It was an early August evening, the Royal Capital was buzzing about a ball that Julius was hosting to make an announcement. All nine Magic Knights captains, several members of every Squad, and members of Royal and Noble families were dressed in their best in one of the capital's finest event halls with beautiful sprawling gardens on the grounds open for all the ball-goers to wander. The room itself was large. The middle of the room was open for dancing with tables, and bars along the walls, a live band playing on a stage in the middle, and in the front were two grand staircases that led to the main entrance. The back opened to a large balcony overlooking the beautiful wrap-around garden.
While waiting, everyone mingled, snacked on the hors d'oeuvres, and drank some of the best wines, champagne, and sparkling apple cider the kingdom had to offer. After 30 minutes Julius made his way to the top of the grand staircase, signaled for the music to stop, and clinked his glass to gain everyone's attention
"Ladies and gentlemen," started Julius. "I would like to thank all of you for joining me this evening. As I'm sure you all know, a new Grand Magic Zone has been created within our borders. Its Beauty has blessed us and the Diamond Kingdom. In honor of its creation, it will be named The Forest of Light. But that is not why we're here. Tonight, we are here to celebrate an amazing person. She has worked to serve and protect the kingdom of the Clover Kingdom for 13 years. Most recently she supported the Magic Knights in their attack against the Dark Triad and the devils and worked to rebuild the Diamond Kingdom. The hero board guard member. nicknamed Nova. Otherwise known as my sister," Julius paused for effect and to catch his breath. At the same time, the crowd hung on to his every word.
"After 14 years of being absent from the capital, it is my honor to introduce you all to Estelle Novachrono," beaming with pride and joy, Julius stepped aside. From behind him a set of French doors swung open and walked through Estella.
She's wearing a beautiful red, orange, and gold, off-the-shoulder ball gown. Her Jewelry was adorned with rubies, diamonds, and topaz. Her hair was in a half-up and half-down style. Helded in place by an elegant intricate phoenix-shaped clip. Its golden wings wrapped around her head and mimicked the look of a golden wreath crown. The tail consisted of golden feathers, chains, and glitter curled into her beautifully styled wavy hair.
She walked out into the ballroom full of people clapping and cheering her name. She began to freeze at the immense weight of the crowds' eyes on her and could barely bring herself to smile and wave. "Stupid Jules. Stupid stupid Jules. Who the hell makes someone attend a ball after 2 weeks of intense physical therapy and hospital stays? I would have much preferred a small get-together with close friends and family first, but Nooo. You wanted to make it a big spectacular party so everyone can celebrate. Has it never occurred to you that I've never been in a room with so many people before," thought Estella.
Before she could have hyperventilated, the sound of glass shattering snapped her out of her panic. She scanned the crowd for the source of the noise when her eyes met Fuegoleon's. His mouth was slightly hanging open with several servants scurrying around him sweeping up broken glass and dabbing his suit so the champagne wouldn't stain. A pet-sized Salamander was clinging to his back peaking over his shoulder. Estella giggled at the sight of Nozel having to lean over to close Fuegoleon's mouth. She linked arms with her brother and descended down the stairs. She had planned on immediately joining Nozel and Fuegoleon but was swarmed by nobles and Magic Knights. She had gotten pulled in every direction and was drowned out by thousands of questions. She spent hours chatting and trying to control the crowd.
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A Phoenix's Heart
FanfictionThis is an AU where Julius is his own person and Lucius Zogratis doesn't exist. The other 3 Zogratis siblings die at the end of the Spade Kingdom arc and the Judgement Day arc doesn't happen. This takes place after the Spade Kingdom arc and the Swor...