Tales of Neglected ones

Lucien pov

The Imperial Banquet Hall glowed softly beneath golden chandeliers. Gentle music floated through the air, weaving between the marble pillars and tables dressed in white and gold. Voices murmured, light laughter stirred, and noble children stood near their families, observing the hall with quiet excitement.

Among them was Lucien Valeburne, heir to the noble House Valeburne.

He stood near his father, dressed in formal black with fine silver embroidery. His posture was relaxed, his expression calm. He had attended such gatherings before—though rarely this grand.

Lucien was used to noticing things. Small things. The way someone held their cup. The way a spell hummed behind a curtain. The pause in a string of conversation.

So when the hall doors opened again, and a girl in a sky-blue dress stepped through, he noticed.

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Quiet Steps

She wasn't announced loudly.

She entered without rushing, her hands gently folded in front of her. Her hair, pinned with a small crystal comb, shimmered faintly beneath the chandelier light.

Lucien didn't know her name—not right away. He only saw how she paused near one of the tall marble pillars and looked around with calm eyes. She didn't look overwhelmed or uncertain.

She was simply... observing.

That caught his attention more than anything.

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A Gentle Presence

There was nothing loud about her. No grand jewelry. No dramatic glances.

But her presence was steady. Like someone who didn't need to speak much to be noticed.

Lucien didn't feel surprised or nervous. Just… interested. The kind of interest that makes you pause and quietly wonder.

She wasn't trying to stand out.

And yet, she stood out to him.

An attendant passed by and quietly mentioned names as he checked the arrivals list.

"…Lady Seraphina Virellia, accompanied by Lord Virellia."

Lucien gave a slight nod, more to himself than anyone else.

So that's her name, he thought.

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The Hall Changes

Soon after, the Emperor and Empress began their formal entrance. As they walked, the atmosphere shifted slightly—just as it always did.

A gentle weight filled the room, not harsh or heavy, but present. Part of the long-standing tradition of the imperial magic. A reminder of the Empire's presence.

Lucien, like everyone else, adjusted easily. The nobles around him straightened or lowered their voices.

He glanced across the room.

Seraphina didn't move.

She stood just as she had before—calm, balanced, thoughtful.

Only then did he notice her father nearby—Lord Virellia's magic, subtle and precise, resting like a quiet breeze around his daughter. Not defensive, not bold. Just enough to keep her standing undisturbed.

Lucien admired that. A kind of protection that asked for no praise.

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A Passing Thought

Lucien didn't stare. He didn't dwell on the feeling.

But he knew it would stay with him, at least for the evening.

Not because she was beautiful or important.

But because she was quiet, and still, and real.

And in a hall filled with light and sound, that felt worth remembering.

End of chapter