Ch. 321..325: The Vampire Prince's Blindfolded Bride Chapter 321-325
Chapter 321: A symbol of her care
The next morning, Alora noticed Magnus was conspicuously absent and only during the family breakfast she saw him. After the meal ended, she finally found an opportunity to speak with him.
"Where were you last night?" Alora asked, her voice tinged with concern. "And even this morning, I didn’t see you. Tobias mentioned you had some urgent work. What kind of work could be so pressing for Prince Magnus?"
Her perplexed gaze met his calm and measured one as they stood in the empty corridor. The silence of the hallway seemed to amplify her confusion.
Magnus’s expression remained steady as he replied, "Damien is alive, and there are shapeshifters roaming within our kingdom."
Alora’s eyes widened in shock. "What? So, it wasn’t Damien who attacked Brother Izaak that day, but a shapeshifter?"
"Exactly," Magnus confirmed. "It was a shapeshifter. I took immediate action to increase the security around your house, which is why I was out late last night. I left early this morning to continue addressing the security concerns."
Alora was stunned to learn how Magnus had disregarded his own comfort to ensure the security of her parents and sister. Her heart swelled with gratitude and admiration for him.
"It’s my duty toward you," Magnus said, sensing her thoughts. "I don’t have much affection for my in-laws, but I carry deep love for you. If anything happens to them, you will be affected. That’s why their safety is foremost," he explained, his voice gentle yet resolute.
Alora felt a mix of emotions—relief, gratitude, and an overwhelming sense of love. "Damien is scared to face you, isn’t he? That’s why he sent a shapeshifter in his place," she said, trying to piece together the situation.
"Yes. The shapeshifter can take on any form they desire," Magnus replied. "What will you do if a shapeshifter comes to you with my face? How will you recognize me?" he questioned, his eyes searching hers for an answer.
Alora thought for a moment, then smiled confidently. "I think the way he talks will be different from you. And the spark in his eyes will be different too," she asserted.
Magnus chuckled at her response, appreciating her insight. As he looked ahead, he felt Alora lift his wrist. Glancing down, he saw that she had placed a white stone bracelet around it. "Is that good?" he asked, slightly surprised.
"I don’t need to wear this thing you received from Raphael," Magnus protested.
"Why? It looks beautiful on your wrist," Alora opined, her tone playful but insistent.
"Raphael gave it to you, not me," Magnus said and rolled his eyes.
"He is the Lunar God. Don’t sound so jealous of him," Alora opined. "I know you don’t like Brother Raphael because I praised him once," she stated with a tiny smile. "For me, you have to wear it," she added.
Magnus looked at the bracelet, then back at Alora, a soft smile playing on his lips. "If it makes you happy, I’ll wear it," he conceded, realizing that the bracelet was more than just a piece of jewelry— it was a symbol of her care and protection for him.
"Fine." He held her hand and the two resumed their walk to the chamber.
~~~~~
Melody gazed at the enormous table, her eyes widening at the sight before her. It was covered with an array of jewelry boxes and precious gems, each piece more exquisite than the last. The radiance emanating from the jewels cast a shimmering glow that illuminated her eyes.
"Aren’t there so many? I think one would have been enough, Your Majesty!" Melody exclaimed, turning to Queen Margaret with wide eyes.
The Queen, a regal figure with a warm smile, waved her hand dismissively. "Oh, they are nothing, dear. As the soon-to-be wife of my eldest son, all these items are necessary for you," she said with a reassuring smile. Queen Margaret picked up a particularly stunning necklace adorned with a multitude of gems, each one catching the light and sparkling brilliantly.
She held the necklace up, admiring its beauty for a moment before bringing it to Melody’s neck. "This necklace would look perfect on you for your wedding," Margaret suggested, gently placing it around Melody’s neck. The gems rested elegantly against her skin, and the Queen’s eyes sparkled with approval.
Queen Margaret carefully removed the necklace and placed it back into its velvet-lined box with a bright smile.
"Doesn’t Her Majesty feel upset that I accepted the proposal of Prince Izaak? I don’t even belong to a noble family and—" Melody’s voice trembled as she spoke, her insecurities bubbling to the surface.
Before she could finish, Queen Margaret interjected gently but firmly. "I want Izaak to be happy. I’ve chosen two wives for him previously, and the last one treated him extremely poorly. Izaak would have been a father today if not for his last wife, who cruelly aborted the baby she carried," Queen Margaret said, her voice filled with regret. She recalled the heartache the King had shared with her over the matter, his sorrow echoing her own.
Melody’s eyes widened in shock. Izaak was going to be a father? He had never mentioned any of this to her. The revelation weighed heavily on her, and she felt a mix of sadness and empathy for the pain he must have endured.
"Izaak spoke to us about his suffering, but this thing he only shared with his father, not even with me," Queen Margaret continued, her gaze softening as she looked at Melody.
"For the first time, he saw a vision for himself and made a decision based on it. He saw you as his wife, and I decided to support what he wanted," she explained, taking a seat on a nearby chair, the weight of past sorrows evident in her demeanor.
Melody took a deep breath, trying to process everything she had just learned. The fact that Izaak had chosen her, despite his past hardships, filled her with a sense of purpose and determination to be a wife he always desired. She walked over to Queen Margaret and knelt beside her, taking the Queen’s hands in her own.
"I promise I will never let him feel sadness, Your Majesty," she said with a determined gaze.
Chapter 322: Use your visions
"I didn’t expect to find you here, Melody," Izaak remarked, genuine surprise coloring his voice as he entered his bedchamber. Typically, he had to send a servant to summon her, yet today she was already present, waiting for him.
"Were you waiting for me?" he asked, his eyes sparkling with curiosity and a hint of amusement. "Well, did you see the wedding preparations going around in the palace? Do you like them?"
"Of course, I like them," Melody replied, stepping closer and taking his hands in hers. "I was with the Queen earlier. She showed me so many pieces of jewelry. It all feels like a dream," she said, her eyes shimmering with wonder.
"It’s not a dream. Do you want me to prove it to you?" Izaak asked, a playful glint in his eyes.
"How will His Highness prove it? By pinching my cheeks?" she teased, looking up at him with curiosity.
"No. Like this." Izaak leaned in and kissed a sensitive spot on her neck, causing her to gasp. Before she could pull away, his hand moved to the nape of her neck, holding her gently but firmly in place.
He nipped at her skin, drawing a small cry from her as her milky white skin turned red at that spot. His lips curled into a smirk as he kissed the spot tenderly.
Leaning back, Izaak gazed into her eyes. "Now, do you realize all of this is real?" he asked softly.
"Yes," Melody whispered, clutching the fabric of her dress tightly. She noticed the transformation in his eyes, the pupils now a striking shade of crimson. Her breath hitched as she caught sight of the small fangs peeking from behind his lips.
"What are you thinking? Say it," Izaak demanded, his voice filled with concern as he noticed the troubled look in Melody’s eyes.
Melody shook her head, forcing a smile. "It’s nothing." She felt it wasn’t the right time to bring up the past, especially not during such a beautiful moment when Izaak seemed so delighted.
Izaak squinted his eyes in suspicion, clearly unconvinced by her answer. But before he could press further, a knock on the door interrupted them. Izaak turned around, instinctively positioning himself protectively in front of Melody.
"Come in," Izaak called out, his voice firm and authoritative. The door creaked open slowly.
"Your Highness," Zerah said, bowing deeply, "Prince Magnus is here to see you."
Izaak glanced back at Melody, his eyes silently conveying the message for her to stay behind. With a final reassuring look, he stepped into the adjoining chamber where Prince Magnus awaited.
"Is everything alright?" Izaak asked, his tone was both a mix of curiosity and concern. "You were unusually quiet during breakfast, and I noticed you returned quite late last night. What kept you out so late? Are you troubled that Damien isn’t dead and he might harm Alora?"
"No. I have full confidence in Alora’s ability to protect herself," Magnus said with a serious expression. "My concern lies not with her resilience but with the potential schemes Damien might be plotting against us. Furthermore, the vision you had has been troubling me deeply. I feel compelled to take action to alter whatever fate it predicts."
Izaak stared at his brother, incredulous. "Is this for real, Magnus? I’ve told you repeatedly that no one can change the visions I’ve had. Instead of trying to defy them, you should focus on preparing Alora for whatever challenges may come. She’s not a child anymore. If something is fated to occur, it will happen regardless of what we do to prevent it," he said with a tone of finality.
"You don’t understand my position," Magnus snapped, his frustration evident.
"Then why are you here?" Izaak asked, his voice softening. "You came to me because you value my insights. Magnus, I understand that Alora’s heart is gentle and that, for any child, their mother is an irreplaceable figure, no matter how old they get. But we cannot control everything. We’re not gods, and there are limits to what we can influence," Izaak explained, his words blending sympathy with a firm dose of reality.
"My heart shatters at the thought of Alora in distress," Magnus said, his voice filled with anguish. "You don’t know what it was like when I first met her. She was consumed by worry for her mother only. You know how fiercely protective I am when something precious to me is in danger, even just a little. I was on the brink of annihilating her entire family, but I couldn’t bring myself to do it. Her mother never harbored any hatred toward her for having those eyes. And now your vision—it suggests that Alora might be driven to take her own life out of guilt."
Izaak sighed deeply, leaning back in his seat and rubbing his forehead in frustration. "Magnus, you’re letting your emotions cloud your judgment. Alora needs to understand that her eyes, which are a part of who she is, can also bring about great peril. Life isn’t always about roses and sunshine," he remarked, his tone stern.
Magnus’s face darkened with anger. "What did you just say?" he snapped, rising from his seat. In a swift, heated motion, he grabbed Izaak by the collar of his overcoat, his eyes blazing with fury.
Izaak quickly grabbed Magnus’s wrists, trying to calm him down. "You won’t get any help from me if you’re going to resort to violence," Izaak said firmly.
"I don’t need your help!" Magnus shot back, yanking his hands-free and turning away in frustration. He ran his fingers through his hair, clearly conflicted, and made to leave.
But Izaak reached out and caught his arm, pulling him back gently. "Magnus, you need to pull yourself together," Izaak said, his voice turned softer this time. He was aware of Magnus’s nature when it came to Alora.
"Let go of my arm," Magnus said, his voice laced with frustration.
Izaak held his ground, not releasing his grip. "Stop acting like a child," he retorted, stepping in front of Magnus. Placing his hands firmly on Magnus’s shoulders, he met his brother’s intense gaze with a steady and resolute look. "We’re vampires, Magnus. We have to rise above our emotions and focus on what needs to be done. I’m here to help you. Let’s work together to prevent this from happening."
Magnus’s expression softened as he met his brother’s gaze, the anger in his eyes giving way to a more determined resolve. "Tell me what we need to do," he said, his tone now serious and focused.
"We need to locate Damien before he can make any move against us and eliminate him once and for all," Magnus declared, his voice filled with a cold determination.
"And how do we find him?" Izaak inquired, his brow furrowed in thought.
"I don’t have the answers," Magnus admitted, his jaw clenched tightly. "That’s where you come in. Use your visions or any other means at your disposal. But we need to find that bastard before he can strike again."
"It’s not easy for me," Izaak said, his voice tinged with frustration. "I can’t control when I see visions. You know that well."
"Then you need to learn how," Magnus insisted, his tone urgent and impatient.
"Seriously, Magnus?" Izaak let out a dry chuckle, dropping his hands from his brother’s shoulders. "Do you really think it’s that simple? We can’t dictate when or how these visions come. We’re not in a position to control anyone’s fate or alter the natural order of things. The cycle of life and death is beyond our influence. In fact, no one has that power."
Magnus’s expression hardened with frustration. "You’re not offering me any real help," he said, his voice sharp. Without another word, he turned sharply and, with a burst of frustration, vanished from sight as if he were a wisp of smoke dissolving into the air, leaving Izaak alone in the chamber.
"Should I speak with Alora about this?" Izaak murmured to himself, his brow knitted with worry. The sight of Magnus so unsettled was unlike anything he’d ever witnessed, and it truly worried him. He found himself wishing he had the power to hide his own thoughts from his younger brother, to shield him from the burden of what he had seen.
"Your Highness, is everything well?" Zerah asked, stepping into the room with a look of concern.
"Yes, everything is fine," Izaak replied, his voice carrying a veneer of reassurance. He turned to face Zerah, his forced smile betraying the strain he felt inside.
As Zerah left the room, Izaak took a deep breath, trying to compose himself. He then headed back to the bedchamber where Melody awaited him.
She stood up to see Izaak. "Why is this troubling on your face, Prince Izaak?"
He was hesitant to tell her, but then he finally said, "Magnus is upset with me. I can’t help him this time. It’s difficult... It’s impossible," he affirmed.
"I thought nothing was impossible for Prince Izaak," Melody commented, asking him to tell her the matter.
Chapter 323: Allow me to show you more
Izaak’s expression softened as he heard Melody. "It’s not true. I can’t do a lot of things," he stated.
"Like what?" Melody asked, her confusion evident.
"I can’t change my visions. No matter what I do, they don’t change. I never regretted having such an ability, but recently, I felt it should not be there," Izaak explained, his voice tinged with frustration.
"Umm... Those who can handle such abilities are chosen to carry them. Your Highness, I don’t know what’s bothering you suddenly, but whatever it is, try finding a solution for it," Melody stated, her tone gentle yet firm.
"A solution?" Izaak chuckled bitterly. "To change my visions?" He arched an eyebrow at her.
"Yes," Melody replied, her gaze unwavering.
"There’s no solution. What is bound to happen will happen," he affirmed, his voice laced with resignation.
"What did His Highness see?" Her concern grew as she pried for more details.
Izaak sighed deeply, feeling the weight of his visions bearing down on him. If he shared this with Melody, she might worry or tell Alora, which would only increase Magnus’s temper. That was something he wished to avoid at all costs.
Melody sensed the prince’s reluctance to confide in her, so she didn’t press him further. Instead, she noticed a crease on his overcoat as if someone had grabbed it. Was it Magnus? Could a younger brother do that? She shook her head, trying to dispel her concerns, and turned around with furrowed brows.
Suddenly, Izaak pulled her back, his hand wrapping gently yet firmly around her neck. Her back pressed against his chest, and she tilted her head to look at him.
"I don’t want to be in trouble," Izaak whispered, his breath warm against her ear. "That’s why I can’t share what I’ve seen."
Melody didn’t insist further and turned around. "Don’t let it trouble you," she asserted, her voice gentle yet firm.
"Hmm," Izaak responded, still lost in thought. Then, in an impulsive moment of needing comfort and connection, he kissed her again, this time more deeply and passionately. His hand swiftly reached her waist, drawing her close until their bodies pressed together.
Melody placed her hands on his forearms, holding him gently. Her breath hitched as Izaak’s kisses grew more intense, his lips exploring hers with a fervent need.
"Ahhm!" Melody exclaimed softly as they reached the bed in the blink of an eye. She found herself lying down, Izaak’s body hovering above hers, creating a cocoon of warmth and desire. His hand gently caressed the curves of her body through her clothes, sending shivers down her spine.
His other hand held her chin in place to kiss her in a more perfect way. He left her mouth and journeyed to left, showering kisses on her jawline.
"Mmm..." Melody moaned softly, surprised at the intensity of her own body’s response. She knew she should stop him, but the weight of their connection and the heat of the moment overwhelmed her.
The built-up desires were something she didn’t want to dissipate. She wanted to feel everything he desired to give her.
Izaak sensed her hesitation but also felt the intensity of her desire matching his own. His breath fanned her ear, and he whispered "Melody, if you want me to stop, tell me."
She bit her bottom lip, her voice barely a whisper. "No."
The moment she spoke, Izaak’s lips found her earlobe, his touch sending shivers through her. Another moan escaped her as her sensitivity to this spot intensified. Her hands moved instinctively to his back.
Izaak’s frustration with the barriers of clothes between them grew. He wanted to feel her skin against his, and the layers of clothing were in the way. His hand moved decisively to his overcoat, and with practiced ease, he undid its three buttons. He pushed the garment down his shoulders, letting it fall away with a smooth, deliberate motion.
As he discarded the overcoat, he quickly followed by removing the scarf around his neck. Melody’s eyes widened as she watched him only in his shirt, her breath quickening with anticipation. Would he undress fully?
Her gaze met his, a mixture of surprise and curiosity reflected in her eyes. He caught her gaze and, with a gentle but firm touch, placed a soft kiss on her forehead.
"Allow me to show you more," Izaak murmured, his voice low and filled with emotion.
Melody’s cheeks flushed a deep red, her heart pounding. She swallowed hard, trying to steady her breath. "How?" she managed to ask, her lips quivered slightly as she looked up at him.
Her eyes grew wide with shock and anticipation as she felt Izaak’s hand slide under her gown, his fingers moving with deliberate, exploratory intent.
His touch was electric, tracing a slow, tantalizing path up her leg until it reached her inner thigh. The sensation was both thrilling and overwhelming, causing her breath to catch in her throat.
Meanwhile, his other hand worked expertly to untie the knots on her back. As he loosened the ties, the gown began to fall open slightly, revealing more of her skin to his touch.
The sudden exposure made her heart race even faster, pounding against her chest with a frenetic rhythm. The mixture of vulnerability and excitement created a powerful, almost intoxicating sensation.
Though she knew they were not married yet, and a part of her mind urged her to stop him, she found herself paralyzed by the intensity of the moment. Her eyes fluttered shut as his lips met hers, their kiss deepening with a mixture of urgency and tenderness. The world outside seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them in this intimate moment.
Izaak’s hands moved with a measured slowness on her thigh further up, each touch meticulously calculated to heighten her senses. His fingers caressed her thigh, the touch lingering as if memorizing the contours of her skin. The sensation was both exhilarating and soothing, creating a whirlwind of emotions within her.
In the midst of their kisses, Izaak murmured softly against her lips, "I will just do something little but sweet." His desire for her was palpable, and he showed no hesitation in expressing it.
Chapter 324: Her Breathtaking Beauty
Magnus took the brooch from Lewis, his fingers brushing over the intricate design as he examined it closely. The gem embedded within it caught the light, revealing its rare and captivating brilliance.
"I sensed the presence of a vampire in their house in Elmswood, Your Highness," Lewis explained, his voice measured but urgent. "Aubrey is involved in a conspiracy with someone, though I couldn’t gather more details about this person. However, this brooch was discovered there."
Magnus’s gaze remained fixed on the brooch. He noted the gem’s rarity and the craftsmanship of the piece. With a contemplative nod, he closed his palm around the brooch.
"Hmm," Magnus mused, his voice laced with concern. "The gem used in this brooch is indeed quite rare. It might be a significant clue."
He shifted his attention back to Lewis, his eyes narrowing as he sought more information. "Tell me about the vampire aura you sensed. How would you describe its strength and presence?"
Lewis met Magnus’s gaze with a steady look. "The aura was strong, Your Highness. It was unmistakable—intense and powerful. I hardly sensed such an aura before," he asserted.
Magnus’s expression grew more serious. "A strong presence indicates that the vampire could be Damien Von Grimm." He felt that Damien would be keeping an eye on all factors through which he could get close to Alora.
"But why would Damien go there?" Lewis asked, a deep frown creasing his forehead as he tried to piece together the puzzle.
Magnus’s gaze grew steely. "Because Alora is my wife— the Royal Princess Consort of the third Vampire Prince."
Lewis’s eyes widened as he grasped the full implication of Magnus’s statement. If Damien sought to undermine the royal family, targeting Alora, who was not only a powerful vampire but also a key figure in the royal lineage, would be a strategic move. Given her recognized strength, striking at her would be a direct attack on the heart of the royal family’s power.
"His Highness should take immediate action," Lewis asserted, his tone resolute. "Madam Aubrey is conspiring with a vampire against the Royal Princess Consort. This is a serious threat that demands swift intervention."
Magnus’s expression hardened, reflecting his resolve. "I will take the necessary steps, Lewis. Your efforts in bringing this to light are much appreciated."
Lewis inclined his head slightly. "I am glad Prince Magnus found me capable enough for such a task. It was a significant journey, but knowing the importance of the mission made it worthwhile."
Magnus’s face softened slightly with a hint of gratitude. "Your skills and dedication are well-known, Lewis. Griffin and Odin are currently unavailable, and I needed someone I could trust completely to handle this delicate matter. Your reliability in carrying out such critical tasks is why you were chosen."
"I am honored to be of service," Lewis replied, his tone earnest. "I will make sure to provide any further assistance needed in this matter."
Magnus nodded in acknowledgment. "Just focus on Lillian now. She will be displeased if I keep you involved in my matters for too long," he said with a knowing smile.
Lewis responded with a smile of his own. "Princess Lillian often acts like a young girl. It’s sometimes hard to believe she’s as old as she is. At heart, she’s still very much a child," he remarked with a hint of affection.
After exchanging these brief but meaningful words, Lewis stood, bowing deeply to Magnus in a gesture of respect. "Thank you for entrusting me with this task, Your Highness."
Magnus gave a nod of acknowledgment as Lewis left the room. Once he was gone, Magnus’s attention shifted to Tobias, who had been waiting nearby.
"Do you understand what you need to do?" Magnus asked, his voice carrying a tone of seriousness.
"Indeed, Your Highness," Tobias responded, his posture and demeanor indicating his readiness.
"Good," Magnus said, his expression firm. "Bring Madam Aubrey to Velaris, but make sure she believes it’s an invitation from Alora. It’s crucial that she does not suspect the true nature of the summons."
Tobias’s eyes were focused and resolute. "Understood, Your Highness. I will ensure that she is convinced of the legitimacy of the request."
With a final nod of approval, Magnus watched Tobias leave the room, his mind already working on the next steps in addressing the safety of his wife and her family.
Magnus was so engrossed in his thoughts that he didn’t notice Alora’s presence until she called out his name. He lifted his head, momentarily jolted from his contemplation.
"How do I look?" Alora asked, her voice carrying a note of playful anticipation. She twirled slightly, showcasing her gown designed for the evening’s grand party in honor of Prince Izaak’s wedding. The gown was a rich navy blue, elegantly off-shoulder, and sculpted to highlight her curves with a sophisticated grace.
Alora paused, her eyes sparkling with excitement as she stood before him. Her bare arm felt the warmth of his hands resting gently on it.
Magnus’s eyes softened as he took in her appearance. The gown’s color and cut accentuated her poise, and the way she carried herself added a layer of allure.
"Mesmerizing," he replied, his voice filled with genuine admiration.
A smile spread across Alora’s face, her eyes brightening with pleasure at his compliment. "I’ve prepared a dance for the occasion. Would you like to see it?" she asked, her tone imbued with both confidence and a hint of shyness.
Magnus’s interest piqued, and he allowed his hands to fall to his sides. "Absolutely," he said.
As Alora began her dance, Magnus’s eyes were locked on her as he absorbed her every fluid motion and graceful turn. Her breathtaking beauty fluttered his heart.
Although her steps were not perfectly polished, the sheer enchantment of her performance captivated him entirely.
Suddenly, during a particularly intricate step, Alora’s heel twisted beneath her. A startled cry, "Ahh!" escaped her lips as she faltered. Her balance wavered, and she began to lose her footing.
Magnus’s reaction was immediate. His arm swept around her back, pulling her against him with a protective firmness
Her body ducked slightly and she found his face hovering above hers.
Chapter 325: I don’t give second chances
"Gloria, are you certain you want to remain loyal to the royalty?" Damien asked, tapping his fingers rhythmically on the armrest of his chair.
"I can offer you so much more. Remember, you lost your daughter because of the vampires. And what did the royalty do for you? They gave you the rank of Head Witch but then restricted your use of power to keep everything under their control," he continued, a smirk spreading across his face.
Gloria’s brows furrowed in anger. "Damien, leave my house at once because I am going to report you to the King!" she declared firmly.
"Once invited, I can’t leave, Gloria, not without securing your agreement to work for me," Damien replied. "Gloria, I will give you the second highest rank if you help me," he added.
Gloria’s eyes glowed a fierce yellow, and Damien’s head was suddenly wracked with searing pain. "Leave!" she screamed, her voice echoing like a roar. Objects around the house began to levitate and whirl about, while the windows slammed open and shut, sending gusts of wind thrashing through the rooms.
Damien couldn’t remain seated and stood up from his place. However, despite the mind-ripping pain, he reached Gloria, ready to kill her. The rage had reached his head because he didn’t get what he wanted from her.
Cutting through the pain, Damien finally approached her and grabbed Gloria by the neck. Her eyes turned normal as he lifted her into the air. Her long nails dug into his hand as she tried to break free.
However, Damien’s magical power was something from which she couldn’t be saved. He possessed the power to show the worst and saddest moments of one’s life.
His pupils grew large as he forced Gloria to relive the memory of losing her daughter. Tears streamed down Gloria’s cheeks, and in the next second, he killed her, sinking his sharp fangs into her neck.
"Sadly, I don’t give second chances, Gloria," Damien muttered as he let her body drop. It thumped against the floor, covered in a pool of blood. Licking his finger, Damien left that place. It was an open challenge from Damien’s side to show the royalty that he had returned to Velaris to end their rule.
~~~~~
In the grand palace, the evening party was in full swing, filled with music, laughter, and the clinking of glasses. King Esmond and Queen Margaret’s joy was evident, their happiness soaring to the seventh sky. Their beloved son, Izaak, was set to be married in just two days, and the entire kingdom was celebrating this momentous occasion.
Among the guests, Izaak found Melody, standing slightly apart from the crowd. He approached her quietly, leaning in close to whisper, "Nervous, Melody?"
She nodded, her head tilting as she did. "Yes," she admitted softly. Melody had attended many such events before, but always as a mere servant, a background figure that no one ever paid attention to. Tonight, however, was different. She was no longer invisible, no longer just a side character in the grand tapestry of the palace.
For Melody, it still felt unreal. She had never imagined experiencing such an honor. Her heart fluttered with a mix of excitement and nervousness as she glanced around the hall, filled with nobles and dignitaries.
"Here comes the fiancée of my son, Melody Rosenberg," announced Queen Margaret, her voice ringing clear after clinking a spoon against the chalice. Instantly, all eyes turned toward the top of the grand staircase.
Hearing her name, Melody clutched Izaak’s arm tightly. The weight of every gaze upon her filled her with a surge of nervousness. She had never imagined being the center of attention like this.
Melody took a deep breath and finally descended the stairs with Izaak, her steps growing more confident with each moment. Before she knew it, they had reached the platform where the King, Queen, and other family members stood waiting.
As they halted before the royal family, Melody and Izaak greeted them with deep respect before turning to face the gathered guests.
"You all must be surprised to see that I have chosen a human this time," Izaak began, his voice steady and clear. "After four failed marriages, I am confident that I have finally chosen the right life partner. Please accept us and bless us," he pronounced, holding Melody’s hand firmly.
The hall was filled with murmurs of surprise and curiosity, but also admiration and warmth. She looked out at the sea of faces, hopeful that their union would be embraced and blessed.
Alora started clapping lightly to cheer for them. Magnus joined her, and soon, the entire hall reverberated with the sound of applause. Melody’s nervousness began to fade, replaced by a sense of belonging and acceptance.
As the party continued in full swing, Alora excused herself, feeling her dress had loosened at the back. She navigated through the bustling crowd and slipped into an empty corridor, seeking a private place to fix her attire.
Finding the nearest chamber, she hurried towards it, only to bump into a man as she turned the dark corner.
"My apologies!" the man said in a humble tone, his voice filled with sincerity. Alora looked up and met his gaze, noting his unfamiliar face. She wondered if he was part of the evening party.
"Such a pair of beautiful eyes," the man said, leaning close to her ear. "We will meet again, Alora. You’ll need me soon," he stated.
Before she could respond, Magnus’s voice reached her ears. She turned around quickly, but when she looked back, the unfamiliar man was gone. Her heart raced with fear and confusion, wondering who he could be.
"Alora, what are you doing here?" Magnus asked with a concerned tone. He took her hand gently and guided her to the brighter part of the corridor.
"I... I thought I needed to fix my dress," Alora stammered, still shaken by an unexpected encounter with the unfamiliar man. She glanced back one more time, but the mysterious man had vanished as if he had never been there.
Magnus noticed her unease. "Are you alright?" he asked and he read her thoughts. "Stay here!" With a blink of an eye, he had disappeared.