Apotelesma

quatervois

quatervois

(n). a crossroads; a critical decision or turning point in one's life

~***~

Even on the morning of Coniunx Mea, Evangeline was in the ballroom finalizing every last detail from the flowers to the lighting to the food and drink. Louisa was busy bossing everyone around in the kitchens so everything was ready for the ball. Clarimond was giving out morning duties to the maids so the palace was pristine by nightfall.

The princess herself was conversing with the musician, a couple that had agreed to play for the event. The harpist was the best in the capital, and their wife was the most gorgeous singer Eve had ever heard. For their appearance, Eve had promised to pay them handsomely.

"Good morning, my dear." Her uncle spoke, surprising her since with all the hustle and bustle, she hadn't heard his heavy footsteps echo across the ballroom.

"Uncle Evander, what a pleasant surprise this is," Eve brushed a stray piece of blonde hair out of her eyes as she watched the harpist warm up while their wife ran through her vocal warmups.

"I thought I'd see all your hard work; what a wonderful theme you've put together here." he complimented, taking in the decor. The florist, Galene, had handpicked the best blooms of the season for centerpieces. Butlers were practicing their pouring skills with Kaltain after going over their proper attire for the evening. "I can't wait to see it all lit up and full of people."

"Me too," she sighed lightly; Coniunx Mea was everyone's favorite holiday, but since she had been solely in charge of the event this year, there was no doubt that this one would hold a special place in her heart. "I hope everyone else enjoys it. The courtyard is going to be lovely too, transformed into a dreamy wonderland fit for Conamen herself."

"You've certainly outdone yourself," Evander scanned his surroundings again before his attention returned to his niece. "Although don't let time get away from you too much. You need to get ready as well."

Evangeline sighed, biting her lip. At her age, she had started to ease off looking her very best and aimed to be presentable. Most women her age were married by now, having been blessed by Iugo at a proper age. She was approaching her thirties and not even once had the topic of marriage been brought up to her by her parents. "I must make sure everything is ready for tonight, then I will take the time to get ready," she waved her uncle off, walking through the large doors that led to the courtyard where decorations were still being put up.

On the opposite side of the courtyard, Obi-Wan had been looking for Eve. He knew she most likely would have been in the ballroom, but he was pleasantly surprised to see her in the courtyard but unpleasantly surprised to see Evander. He couldn't place it, but something about him felt off. "Your Highness," he bowed out of respect, staying cordial in the presence of the elder man.

"You have company, and I should get ready for my announcement later," Evander hugged his niece and turned on his heel, leaving the two by themselves in the yard.

"That was rather odd," Obi-Wan stated, bringing his gaze back down to the princess who shrugged.

"He's a busy man; I'm sure it's nothing." she hummed, politely asking one of the young maids to take the bouquet she was carrying and place it by Lumen and Mora's statue.

The Jedi Master furrowed his brows in thought, following behind Eve as she walked through the courtyard. "How long have you been close with your uncle? I don't remember you mentioning him or being this close to him last time I was here."