LOST IN EDEN

FOUNDERS DAY

·:*¨༺ ♱✮♱ ༻¨*:·

The grand hall of Eldonshire Academy was a vision out of a gothic reverie. As twilight deepened, the towering spires and turrets of the castle cast long, dark shadows over the manicured grounds. Lanterns flickered like will-o'-the-wisps against the darkening sky, their golden light spilling over the ornate stonework of the centuries-old building. The rich scent of aged oak and polished mahogany mingled with the sharp fall air, creating an intoxicating blend of tradition and sophistication.

Eldonshire Academy, within its labyrinthine corridors and hallowed history, was a sanctuary for the wealthy elite of England and beyond. From its ivy-clad walls to the grand, vaulted ceilings, the school was a monument to old money and ancient customs. Its reputation for excellence and exclusivity drew families from across the globe, seeking the unique blend of rigorous scholarship and storied prestige that only Eldonshire could offer.

Tonight, the academy was alive with the buzz of its most illustrious families, gathered for the annual Founders' Day gala—a celebration of the school's illustrious past and a showcase of its current students. The grand ballroom, adorned with crystal chandeliers and draped in rich, velvet curtains, resonated with the murmur of high society and the clinking of fine glassware.

Amidst the opulence and grandeur, six figures stood out from the crowd, a tightly-knit group whose interactions were as charged as the evening's atmosphere.

Scarlett Kingsley stood near the grand fireplace, her crimson gown a striking contrast to the dark stone walls. Her presence commanded attention, her posture exuding confidence and a hint of defiance. Scarlett's raven hair cascaded in waves down her back, framing her sharp face with intelligent eyes and  a playful smirk. Her family, the Kingsleys, were known for their long-standing influence in the financial world, their name synonymous with power and prestige.

Beside her,Eden lingered with a quiet elegance. Her pale skin and almost white-blonde hair contrasted starkly with the deep blues and golds of the gala's decor. Eden's delicate frame and serene demeanor belied the formidable intellect she possessed. Her father, the head of one of the largest law firms globally, was a figure of considerable influence and wealth. Eden, despite her family's prominence, had always felt the weight of expectations pressing upon her not only from school but also her parents.

Blythe De Loughery floated through the crowd with a blend of sweetness and defiance. She was attired with sapphire blue dress that made her tan skin stand. Her charming smile made her a favorite among her peers, though her penchant for bending rules was well-known. Blythe's family, while wealthy, had a reputation for being less traditional, which often set her at odds with the more conservative members of her circle.

Caspian Windsor and Silas Finnegan engaged in a conversation near the refreshments, where they found themselves passing a sliver flask with intricate engravings on it between them .
Caspian, with his sharp wit and intense gaze, wore a tailored suit specifically made for this event, paired with a vintage piguet royal oak watch. His family, the Windsors, were entrenched in both business and politics, adding layers of complexity to his demeanor. Despite his serious streak, Caspian had a knack for duplicating that occasionally surfaced in his interactions.

Silas, on the other hand, was the picture of calm intellect. Dressed in a meticulously tailored suit that showed both precision and thoughtfulness. Silas was known for his extraordinary intellect and a particular fondness for cats, which he often spoke about with a mix of affection and scholarly enthusiasm. His family was distinguished in academic circles, known for their contributions to various fields of study such as engineering and much more