dear, it's not every day that the prince takes notice of someone new. It's quite... exhilarating, isn't it?" Her eyes, cold and calculating, bore into Isolde, who feels a shiver run down her spine.

"I wouldn't say that Rose-" Isolde replied grabbing a glass of wine and downing it quickly, she didn't typically drink but she needed to drink something anything to satiate the parchedness in her throat.

Rose's smile grew sharper, her arms folding over her chest, her breasts nearly spilling out, "Oh, but I would. The prince is a man of... particular tastes. And you, my dear, seem to have caught his eye."

She spoke softly; her words laced with a possessive edge. "Just be careful, won't you? The castle can be a dangerous place for those who don't know their place."

Isolde feels a strange mix of fear and confusion her fingers tingling where Rose's grip had been. She watches as Rose saunters away, her gait confident and graceful, her blush-colored gown swirling around her like a pool of flowers. The king's speech continues to fill the hall, but Isolde's focus is split between his words and the sight of Rose settling beside the prince. He seems to approve of her dress offering her his arm and taking her to the side away from creeping eyes.

Isolde laughed feeling the alcohol taking affect, "Just what insanity is that woman speaking." Elias chuckled, shaking his head. "I wouldn't worry too much about Rose. She's always been a bit... possessive when it comes to the prince."

He glanced at Isolde, a mischievous glint in his eye. "But I must say, you handled yourself quite well. Not many can stand up to Rose like that."

Isolde rolled her eyes, taking another sip of her wine. "I hardly think I stood up to her, if I did I'm not sure I would have lived to see the light of tomorrow."

"She was speaking absolute nonsense." Isolde continued snorting as she watched the two together, they looked perfect it almost made her sick. 

Isolde and Elias watch the royal family take their seats as the evening progresses, the hall fills with music and the soft hum of conversation as nobles mill about, engaging in more dances and drowning themselves with wine. Isolde finds herself relaxing slightly as time passes, though she remains keenly aware of Rose's presence across the hall, her piercing gaze occasionally settling on Isolde.

The pair found the other mages after a few moments and the night was spent in a dizzying blur, she danced and laughed with them and drank more than she should have. As the night wore on, the event slowly came to a close the Royal family departed soon after the march, leaving the rest of the guests to enjoy the evening. She notices Elias falling over himself and begins to worry he may break a bone if he continues at his but she must admit it was a sight she couldn't look away from, he looked so free and happy, "Elias..."Isolde giggled, "It seems you had too much to drink..."

Elias grins widely his eyes blown as he drinks in Isolde's equally flushed face, "Perhaps a bit. But I'm having such a wonderful time!" He gestures grandly, nearly spilling his drink. "Look at everyone, Isolde! So much joy and laughter!" His eyes are slightly unfocused as he sways on his feet.

Isolde laughs, her own head feeling pleasantly light from the wine, "You're right, it is wonderful but, come it's time for us to go if you stay any longer you will regret it in the morning."

Elias pouts playfully, "But Isolde, the night is still young!" He attempts to twirl dramatically but stumbles, catching himself on a nearby pillar. "Oh, perhaps you're right. I don't want to embarrass myself in front of all these fine people."

Isolde chuckles, steadying her friend as they make their way out of the great hall. As they exit, the cool night air hits their faces, sharpening their senses, although the evening started rather shakily it didn't go to waste.