ARIANA
The dining hall was packed by evening. Long wooden tables stretched across the room, piled high with food—roasted meat, fresh fruits, sweet pastries, and bowls of steaming stew. Candles flickered everywhere, making the place glow.
I stood at the entrance in a simple but pretty dress. My hair was braided into two loose pigtails, and I had tried to do a little makeup, but my cheeks still felt raw. I swallowed hard, my stomach twisting. This banquet… it felt like all eyes were on me already.
Mom, Luna Regan, sat at the main table beside Father. They looked proud, their heads held high. I gave them a small smile, but they didn’t look at me. They were busy greeting guests, clasping hands and laughing.
Gabriel came to stand by my side. His armor looked polished, his hair neat. He gave
