Reckless Hearts | Sebryan

Chapter XVI

this one's pretty long guys sorry about that but it's because i did HEAVY costume and outfit research for this. you'll understand when you read through it but anyways pls enjoy <3

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"Hear ye, hear ye!" the town crier proclaimed in a loud, booming voice, standing proudly on the edge of the old stone fountain in the center of the town square.

Everyone began to gather around, murmuring to each other in curious whispers. Some people hurried forward, while others walked slowly, unsure of what was going to be announced and they formed a tight circle around the man.

"Come morrow night will be the annual masquerade ball of the grove!" the town crier announced with great excitement, his voice ringing through the square. "It will be hosted here by our King and Queen of Aetherlyn!"

The people cheered and clapped, their faces lighting up with joy. They turned to one another, sharing smiles and lively conversations about the upcoming event.

Oliver smiled widely, his eyes lighting up with excitement, and tapped his brother on the arm. "A masquerade ball? Sebastian, this is perfect!"

Sebastian looked at him with a confused expression, furrowing his brows. "What the hell are you talking about?" he asked, his arms hanging by his sides.

Oliver grabbed Sebastian by the arms and spun him around so they were face to face. He locked eyes with him, his voice lowering to a whisper. "This is our ticket to get inside the castle and meet people!" he explained, his words quick and excited. "And, you'll get to see the prince!"

Sebastian rolled his eyes dramatically and let out a long, exaggerated groan. "Oliver, we don't even know where to get outfits and masks to wear," he muttered. "Also, how would we even sneak inside? It's a royal event." He crossed his arms and raised an eyebrow. "Last I checked, we're not royals."

Oliver opened his mouth to argue, ready to counter each of Sebastian's points, but before he could get a word out, the town crier spoke again.

"On the night of nights, you all will have a chance to see the royals from the other four kingdoms, including Frostreach, Solara, Celestoria, and Emberforge."

The audience collectively gasped, some clapping and cheering in excitement while others whispered among themselves, their voices filled with wonder and curiosity. They began imagining what it would be like to witness the royalty from far-off lands.

"That's right, ladies and gentlemen," the crier declared with a proud smile, "we all shall have seats in front of the castle, and from a distance, we will watch as the royals from the kingdoms enter the grand event." His words stirred up even more anticipation, painting a vivid picture of the lavish carriages and regal guests arriving at the castle gates.

The crowd erupted into thunderous applause and cheers. A few people whistled in excitement, their faces beaming with delight. Many began calling out praise to the crier, thanking him for the wonderful news.

Oliver put his hand out, turning back to his brother with a determined look. "See, we'll have front-row seats to see the royals," he said as if everything had just fallen into place.

Sebastian sighed, his patience thinning. "Oliver, he just said we'll be watching them from a distance," he reminded, his expression frustrated.

"Yeah, but Sebastian," Oliver began to argue, his voice growing louder, but Sebastian quickly cut him off before he could finish.

"I'm sorry, Oliver, but no," Sebastian said firmly, shaking his head. "It's way too risky." His tone was final, leaving little room for debate.

"How is it risky? We'll all be hidden behind masks and fancy suits and dresses," Oliver countered, spreading his arms as if the solution was obvious.