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Chapter 11 - Chapter Eleven: Final Preparations for the Winter Solstice Ball Part One

Biltmore Estate, Lyanna's Bed Chambers, Year 1907

Edith entered Lyanna's bedchamber after she left to change into her evening wear for the ball.

Edith stepped into the softly lit room, her attire catching the light and drawing Lyanna's attention. She wore a stunning gown made of deep emerald green silk that flowed elegantly to the floor, its fabric shimmering like frost-covered leaves in the winter sun. The bodice was intricately embroidered with silver thread, forming delicate patterns that accentuated her figure. 

The sleeves were off-the-shoulder, showcasing her graceful neck and collarbone, while a subtle train cascaded behind her, giving her an air of sophistication. Around her waist, a silver sash cinched the dress, adding a touch of sparkle that matched the delicate silver jewelry she adorned—simple yet elegant earrings and a matching bracelet that glimmered with every movement.

A few small, twinkling hairpins, resembling tiny stars, adorned her soft, loose waves of hair. Edith completed her look with a pair of satin gloves that reached her elbows, adding a final touch of refinement perfect for the occasion.

Lyanna smiled warmly at Edith as she admired her stunning outfit for the winter solstice ball. "You look absolutely radiant," she said, her eyes sparkling with appreciation. "The way the silver embroidery catches the light is simply breathtaking. It beautifully highlights your figure and adds a touch of elegance. Those off-the-shoulder sleeves frame your neck perfectly, and that subtle train gives you such a sophisticated presence. The silver sash around your waist ties it all together beautifully, and your jewelry complements the dress wonderfully. You truly shine!"

Asporça nodded in agreement, her eyes widening as she admired Edith's radiant beauty. "I entirely agree, Lyanna," she said enthusiastically. "You truly do look stunning in that gown, Lady Edith. The silver embroidery is not just eye-catching; it enhances your grace and sophistication. Those off-the-shoulder sleeves really do accentuate your neck, and the way the train flows behind you adds such an air of elegance. The silver sash around your waist is the perfect finishing touch, and your jewelry is just the right amount of sparkle. You are absolutely glowing tonight, Lady Edith!"

Edith smiled warmly at Lyanna and Asporça, her heart swelling with gratitude. "Thank you both so much for your kind words! Your compliments bring immense joy to me. Lyanna, I appreciate you noticing the details of the gown; the silver embroidery truly does hold a special place in my heart. And Asporça, your remarks about the sleeves and the train are so thoughtful! I feel incredibly honored to be surrounded by such gracious friends. Thank you again for your encouragement; it truly makes this evening even more special."

Lyanna is wearing a dark blue viscose and velvet gown. It has beautiful gold embellishments and intricate golden lace. Her hair cascades in loose waves that perfectly frame her face, enhancing her features. She wore delicate pearl earrings and a matching bracelet that complemented the gown beautifully. She paired her earrings with a simple, delicate necklace featuring a thin chain and a small pendant. 

Edith smiled warmly at Lyanna and said, "Your gown is absolutely stunning this evening! The dark blue fabric beautifully complements your complexion, and the gold embellishments add such a touch of elegance. I love how the intricate lace details enhance the overall look. Your hair looks lovely cascading in those loose waves; it really frames your face perfectly. And those delicate pearl earrings and matching bracelet are just the right finishing touches. You truly look radiant!"

Lyanna blushed at the compliment, her cheeks turning a soft shade of pink. "Thank you so much! That means a lot coming from you," she replied, her eyes sparkling with appreciation.

With appreciation, Edith looked at Lyanna with immense pride. "You're welcome, Lyanna," she said, smiling warmly at her friend, her eyes shining with admiration. "Are you ready to head down to the ball?" Her voice was full of excitement. "I can't wait to see you shine on the dance floor!"

Lyanna took a deep breath, her heart racing with anticipation. "I think I am," she replied, glancing at her reflection one last time. "Let's go!" 

Together, they left the room and made their way to the ballroom.

William's Bed Chambers

George stood outside William's door and knocked gently. "William, are you in there?" he called out, his voice warm with fatherly affection. "Can I come in?" He waited for a moment, hoping his son was preparing for the evening ahead. George could already hear the distant sound of music from the ballroom, the excitement of the event palpable in the air.

William called from inside his room. "Yes, Father. You can come in."

George was filled with pride as he stepped into William's bedchamber. William stood before the mirror, adjusting his outfit for the ball. He wore a tailored navy blue tailcoat that accentuated his slender build, the fabric catching the light with a subtle sheen. Underneath, a crisp white dress shirt peeked out, its high collar framing his face elegantly.

His trousers matched the coat perfectly, fitted yet comfortable, tapering down to polished black dress shoes that gleamed as if freshly shined. Around his waist, a deep burgundy silk waistcoat added a touch of color, its delicate patterns adding a hint of sophistication. 

William completed his ensemble with a striking black bow tie, meticulously tied and resting perfectly at his collar. A silver pocket watch glinted from his waistcoat pocket, hinting at both style and a sense of punctuality. His dark hair was neatly combed back, offering a refined touch to his overall appearance.

George looked at his son, a proud smile spreading across his face. "William, you look absolutely dapper in that outfit! The freshly shined shoes set the perfect tone, while the deep burgundy silk waistcoat adds a fantastic pop of color. The delicate patterns truly give it a sophisticated flair. And that black bow tie? The black bow tie, perfectly tied and resting just at your collar, truly ties the whole look together. I also love how the silver pocket watch glints from your waistcoat pocket; it shows you have an eye for style and punctuality. With your dark hair neatly combed back, you genuinely look refined and ready for the ball. I couldn't be prouder!"

William smiled, his cheeks flushing slightly at his father's words. "Thank you, Dad! That means a lot coming from you. I wanted to look my best for the occasion, and I greatly appreciate your input on the outfit. I've been practicing tying the bow tie, so I'm glad it turned out well. I guess all those times you showed me how to dress nicely paid off!"

George chuckled softly, a warm smile spreading across his face. "You did a wonderful job, William. I knew you had it in you! It's wonderful to see you taking pride in your appearance, especially for such a special event. Remember, it's not just about looking good; it's about feeling confident too. I'm proud of how hard you've worked at this. Keep practicing, and soon, you'll be an expert at tying that bow tie."

William smiled after hearing what his father said to him. Then he notices the outfit that his father is wearing for the ball.

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