Eternal Starlight: Celestial City

Chapter 3

Thorin stepped outside, spread his wings wide, and soared into the sky.

Elowen felt a wave of sadness wash over her; it was the anniversary of her grandmother's tragic death at the hands of Thomas. Shaking off the memories, she ascended the stairs, grateful for the comforting presence of her home, which seemed to sense her need for a soothing bath. As the hot water filled the tub, a smile crept across her face. "You always know what I need, thank you." The house responded with a gentle rumble, acknowledging her gratitude. She slipped out of her Illyrian fighting leathers and eased herself into the warm water, allowing her tense muscles to unwind as she bit her lower lip in relief.

In a typical home, the water would have cooled by now, but this house maintained its warmth, encouraging her to linger and unwind a little longer. It understood her struggles and the weight she carried.

"Do you believe I’ll ever find a mate? Let alone let someone take my heart again?" she inquired of the house.

In response, the house emitted a soft rumble, reassuring her that she would let someone into her heart.

“Initially, I was uncertain about you since I had never experienced a home like this. However, I've realized how wonderful you are and how much I enjoy your company. I truly appreciate your friendship.” Elowen beamed with warmth.

The house shook once more, seemingly acknowledging the bond they shared.

"Could I please have a towel?" she inquired of the house. In an instant, a towel appeared. Elowen beamed and expressed her gratitude once more.

Wrapping herself in the warm towel, she went to her bedroom, captivated by the ocean view. Approaching her closet, she pondered, "Which dress should I wear?" Instead of selecting one herself, a dress landed softly on the bed. The Sweetheart Court Train Tulle, with its sleeveless black bodice and intricate designs, left her in awe. The house vibrated gently, curious if she liked it.

"I adore it," she replied, caressing the fabric. "It's stunning."

The house rumbled with joy, pleased that she cherished the dress it had chosen for her.

Elowen turned to the house with a question lingering in her mind: "Should I style my hair up or let it flow down?" The house responded with a series of rumbles, indicating a balance between the two. "So, a mix of both?" she clarified, receiving a single rumble in affirmation. A smile spread across her face as she thought, "I can manage that." She slipped into the dress the house chose and styled her hair half up, half down. With a nod to her past, she applied her makeup just like Olivia used to, feeling confident as she admired her reflection in the mirror.

The house vibrated with a sense of approval, echoing the warmth of the moment. "Thank you once more," she said, her smile radiating genuine joy.

With a gentle tap on the door, she gracefully made her way down the stairs, her heart fluttering at the sight of Thorin, who stood there holding a bouquet of vibrant flowers. As she opened the door, her smile widened, "You look quite dashing."

Thorin turned, his gaze locked onto her, mesmerized by her enchanting presence as if he were seeing her for the very first time. "Wow, you look..." he hesitated, searching for the right words, "You look absolutely stunning."

"Thank you, Thorin," she replied, her cheeks flushing with delight. He nodded, a silent agreement passing between them, "Shall we?" Thorin asked.

Elowen smiled at him, "Let’s head to the gala." With that, they unfurled their magnificent wings and soared toward the event. Upon their arrival, they were greeted by a throng of guests from various courts, and she felt a surge of hope that her people would discover their mates that very night.

All eyes were on her as she made her way up the steps, gracefully entering the grand building adorned with a stunning chandelier that hung majestically from the vaulted ceiling. The lights shimmered and twinkled, casting a warm and enchanting glow throughout the space. Thorin guided her to her throne, a vantage point from which she could survey the crowd and the other courts. "I truly hope you find your mate," she murmured softly, offering him a heartfelt encouragement.

He looked at her with a gentle smile, his eyes sparkling with anticipation. "I really appreciate it, but could you do me a favor and save a dance for me?" His voice carried a hopeful lilt, revealing his eagerness to share a moment on the dance floor with her.

A radiant smile spread across her face as she replied, "Absolutely."

Thorin's heart swelled with happiness, and he turned to leave, his steps light with elation.

As the guests began to arrive, they approached her one by one, expressing their gratitude for the invitation to the ball, their faces alight with excitement and appreciation.

The crowd eagerly anticipated her signal to commence the festivities. Rising gracefully from her throne, Elowen addressed the gathering with a warm smile. "I am truly grateful to see all of you here tonight for this enchanting spring equinox full moon ball. May this evening bring joy and the chance to discover your mates. Let the celebration commence!" Her words were met with enthusiastic applause as the music swelled, filling the air with a vibrant energy. Settling back into her throne, Elowen observed the joyous interactions, laughter, and camaraderie blossoming among the guests.