Chapter 90: SolsticeAs the summer solstice approached, the imperial palace buzzed with anticipation. Messenger horses and carriages raced across the lands, delivering invitations from Empress Ilyana. The elegant scrolls bore an invitation to celebrate the coming solstice, but the letters remained silent about the true reason for the gathering—a secret known only to Ilyana herself, and her trusted subjects.The news spread quickly among the nobility and the rulers of the lands under Ilyana's dominion. Whispers and speculations filled the grand halls and courtyards, yet none could guess the true significance behind the empress's invitation as it was the very first time she had opened her city to celebrations such as this. The palace staff worked tirelessly to prepare for the grand event, ensuring that every detail was perfect for the guests who would soon arrive.Meanwhile, in the far reaches of the empire, King Lucian of Montebello received his own invitation. As he read through the l
Chapter 91: One amongst many"My daughter... Princess Isabella Archer."The instant the curtains revealed Isabel, Lucian's eyes immediately met her gaze. His entire body tensed as his mouth fell open in shock. Isabel was beautiful... stunning even. Her hair was styled into an intricate halo braid adorned with sparkling gems that caught the light with every subtle movement. A crown, fit for an imperial princess, rested gracefully on her head, accentuating her regal presence.She was dressed in an elegant gown of deep sapphire blue, the fabric shimmering like starlit water. The bodice was intricately embroidered with silver threads, creating delicate patterns that mirrored the night sky. Her sleeves, long and flowing, were edged with lace, and the skirt cascaded in layers, each one more exquisite than the last. Her posture was impeccable, radiating confidence and poise which was a stark contrast to the humble, servant girl Lucian once knew and loved.As Isabel stepped forward, her movem
Chapter 92: As sweet as VengeanceLucian stood rooted to the spot, his eyes fixed on Isabel with an intensity that he scarcely noticed himself. His mind raced with a whirlwind of thoughts, all centered around the woman who had once been his entire world. The Isabel he loved, the Isabel who had fallen from the cliff that night, the Isabel he believed lost forever—was now standing before him, transformed and more distant than he could have ever imagined.She was different now. The timid girl who once hesitated to even show herself to him in public was gone. In her place stood a regal princess, commanding the attention of every man in the room, her poise and grace elevating her above them all. It was a stark contrast to the Isabel he had known, and the realization hit him with a force that left him breathless.He watched as she gracefully navigated the throng of admirers, her laughter ringing out like a melody, her smile lighting up the faces of the princes and noblemen vying for her att
Chapter 93: Longing of a KingIsabel turned her back on Lucian after delivering her scathing remarks, intending to leave him to his thoughts. But just as she took a step away, she heard him call her name, his voice softer than she had ever heard it before. "Isabel... Forgive me... I know I have made a grave mistake... I am sorry for everything I have done to you," Lucian’s words were barely more than a whisper, meant only for her ears. The unexpected apology brought her to a halt. She slowly turned back to face him but with an expression of both of mockery and indifference. "Whatever do you mean? What things have you done to me? We never met before." Her voice was smooth, with a touch of cruelty as she smirked and turned away again, leaving Lucian standing there, stunned.Never… met before? Lucian’s mind reeled as he watched Isabel walk away, the weight of her words sinking in. He couldn’t fathom why she would deny their past. Was she pretending? Was this some new game she was playi
Chapter 94Lucian held Isabel close, his arms wrapped around her as if he could never let her go again. The warmth of her body against his, the familiar scent of her skin—it all felt like a dream he never wanted to wake from. His lips brushed against her shoulder, and for a moment, he allowed himself to believe that this closeness could erase the years of distance and pain between them.But just as he lost himself in the feel of her, Isabel’s voice cut through the haze like a cold blade. “How could you lay your hands on me?” Her words were sharp, laced with a bitterness that sent a jolt of reality crashing down on him. Lucian stiffened, surprised by the sudden shift in her tone. He had expected resistance, perhaps even anger, but the quiet accusation in her voice was something he wasn’t prepared for. His grip on her loosened slightly, but he didn’t let her go. Instead, he pressed his forehead to the back of her head, his breath warm against her neck as he whispered, “Isabel… I’m sorr
Chapter 95: The Royal EntreatyThe day of the Royal Entreaty had finally arrived, a day that held the hopes and ambitions of men from every corner of the kingdom. From noble lords to esteemed knights, wealthy merchants, and even commoners of exceptional merit, they all gathered at the southern grounds of the imperial palace, a vast and majestic space where the kingdom’s finest had once trained and competed. The grounds were meticulously prepared for the occasion, banners bearing the royal crest fluttered in the breeze, and the marble pavilions gleamed in the morning sun. It was a setting worthy of the historic event that was about to unfold.If Isabel had been breathtaking on the night of the solstice, today she was nothing short of divine. Dressed in an extravagant gown that shimmered with intricate embroidery and delicate jewels, she was the embodiment of regal elegance. The deep hues of her dress complemented her fair complexion, while the elaborate patterns woven into the fabric s
Chapter 96: The Gauntlet of ValorAs the resounding cheers echoed across the southern grounds of the imperial palace, the suitors began to take their places, each man steeling himself for the trials that lay ahead. The training grounds, typically reserved for the empire’s finest warriors, had been transformed into a grand arena, befitting the gravity of the Royal Entreaty. Towering banners bearing the imperial crest fluttered in the breeze, and the polished marble stands gleamed in the morning light. The sheer scale of the event was a testament to its importance.Princess Isabella, standing beside her mother on the dais, watched the scene unfold with a composed expression. Yet beneath her regal exterior, a storm of emotions brewed. Dressed in a gown of flowing white silk contrasted beautifully with intricate gold embroidery, she looked every inch the princess—dignified, radiant, and untouchable. Her light golden hair, styled in intricate braids that cascaded down her back, and her icy
Chapter 97: The Trial of AllegianceThe Royal Entreaty had dwindled down to fifty suitors after three days of intense trials. They rested in their tent that night, preparing for the next challenge. The remaining men were weary, their bodies bruised and battered, but their spirits remained unbroken—at least for now.As the suitors discussed their strategies and speculated on what lay ahead, a humble servant entered the tent, carrying a tray of drinks. His attire was simple, and his demeanor unassuming. He moved quietly, offering refreshments with a respectful bow. The suitors barely noticed him, too engrossed in their own thoughts.Cedric who was hidden beneath the guise of a lowly server, moved silently among the men, pouring drinks with the precision and deference expected of his supposed station. His sharp eyes missed nothing, watching the suitors with the practiced gaze of one accustomed to court intrigue.“Gentlemen,” Cedric began in a low, conspiratorial tone as he set down a tra