As darkness enveloped the kingdom of Othinia, the guest mansion of the garis delegation echoed with an air of anticipation. Within the confines of King Drayce's study, a man with crimson eyes gazed intently toward the distant guest mansion of Griven.
"King Drayce, you appear resolute in observing her actions tonight," remarked Yorian, stepping into the study with a discerning look.
"I need to ascertain her true capabilities," Drayce responded tersely.
"Even devoid of her supernatural abilities, she is remarkably capable even as a re human," Yorian countered.
Casting a sidelong glance tinged with irritation, Drayce retorted, "Your interest in her appears to exceed necessity."
Yorian chuckled softly, unabashed. "Bla her for being interesting; she's genuinely captivating." Before Drayce could interject, Yorian added, "Much like your own mother."
At the ntion of his mother, Drayce's fiery gaze softened into a reflective, somber look.
Unperturbed, Yorian pressed on, "Your mother was no shrinking violet. If you wish to know your mother, then just enjoy the antics this young witch pulls off. She seems harmless so you don't have to be on guard all the ti."
Before further words could be exchanged, a voice broke the montary silence, "Your Majesty, Prince Cian has arrived."
Prince Cian gracefully entered the study, offering a respectful bow to King Drayce just as Arlan materialized beside him. Their assembly centered around the pressing issue of the illicit cultivation of banned herbs within Othinia, particularly the most dangerous one- The black nightshade.
"The sources here in Othinia that my mother provided with, they are proven to be really useful," Cian affird, extending a batch of docunts to Drayce, who sat ensconced behind his ornate desk.
Leafing through the papers, Drayce remarked, "Despite her residence in Abetha, Queen Niobe undeniably wields influence across her birth kingdoms."
Arlan nodded in agreent, asserting, "She has earned her reputation as the most formidable queen on this continent for a reason."
A sense of pride flickered across Cian's face. "My mother's objectives align closely with ours. She's been vigilantly tracking the illegal cultivation of these poisonous herbs and anticipates our complete eradication of these illicit plantations."
Drayce leaned forward, determination evident in his voice. "For the stability of this continent, it's imperative that we act."
A somber silence settled among them before Arlan continued, "During tomorrow's summit conference, we'll address this grievous issue. However, I suspect Sar will co prepared with counterasures, given the royal family of Othinia's implicit support of these activities."
"As long as we can prevent further alliances, that should suffice for now. Putting a complete halt to herb production is our primary goal. Once achieved, we'll leave them no choice but to abandon this illicit venture. Holding them accountable won't yield any positive results as..."
Their discussion continued at length.
anwhile, Seren, weary of resting in bed, yearned for a breath of fresh air. Accompanied by Marie, they descended the stairs. Seren observed several servants erging from a specific room, directing two others carrying delicate-looking antiques.
"What are they up to?" Seren inquired.
"They're setting up a vast hall on the side, showcasing rare Othinian antiques. More are being arranged, so Your Majesty can explore them tomorrow," Marie explained.
"How intriguing," Seren remarked with interest.
"His Majesty is well aware of Her Majesty's preferences. Given your delicate health, he orchestrated this arrangent to provide you with a source of enjoynt," Marie added."Let's take a closer look," Seren declared, but Marie interjected with caution, "Your Majesty, considering the hour..."
"It's fine. A brief glimpse won't hurt. I'm eager to see what Dray has prepared," Seren replied, her anticipation evident as she proceeded, with Marie trailing behind.
Servants bowed respectfully as the veiled figure of the Queen of garis passed by, parting ways to grant her passage. Recognizing her presence, the supervisor overseeing the arrangents instructed the staff not to disturb the Queen before excusing himself.
Upon entering the room, Seren found herself surrounded by the warm glow of nurous lamps illuminating the ticulously arranged space. She andered along the adorned walls, captivated by the intricate paintings bathed in the soft light.
Cough! Cough!
"Your Majesty, are you alright?" Marie inquired, concern coloring her voice.
"I'm fine; just a bit of a dry throat," Seren responded, attempting to suppress any further coughs.
Noting Seren's fragile state, Marie urged, "Your Majesty, let's return to your chambers. I insist on..."
"It's nothing serious; you worry too much," Seren reassured, offering a gentle smile.
"In that case, allow to fetch you so water," Marie responded, receiving a nod from Seren.
Once Marie departed, Seren's gaze gravitated toward the collection of antiques that dominated the vast hall's center, sprawled in apparent disarray. The assortnt included sculptures, weaponry, armor, pottery, musical instrunts, religious artifacts, and more.
Yet, amidst this eclectic array, one piece beckoned her—a striking full-length mirror. Encased in intricately carved, rare wood, the mirror sparkled with embedded gems and delicate gold filigree, radiating an aura of grandeur.
"I've never beheld such a captivating mirror. Shall I take it to garis?"
Her slender fingers traced along it and then she looked at her own reflection in the mirror. She looked around and there was no one.
A glimr of curiosity danced in Seren's eyes, prompting her to remove her veil and peer into the ornate mirror.
Observing her beautiful face, her gaze settled at her own eyes as she thought, 'I think I do look beautiful. Martha said I am in fact pretty so I must trust her words.' Her thought wandered to Drayce, 'When once I manage to get rid of that curse, and could show my face to Drayce, I wonder how he will react. Will he find beautiful? Umm…maybe…"
Suddenly, a chilling presence shattered her introspection and her eyes widened in shock.
There was a figure standing near the window, clad in dark clothes, hiding their face with black clothes, only eyes visible. That pair of eyes was clearly staring at her face as if the person was bewitched while looking at her.
Turning around, frightened Seren imdiately shouted, "Who are you?" and put her veil back to hide her face.
The figure seed to get out of the daze and imdiately turned around to run away through the window.
Before Seren could fully process the encounter, she felt the fleeting embrace of a powerful arm. Yet, in an instant, the mysterious figure had vanished into the night, leaving Seren awash with a whirlwind of confusion and unanswered questions.
"D-Dray, he saw my face," she panicked.
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