Dreams, dreams, dreams. Probably due to the stress of this reception, my dream felt more vivid and chaotic than usual. I couldn't grasp a tangible recollection of my dream, but I could feel the fragments slowly dissipating as I tried to remember them. The only thing that remained was a feeling of anxiousness and dread.
I got out of bed and freshened up as I began preparing myself for the reception. Nobles from all around would be giving gifts and their greetings today before the main event of the ball. It wasn't meant to be a long reception, but the hosts were still expected to receive the guests and give them their attention. I would be wearing a simple outfit, if one could call it simple, made by Isabella. Instead of the grand color combinations presented in the outfit for the ball, this one was more toned down and resembled a simple modern day suit.
Ana had helped with snipping any loose ends and making sure my stubborn hair was in place for the event. It seemed like her maid training had been paying off as her movements were swift and precise. Her skills had visually improved and her confidence was tangible. We made small talk as we started finishing up.
"Ray, take a deep breath this is your first time interacting with other nobles… Be careful of any of their games or tricks."
Her brows were furrowed as she patted me down and straightened herself up.
"Of course, I'll conduct myself as I should but I won't let them bully me just because I was late to the game. This is my time to shine and catch up with the other notable nobles that have already begun forming their factions."
I gave her a smirk as I looked at myself in the mirror. I had been living as Ray Glouse for over 2 months now and much had changed. No longer was I the sickly, pale faced boy who brought shame to the Glouse Duchy. Instead, I had miraculously recovered and began a fervent attempt to hone skills that would improve my standing. Along with this, I had become accustomed to the world and the differences with my old one. All of my preparations have led up to this moment, and it was time to seize the bull by its horns.
With a deep breath, I walked out of the room with Ana by my side. The reception was going to be held in the same room as the ball so that there would be less work for the servants.
Ana excused herself once we drew closer to the entrance of the ballroom as she had to attend to other preparations that were needed. There was no need for the attendants to announce my entrance since it was still before the agreed upon time for guests to arrive.
I casually entered the ballroom and paused to take in the magnificence of it all. The decorations, servants, and atmosphere were beyond anything I had ever experienced before. This truly was an event befitting someone of royal status, a status I had never even dreamed of having during my life. The servants were making last minute adjustments and placing the hors d'oeuvres at the assigned tables. My parents were overlooking everything as they talked with Sebastian and helped direct servants. They quickly noticed me looking around and waved me over.
"Ray, how're you feeling about your big day? Do you need anything from us?"
Their twinkling eyes melted my heart as I shook my head.
"No, you've all done enough for me. I'm as prepared as can be, and can't wait to show everyone that I'm more than just healthy!"
"Remember to have fun and make friends! You're already acting like a grown up and we've only just got you back."
My mother made a cute pout as both my father and Sebastian awkwardly looked away.
"Duchess Maria is absolutely correct, Young Master. We are all pleased with your recovery and ambition, but we do wish for your happiness. There are times when you can just sit back and enjoy the scenery."
The slow nods from everyone left me self conscious as I scratched my cheek.
"I know, I know. I'll keep that in mind and try to make some friends. You can all stop worrying about me now, it's not like I'm going to hide or avoid the guests…"
We continued talking for a bit as the servants finished the adjustments around the ballroom. The only thing left to do was to begin the reception and allow the guests who had arrived early to enter. I had mentally prepared myself for this moment, as I stood apart from my parents.
...........................................
After some time, a horn could be heard signaling that the guests would now be introduced before entering. My heart pounded against my chest as I awaited the various announcements that would be made for the few guests that would attend the reception before the main event of the ball.
With a loud voice, the servant announced as the double doors swing open,
"The Light of the Empire, the one loved by the Goddess of Light, her Righteousness knows all, Saintess Lillia and her entourage from the Church of Light enter!"
…What?!