December 30th arrived with the kind of crisp winter air that made Avalon City sparkle like a jewel against the morning sky. Tonight would mark the beginning of the Grand Ball—three days of celebration that would reshape the political landscape of the world.
And potentially prevent a war, if I played my cards correctly.
"Arthur, stop brooding by the window and come get ready," my mother's voice called from the main living area, carrying the fond exasperation that characterized most of her interactions with me. "Your father is already reviewing diplomatic protocols, and we still need to coordinate our arrival timing."
I turned away from the view, feeling the familiar weight of anticipation that came with approaching a major event. The difference was that this time, I knew exactly what stakes were involved. Tonight, I would meet Elara Astoria again. Prince Valerian would announce their engagement in the summer. And Jack Blazespout would begin whatever game he was planning.
