The late afternoon light spilled gently into Shellia's chamber, painting the silken curtains gold. She sat in front of her vanity, hands clasped together tightly as if praying for courage. Tonight was the annual banquet of the Aurora Kingdom — a grand celebration marking the founding of the realm. But for her, it wasn't just a royal occasion. It was also the first time she would appear before the entire nobility as the Emperor's chosen one.
Before her, laid carefully atop the velvet bedspread, was a gown unlike anything she had ever seen. Crafted from layers of silver-threaded silk and moonlight fabric, it shimmered between shades of soft blue and white — the colors of the Aurora crest itself. The neckline was adorned with tiny gems that reflected light like morning dew, while the train spilled like liquid starlight across the floor.
And this gown, as Diana had whispered earlier with a knowing smile, was a personal gift from His Majesty Allen Aurora himself.
