Centre of attention

Emma crossed her arms, her annoyance creeping into her tone.

"My lord, you're just an apprentice mage. Even an advanced apprentice mage could disfigure your pretty face."

She rolled her eyes, not backing down from the challenge. "You may think your looks are all you need, but trust me, there's more to ruling than just being easy on the eyes."

Her gaze met his, steady and serious, as if she were reminding him that charm alone wouldn't protect him from the real world.

Julian's playful demeanor dropped as he heard her words, genuine fear crossing his face. He cupped his face with both hands, eyes widening as he imagined the worst.

"Wait, what? Disfigured?" He quickly composed himself, shaking off the scare like it was just a bad dream. "Come on, Emma, You're really going to ruin my day with nightmares about my perfect face?" 

He took a deep breath, forcing a chuckle to hide his moment of vulnerability.

"I'll have you know, this face is a national treasure" His grin returned,

Emma couldn't help but laugh at his dramatic reaction. The tension easing as she shook her head.

"Get dressed, my lord," she said while handing him the outfit with a smirk. "We wouldn't want your beauty to be wasted while you're getting scared over imaginary disasters." 

She turned to give him a moment of privacy, her laugh hanging in the air as she walked towards the door knowing he'd be ready to surprise everyone soon enough.

Julian slipped into the outfit, a finely tailored collection that showcased his status as the son of a duke. The deep navy fabric hugged his frame perfectly, emphasizing his lean build. He had gold embroideries all over the collar and cuffs of his jacket, giving it a royal look.

He had a white shirt underneath it, with the collar raised high which framed his face perfectly. Around his neck, he wore a simple yet elegant gold chain with a small jewel reflecting the light as he moved. His pants were fitted but comfortable which allowed him to move easily while polished black boots completed the look. 

As he admired himself in the mirror one last time, he felt ready to step into the world, confident and polished, a true reflection of his noble heritage.

"Let's go, dear Emma," Julian said with a smile, his confidence radiating from him. 

Emma turned to face him, her breath catching for a moment as she took in his appearance. The elegant outfit suited him perfectly, highlighting his features in a way that made him look even more handsome.

She couldn't help but admire how effortlessly he embodied the picture of nobility.

"You look good, my lord," she said, her tone genuine, momentarily forgetting her earlier irritation and annoyance. 

Julian flashed a charming grin, his eyes sparkling with mischief.

"Well, someone has to keep up the standards around here" With a playful bow, he gestured for her to lead the way, eager to show off his refined look to the others waiting at the table.

As Julian walked through the grand hall, he saw the stunning paintings lining the walls each depicting scenes of victory and glory from his family's past.

The rich colors and intricate details showcased the family's ancestor. Stepping lightly, confidence glimmered from his body, his smile conveyed the pride of his bloodline.

Finally, he reached the grand table, a long expanse set for the banquet. The table was filled with delicacies and shining silverware which was surrounded by the important figures of the family.

Conversations filled the air, laughter mingling with the clinking of glasses, and all eyes turned toward him as he approached, eager to see the appearance of their handsome young lord. Julian soaked in the attention, knowing he was the center of admiration in that moment.

As Julian's gaze traveled to the main seat of the table, his eyes landed on an imposing figure, an older man who seemed to be in his 50s, though his face had the sharpness and vitality of someone much younger, perhaps in his 30s. His skin was smooth, and his piercing eyes held a sharp intensity. 

But it was the man's aura that caught Julian off guard. There was something deeply commanding about him. 

The man seated at the head of the table was none other than , Grand Duke Augustus Easvil, Julian's grandfather. He was at the peak of the kingdom, an existence so powerful.

Augustus wasn't just a leader in title, his strength and influence was second to the king. His reputation had travelled throughout the kingdom and his existence was that of god to the commoners.