Chapter 13 (Part 4)
In Auxgaurrde, the soft moonlight envelops the extravagant exterior walls of the palace. Its gentle glow finds its way through a skylight, illuminating the interior and touching the paintings in the grand hall. But, the ambience inside is already aglow with the warm radiance of countless candles and shimmering chandeliers, rendering the moonlight invisible as the golden hues overpower the moon's beauty.
The spacious hall can easily fit two houses, bustling with nearly fifty men and women who fill the floor. Above, the skylights offer an immense view of the luminous space and the twinkling stars of the galaxy. Suspended between the skylights hang resplendent golden pearl chandeliers, each holding a hundred flickering candles that bathe the room in a warm, gentle light.
The marbled walls, embellished with intricate gold linings, add a layer of brilliance and awe to the hall. As multiple crowds traverse the wooden floors, gentle creaks resonate beneath their feet. Certain sections of the floorboards remain untouched by the women's heels, protected by a thick red carpet.
A marble pedestal with a glass case stands at the hall's centre, drawing a crowd around it. Within the casing, a heart-shaped diamond glistens with a charming allure. The crystal reflects lights from every direction, casting a dazzling spectacle. Standing beside the display is Regina, smiling like the beaming sun.
"Ladies and gentlemen, I am delighted to present to you..." Regina stated with a benevolent grin. "...The Diamond of Hearts!"
"Ooh!" Gasps filled the room as all eyes locked on the dazzling diamond inside the glass case.
"Wow! How much did it cost?" a curious man raised his hand and asked.
"Millions!" Regina responded.
"Oooh~" the crowd murmured in amazement, their gazes stolen by the sparkling gem.
As the sun rises over a new day, carriages and horses flood the streets of Asbranne, creating a bustling scene. Vehicles traverse the roads while pedestrians stroll along the sidewalks, strutting through the city. Thick, milky clouds shroud the sun, yet sunlight filters through the cotton-like clouds, casting its beams into the city and bathing the air of Asbranne in a bright blue colour.
The road lay blanketed in a pristine coat of white snow, concealing any trace of the grey concrete or cement. People's feet sank into the fluffy snow every time they stepped forward, leaving behind a trail of imprints as they marched through the snow-covered pavement. Whenever a carriage passed through, its wheels drew a distinct line of tracks in the fresh snow.
A bustling crowd formed a meandering queue outside the inviting stores, steadily growing as more and more people joined. The line extended beyond the store's entrance, spilling onto the sidewalks. The sky remained unblemished by falling snowflakes, bringing a sense of calmness. The air took a fresher scent, offering a smooth and refreshing breath with every inhale.
The carriages emitted a soft creak as the horses' hooves tapped against the ground. However, the snow had buried the once sturdy and solid cement street, causing the horseshoes to create muffled, sandy noises. The horses neighed and sneezed as they marched past each other, their breath visible in the frosty air.
The wind hummed and howled through the city, its invisible presence felt by all. It carried a biting chill that caused those in the streets to release puffs of vapour from their noses and mouths. The air, as cold as freezing water, prompted men and women to wrap themselves in coats, seeking warmth. They hugged themselves, seeking comfort from the frigid breeze as they marched through the winter.
Men and women throng the streets, gathering in front of a two-story establishment. Their eager smiles brighten their faces as they enthusiastically point at the gleaming building. The air buzzes with noise as they squeeze together, their elbows and arms brushing against one another, their grins stretching from ear to ear.
In front of the exuberant crowd is a splendid building boasting two floors and an elegant A-shaped gable roof. Cream pillars stand on each corner of its sturdy stone-bricked walls. Above a broad doorway, three windows offer a glimpse of shelves inside, beckoning the crowd from outside.
At the foot of the building, two poles stand, serving as a border between the establishment and the teeming masses. A crimson string with a festive ribbon connects the poles. With the sea of eager spectators awaiting their chance to witness the momentous occasion, it is evident that a grand opening is underway.
A bearded man steps forward and hands a pair of scissors to a brunette lady dressed in an exquisite green gown wearing a fashionable wide-brimmed bonnet. The man and the lady exchange a warm handshake, their eyes locking on each other. Both wear radiant smiles, their cheeks flushed with excitement and glee.
Taking a decisive step forward, the lady positions herself before the expectant crowds filling the street. She takes a deep breath as her gaze shifts to the cloudy sky. With an immeasurable smile, she turns around and brings the scissors down, trimming the vibrant thread. Delight surges within her heart, causing her to grin and bite her lips.
The crowds erupt in jubilation. Cheers reverberate through the air, reaching even the nearby avenues. Applause thunders as men clap and whistle, cutting through the scene. Slowly, the noise fades as the crowd begins to disperse and venture on separate paths.
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