VALTORIA
725 Words
The city of Eldrida did not have a slow morning like always; it exploded into life with the sound of thousands of trumpets and the scent of roasted meats that carried all the way to the palace gates.
The castle was even more bustling with activities, with servants moving around putting up decorations in Autumn colors, giving it a leaf festive feeling. Its walls were draped in climbing ivy and Amber and Burnt Sienna, giving it the harvest feeling. The balconies were heavy with flame lilies, their petals glowing like embers against the ivory walls. The main hall was decorated with massive swaths of burnt-orange and honey-gold silk were draped from the high spires down to the ivory pillars. They swayed slowly in the breeze like waves of fire. Hanging from the ceiling were glass spheres filled with autumn embers, casting a warm golden glow on everyone below.
From the city gates to the village square, down to every household, it was decorated beautifully, giving the harvest glow. Everyone was in full celebration spirit.
A few hours into the day, the kingdom's gates opened pouring in chariots after chariots. Different kingdoms came to celebrate the festival, each bearing gifts. The last kingdom to arrive was Valtoria, one of the top three kingdoms in Elyndor. It was on par with Eldrida, only difference being that Valtoria was known for war whereas Eldrida was a complete opposite, known for its peace.
The King and Queen of Eldrida stood in front of the palace door to receive and welcome their guests. Once the Valtorian King and Queen made their way to the door, they were warmly welcomed by Thalorine and Serena.
"King Thalorine, what an honor," King Rasmus greeted with a warm smile.
"Oh, drop the formalities Rasmus, we are old-time friends," Thalorine said as he extended his hand for a shake.
Queen Serena smiled and greeted too. "King Rasmus, Queen Elena," she said with a light bow. Queen Elena standing next to her husband gave Serena a warm smile as she said, "Our husbands just spoke about formalities Serena." Serena blushed and looked at Thalorine.
"Serena, beautiful as always," Rasmus said, taking her hand and kissing her knuckles. Thalorine also did the same to Elena. The pair of old friends walked into the hall hand in hand. Soon after, the celebrations began.
Amelda sat in front of her mirror, watching as her maids adorned her with precious jewels. Amelda smiled in satisfaction as she stared at her reflection.
"Has the banquet begun?" she asked looking at her personal maid Irene.
Irene nodded looking at Amelda with a slight smile. "Yes my lady."
"Irene, how do I look?" she asked again.
Irene looked at Amelda from her hair to her dress; she was an epitome of beauty. Today Amelda wore an Amber coloured dress that suited her skin tone perfectly. Her long black hair was made into a messy yet ethereal look, and left to fall on her shoulders, a few strands fell on her face.
"You look beautiful my lady," Irene commented honestly.
Irene has been Amelda’s personal maid for as long as Amelda could remember. Irene was already in her late 30’s yet she wasn’t married as she dedicated her life to caring for the princess.
Upon hearing Irene’s response, Amelda smiled even more beautifully. She stood up and walked to Irene, taking her hand.
"Let's go, father must be waiting."
Irene removed her hand from the princess’s grasp and held her instead. "You know servants aren’t allowed into the hall unless called."
Amelda knew this, but she never thought of Irene as a servant. She wished Irene could accompany her everywhere. She had planned to speak to her parents many times about allowing Irene to attend royal events with her, but Irene always declined.
Down in the hall
Everyone was all jolly and socialising. Amelda’s parents were busy attending to their guests. Festive music played in the background and there were dancers on the stage entertaining the guest.
Amelda walked down the stairs, gracefully catching everyone’s attention. Her gown trailing behind her, creating a picturesque image.
"The princess is just as beautiful as the legends say," Rasmus complimented, standing close to Thalorine.
- Writer
