Chapter 9: An Evening in La Grande Salle du Souper Royal

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Catherine returned to her dorm, feeling exhausted from the day's events. The mysterious happenings in the Hall of Magic lingered in her mind as she tried to make sense of them. She couldn't shake the feeling that something significant had occurred, something that would shape her future at the Royal Academy. Shortly after, her personal maid, Elara, entered the room with a cup of tea. "Your Highness, it's time to prepare for dinner," she said with a warm smile. Catherine nodded, grateful for the respite. Elara guided her through a relaxing bath and helped her dress in an elegant evening gown. Even dressed casually, Catherine looked stunning, her natural beauty accentuated by the simplicity of the attire.

"Shall I fetch Luna?" Elara asked, referring to Catherine's magical pet.

"Yes, please. I think she’d enjoy some company," Catherine replied, her thoughts still partly on the day’s events. Once Luna was by her side, Catherine felt a sense of comfort. The little creature nuzzled against her, offering silent support as they made their way to the grand dining hall, La Grande Salle du Souper Royal. The name itself evoked a sense of grandeur, and Catherine could only imagine what awaited her inside.

As the royal chauffeur transported her to the hall, Catherine’s mind drifted back to her earlier experiences, trying to connect the dots of the day’s mysterious events. Upon arrival, she was struck by the sheer size of the dining hall. It was more immense than she had imagined, capable of seating 5,000 students, and it was buzzing with life as students filed in for dinner.

The kitchen maids were in position, directing students to their designated seats. As Catherine entered, she marveled at the opulent surroundings, her eyes wide with awe. She was guided to her chair, where her name was elegantly inscribed on a card.

As she took her seat, she noticed a group of students approaching her table. To her surprise, it was Edward, accompanied by a few others she had seen earlier but hadn't formally met.

"Mind if we join you?" Edward asked, his tone friendly.

"Of course, I’d be happy to have the company," Catherine replied, gesturing for them to sit. Edward introduced his friends as they settled around the table. "This is Lord Alexander Blackwood, Lord Julian Wessex, and Lord Adrian Everhart."

Catherine’s heart skipped a beat at the mention of Adrian’s name. She hadn’t seen him in years, but the memories of their childhood came rushing back.

"Adrian," she said with a warm smile, "it's been so long."

Adrian returned her smile, his eyes lighting up with recognition. "Indeed it has, Your Highness. I remember the days we used to play by the river near your kingdom’s castle. You always insisted on trying to teach me how to climb trees."

Catherine laughed softly, the memory bringing a wave of nostalgia. "And you always ended up covered in leaves and mud," she added, her voice filled with fondness.

The others listened with interest as Adrian and Catherine exchanged stories of their shared past, adding a layer of warmth and familiarity to the conversation. It was clear that their bond, though long dormant, was still present.

As the meal progressed, the group engaged in lively discussions, with Lord Alexander providing a steady stream of witty remarks that kept everyone laughing. Lord Julian, though quieter, showed genuine interest in Catherine’s experiences at the academy, asking thoughtful questions.

Edward, meanwhile, remained attentive, enjoying the camaraderie that had formed at the table. Catherine felt a sense of belonging, something she hadn’t expected to find so quickly at the academy.

As dinner concluded, the students began to disperse, heading back to their dorms. As the others rose from the table, Adrian lingered for a moment longer.

"It’s good to see you again, Catherine," he said softly. "I’m glad we’re here together."

"Me too, Adrian," Catherine replied, a genuine warmth in her voice. "It’s nice to have a familiar face around."

With that, they bid each other goodnight, and Catherine, accompanied by Luna, made her way back to her dorm. The day had been long and exhausting, but the evening had brought a sense of comfort and connection, easing the burden of the mysterious events earlier.

As she settled into bed, Catherine’s thoughts drifted between the day’s mysteries and the pleasant surprise of reconnecting with an old friend.

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