Ch. 241..245: The Vampire Prince's Blindfolded Bride Chapter 241-245

Chapter 241: Zaiden’s right hand man, Ivan Winfred

Ralph entered the chamber where Magnus was seated and offered a deferential bow. "Your Highness, Alpha Claude has arrived. Shall I usher him in?" he inquired, seeking permission.

Magnus, with a contemplative hum, placed his cup brimming with blood on the stand next to his armchair.

As the drapes were drawn aside, the anticipation dissipated. Alpha Claude, the formidable leader of the South Shadow Pack, stepped into Magnus’s presence. Despite his considerable sway in the southern territories, Alpha Claude was bound by protocol to heed Prince Magnus’s summons.

"With utmost respect, Your Highness Prince Magnus," Alpha Claude intoned, bending in a respectful bow.

"Have a seat, Alpha Claude," Magnus said, gesturing to the chair across from him. He glanced at a servant, telling him to bring the wine to serve to the Alpha.

"I didn’t expect anyone from the regal family to come here," Alpha Claude said with a surprising gaze.

"It was necessary since an important matter came into my eyes," Magnus asserted. As the servant poured the wine for the two alphas, Magnus asked them to drink. He himself held the cup, containing the blood to bring to his mouth.

After a few seconds, Magnus spoke up, "Is the South Shadow Pack in close alliance with the Vampire Hunters Group?"

The question caught Alpha Claude off guard. His eyes flickered briefly to Ralph, searching for a betrayal that wasn’t there. After all, Ralph was an outsider to these lands.

"Shed those thoughts and enlighten me from the truth, Alpha Claude," Magnus proclaimed, bringing his attention to him.

"I can see you are quite happy in ruling this region as you are an influential figure here. And the vampire hunters have had helped you in killing some vampires here. Do you wish to take me an action, which can could change the entire future of the South Shadow Pack or you want me to let you live peacefully?" Magnus presented Alpha Claude with a choice that held the weight of their future.

"What does His Highness want?" Alpha Claude inquired.

"The truth," Magnus replied.

Since Alpha Claude was aware of the prince’s ability to read minds, so lying or hiding the truth from him wasn’t a wise decision.

"The vampire hunters shouldn’t be underestimated. They have an army of hunters, who are spread in the various regions. The South Shadow Pack is forced to give them assistance because they even killed some of our warriors as a threat to us. We have reported this to the vampires here, and desired to work closely with them, but they didn’t pay heed to it. Within a year, the organization grew stronger and now, it’s invincible," Alpha Claude explained to the prince.

"When did this all start?" Magnus questioned.

"A year ago."

"Who’s the leader?"

"Zaiden Lantsov. No one knows how he looks like. However, he is the one, who formulated this organization," Alpha Claude asserted.

"So, have you met any of them?" Magnus inquired.

"Yes. Zaiden’s right hand man, Ivan Winfred," Alpha Claude answered.

Magnus remained quiet for sometime as he read Alpha Claude’s mind for more intel. "I would like to meet Ivan. I’ll make sure to get rid of this Hunter Organization, which is a threat to all of us," he stated. "I will administer a higher rank to you alongside the vampires or even above them for the jurisdiction of this region. The condition is you will be responsible to directly answer the King once you take this rank," he offered.

Alpha Claude didn’t have any reason to refuse for it. Moreover, he never liked the hunter organization because it was a threat to the werewolves as well.

Magnus realized one thing that Zaiden made sure no such activity escape this region, which made him wonder how he was able to do it. Perhaps, some vampire in the jurisdiction of the region, betrayed their own king.

"I will help Prince Magnus. I will inform him how he can meet Ivan in alone. But His Highness has to make sure that Ivan doesn’t find out he is a vampire," Alpha Claude opined.

"I will do that," Magnus said. He thanked Claude for being truthful and glanced at Ralph. He was quick to send Claude away upon the prince’s signal.

George, the spy, came forward and bowed to the Prince. "I have made arrangements for your departure to the Magistrate’s residence," he asserted.

Magnus drank the remaining blood and left his seat. "Let’s go," he said.

~~~~~

Alora set her quill pen aside, her gaze lingering on the paper that now bore the verses of her long-contemplated poem. With a contented smile, she closed her journal and tucked it away in the drawer.

Just then, Selvina’s voice broke the silence. "Your Highness, Prince Izaak requests an audience with you."

The unexpected visit caught Alora off guard, but she composed herself and made her way to the drawing room. There, she found Izaak awaiting her. "Please, have a seat," she offered graciously.

Noticing Selvina and Melody poised at the room’s edge, Alora sensed the need for privacy. "Would you please excuse us?" she suggested gently, understanding that Izaak had matters to discuss that were meant to be private.

"Alora, your advice was invaluable. I’m truly grateful for your support," Izaak expressed, his smile radiating warmth.

"It’s my pleasure to assist, Brother Izaak," Alora returned the smile. "Shall I summon Melody to return to your service?" she teased lightly.

"Not just yet. I had a rather serious discussion with Father last evening. He discovered my interest in a human I’ve brought here," Izaak confided with a hint of concern.

Alora’s expression turned thoughtful. "And what was the King’s reaction?" she asked, hoping for his approval.

"At first, Father was incensed. But I managed to persuade him," Izaak admitted. "After your training concludes, I plan to take Melody out. It’s important that we have some time alone, to allow her to understand me better," he revealed his intentions.

"That’s an excellent plan," Alora encouraged with an approving thumbs up. "Moreover, I’ve observed that Melody holds a certain fondness for you, Brother Izaak. She may not have found the words yet, or perhaps she’s navigating her own uncertainties," she shared her insights.

Izaak nodded, his expression turning somber. "There’s much about myself I’ve yet to reveal to her. My past actions with my four wives led even my own siblings to pass judgment, so it wouldn’t surprise me if Melody did the same. But you, Alora, you’ve always refrained from such judgments, and for that, I am deeply grateful," he confessed.

Alora’s smile brightened. "I have faith that Brother Izaak will capture Melody’s heart in due time, Brother Izaak. And when that happens, your dreams will surely flourish!" she exclaimed with optimism.

Chapter 242: No one loves me

Solomon as said arrived in the Wilson House in the morning to have a conversation with Venus. One of the guards informed her about his visit, which brought frowns on her forehead.

"It seems Solomon isn’t easy to get rid of," Odin remarked, tucking the parchment he had received from Tobias into his overcoat. His gaze lingered on Venus, whose expression was already clouded with worry. "Let him in," he commanded the guard.

"Don’t start any argument with Solomon. Even I’ve no idea what kind of person he is. I’ll dismiss him from here after this last conversation," Venus suggested.

"I am not like you, Venus. You seem to find some strange pleasure in debating with everyone," Odin retorted with a slight smirk.

Venus’s brow creased in irritation, the annoyance bubbling within her already.

Solomon stepped into the house and sensed the presence of a vampire. He was aware that Venus’s elder sister was married to the vampire prince, but why a vampire was here?

His steps led him to the living room, where he found Venus accompanied by an unfamiliar vampire.

"Good morning, Venus," Solomon greeted, his eyes shifting towards Odin with a mix of curiosity and caution. "I must admit, I didn’t expect to encounter a vampire here," he remarked.

Odin’s response came with a hint of amusement. "Nor did I foresee a werewolf venturing into this place last night," he retorted. Rising from his seat with an air of nobility, Odin approached Solomon. "I am Odin Kisner," he introduced himself, offering his hand in a gesture of civility.

"I am Solomon Vesper," he introduced himself, firmly shaking Odin’s hand before they both settled into their seats. Venus motioned for a servant to bring tea and refreshments for Solomon, but he declined with a polite wave of his hand.

"I was under the impression that we would be having a private conversation," Solomon remarked, his gaze meeting Venus’s expectant eyes.

Odin interjected, capturing Solomon’s attention once more. "I reside here under Prince Magnus’s directive," he declared. "Venus informed me last night that she has completely dissolved her ties with her previous marriage."

The mention of Magnus stirred a sense of unease in Solomon, prompting him to reconsider the timing of this discussion. "My visit was simply to ensure Venus’s well-being. Eugene’s actions were deeply unfortunate," Solomon stated, redirecting the conversation to another direction.

"I see. Why does it feel Solomon never liked his own cousin?" Odin queried.

"I never support wrong, Odin," Solomon answered. He shifted his gaze to Venus and asked her if she would need any kind of assistance, she could tell him.

"I have shifted to the capital with my family. I hope to hear from you soon," Solomon said, ending the conversation quite early than she expected. He lifted from his seat and took his leave before Odin could ask him further questions.

Once he left, Odin said, "He is indeed interested in you, Venus."

"I wonder, why?" Venus muttered.

"Solomon will keep bothering you. He is ready to pursue you," Odin remarked. "It’s not bad though. An unwanted woman is at least someone’s desire," he added with a tinge of sarcasm.

"What did you say?" Venus glared at him as if she would murder him now. Her blood boiled and anger seethed in her entire being. "Just leave this house. And if you don’t, I will," she declared.

Madam Collie just entered the living room and ended up hearing Venus. She had never seen her this angry in such a long time.

"Why this sudden outburst?" Odin inquired, perplexed as Venus rose abruptly and strode out of the house.

Madam Collie, the head maid, called after her, but Venus was beyond reach, her eyes a tempest of emotions.

"Miss Venus, please halt. Our kind does not succumb to emotions so readily. Disregard Odin’s words," Madam Collie implored.

"I need to be away for a while. I cannot stay under the same roof as him," Venus declared with vehemence, passing through the grand gates.

"It’s unwise to wander alone. Allow me to accompany you," Madam Collie offered, hastening to keep pace.

"Just... let me have some solitude," Venus pleaded, her gaze beseeching as she paused momentarily. Her silent plea rooted Madam Collie in place.

As Venus resumed her departure, she was startled to find Odin blocking her path. With each attempt to sidestep him, he mirrored her movements, effectively barring her way. He then gestured for Madam Collie to withdraw, who reluctantly retreated into the house.

"Why can’t you even take a single criticism from me?" Odin frowned at her. "Isn’t it true that, aside from Solomon, you’re without suitors? What harm is there in acknowledging reality? Remember, there was a time when you used such words to belittle your own sister," he reminded her.

Venus struggled to maintain composure, her gaze drifting away from his. "Would you prefer my demise then?" she asked, her voice quivering as she fought back tears.

"No. You should survive," Odin stated.

Venus glanced at him again. "How am I to endure when I’m seen as nothing but a menace, a woman stripped of her honor? Even you believe I’m malevolent at heart." Her tears broke free, cascading down her cheeks as she pounded his chest with clenched fists. "Why didn’t you end my misery in the dungeon? It would’ve spared me this torment," she said while crying continuously.

Odin caught her hands in midair and lowered them using his minute strength. He looked into her watery eyes and said, "I apologize for my words. You are no longer evil," he whispered.

"You are a liar," Venus said and pulled her hands back from his strong grips. "You hate my existence. And it bothers me. Even my close friend hates me now. No one loves me anymore," she whispered before turning on her heel and fleeing back into the house.

Odin sighed as this wasn’t he wanted. He felt if Magnus found out, he would be punished. He needed to coax Venus now.

Chapter 243: Clouds of darkness

Magistrate Horace quickly made his way to the foray of the house when the servant informed him Prince Magnus had come. As he arrived and took a position to bow, Magnus stepped out of the coach.

Horace greeted the Prince with respect and welcomed him into the residence. As they settled in the living room, the Magistrate asked, "Prince Magnus didn’t send any message regarding his arrival."

Magnus, cutting straight to the chase, inquired, "I’ve caught wind of certain events occurring here. Would you enlighten me on these affairs, Horace?" He gestured for George to sit opposite him, who complied with a quiet grace.

"Activities? I didn’t understand, Your Highness," said Horace with a confused glance. He signaled for wine to be brought, a gesture of hospitality for the prince and his confidant. Yet, Magnus declined with a dismissive wave.

"Let’s not play games, Horace," Magnus chided, his voice tinged with warning. "You’re aware of my mind-reading capabilities. There have been events here, unreported to the King, that could jeopardize your standing. Speak plainly—I’m not inclined to violence today," he stated firmly.

Horace’s swallow was audible, a clear sign of his distress that did not escape the prince’s notice.

"Your Highness, I beg your forgiveness," Horace said and he got on his knees. "I-I couldn’t do anything. To live, I have to do what I was told," he added, his voice trembling in fear because he could see his end clearly.

By now, Magnus had read his thoughts. He furrowed his brows together, wanting to kill Horace right away, but he needed to execute his plans well.

"Stand up and sit," Magnus instructed.

Horace complied with the command and took his place once more. He narrated everything to Magnus from the start till the end. How his family was also a target of the Hunters Organization.

"All I wanted is to keep my family safe," Horace asserted, which wasn’t a lie. Everyone loved their families.

"You were supposed to make a better decision, Horace. Do you think your cowardly attitude didn’t cost life to the others?" Magnus questioned while reprimanding him.

"Please forgive me, Your Highness. They are too powerful to even touch. Some good-ranked vampires lost their lives while fighting them. Once I tried to send a message, but one of their members caught it. I was spared for the last time. However, today I betrayed them since I told everything to His Highness," Horace stated, his voice laden with dread.

"Have you ever seen the leader of this organization?" Magnus quipped.

"Never. He doesn’t show himself, Your Highness," Horace replied. "Instead, it’s his right-hand man, Ivan Winfred," he answered.

"Hmm. Is he a human?" Magnus quipped.

"Yes. But they are quite smart and strong. They know how to keep the vampires and even the werewolves under control. My brother was punished by them brutally using certain poisonous substances on him. He is still traumatized by it," Horace said with a worried glance. "The Night Saviors is too powerful to take down, Your Highness," he said in a low and anxious tone.

Magnus frowned to hear his distress. He deduced that everyone in the South was suffering because of the vampire hunters.

~~~~~

Alaric entered the cave, followed by Quentin. The guardians behind them had brought the fire torches with them to keep the light in the dark cave. With calculative steps, they moved forward until the large burial site was visible to them.

The grave was already opened when one of the guardians stepped up to check.

"Stay where you are!" Alaric said and he himself strode to it. As he went close to it, he felt a certain energy, but he was unaffected by it because of his abilities.

Alaric asked everyone not to touch anything. He started the investigation as he touched the surface of the grave. It was Rubin, who took out the book from Qasima’s grave. He saw a few more glimpses before pulling his hand back.

Qasima looked quite young for her age. But what bothered him was he saw she took Magnus’s name instead of Alora’s. They all thought Alora was the target. He stood straight and looked at his hand.

"Did you uncover anything, Your Highness? Where did Qasima depart to?" Quentin inquired anxiously.

"The destination remains elusive, but I’ve found something strange. We must make haste to the palace," Alaric concluded, only to be cut off by an unexpected voice.

It was an old man’s voice, who had a deep scar running on his cheek. He looked quite scary in appearance. "You all will die. She should not have been woken up. No one will be saved from her wrath, except for a woman!" The old man declared.

"Who are you?" Alaric inquired and he stepped toward him.

"I’m no one. Just run away and hide or possibly kneel before her if you want to live," the old man asserted.

Quentin thought to take the old man with them to the palace, but Alaric stopped him from taking such an action.

"Sir, do you know who lay in this grave?" asked Alaric.

"A vicious witch. She knows destruction. Even vampires were scared of him. No one can stand her. A woman with bewitching eyes, destined to sacrifice a loved one to save many. No one will survive if she fails. Clouds of darkness will linger over the kingdom!" The old man pronounced, which made all of them worried. They never had heard anything like this before, not even in legends. How this old man was aware of all this?

Alaric wondered if Magnus would be the sacrificial lamb. But he chose not to believe the entire words of the old man. If anything like that would have to happen, Izaak had seen a vision.

The old man suddenly fell to the ground and Alaric rushed to him. "Sir! Is there another way to stop it?" He asked.

"She has to die," the old man said in a low voice and he closed his eyes as if he served his purpose to deliver the message.

Chapter 244: The time she deserved

Alora returned from the training and decided to visit Scarlet to spend some time with her. However, she found out from the servant that Scarlet was with the Queen and Princess Lillian. Returning to her chamber, Alora went to the balcony and sat on the swing.

"Your Highness, would you like to drink water?" Selvina inquired.

"No, thank you," Alora replied with a gentle wave of her hand, her thoughts adrift to what Magnus might be engaged in at that moment.

Suddenly, Tobias’s voice cut through the quiet. "Your Highness, I’ve found you at last!" His approach prompted Alora to glance his way, curiosity piqued. Selvina discreetly stepped back, giving space to Tobias as he drew near.

Alora’s surprise was palpable as Tobias extended the documents towards her. "Prince Magnus has authorized me to obtain your signature for these official matters in his absence," he explained.

With a furrowed brow, Alora perused the papers, confirming their significance to the realm’s governance. She approached the table as she accepted the pen from Tobias and affixed her signature to each document.

Tobias collected the signed papers with a respectful nod. "Thank you, Your Highness and forgive me for troubling you."

Alora paused before making a request. "Should you encounter Griffin, inform him I wish to speak with him."

Tobias’s curiosity was piqued. "Griffin is within the palace grounds. Does Her Highness require his assistance for a particular matter?"

"Oh, he is in the palace! Yes, I would like to talk to him. Please bring him to the drawing chamber," Alora urged.

"Sure, Your Highness. Please wait for some time," Tobias said and left the balcony.

"Is everything alright, Your Highness? Why did you suddenly ask an audience with Griffin?" asked Selvina, feeling a bit worried.

"Ahh, it’s a general matter," Alora replied, not sharing with Selvina it was about her. She wanted Selvina to find a suitor and get married. More than her servant, she was a close friend to her whom she wanted to see happy.

As she made her way to the drawing chamber, followed by Selvina, she found Griffin had already come.

"Alora, how are you? I’ve been absent for the past few days from here," Griffin said after greeting her.

"I’m well, thank you, Griffin. Please, take a seat," Alora responded with grace. Turning to Selvina, she added, "You’ve been on your feet all day; take some time to rest." With that, she subtly ushered her attendant from the room.

"So, what is it that you suddenly ask an audience with me?" Griffin queried.

Alora took a deep breath before voicing her concerns. "I’ve been contemplating Selvina’s future. I believe it’s time she finds a suitor. Are you aware of any marriage bureaus that cater to the vampires?" she inquired, hoping Griffin could provide some insight.

Griffin raised an eyebrow with an intrigue. "Indeed, there are such services. But does Selvina herself wish to marry?"

Alora nodded earnestly. "She yearns for a family of her own. It pains me to see her dedicate her life solely to my service. She’s unaware of her own prospects, and as a pure-blooded vampire, time is not on her side. She may get old at a faster rate after some time. I want to ensure she meets someone worthy, someone who will cherish her as she deserves," Alora confided with the weight of her title set aside, revealing her deep care for Selvina.

"Hmm. If Her Highness wants that, then she needs to visit the marriage bureau. However, Princess Alora has to wait for Prince Magnus’s return. She can’t go outside at such a time when a vicious witch is roaming around," Griffin advised her.

Alora hummed in understanding. She didn’t wish anyone to get worried because of her, especially Magnus. "Indeed, I will wait for Magnus’s return. He had told me he would be back in a few days," she added.

Alora then curiously asked, "Griffin, what about you? I’ve heard that you were seeing someone." The smile on her face showed how delighted she was.

"It couldn’t work, Alora," Griffin answered.

"Huh? Why?" The sweet smile faded from her lips.

He let out a rueful chuckle. "My duties call me away at a moment’s notice; I couldn’t offer her the time she deserved," Griffin explained, then added softly, "Perhaps my destined one is still out there."

A spark of an idea flickered in Alora’s eyes. "What about Selvina?" she ventured cautiously. "Despite her rank as a servant, her heart is pure and her spirit is kind. If you’re not opposed to overlooking status, perhaps you could consider her," Alora proposed thoughtfully.

"Status doesn’t matter to me. I was once kind of a servant too," Griffin remarked and liked her suggestion. "But Alora, wouldn’t it be rather too straightforward to approach Selvina out of the blue? I’m uncertain how to even broach the subject," he confessed his reservations.

Alora’s smile softened, "I might have a solution," she offered. "Will you be available tomorrow?" she inquired.

Griffin nodded, "I should be free by the afternoon."

"Perfect. I’ll send Selvina to the market under the pretense of fetching sweets for me. You could offer to escort her because I’ll ask you; a casual encounter might ease any awkwardness," Alora proposed, her smile growing at the thought.

Griffin’s own smile mirrored hers. "That sounds like an excellent plan," he agreed. "By the way, there’s a news regarding Elliot. I almost forgot to tell you about this earlier. Your brother has learned the control over his blood thirst faster than the others. I have even heard that he is quite agile," he explained.

"Oh, really? I hope Elliot returns home soon. But it feels his entire life has affected, Griffin. He is only 20 and he couldn’t even live like a human," Alora stated with an upsetting tone.

"Not entirely. He can have as much fun as the humans. Don’t be too worried. Elliot will become a better version of himself. Believe me," Griffin assured her, thus turning her mood lighter.

Chapter 245: Want the freedom

Magnus stood atop a bustling wine shop alongside George, a haven frequented by vampires and thus, an ideal spot to evade the watchful eyes of Ivan Winfred.

This renowned establishment was a regular meeting ground for Magistrate Horace and Ivan, making it the perfect setting for their scheme. Unaware of Magnus’s appearance, Ivan would be none the wiser when Magnus, disguised as a mere server, would be the one to pour his wine that day.

"Your Highness, look there," George whispered urgently, gesturing towards a lone carriage making its way down the path to the wine shop. The fluttering flag bearing the kingdom’s crest atop the carriage confirmed their suspicions—it was indeed the magistrate’s carriage.

With no time to spare, Magnus and George slipped into their disguises as servers, a guise that would render them invisible to Ivan’s plain sight.

They moved swiftly, blending into the crowd of the wine shop, and ascended to the first floor to await their target.

Positioned near the counter, Magnus watched as Horace and Ivan entered. George swiftly passed him a tray adorned with two gleaming wine cups and a jar. With deliberate steps, Magnus ascended to the secluded upper room chosen by Horace and Ivan for their private discourse.

Upon reaching the door, Magnus rapped lightly and entered without waiting for an invitation. He presented the tray with a practiced bow, careful to maintain his facade of a servant. A single glance would be enough for Magnus to glean Ivan’s secrets.

He placed the first cup before Horace with a steady hand. Then, seizing an opportunity as Ivan’s attention wandered, Magnus ’accidentally’ tipped the wine onto Ivan’s attire, prompting a sharp reaction from him.

Ivan’s voice thundered in indignation, "Can’t you see where you’re going?" His glare bore into Magnus, who met his gaze briefly before murmuring apologies. As Ivan dabbed at his shirt with a napkin, Horace watched anxiously, worried that Magnus’s true identity might be compromised.

Seizing the napkin from Ivan’s grasp, Magnus insisted, "Allow me, Sir." He leaned in close under the pretense of cleaning the stain and whispered into Ivan’s ear, "Isn’t it curious that one must be poisoned to ensure their loyalty?"

Ivan froze, his eyes widening in shock as he processed Magnus’s words.

"Join me here tonight if you want the freedom," Magnus breathed out softly before swiftly exiting the room, leaving a stunned Ivan in his wake.

"Mr. Ivan, are you fine? I apologize on the servant’s behalf," Horace said, keeping his gaze low. However, Ivan didn’t seek heed to it. He was bothered by the fact that a random man came to him, telling him he wasn’t loyal to his master.

’How does he know that I want to be free?’ Ivan thought before taking his seat.

~~~~

"Your Highness, what happened? I thought you would take more time," George said, curious to know if Magnus found anything of importance.

"Turns out the organization already has a mole, George," Magnus said as he wore the overcoat. "Ivan’s allegiance to Zaiden is a facade. He has witnessed the murder of his family, and Zaiden’s poison runs through his veins. His desire for vengeance keeps him bound to Zaiden’s will," Magnus revealed, shedding light on Ivan’s true intentions.

"What? So, Ivan wants to kill Zaiden too. But I believe, Ivan did receive many chances to do that. Then, why he is unable to put an end to Zaiden?" George asked as they made their way out of the wine shop.

"We will find out tonight. I’ve asked Ivan to see me," Magnus stated. "I couldn’t see much of the memories because the encounter needed to be kept short," he added and entered the carriage with George before leaving for the resting house.

~~~~~

"Why must the meeting be today, Father?" Lillian’s voice carried a note of frustration as she addressed the King.

Queen Margaret responded with a firm tone, "How much longer would you have us wait, Lily? We’ve granted you years to find your own groom, yet you’ve offered nothing but excuses." The Queen’s words carried the growing impatience of all these years.

"What can I do, Mother? I found it difficult to trust. I end up using my ability on men," Lillian asserted.

"Then, don’t do this today," King Esmond suggested to her. "You can’t live like this forever. You need a companion for yourself, Lillian. It’s not good to distrust the people all the time," King Esmond imparted some words of wisdom to her.

"Lewis Blackwell is a nice man. Trust your father’s choice this time," Queen Margaret asserted in a humble tone.

Lillian hummed in understanding and asked them when she had to meet him.

Esmond glanced at the valet, who humbly replied, "Your Highness, Mr. Blackwell be here in an hour."

"Remember, Lily. You won’t see the results until you try it. Try to know Lewis first before making any random decision. We are your parents. We only want your happiness," Edmond elucidated to their daughter.

"Yes, Father," Lillian nodded her head in accepting her father’s counsel.

"Come, Lily. I will help you get ready today," Queen Margaret said and took her humble leave with Lillian. Entering the dressing chamber, Margaret showed the dress she had designed especially for today’s meeting for her.

"The dress is beautiful, Mother," Lillian acknowledged with sincerity. A thought crossed her mind, "Is Lewis younger than I am? It seems likely."

Margaret corrected her gently, "Lewis is of your age. He has served in the Northern Borders for many years and has only now chosen to return. His father approached your father with the proposal," she explained, revealing the origins of this arranged meeting.

"Oh, that’s strange. Why did he choose to live unmarried for so many years?" Lillian muttered.

"You should ask Lewis about it," Margaret opined and asked her to change into the gown. The servants helped her in wearing the outfit and later, she sat on the velvety cushioned chair. Margaret stepped up and brushed her daughter’s hair gently.

"Mother, I hope Lewis doesn’t possess the thoughts that I hate. I hope he finds me good," Lillian said.

"Oh, trust me, Dear. Lewis is different," Margaret said, stroking Lillian’s hair tenderly and affectionately.