Tales of Neglected ones

The Imperial Palace had never looked more radiant.

Golden chandeliers hung like constellations overhead, casting soft light across the marbled banquet hall. Silk banners bearing ancient crests swayed gently above the high windows, and the air was filled with soft music and the scent of honeyed wine. Tonight was a night of celebration, tradition, and honor.

This was the Imperial Banquet, held only once a generation, where the Eight Great Families of the Empire were welcomed not as subjects, but as cherished allies and stewards of the realm.

At the center dais stood the Knight-Herald of the Empire, clad in silver ceremonial armor, his voice trained for halls such as this.

He raised his staff once, and the golden entry doors opened to the first guests.

> Knight-Herald (clearly, with reverence):

"We begin this blessed evening by welcoming the first of the noble houses—respected guardians of magic, tradition, and peace. May their presence grace this hall and bring light to the Empire."

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⚜️ House Valeburne – Water's Grace and Healing Hand

> "Entering now, as honored guests of the Imperial Crown—House Valeburne, masters of watercraft and keepers of harmony."

The crowd turned as Lord Rhys Valeburne stepped forward, tall and dignified, his ocean-blue cloak lined with silver thread. At his side walked Lady Selianne, her pale gown flowing like waves at dusk. Just behind them strode their only child—Sir Lucien Valeburne, proud and composed.

A gentle stream of water floated beside Lucien, curling around his wrist like a silver ribbon. It sparkled in the light, guided not by force, but gentle mastery.

> "The Valeburne family is known across the Empire for their mastery of Living Water—fluid magic refined over centuries.

— They command flowing streams with grace and subtlety.

— They wield pressure and purity to heal wounds or shape their surroundings.

— And in moments of crisis, their waters shield more fiercely than steel."

A quiet wave of respectful applause followed as the family moved to their seat of honor, and the water ribbon flowed softly into a crystal basin beside them.

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🔥 House Ignisveil – Flame Forged in Discipline

> "Let us now welcome the unwavering strength of House Ignisveil—flame-forged defenders of the realm and masters of tempered fire."

A subtle warmth entered the hall as Lord Darion Ignisveil appeared, bronze-trimmed cloak resting heavily on his shoulders. His stride was sure and calm. On one side walked his daughter, Lady Velindra, her posture upright and resolute. On the other, her younger brother, Sir Kaelen Ignisveil, stood tall with a greatsword resting proudly across his back.

As he passed, faint sparks danced around the sword's hilt, controlled and quiet.

> "The Ignisveil legacy is built upon the Temper Flame Discipline—fire as a tool of focus, not fury.

— Their forged flames enhance steel, guiding warriors with unshakable purpose.

— Their warmth is used to comfort, protect, and restore.

— And when danger arises, they burn only what must be burned."

They bowed gracefully, acknowledging their peers, and were met with a warm wave of applause as they joined the circle of honor.

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🌬️ House Zephyrion – Archers of the Silent Sky

> "With grace upon the wind, we welcome House Zephyrion—silent pathfinders and watchers of the high sky."

A gentle breeze moved through the grand hall as Lord Orien Zephyrion entered, his silver-grey cloak flowing with the wind itself. Beside him walked Lady Liora, quiet and composed. Their children followed: Dame Aeris, tall with her unstrung bow across her back, and Sir Elion, alert and serene, daggers resting at his sides.

Their entrance was soundless, but everyone turned to watch.

> "Zephyrion commands the Way of the Wind—magic that moves as quietly as a breath.

— They read air currents to predict movement before it happens.

— Their arrows fly on whispered gusts, swift and precise.

— And they walk as if the world itself steps aside for them."

They greeted the other nobles with modest bows before taking their seats—seeming to disturb not even a grain of dust in the process.

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⛰️ House Gravemorne – Pillars of Earth and Honor

> "And now, with strength that needs no boast, we honor the arrival of House Gravemorne—unshaken and enduring."

The ground seemed just a little steadier as Lord Garrik Gravemorne stepped into the light. His dark stone-gray armor bore no crest, only the clean polish of daily wear. His elder son, Sir Valthric, held a long steel spear upright, while his younger son, Sir Eiron, bore a broad maul strapped across his back.

Their movement was calm, measured—not slow, but certain.

> "House Gravemorne follows the Doctrine of the Earth-Spear:

— They root themselves to protect what must not fall.

— Their spears strike with the patience and power of stone.

— They sense the land beneath their feet, reading even the smallest tremor."

They gave quiet nods to their fellow houses, took their places, and left the rest of the hall with a quiet reminder of how strength can stand in stillness.

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End of chapter