The Blood of the Crown [BL]

The days slipped away like grains of sand between my fingers, leading us inexorably to the grand event. The imperial ball was not just a celebration of luxury and ostentation; it was a battlefield disguised as a festivity. Alliances would be forged, rivalries would deepen, and dangerous secrets would emerge from the shadows. I had already devised my plan with the precision of a general: observation, control, and, if necessary, manipulation. The entire nobility would be gathered, and if my sister had truly been reincarnated as someone of noble blood, this would be the perfect night to find her.

Twilight settled in, painting the sky in shades of purple and gold, while my room was bathed in the soft glow of candlelight. The aroma of fine woods and the leather of the furniture blended with the scent of spices burning in an incense burner near the fireplace. The darkness outside contrasted with the elegance within, where every detail of the décor screamed wealth and power. The environment was an extension of myself—calculating, refined, and relentless.

Standing before the full-length mirror, I adjusted my appearance with the meticulousness of a strategist preparing his armor. The navy-blue silk shirt was perfectly aligned beneath the black tailcoat, and the silver embroidery on the cuffs and shoulders shimmered subtly in the candlelight. The cape, fastened by a silver chain, added a regal touch to the ensemble. The soft leather gloves fit like a second skin, and the polished boots reflected the light like mirrors. Sapphire cufflinks adorned my wrists—discreet, yet undeniably luxurious.

"Boss Zephyr, is all this concern over your appearance really necessary?" Mateus's voice echoed from the other side of the room, laden with exasperation.

"Mateus, how many times must I repeat myself?" I adjusted my collar, ensuring it was impeccable. "Aesthetics are an extension of power. And tonight, I intend to be unforgettable."

The butler let out a sigh but continued his work, checking every detail of my attire with the dedication of someone well-acquainted with my standards. His critical gaze scanned the tailcoat, the cape, and the boots, but he made no further comments. Instead, his eyes landed on the array of perfume bottles neatly arranged on the table.

"And which one will be tonight's choice?" He raised an eyebrow, observing me with a mix of curiosity and resignation.

My fingers slid over the bottles until they stopped on a sleek, black vial—Shadow Wave. Tilting the bottle, I let a few drops trickle onto my wrists and neck. The air filled with the dense, intoxicating scent of aged rum, wild honey, and black orchid.

"This isn't a perfume, it's a declaration of war," Mateus muttered, waving a hand in the air.

"Perfect." I smiled, satisfied. "Exactly what I intended."

Across the room, Lyra was already ready, seated in the armchair near the fireplace. Her dark blue dress flowed like liquid silk, fitted at the waist with long, delicate lace sleeves. Tiny crystals were sewn into the fabric, catching the light as she moved. Her hair was styled in an elaborate updo, with a few loose strands framing her face. She was the image of elegance, but her green eyes revealed a restlessness she tried to conceal.

"You're taking too long, Zephyr." She crossed her arms, impatient.

"Elegance takes time, Lyra." I cast her an appraising look through the mirror, noting the faint flush on her cheeks. "But I see you also made sure to rise to the occasion."

She lifted her chin but said nothing. Instead, her fingers fidgeted with the hem of her dress—an old habit I knew well. Lyra was anxious, and I knew exactly why.

The door to the room suddenly swung open, and Valentina strode in without ceremony.

"If you took another minute, I would've dragged you out myself."

Our eyes met in the mirror's reflection. Valentina was flawless. Her deep red dress hugged her body to perfection, with a modest neckline and a side slit that revealed her finely crafted leather boots. The golden details in the fabric matched her amber eyes, which glimmered with a mix of boredom and amusement.

"Valentina," Lyra turned to face her directly. She was Zephyr's cousin and a lover of romance novels.

"Your impatience remains unchanged," I said, trying not to show my confusion.

"And your arrogance as well." She crossed her arms, studying me with sharp eyes. "Good to know some things never change."

I smirked but didn't respond. Instead, she stepped closer, narrowing her eyes slightly.

"Zephyr... that perfume..."

"I knew you'd comment on it."

"Are you trying to enchant the entire nobility or just start a revolution?"

"The difference is minimal."

She laughed, but there was something discerning in her gaze. Valentina was always perceptive, and I knew she wasn't entirely convinced of my intentions. However, before we could prolong the conversation, a firm knock sounded at the door.

"It's time to go."

The figure of the Master of War filled the space as he entered the room. His imposing stance, the gold-and-blue armor gleaming in the candlelight, made him an impossible presence to ignore. His violet eyes swept over me, then Lyra and Valentina, assessing us in silence before he let out a sigh.

"Unfortunately, I won't be able to accompany you to the ball." His voice was deep, laden with authority. "Military matters demand my attention, so you'll have to go without me."

"What a devastating loss," I replied, adjusting my cuffs. "Shall we extend the crown prince your regrets?"

"Yes." He narrowed his eyes at me, clearly catching my sarcastic tone. "And Zephyr... don't do anything that might compromise our house tonight."

"Compromise?" I tilted my head, smiling. "I am a perfect gentleman."

Lyra let out a quiet chuckle, and Valentina raised an eyebrow, clearly amused. The Master of War only huffed, turning to leave.

"Go. The carriage is waiting."

I picked up my gloves and walked through the mansion's corridors, Mateus following close behind. The sound of Valentina and Lyra's heels echoed against the polished marble, and the air seemed charged with the night's anticipation. Every step we took was a move toward the game board I intended to master.

At the grand entrance, the carriage awaited, gleaming under the lamplight. The black horses shifted restlessly, as if sensing the electricity in the air. Tonight promised to be unforgettable.

"Ready?" I looked at the three around me.

"I hope this is more interesting than I'm imagining," Valentina sighed, stepping into the carriage first.

"I'm certain it will be." I followed, settling in comfortably.

The door closed, and the carriage began to move.

The ball was about to begin.

And tonight, I would master the board.