The Silver Princess

Dancing with Fate

Rina stood atop a winding staircase, with a platform strategically positioned at the stairs' 90-degree turn. She knew that all the guests' eyes would be drawn to her on that landing, as if by some magnetic force.

In about a minute, she would have to descend the stairs when the clock's hands aligned at twelve midnight, and her name would be announced.

The cacophony of the celebration resonated all the way to where she stood, her ears catching snippets of conversation, clinking glasses, and various forms of laughter. Instead of embracing the festive atmosphere, Rina felt her nerves kicking in.

Her hands clutched the fine silk of her gown, causing it to wrinkle, and her lower lip was ensnared between her teeth. She loathed being in the spotlight and had never been fond of the idea of dressing up. Avoiding balls like this one had been a recurring pattern in her life. How many times had she feigned illness to escape such gatherings? But there was no avoiding it now.

The princess's anxiety grew, and as it often happened when she was stressed, her stomach protested. A deep gurgling sound emanated from her belly, capturing Rina's attention.

"Not now, please. I don't have time for a trip to the toilet!" She implored her belly, but her plea was either ignored or cruelly mocked as another, even louder growl reverberated.

This is not the moment for—

Rina couldn't even complete her thought before the maid beside her raised her arm, gesturing toward the stairs.

"It's time, Princess. Your illustrious name is about to be announced."

What illustrious name? Show me grace and lead me to the restroom!

"I can't. Please inform the Master of Ceremonies to delay my introduction. I need to—"

Fate seemed intent on ensuring that she would descend the stairs at that very moment. Her words were abruptly cut off by a resounding voice.

"Fifteen years ago, the most beautiful and radiant gem graced our world. Tonight, we gather to celebrate this enchanting occasion," the announcer's voice echoed throughout the hall. 

"Welcome the Princess of our kingdom—Rosalyn Isabella Noelle Aurora, the Princess of Sylphrena, on her fifteenth birthday!"

Immediately, thunderous applause resonated through the hall, creating vibrations that Rina could feel reverberating within her. She had no choice but to take the first step down the staircase. Her midnight blue gown followed her, lifted slightly at the sides by her hands. All the while, her stomach's persistent protests never ceased. Rina was convinced that if it had the capability, it would overshadow even the sound of the applause. 

That would be so embarrassing.

With each step she descended, her stage fright seemed to intensify. Countless unnecessary thoughts and fears sprang forth from her subconscious, tormenting her mind. Her eyebrows knitted together, and her lower lip bore the marks of her anxious bites.

What if I trip and tumble down these stairs? They'd all laugh at me... Does this dress suit me? Will Father be proud? Is Remian here?... Even if he is, he probably won't spare me a glance...

Click-Clack

Her high-heeled shoes echoed on the platform, and with a simple turn, Rina would face all the invited guests. She closed her eyes, inhaling deeply, savoring the scents of the meticulously prepared delicacies for her special day.

As she turned towards the audience, her eyes opened. Gone was the fear, the stage fright, and the nervousness that had held her countenance hostage. It was replaced by a cold and unwavering demeanor, befitting the Princess of Sylphrena. She was a woman above worldly concerns, untouched by the mundane. Fear and nervousness had no place in the lexicon of a princess; only breathtaking beauty was acceptable.