The following morning, the sky was cloudless, bathed in the blazing sun's radiant glow. Lights danced around the sun's blades, casting golden gleams over the canopies. A gentle breeze carried the delicate blossoms' scents and infused the air with fragrance without being overpowering. Settled in her appointed seat, Elaine surveyed the bustling activities preceding the coronation and meticulously noted every unfolding detail.
Precious stones and elaborate mosaics adorned the palace courtyard, surrounded by imposing walls and graceful archways. Tall columns engraved with carvings vividly narrated ancient tales from myths and legends. Exquisitely polished marbles paved the ground, each tile aligned to form mesmerizing patterns that shimmered under the morning lights. The flurries of servants swirled about, hurriedly overseeing the elaborate arrangements in an orchestrated chaos. Officials marshaled the crowds and guided the endless procession of elegantly attired attendees down the long aisle. From high-ranking aristocrats resplendent in glistening jewels, embroidered silks, and velvets to foreign royalties from distant nations draped in exotic fineries, the palpable energy of their veritable enthusiasm was undeniable. Eager whispers blended with fervent voices, creating a cacophony of anticipation and excitement that permeated the entire assembly.
Although Elaine had never ventured beyond the étoile Empire, her studies and Estella's recollections of past celebrations within the Lumière Palace had allowed her to recognize a few individuals. Her eyes fleetingly grazed over the matron sat nearest the throne, a position of utmost distinction and honor. Despite the flawless outward appearance and exquisite gown, her grim expression and solemn fabric tone seemed ill-suited for the grand and joyous occasion. Save for the Empress, a title that Elaine knew Nickolas had not yet conferred to any woman, the Empress Dowager was the sole individual granted such privilege.
Is she not delighted to see her son ascending to the highest position?
Sitting beside Elaine, the male protagonist also engaged in thoughtful observation, occasionally conversing with the raven-haired young girl guarding behind him. After a brief distraction, she redirected her attention back to the center as the remaining dignitaries trickled in.
The coronation ceremony finally commenced when the sun reached its zenith. A phalanx of knights marched in, clad in gleaming armor. The noble regalia reflected on their chests symbolized sacred oaths of allegiance to the Empire. The knights' expressions were stoic as they advanced in measured steps, imbued with solemn dignity. Behind them was the High Priest, an elderly man with a visage etched by the passage of time. His features, carved with creases, signified his accumulated wisdom through years of trials and tribulations.
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At last, the ceremony's principal figure, the soon-to-be monarch, made his grand entrance. Nickolas Augustus von Abercron, draped in a magnificent coronation robe of deep crimson with golden threads intricately woven into delicate patterns, ascended the marble steps to the dais. His dignified and resolute gait carried the burden of the expansive Empire, with legacies and traditions of past generations now resting upon his broad shoulders.
After the young Léonas Emperor settled on his throne, the High Priest intoned sacred words from ancient rites while gently placing the regal crown upon the monarch's brow, concluding the sacred blessing ritual that united the Gods and the newly anointed sovereign. Melodic voices soared in unison, chanting a divine hymn with reverence to a bygone era.
The crowds erupted in cheers, reverberating throughout the air. However, the Léonas Emperor raised his hand and quieted them. Although the coronation had concluded, the ceremony continued to unfold. Everyone rose from their seats and followed Nickolas to a different location.
"Shall we proceed, milady?" Elias extended his hand to Elaine.
"Yes." She accepted his gesture as they commuted with the others.
A few minutes later, they arrived at a massive arena—a colossal oval structure erected from the ground like an impenetrable fortress. Towering stone walls reached towards heaven, enclosing the arena. Embellished columns and arches adorned its vast exterior, and an entrance of considerable magnitude allowed a convenient passage for sizeable crowds. Inside, the ordinary citizens joined the nobles and dignitaries on tiers of marble and stone seats, each rising in a successive arc, holding thousands of eager spectators. All eyes focused on the sandy floor as the waves of raw excitement and anticipation surged through the masses.
Nickolas raised his hand again, and an immediate hush descended upon the atmosphere. "In commemoration of this momentous occasion, I have arranged a spectacle of unparalleled grandeur that shall be etched in the memories of all who witnessed it for years to come," he declared. His profound voice reverberated throughout the arena. "May the Gods bestow their blessing upon you."
Thunderous roars and applause ignited after he finished. The feverishness reached new heights as a man clad in light armor emerged from the concealed passageway.
"Hold on, is that—" Some cheers abruptly halted as a few dozen individuals recognized him.
A blood-curdling scream pierced through the crowd, startling everyone in its path. The Empress Dowager sprang from her seat. Her countenance, drained of colors, shrouded with abhorrence. Eyes ablaze with inextinguishable rage, she pointed a slender, trembling finger towards the young Léonas Emperor. "You illegitimate wretch, what have you wrought upon my son?"
Her son? Elaine's gaze peeled from the Empress Dowager to the man standing on the sandy base. Despite his disheveled appearance, marred by minor scratches and bruises, upon closer examination, she finally discerned the unmistakable golden eyes possessed only by the Léonasian monarchy. Elaine contemplated his identity. Besides Nickolas, she was unfamiliar with the appearances and connections of other royal members.
"That man is Remus Elamir von Abacron, the Second Prince of the Léonas Empire," the black-haired young man commented.
Elaine shifted her head to look at him, skepticism pronounced in her gaze. "If he holds the title of Second Prince, what is his reason to become a combatant?"
