The grand ballroom of Titania's citadel was a marvel of architectural splendor. Crystal chandeliers hung from vaulted ceilings that seemed to stretch toward infinity, their light refracted and multiplied a thousand fold. The marble floor, polished to a mirror shine, reflected the dancing flames of countless candles and the shimmering attire of the assembled guests.

  Though it was not in the ballroom where one would hope to find Permeus at this time. He stood before a full-length mirror in his own private chamber adjacent to the ballroom, adjusting the golden crown that sat upon his curly light-brown hair.

  His ceremonial robes were crafted from the finest blue silk, embroidered with threads of actual gold that caught the light with every movement. Despite his regal appearance, his blue eyes betrayed a hint of distraction.

  “You look magnificent,” Imara said as she entered the room.

  Permeus turned to her, his expression softening. “Not half as magnificent as you Ima.”

  Imara approached him, reaching up to straighten his collar with a practiced touch.

  “Are you ready for tonight?” She asked

  “Its not like there's much at stake with this gathering.” Permeus admitted. “There never is”

  “It's just the usual ceremonial nonsense,” He said, shrugging. “Speeches, dancing, feasting and another latent speech to end it before days of trivial meetings”.

  “Nothing we haven't done forty-nine times before.” Imara guessed

  “But this time could be different” she added

  “How so?” Permeus asked

  “Dalia has joined the council.”Imara answered

  “Honestly I have never met the Origin of night but I am sure she is no different to rest of my siblings” Permeus replied

  “Aren’t you at least curious about the reason for her attendance” Imara asked

  “She lives in the underworld alongside Helus” Permeus reminded her

  “No doubt he just charmed her” He reasoned

  “After fifty years?” Imara asked skeptically

  “Nothing is impossible for an Origin my dear” Permeus said smugly

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  “And what about Laura's presence” Imara asked laughing at his grin

  “What about it?” Permeus asked

  “It must bring up... memories.” Imara said under her breath

  Permeus stilled, his eyes meeting hers in the mirror. “Are you asking if I still have feelings for her?”

  Imara hesitated, her hands dropping to her sides.

  “I know your history with her was... significant.” she admitted

  “So is yours and mine” Permeus argued. “That does not change a thing”

  Permeus tired of the lonely silence that followed his reply turned to face his wife, taking her hands in his.

  “Lala and I are in the past Ima,” he said firmly, “You are the only creature I would dare chain myself to for the rest of eternity”

  “What we had was youthful infatuation” He assured her.

  “You were technically eighty five by then” Imara reminded him, “I don’t think you can use the youth card”

  “Some of my family still believe me to be indistinct from a youth, I believe that counts” He said causing them both to chuckle.

  “She meant nothing more to me. You, Ima, are my present and my future. You've given me happiness, a home, and our beautiful daughters. I could never want for more.”

  He saw as Imara searched his face, finding nothing but sincerity in his eyes. She leaned forward, pressing her lips to his in a kiss that quickly deepened, conveying without words the depths of their connection.

  When they finally broke apart, Permeus rested his forehead against hers.

  “We should go,” he murmured. “Our guests await.”

  Hand in hand, they made their way through the corridors of the citadel toward the grand ballroom. The sounds of conversation and soft music grew louder as they approached, and when they entered, all eyes turned to them.

  The assembled Origins and their attendants fell silent, bowing to the king and queen of Titania. Permeus led Imara to the dais at the far end of the ballroom, where they took their places on ornate thrones crafted from wood and inlaid with precious metals.

  Permeus raised his hand, signaling for the musicians to cease. The ballroom fell completely silent as he stood.

  “My esteemed siblings,” he began, his voice carrying effortlessly across the vast space. “Welcome once again to Titania, the jewel of the realms and proud capital of our union.”

  A murmur of approval rippled through the assembled guests, though Darkeus, standing near the back with a goblet of wine, rolled his eyes slightly.

  “Fifty years ago,” Permeus continued, “we stood together and declared our commitment to unity and cooperation. Since then, our realms have flourished under our collective guidance.”

  He paused, surveying the room.

  “The titans of Titania have prospered through their hard work and dedication, secure in the knowledge that they are protected by the immortal flame that I have bestowed upon them.”

  At this, Germaine, standing near one of the grand pillars by his wife, shifted uncomfortably, but maintained his composure.

  “Today, we celebrate not only five decades of prosperity but also welcome a new member to our council.” Permeus gestured toward Dalia, who stood alone near one of the tall windows, her dark dress a stark contrast to the vibrant colors around her. “Dalia, Origin of Night, has at last joined our ranks, bringing with her the wisdom and perspective that can only enhance our collective strength.”

  All eyes turned to Dalia, who inclined her head slightly in acknowledgment.

  “Let us embrace her with the same spirit of brotherhood and sisterhood that has guided us these fifty years,” Permeus continued.

  “And let us continue to honor the sacred trust placed in us as the creators of all realms.”

  Permeus raised his goblet high. “To the Union of Origins! May our light continue to guide all of creation for eternity!”

  “To the Union!” the assembled guests echoed, raising their own goblets.