Celebration

Khione awoke with the first light of dawn filtering through her window. Today was her seventeenth birthday, a day she had long anticipated. She stretched, her mind buzzing with thoughts of the festivities ahead.

A soft knock at her door pulled her from her reverie. "Come in," she called, sitting up in bed.

The door opened to reveal several maids, all smiling warmly. "Good morning, Lady Khione," one of them said. "We are here to help you get ready for your special day."

Khione nodded, a smile playing on her lips. "Thank you. Let's begin."

The maids moved efficiently, assisting her with her morning routine. They brushed her long, dark hair until it shone, helping her into a comfortable yet elegant morning gown. After they were done, Khione felt refreshed and ready to face the day.

"You look beautiful, my lady," one of the maids said, stepping back to admire their work.

"Thank you," Khione replied. "Let's head down for breakfast."

The maids led her to the dining hall, where her family was already gathered. Her younger siblings greeted her with enthusiastic hugs, and her parents beamed with pride.

"Happy birthday, Khione," her father said, his eyes twinkling.

"Thank you, Father," Khione replied, taking her seat at the table.

The breakfast was a lively affair, filled with laughter and conversation. They discussed the day's plans, the upcoming ball, and her departure for the Imperial Academy. Khione listened intently, her heart swelling with a mix of excitement and nostalgia.

After breakfast, the maids whisked Khione away to prepare for the afternoon. She stood patiently as they dressed her in a stunning light purple and golden gown, the fabric shimmering in the sunlight. The dress was elegant and regal, befitting the daughter of a duke.

"You look like a true princess, my lady," one of the maids said, fastening the last clasp.

Khione looked at herself in the mirror, hardly recognizing the poised young woman staring back. "Thank you," she said softly, her heart pounding with anticipation.

---

Meanwhile, in the grand ballroom, Duchess Celeste stood with her daughter, Evangeline. The room was a marvel of opulence, with chandeliers casting a warm glow over the assembled guests.

"Evangeline, are you excited about attending the Imperial Academy?" Duchess Celeste asked, her eyes sparkling.

Evangeline nodded, her expression a mix of eagerness and nerves. "Yes, Mother. I'm looking forward to it, but I'm also a bit nervous."

"That's perfectly natural," the duchess reassured her. "You'll be surrounded by the best and brightest of our generation. Just remember to stay focused and true to yourself."

As they spoke, a hush fell over the room. The grand doors at the top of the long set of stairs opened, and the Briston family was announced.

First came Khione's younger siblings, descending the staircase with practiced grace. They were followed by Duke Briston and his wife, who moved with the dignity befitting their station. Finally, Khione herself appeared, her gown catching the light as she stepped forward.

"Lady Khione Briston," the herald announced.

A murmur of admiration rippled through the crowd as Khione made her way down the stairs. Her heart raced, but she kept her head high, meeting the eyes of those around her with a calm, confident gaze.

When she reached the bottom of the stairs, her father took her hand, and together they moved to the center of the ballroom. The guests parted to make way for them, their faces a blur of smiles and nods.

Duchess Celeste watched with a proud smile as Khione was presented to the assembly. "She looks radiant," she whispered to Evangeline.

"Yes, she does," Evangeline agreed, her eyes fixed on Khione.

As the music started and the first dance began, Khione felt a wave of emotion wash over her. This was her moment, a celebration of her journey so far and the exciting future that lay ahead. She knew that the next chapter of her life was about to begin, and she was ready to embrace it with all her heart.