---
The next day arrived quickly.
It was late afternoon, only thirty minutes before the grand banquet was set to begin.
Aestrea stood in front of the full-length mirror in his penthouse bedroom, adjusting the cuffs of his sharp black suit.
For the first time since entering this illusory world, he truly took a moment to study his reflection.
He looked exactly like he did in his very first life.
Short, neatly styled brown hair framed a face with striking high cheekbones and a sharp, defined jawline that gave him an effortlessly handsome and commanding presence.
His eyes were a beautiful, vivid green, intense and piercing, the kind that could hold a room's attention without effort.
His skin was clear and smooth, and his overall features carried a refined, aristocratic edge mixed with a subtle rugged charm that had made him one of the most sought-after actors in this world.
The black suit he wore was perfectly tailored, hugging his athletic frame in all the right places.
