The grand hall of Queen Amelia's palace was ablaze with colors, sparkling chandeliers, and the laughter of nobles from across Hensville. Music filled the air as guests mingled, exchanging pleasantries and polite bows. Today was not only a celebration but a display of prestige, wealth, and influence.
Alex stood behind a thick curtain in the corner of the hall. His body hummed with the energy of freshly rebuilt nine Mana pillars, every fiber of his being brimming with strength and vitality. The dress Lady Marianne had painstakingly created for him flowed elegantly, balancing strength with grace—a bold, genderfluid masterpiece that mirrored his fiery spirit.
He took a deep breath. This was his moment. His eyes scanned the hall, noting the important guests, the dukes and duchesses, the young nobles—all unaware of the storm about to enter.
Before stepping out, his gaze fell on a young boy being cornered by a group of arrogant young nobles near the buffet. The boy's shoulders were slumped, and his expression betrayed the frustration of someone mistreated and mocked despite his noble bloodline. He seemed lost, almost invisible.
Alex's voice, calm yet firm, carried across the space:
"Excuse me. This is Queen Amelia's party. What do you think members of the royal family would say if they saw such behavior?"
The nobles froze. The indirect warning, the unmistakable authority behind his words, caused them to exchange uneasy glances. A few scoffed nervously, and then, one by one, they dispersed, muttering excuses.
The boy turned to Alex, a mixture of surprise and suspicion on his face.
"You didn't have to step in. I could've handled it."
Alex gave a small, reassuring smile. "I didn't do it for you. I just believe no one should ruin the spirit of a celebration."
The boy nodded slightly, respect beginning to spark in his eyes. Alex gave a final glance, then walked past him, blending into the crowd as if he belonged there entirely.
All eyes turned as Alex made his entrance. The room fell silent for a heartbeat, and then whispers spread like wildfire. His hair caught the light, the flames of his mana reflected subtly in the golden embroidery of his outfit, and his presence commanded attention effortlessly. Some gasped at the elegance, some at the confidence, and others at the daring mix of soft and strong elements in his dress.
As he moved gracefully across the hall, Lady Marianne, standing at the edge of the crowd with a few assistants, allowed herself a small, proud smile. Her creation had come alive. Little did she know, this moment would mark a turning point for her fashion house.
The young boy, still watching from a distance, caught Alex's subtle glance—a silent acknowledgment that he had witnessed Alex's strength and sense of justice. A bond had been formed, unspoken but unmistakable. This boy would become Alex's sword and shield in the days to come, his loyal ally through the trials awaiting them both.
Alex found a place near the center of the room and allowed himself a small smile. Tonight, he was not just a boy of nobility; he was a force, a presence that demanded recognition. And as the celebrations continued around him, alliances, respect, and unspoken promises began to weave themselves into the tapestry of the evening.