AVELINE I can't believe I'm in the capital again. There's something about this place that feels so refreshing, especially now that it's spring. The air is crisp, the flowers are in bloom, and everything seems so lively.

What excites me even more is that tomorrow is my debutante and my 18th birthday celebration. His Majesty, the Emperor, granted me the incredible honor of holding the event in the Imperial Ballroom as recognition of my achievements at such a young age. Although, I have a sneaking suspicion this is Xavier's doing... but I don't mind. After all, not every noble lady gets the chance to celebrate her debutante in the Imperial Ballroom.

I heard Lady Jane had her debutante there last month. Unfortunately, I couldn't attend because I was busy preparing for the battle at the North Wall. I hope I'll get the chance to meet her tomorrow and perhaps even befriend her.

The estate in the capital is bustling with activity. Servants are rushing around, making sure everything is in order for tomorrow. Meanwhile, I'm sitting in the living hall, trying to soak it all in when the Duke's voice cuts through the commotion.

"Aveline, come here," he calls.

I follow him, curious about what he wants. To my surprise, a maid walks in carrying the most beautiful dress I've ever seen. It's pink, adorned with shimmering diamonds in an intricate floral pattern. The back flows elegantly, and the entire design exudes grace and sophistication.

I gasp. "It's beautiful."

The Duke smiles, pleased with my reaction. "This will be your dress for tomorrow's banquet."

I can't stop admiring it. It's perfect. The Duke then reminds me to get some rest, saying I'll need my energy for tomorrow.

Later, I head to my room, feeling both excited and nervous. Time passes, and suddenly, the clock strikes midnight. I stare at the clock for a moment, realizing something monumental—I'm officially eighteen now.

For a brief moment, I reflect on my past life, how it ended so abruptly before I even had a chance to live. Now, here I am. Alive. Happy. And ready to face the future.

My thoughts are interrupted by a soft knock on my balcony door. Startled, I look up to see Xavier standing there. He's here... again.

"Happy birthday, Aveline," he says as he steps into my room.

"Thank you," I reply, smiling.

"Why did you leave without telling me?" he asks, his brows furrowed in concern.

Oh, he's referring to last month. "Well... I didn't want to disturb you," I say, avoiding his gaze.

"Disturb me?" he repeats, his tone softening. "You never disturb me."

Before I can respond, he leans in and places a gentle kiss on my forehead. "Happy birthday, Aveline," he says again.

I take a step back, lightly pushing him away. "I don't think you should be doing this, Xavier," I say, my voice trembling slightly.

His eyes widen in shock. "Why?" he asks desperately.

"It will break Lady Margaret's heart."

Oh no. The words escape my mouth before I can stop them.

"Lady Margaret?!" he exclaims, looking genuinely puzzled. "How did you know about her?"

Caught, I have no choice but to tell the truth. I admit that I saw him with her at the dessert shop.

His expression changes, and he immediately begins explaining. He tells me that the Duke of Brown had forced him to take Lady Margaret out because he was pressuring Xavier to find a partner. Xavier insists that he has no interest in her whatsoever.

For some reason, hearing that makes my chest feel lighter, as if a weight I didn't know I was carrying has been lifted.

Xavier reaches into his pocket and pulls out a small jewelry box. "Here," he says, handing it to me.

I open it to find a delicate pink necklace sparkling inside.

"It has magic properties," Xavier explains. "It will protect you from danger."

I smile, touched by the thoughtful gift. Without thinking, I lean in and kiss his cheek. "Thank you, Xavier."

His face flushes a deep red, and he quickly covers his mouth with his hand, as if trying to regain his composure. "I—I should go now," he stammers.

I wave as he leaves, feeling a strange warmth settle in my chest. For the first time in a while, everything feels... right.

***

AVELINE I stand at the entrance of the Imperial Ballroom, my heart racing as I prepare to step inside. Beside me is my father, Duke Edric Lytheryss, the ever-reliable presence that gives me strength in moments like these.

"Happy birthday, Aveline," he says warmly, his voice filled with affection. "Am I the first to wish you?"

I hesitate for a moment, then shake my head. "Actually, Xavier beat you to it."

My father's eyes narrow slightly, and his gaze falls to the necklace I'm wearing. The pink gem glimmers under the chandelier light, perfectly matching my dress.

"Where did you get that necklace? I've never seen it before," he asks, suspicion coloring his tone.

"Xavier gave it to me," I admit, avoiding his piercing gaze.

"The prince? Again?" he says with a mix of surprise and exasperation.

I nod, biting my lip to stifle a small smile.

Before he can press further, His Imperial Majesty approaches, flanked by Xavier. The Emperor's presence is commanding, and as they draw near, I curtsy deeply.

"Greetings, the Sun of the Empire, Your Majesty the Emperor, and the Future of the Empire, Your Royal Highness the Crown Prince," I say with practiced elegance.

The Emperor smiles warmly. "Happy birthday, Lady Aveline."

"Thank you, Your Majesty," I reply, keeping my tone polite but grateful.

"I believe this is my first time meeting you," the Emperor continues. "I have heard much about you."

"It's an honor to meet you, Your Majesty," I respond, lowering my head slightly to show respect.

The Emperor nods approvingly, then glances at the grand doors of the ballroom. "It is time. Let us proceed."

The guards step forward and announce our arrival in a booming voice that echoes through the vast hall:

"The Sun of the Empire, His Majesty Emperor Roland, the Future of the Empire, His Royal Highness Crown Prince Xavier Alexander, the Duke of the North, Duke Edric Lytheryss, and the Lady of the North, Lady Aveline von Lytheryss."

The grand doors open, and we step inside together. The ballroom is breathtaking, a sea of light and grandeur. Crystal chandeliers cast a golden glow over the crowd, who immediately bow as we make our entrance.

As I walk to the center of the room, my arm linked with my father's, I can feel the weight of countless eyes on me. The whispers and murmurs ripple through the air, but I keep my head high, determined to make a lasting impression.

This is my moment, and I won't let anything overshadow it.