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
Chapter 98: Masks OffThe dawn’s early light filtered through the grand hall, giving a soft glow upon the marble floors as the remaining fifty suitors assembled. They had been summoned to an audience with the Empress, but this time there were no grand announcements or formal attire—only the command to present themselves as they were. Each man knelt, his head bowed in deference to the imperial family, while anticipation and apprehension warred in their hearts. Unbeknownst to them, the fourth trial had already taken place the night before.The hall was silent, save for the faint rustle of fabric as the men shifted uncomfortably. Unlike the previous trials, there was no immediate address from Empress Ilyana or the herald. Instead, a different voice broke the silence—a voice both commanding and delicate. Princess Isabella stepped forward as her icy blue eyes scanned the kneeling men before her. She stood almost a meter away from them with her presence both regal and daunting.Beside her s
Chapter 99: The Mad Princess*Flashback*“Your Highness!” Tristan greeted, bending his knee and bowing his head as Leticia finally stepped out of the mansion where she had been imprisoned for what felt like an eternity. His heart pounded in his chest with both relief and dread surging through him. He had risked everything for her, the princess he had sworn to protect with his life. But as his gaze lifted to meet hers, the sight before him sent a shockwave through his system.The Leticia he had once known was barely recognizable. Her once flawless face was now marred by scars, deep and jagged, cutting across her features like cruel reminders of the torment she had endured. But it wasn’t the physical damage that struck Tristan the hardest—it was the vacant, almost lifeless look in her eyes. The warmth, the kindness she had once shown him, was gone, replaced by something cold, something frightening.Leticia’s eyes narrowed as she looked down at the knight who had risked so much to free h
Dear lovelies,I wanted to give you a quick heads-up that the next update will be on Friday, August 23, 2024. I’ve got a rushed project that needs my attention, so I apologize for not being able to update daily as I normally do.Additionally, the book will be ending soon. Thank you for your understanding and for sticking with me through this journey. Your support means the world to me!Best,Yña Banana 🍌
Chapter 100: Assassinate the King*A Few Weeks Ago*After fulfilling Leticia's demand to be returned to the kingdom, Tristan knew there was one place he needed to go—somewhere far from the prying eyes of the palace.He rode swiftly through the forest with his heart racing as the dense trees blurred past him. The path was narrow, winding deeper into the wilderness where few dared to venture. The sound of a distant waterfall grew louder, and soon, he arrived at a secluded clearing. Nestled within the lush greenery was a small, humble cottage, where the melody of birdsong filled the air. This was a place of refuge, a haven hidden from the world—a place where Liam and his grandmother, Teressa, had been living peacefully since the day Lucian's search for the boy began. The small cottage had been their home since the danger in the kingdom escalated. Lucian's relentless search for Liam had driven them into hiding, and Tristan had spared no effort in ensuring their safety. As the horse came