Page 177 of The Ascended
"Syrena's personal palace," Lyralei explained, her fingers working methodically through my hair, braiding sections with nimble precision. "Tonight, it will host the most elite gathering of the celestial season."
"Thrilling," I murmured, a knot of anxiety forming in my stomach.
"Tonight is merely celebration, no need to worry yourself, dear," Novalie assured me, though her eyes darted to Lyralei.
"Look," Vesper said suddenly, moving to the window. "The sky has started to clear."
I joined him at the window, and my breath caught as I followed his pointing finger. In the distance, where the clouds had parted like a gauzy curtain, a magnificent structure seemed to float in midair. Its spires and domes gleamed silver in the fading light, delicate bridges connecting various sections that hovered independently. It looked as though someone had captured the essence of moonlight and sculpted it into a palace.
"Lunadaire," Novalie whispered reverently.
I stared at the distant palace, unable to look away. "It's beautiful," I admitted.
"Wait until you see it up close," Vesper said. "The interior chambers are breathtaking. And tonight, with the full moon and clear view of the stars—the palace will be at its most magnificent."
“—Speaking of," he continued, his eyes lighting up. "We've been told that each contestant is to wear a garment inspired by their individual gift."
He straightened, practically vibrating with pride. "I've been working on your gown for weeks. It's the proudest I've ever been of one of my designs."
Vesper unfastened a garment bag, pulling out what looked likeliquid starlight draped over his arms. I gasped despite myself, smiling softly. For all my reluctance to these events, I had to admit, the attire was certainly starting to grow on me, even if just from the wild artistry alone.
The gown was sheer fabric that disappeared against my skin, covered in intricate silver embellishments arranged in flowing patterns that highlighted every curve of my body. The crystals were concentrated along the bodice and cascaded down the length of the dress like rivers of stars, reflecting the light with every slight movement.
The neckline was structured and off-the-shoulder, emphasizing my collarbones. Delicate beaded sleeves draped off my shoulders, adding movement when I shifted.
"It's..." I struggled to find words.
"As stunning as you are," Vesper said, adjusting the crystal-covered straps. "Like the night sky itself is woven into your skin."
I stared at my reflection in the full-length mirror they'd positioned before me. Indigo eyes beaming between dark lashes, eyelids painted with silver shimmer. Half of my hair fell in waves down my back, the other half braided into designs on top of my head, woven with pearlescent crystals. The woman looking back was regal, dangerous, powerful—barely recognizable.
A soft knock at the door interrupted the moment. Another Dreamweaver in formal attire entered with a silver tray bearing a flute filled with sparkling liquid with tiny beads of light dancing throughout.
"A celebratory beverage before the ball," he announced with a deep bow.
My Dreamweavers began gathering their supplies, preparing to leave. I accepted the drink with a nod of thanks, the crystal cool against my fingers.
"Enjoy your night, darling," Vesper said, kissing both my cheeks before heading toward the door. Novalie followed with an excitedwave. Outside, the sky had deepened to a velvety black scattered with more stars than I'd ever seen in my life.
Lyralei lingered behind, watching me with an odd intensity as the others filed out. I raised the glass to my lips and took a sip. The liquid was surprisingly sweet with a hint of bitterness underneath.
Just as the door clicked shut, Lyralei lunged forward, her hand striking mine. The flute tumbled to the ground, spilling the remainder of the liquid onto the floor.
"Don't drink any more of that," she hissed, her face inches from mine, eyes wide with urgency.
I stood frozen, staring at her intense expression.
"What? Why?—"
She gripped my arm, fingers digging in almost painfully. "Nothing is what it seems. Remember that."
Before I could demand more information, she released me and hurried toward the door, disappearing into the hallway without another word.
I was left alone, the taste of the drink still lingering on my tongue, and my heart thundering in my chest.
Chapter 42
Desire Consumes
