Liora stood at the center of the grand hall, unable to hide the radiant smile on her face. The "Mermaid Princess" gown she wore that night made her feel like a real princess. The soft touch of silk against her skin, the sparkle of crystals reflecting the candlelight, and the gown's elegant design made every step she took feel magical. But it wasn't just the dress that filled her heart with joy. The presence of her family, friends, and the admiring gazes of the guests made the evening all the more meaningful.
Her eyes wandered around the room, taking in the lovingly crafted decorations. Purple and gold flowers adorned every corner, crystal chandeliers glittered above, and the gentle melody of a harp completed the enchanting atmosphere. Her father, Eldric Carval, stood nearby with her mother, Myra, both watching her with proud smiles.
As the music paused momentarily, the hall fell silent. All eyes turned to Liora. She knew it was her turn to speak. With graceful steps, she approached the small stage in the center of the hall, taking a moment to steady herself before addressing the audience.
"Your Highness, Princess Elena, esteemed nobles, dear friends, and all the guests gathered here tonight," she began, her voice soft yet clear. Her warm smile brought an air of intimacy to the room. "Thank you for coming to celebrate this very special day with me and the Carval family. Your presence is the greatest gift I could ever hope for."
Gentle applause rippled through the hall, encouraging her to continue.
"I would like to express my deepest gratitude to my family, who have worked so hard to make this evening so beautiful. Father, Mother, Brother Roland, and my little sister Lumi—you are the greatest source of joy in my life. Everything you've done here tonight is a testament to your boundless love." Her voice wavered slightly with emotion, but her eyes shone with happiness.
She continued, "And to all of you who have gathered here, I hope you enjoy this evening. Let us celebrate not just my birthday, but also the friendships, happiness, and cherished memories we create together. Please, enjoy the night!"
Thunderous applause filled the hall, and Liora felt a warm glow in her chest from the appreciation she received. As she stepped down from the stage, Lumi, dressed adorably in a golden yellow Tutu Baby Doll dress, approached her holding a small bouquet of flowers.
"This is for you, Sister Liora," Lumi said with a sweet and enthusiastic voice.
Liora knelt down, accepting the bouquet with a broad smile, then hugged her little sister tightly. "Thank you, Lumi. You've made this night even more perfect."
As Liora stood, Eldric and Myra walked onto the stage. The room grew quiet again as all attention shifted to them.
Eldric stood tall, his commanding presence drawing the focus of everyone in the hall. "Honored guests, I am Eldric Carval, head of the Carval family, and I want to thank you all for joining us tonight to celebrate my daughter Liora Carval's 13th birthday."
Applause erupted once more but quickly hushed as Eldric resumed speaking.
"My wife and I have prepared a special surprise for our daughter and all of tonight's guests," Eldric said, his tone carrying a hint of mystery.
Several attendants wheeled a large object covered in cloth onto the stage while Jenny brought a small box, handing it to Myra. The hall buzzed with whispers of curiosity.
"What is it?"
"Could it be... a birthday gift?"
But Eldric's next words left the room utterly silent and astonished.
"This is no ordinary gift," Eldric said with a subtle smile, letting the suspense build. "These are two iconic items that have captured the hearts of anyone who has read Your Lie in April."
The murmurs grew louder. Even Liora, usually composed, stared at her father with wide eyes full of anticipation. Her hands clutched her gown, hardly believing what she was hearing.
Jenny unveiled the cloth to reveal a shimmering grand piano that looked almost like it was made of glass. At the same time, Myra opened the small box, revealing a beautifully crafted violin with intricate carvings on its body. Both items seemed as though they had been plucked directly from the pages of Your Lie in April.
The hall fell into stunned silence. The only sound was the collective intake of breath from the guests, including Liora herself, whose eyes brimmed with tears.
"No way..." she whispered, her voice trembling with disbelief at the breathtaking sight before her.