{ ball preparation }
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Aurora could not tell you how many welcoming back days she had witnessed in her lifetime. How many times she’d snuck out of her room to watch the festivities happening in the courtyard before a ball she never managed to experience, until she officially started this school. What Aurora could tell you is how her father’s speech never changes, how many seconds his breaks take before speaking about something else, how every professor stands in the same position every year; after all her whole life revolved around her father and Ninth House. A sad childhood for such an ambitious girl but we are not here to pity Aurora. She is doing quite alright.
As the enchanting strains of music echoed through the grand halls of Ninth House, Aurora Dear found herself immersed in the familiar ritual of preparing for the Founder’s Masquerade Ball. Dressed in anticipation, she stood before the mirror in her room, the soft glow of candles casting a warm hue upon the black and white dress she had chosen for the occasion. Soft glow of candles was usually the only source of light in her room, for the girl had a big interest in candles and candle making. A hobby she would turn to after a long day spent being a friend to everyone. It is not something she would admit but at times she felt like it was a job her family gave her, a responsibility that was draining her but there was nothing she could do about it.
The dress clung elegantly to her form. Aurora’s choice of it was not merely a reflection of fashion; it was a statement, a blend of sophistication and mystery. In her hands, she held a sleek black mask with delicate antlers. As she raised it to her face, her reflection stared back. The mask concealed her expressions, transforming her into a creature of the night, poised for the dance that awaited. A fitting mask if you really think about it. The only problem Aurora always had was that she was easily recognizable so she always had to be on her best behaviour. As she adjusted the mask to perfection, the flickering candlelight played upon the contours of her face. Yet, as she attempted to practice the perfected smile she had learned to wear so well, a subtle tension lingered beneath the surface. Her lips curved upward, the practiced smile settling into place, but her eyes betrayed her. In the reflection, the sparkle that once danced in her eyes seemed dimmed, and the warmth that should accompany a smile felt distant. She continued to stare, as if searching for a glimmer of authenticity within the rehearsed smile. The reflection held a silent conversation, a dialogue between the mask she wore for the world and the genuine sentiments that refused to be entirely concealed. But to Aurora this was life.
Aurora Dear, the headmaster’s daughter, stood at the precipice of another Founder’s Masquerade Ball, ready to start yet another year.
{ ball / with Renlin }
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“Oh my deer, how lovely,” Renlin’s teasing words lingered in the air, and Aurora met his playful gaze with a smile of her own. Just like it was easy to recognize her, she felt like it was easy to recognize him. Or maybe she just got used to his presence, considering his sister was a dear friend of Aurora’s but don’t mistake this for the two of them being friends… No, their relationship was… Far more complicated. What she could tell you now is that she was not ready to deal with him and his annoying behavior. The night had just started and she was hoping it would end as peacefully as possible.
Aurora’s journey to the ball was a quiet procession through the candlelit corridors of Ninth House. As she walked, the flickering candlelight shadows danced across the walls, Aurora’s thoughts, however, were far from the enchanting atmosphere. The weight of her responsibilities pressed upon her shoulders, and the mask she wore felt heavier with each step. But that did not stop her from doing what everyone knew her for - her smile stayed on her lips, her voice so melodic echoed through halls as she greeted every single person she saw on her way. From “Hi, how was your summer” to “I missed you so much, happy to see you again.”
Entering the grand ballroom, Aurora’s keen eyes scanned the masked students that filled the space. Whispers of hushed conversations, laughter, and the rustle of elegant fabrics created a unique sound. Just sitting there she was taking it all in, searching for someone she could recognize and approach - leaving meeting new students for tomorrow. Yet, she felt a certain isolation. Despite the many faces surrounding her, she was fully aware of the loneliness that often accompanied her role. It was a lonely throne.
Reaching for a glass of drink being carried around on a tray by one of the school helpers, Aurora almost immediately downed it but was interrupted by a familiar voice. And that takes us back to the first conversation she’ll have at this ball - with Renlin.
“How lovely that you care so much about how my night is going! But I’m not sure why you got that impression? This night is perfect, can’t you tell?” She twirled a strand of her red hair between her fingers, offering him the sweet smile of a girl who was having fun. For a short moment she let her gaze wander, lowering to take in his whole appearance - from what he was wearing to the many rings on his fingers. Pity for an annoying guy to be this good looking.
“Secrets?” Covering her mouth she tried to stop her giggles. “So many wrong impressions tonight, I see. What makes you think I’m hiding anything? Are you just trying to make me take this off so you see me better? Do you really miss me that much?” Drinking whatever was left in her glass, Aurora gently placed her hand on Ren’s shoulder. Her head slightly tilted, awaiting his reaction.
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@/Madilnel