NEW LIFE IN ANOTHER WORLD

5. It Start Now

As dusk settled over the city, the atmosphere was tinged with a soft, golden hue that highlighted the grandeur of the establishment Seraphine approached. The towering facade of the Grand Aurelia Inn stood before her like a beacon of opulence, its architecture a seamless blend of intricate stonework and polished marble. The building exuded a timeless elegance, reminiscent of the finest hotels in her own world, but with a distinct, enchanting charm that spoke of an era long past.

The entrance was flanked by towering columns adorned with delicate carvings, and golden lanterns cast a warm, inviting glow over the entrance. Plush velvet drapes framed the large, arched doors, which swung open with a gentle push, revealing a luxurious interior that immediately stole Seraphine’s breath away.

Inside, the lobby was a marvel of grandeur. The floor was a mosaic of gleaming tiles arranged in elaborate patterns, leading to a grand staircase with ornate wrought-iron railings. Crystal chandeliers hung from the high, vaulted ceiling, their prisms scattering light in a dazzling display. The air was filled with the soft murmur of conversation and the clinking of fine china, as elegantly dressed patrons moved about in refined grace.

Seraphina felt a sense of awe as she stepped into this world of luxury. Her initial hesitation faded as she took in the sight of the plush, overstuffed chairs and the elegant, richly embroidered draperies that adorned the walls. The corridors, lined with polished wood and adorned with exquisite tapestries, seemed to stretch endlessly, each turn revealing new facets of the hotel's splendor.

She noticed the carriages and finely dressed guests arriving, their presence adding to the air of exclusivity that surrounded the Grand Aurelia. Seraphina, in her more modest attire, felt slightly out of place, yet her resolve remained steadfast. With a deep breath, she walked forward with a mixture of anticipation and excitement. She had come to this place not just to dine but to experience something truly extraordinary, a glimpse into a world that seemed both familiar and fantastical.

As she approached the reception desk, the opulent surroundings made it clear that this was a realm reserved for the elite. Yet, Seraphina's determination to blend in and discover more about this new world pushed her forward. She checked in with a graceful nod, her curiosity piqued by the promise of an evening filled with intrigue and discovery.

The Grand Aurelia Inn welcomed her with open arms, its lavish interior a testament to the luxury and grandeur that awaited. For Seraphina, this was not just a destination but a gateway to new experiences, each moment unfolding like the pages of a novel she was eager to write.

As Seraphina approached the reception counter of the luxurious hotel, the grandeur of the establishment was evident in its opulent design and refined elegance. The receptionist greeted her with a courteous nod, offering her a choice of rooms. Seraphina requested a single occupancy room, only to be taken aback when the cost was revealed: 300 silver coins. Despite her initial shock at the price, she was resolute. The investment opportunity she sought required her to make the most of her surroundings, and a night here could open doors to influential connections.

Upon entering her room, Seraphina was met with a stunningly simple yet classic space. The room was adorned with tasteful furnishings, but what caught her attention was the tall, standing mirror—a solitary piece that seemed to reflect the room’s understated elegance. With no dressing table in sight, she settled on the floor in front of the mirror, determined to prepare herself meticulously.

She reached into her travel bag and extracted her carefully curated makeup kit. As she began her routine, her practiced hands moved with the precision of an artist. She started with a flawless foundation, blending it seamlessly to enhance her smooth complexion. A touch of blush highlighted her high cheekbones, while a subtle contour defined her elegant jawline. Her eyes, a captivating shade of deep blue, were accentuated with a hint of shimmer and a perfectly applied eyeliner that accentuated their natural allure. A coat of mascara lengthened her lashes, adding depth and intensity to her gaze. Her lips were adorned with a soft, rosy hue that complemented the rest of her makeup, giving her a radiant, fresh look.