Delythena's POV
A week had passed since the incident, and lately, I had noticed something different about my aura. Even Savena and Evely pointed it out, saying there was something unusual about me. But I brushed it off, simply telling them I was just exhausted. I didn't reveal that my true power had awakened, nor did I tell them what it was.
As for what happened in the arena, the entire Celestara Spire had been completely destroyed. Fortunately, everyone managed to escape in time. And luckily, no one suspected that I was the cause of the destruction. The director explained that the lava might have been attracted to the overwhelming energy released. Because of that, I was able to breathe a sigh of relief I didn't want to be the center of attention again.
Even though I tried to act normal, I could feel the changes within me. My senses had sharpened I could hear things from afar, sense movements even when I wasn't looking, and feel the flow of energy around me. It was overwhelming, but I had to pretend everything was fine.
One night, as I was staring at my reflection in the mirror, I noticed something unsettling. My eyes.
They weren't the same as before.
They had a faint glow, shifting colors ever so slightly sometimes blue, sometimes red, sometimes an eerie gold. I stepped back, heart pounding.
"What's happening to me?" I whispered.
I blinked a few times, hoping it was just my imagination, but the glow in my eyes remained. It was subtle, barely noticeable unless someone looked closely but I could see it. I could feel it.
My grip on the sink tightened as unease settled in my chest. Was this because of my newly awakened power? Was this what the Ruler of Spirits meant when he said things would change?
A knock on my door snapped me out of my thoughts.
"Delythena? Are you still awake?" Savena's voice came from the other side.
I took a deep breath, forcing myself to calm down. "Yeah, I'm awake. What's wrong?"
There was a brief pause before she answered. "Can I come in?"
For a moment, I hesitated. What if she noticed something? But I couldn't just ignore her.
"Yeah, come in" I said, turning away from the mirror just as the door creaked open.
Savena stepped inside, pink hair cascading over her shoulders as she studied me with curious eyes. "You look... different."
I forced a small laugh, turning to sit on the edge of my bed. "What do you mean?"
She crossed her arms, tilting her head. "I don't know... there's just something about you. Your aura it feels heavier, stronger."
I swallowed hard. Of course, she would notice. Savena had always been sensitive to energy.
"I guess I'm just tired" I said, hoping to dismiss her concern.
She didn't look convinced. "Delythena, if something's wrong, you know you can tell me, right?"
A part of me wanted to. To tell her everything about the Ruler of Spirits, the Omni Power, and the dangerous price that came with it. But another part of me screamed that it was too risky.
I managed a small smile. "I know, Savena. But really, I'm fine."
She studied me for a moment longer before sighing. "Alright. But if you need anything, I'm here."
"Thanks" I murmured.
She nodded and turned to leave, but just before stepping out, she paused.
"Oh, and by the way..." She glanced at me over her shoulder. "Have you heard the news?"
I frowned. "What news?"
"The Obsidian Citadel Castle has sent out invitations for a grand gathering to celebrate the Supreme Ruler's return from his journey" she said, and I was taken aback.
"When will it take place?" I asked.
"Tomorrow night. It's also a gathering for the enchanters since there will be an announcement," she said. I nodded in understanding.
"Do you have something to wear?" she suddenly asked, making me pause.
"Not yet" I replied, realizing I didn't have anything suitable for such an occasion.
"Let's go buy one" she said, and I nodded, thinking it would be nice to go out for a bit.
Savena, Evely, and I headed to a boutique filled with stunning gowns. The dresses were so elegant ones I would usually see at debutante balls yet here, they were just considered standard formal attire.
But despite the countless gowns surrounding me, none had truly caught my attention. They were all beautiful, but I was the type to be picky I needed to find something that felt perfect.
"Have you chosen one?" Savena asked, holding up an elegant green gown.
"Not yet, I'm still looking" I replied, continuing to browse through the collection.
"What kind of gown are you looking for, Lady Delythena?" Evely asked curiously.
"I don't even know yet" I admitted with a sigh. "There are just too many stunning choices, and I can't decide which one I really want."
"You should choose one that suits your aura" Evely suggested as she browsed through the gowns.
I sighed. "That's the problem. I don't even know what would suit me."
Savena chuckled. "Then let's find out."
Evely and Savena helped me search for a gown that would suit me and that I would like. But after half an hour, I still hadn't chosen one.
"I'll just have one made" I said.
"Are you sure?" Savena asked.
I nodded. "That way, I can be certain it will suit me. Thank you for your help." I smiled.
After we finished shopping, we headed home. Savena went back to her place, while Evely and I had just arrived at the mansion.
"Evely, find me a skilled seamstress" I instructed her.
"Yes, Lady Delythena. I'll have one come over right away," she replied before leaving.
I went to my room and lay down, staring at the ceiling. Moments later, there was a knock on my door.
"Lady Delythena, a letter for you," Evely's voice came from outside. I sat up.
"Come in" I said. The door opened, and Evely entered, carrying a box.
"What's that?" I asked.
She handed me the box, and on top of it was a letter. I opened it and began to read.
Dear my lady Delythena,
I am looking forward to seeing you at the celebration, and I miss you and seeing your beautiful face. Wear this gown, I want to see you in it tomorrow.
See you tomorrow, my fiancée.
Your future husband,
Zadkiel
That was what was written in the letter, and it completely shocked me.
That man is so annoying!
I opened the box after reading the letter, and as soon as I did, a stunning royal blue gown greeted me. I took it out and examined it closely it was absolutely beautiful.
"That gown is gorgeous, Lady Delythena," Evely murmured in awe.
I couldn't deny it. The dress was breathtaking, and I truly loved it.
How irritating. That man has such good taste.
"Are you going to wear it, Lady Delythena?" Evely asked.
"I'll wear this one" I replied.
"Alright, then I won't call for a tailor" she said before nodding and stepping out of the room.
I wasn't wearing this because Zadkiel wanted me to. I was wearing it because I genuinely liked it.
The next evening arrived faster than I expected. The entire mansion was bustling with preparations, and my personal attendants were busy helping me get ready. Evely carefully arranged my hair into an elegant style, while another maid secured delicate jewelry around my neck and wrists.
As I looked at my reflection in the mirror, I had to admit the gown suited me perfectly. The royal blue fabric shimmered under the light, hugging my figure in all the right places. It was regal, sophisticated, and undeniably breathtaking.
I was wearing a gown woven from the essence of midnight itself a deep, regal blue that shimmered under the golden light. The corset hugged my frame, embroidered with delicate gold filigree that traced over my curves like celestial constellations. The off-the-shoulder sleeves draped elegantly, soft yet structured, adding a touch of refined grace.
The skirt cascaded in luxurious layers, edged with golden embroidery that glowed like whispers of forgotten magic. With every step, the fabric swayed, revealing glimpses of delicate white underskirts, a contrast as striking as the stars against the night sky. A jeweled choker adorned my neck, completing the look of nobility, power, and mystery.
Dressed like this, I felt like royalty like a queen of the cosmos, a noblewoman of a lost empire, or a heroine in a grand tale waiting to unfold.
"Lady Delythena, you look stunning" Evely said, admiration in her eyes.
I sighed, trying to ignore the fact that the person who sent this dress was the same one I found frustrating.
"Let's go" I finally said.
With that, I stepped out of my room, ready to face whatever awaited me at the grand celebration.
We rode the carriage, with Evely sitting beside me. When we arrived at the palace, my eyes widened in awe at its sheer size and beauty. I had only ever seen palaces in movies and books, but now, one stood magnificently before me.
As we stepped inside, I felt almost dizzy from the towering walls and the dazzling golden lights illuminating the grand hall. Almost everything was made of gold, shimmering under the glow of countless chandeliers.
We ascended the grand staircase, lined with a luxurious red carpet and surrounded by golden lights.
Upon reaching the ballroom, I was left speechless by its grandeur. Gigantic chandeliers hung from the ceiling, all crafted from gold. Even the vases, doors, chairs, tables, and floors were golden, polished to such perfection that I could see my own reflection in them.
"Delythena."
I turned at the sound of Savena's voice. She looked stunning in the green gown she had chosen.
"You look beautiful" I said with a smile.
She returned the smile. "Even more so do you. That gown is gorgeous. Did you have it made?"
"No, it was a gift" I replied.
She was about to say something when the announcer's voice echoed through the ballroom.
"Everyone, pay homage to the arrival of the Supreme Ruler, Zadkiel Vanderbilt" the announcer declared.
Zadkiel entered through the grand entrance, walking with an air of authority toward the throne at the front of the hall.
He was wearing a commanding ensemble befitting a ruler of both battlefield and throne. A high-collared black military coat, embroidered with intricate gold filigree, hugged his frame with regal precision. The gilded patterns curled like ancient sigils, woven with power and prestige. A crimson sash crossed his chest, signifying authority, while a polished golden brooch rested at his shoulder, fastening a heavy cloak of deep sapphire lined with blood-red silk. The fur-trimmed collar only added to the aura of dominance, framing his face like the mantle of a conqueror.
His black gloves contrasted against the gleam of his golden accents, and the tall, polished boots reflected the flickering light with every step. A ceremonial sword rested at his hip both a weapon and a symbol of unchallenged power.
Beneath the grandeur of his attire, his jet-black hair was styled in a sharp, commanding fashion, revealing piercing red eyes that burned like embers in the night. He was not just dressed for battle or diplomacy he was dressed to command, to intimidate, to rule.
As annoying as it was to admit, he looked incredibly handsome, and I couldn't tear my eyes away from him.
Zadkiel stood at the front as he reached his throne. "Good evening to everyone, I am delighted by your presence in this celebration," he began.
"The announcement I will share now is about the mission where the enchanters will be assigned to different places to protect the people in various locations," he announced, and the people became excited. By the way, in this world, not everyone possesses powers; some are just ordinary people.
"In one place, six enchanters will be assigned. Your mission is to eliminate the enemies that are attacking, and once you complete the mission, I will give you a reward that you will know once it's completed" he added.
He began announcing the names and the locations where each enchanter would be assigned, reading from the rolled-up paper.
"The group assigned to the North will be Shamera, Azmier, Terrence, Haden, Crisella, and Delythena" he announced, which surprised me. I was annoyed because I wasn't with Savena, and to make it worse, Crisella was included in the group.
"The mission will start tomorrow, so make sure you're prepared for what you'll bring." Some of them are excited, but I'm not, because not only am I with Crisella, but it's also too early for the mission.
After the announcement, everyone started eating, drinking, and dancing. "Did you see Savena?" I asked Evely.
"No, Lady Delythena, it seems she stepped out for a bit" she replied.
While I was drinking on the side with Evely, I was suddenly surprised when Zadkiel approached me. "Finally, I've found you" he said. He looked me up and down and smiled. "That gown I gave you suits you perfectly. I'm happy you wore it, My Lady."
"I only wore it because I liked it, not because you wanted me to wear it" I defended myself, worried about what he might think.
He grinned. "I'm still happy that my fiancée is wearing what her future husband gave her."
I was taken aback by his words and looked to the side. "Don't say things like that, someone might hear you and think something else," I scolded him.
"Are you scolding a Supreme Ruler?" he asked with a teasing grin.
I rolled my eyes. "You really have no shame" I muttered under my breath.
"You look amazing, my lady" he suddenly said, his tone not teasing but sincere.
I looked away quickly, feeling my face heat up. A few moments later, he suddenly extended his hand. "May I have this dance, My Lady?" he asked, which took me by surprise.
All eyes around us seemed to be on us, and even Evely looked like she was swooning. I realized I would be the one to embarrass myself if I refused, especially with a Supreme Ruler asking me to dance. I sighed softly and reached out to take his hand.
We went to the center and danced. Everyone's eyes were on us, and the music matched the joy of every step. I was a bit nervous, but with each move, it felt lighter. Zadkiel, on the other hand, seemed comfortable and confident with every step. I didn't know what the others were thinking anymore, but what I felt was just his presence beside me and the strange feeling that a whole new world had opened up for the two of us.
As we continued to dance, the world around us seemed to fade away. It was just the two of us, moving in sync with the music, each step flowing effortlessly. The atmosphere was warm, and despite the tension that had been building up inside me, I felt strangely calm. Zadkiel's gaze never left me, and his smile was genuine, not a teasing one, making me wonder if he truly felt what I was beginning to sense.
After a while, the music slowed down, and we found ourselves standing still, facing each other. "You're a wonderful dancer, My Lady" he said softly, his voice almost drowned out by the soft music.
"Thank you" I replied, trying to hide the nervousness creeping up again. "You're not so bad yourself."
He chuckled, clearly amused by my response. "You have no idea how much I've been looking forward to this," he confessed, his eyes intense, yet warm.
For a moment, I wasn't sure how to respond. What did he mean by that? The sudden shift in his tone made my heart race again.
The soft music played on, but the moment between us felt like it had slowed down entirely. I glanced up at him, unsure how to respond to his words. "Looking forward to this?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady, though my heart was beating faster than I would have liked.
He nodded, his gaze softening. "Yes. I've always wanted to share moments like this with you" His words hung in the air between us, and for a moment, I was at a loss for what to say.
I shifted slightly, feeling the weight of the moment. It was strange, being so close to someone who held such power, yet spoke so sincerely. "I didn't expect this" I murmured, trying to lighten the mood. "But... it's nice."
He smiled, a more genuine and soft smile than I had ever seen from him before. "I'm glad you think so. I wasn't sure if you'd be open to it, but I figured I should try."
I felt a sense of warmth spread through me, though there was still a part of me that was uncertain about where this was going. But in that moment, all I could focus on was the connection between us, however unexpected it might have been.
The music faded into a slower, more intimate melody, and we continued to sway together, each lost in our own thoughts, but somehow sharing the same quiet space.
As the music played on, the rhythm slowed even more, and it felt as if time itself had paused. My mind was swirling with thoughts, but I couldn't quite grasp them. Zadkiel's presence was so overwhelming, and yet, there was something comforting about it. His hand rested gently on my waist, and mine was still in his, fingers lightly intertwined.
"Is this what you were expecting, My Lady?" he asked, his voice a little lower, the playful edge from before replaced with something more serious.
I hesitated, then shook my head. "No, I wasn't. But... it feels different now. In a way I didn't expect."
He raised an eyebrow, looking intrigued. "Different how?"
I searched for the right words, not wanting to reveal too much of what I was feeling, but also not wanting to lie. "It's just... unexpected. All of this. But I guess sometimes, the unexpected can be... good."
His smile widened, as if he was pleased by my answer. "I'm glad to hear that, My Lady. I'll admit, I was hoping we could have a moment like this."
Before I could respond, he leaned in slightly, lowering his voice just enough for me to hear. "And I hope it's not the last one."
The words hit me harder than I thought they would. I swallowed, feeling the weight of the moment pressing in. This wasn't just a dance anymore; it was something more. And whether I liked it or not, it felt like it was leading somewhere—somewhere I wasn't sure I was ready for.
But for now, I just stayed in the moment, focusing on the feeling of his hand in mine and the music surrounding us, trying to ignore the uncertainty brewing inside me.
"My lady, don't you still want to marry me?" he suddenly asked.
I narrowed my eyes at him and raised an eyebrow.
He chuckled softly at my reaction, clearly amused by the way I looked at him. "I didn't mean to shock you" he said, his voice light but still holding that same intensity. "But I've been wondering for a while now."
I crossed my arms, trying to hide the nervousness bubbling up inside me. "You really know how to catch someone off guard, don't you?" I said, attempting to keep my tone playful despite the flurry of thoughts in my head.
He smiled, clearly enjoying the effect he had on me. "I'm not trying to catch you off guard, My Lady. I'm just... asking what's been on my mind."