The Devil's Betrothed novel Chapter 139

Chapter 139: Seeing The King And Queen For The First Time

Oriana was serving tea to the prince inside his study when a knock came, informing Arlan of the arrival of Lucas.

"Your Highness, we received a letter from the King of Megaris about his plans for the summit."

"Did the letter come from Othinia?"

"It was sent from Abetha. Their travel plans were delayed due to the Queen of Megaris."

At these words, Oriana’s ears turned alert as familiar words caught her attention— the Queen of Megaris, the Kingdom of Othinia and the summit. The first was related to Celia Voss, the second the potential source of black nightshade and the third the deadline Arlan gave her to return to the palace. She wondered if something useful would come out from this talk between the prince and his aide.

Arlan accepted a parchment from Lucas and thought, ’Why did Dray send a message like this instead of teleporting like usual and discussing things in person? Either he is becoming lazy or growing more clingy to his wife. I am sure it’s the latter one." He sighed inwardly. ’Why am I even surprised about that wife’s slave?’

He read it and handed it back to Lucas. "The delegation will leave after a week as per our initial plans."

"Yes, Your Highness. The preparations are in progress, with the royal court amidst choosing the ideal officials to act as your adviser," Lucas informed. "Also, about what we talked about last time regarding to black nightshade..."

Another word for Oriana to pay attention to.

"... our spies discovered one of the smuggling routes Thevailes uses and it appears that the route runs along the borders of Abetha southwards. They trade in much larger quantities than what we found from Selve. That means the possibility of a plantation existing in Othinia is high."

"Has Alex moved?"

"Yes, Your Highness. Sir Alex already sent his men to trace the source. Once you arrive in Othinia, things will be easier with intelligence gathered for your perusal."

Unfortunately, Oriana could no longer eavesdrop on their discussion. She had already finished pouring tea and left the prince’s study.

Some time later, Arlan departed from the Palace of Thistle. Oriana was free to go to her master, but before that, she had something important to do.

"Mister Roman, His Highness asked me to talk to you about my plans to visit family."

The butler nodded.

"Orian, His Highness approved of your week break despite merely being in his service for a week. Remember to properly show your gratitude," the man said as a kind senior. "I coordinated your departure and return with the Office of the Royal Chamberlain. Tomorrow morning, head to the second entrance of the central palace. You will be leaving as part of the entourage of an official who is going to meet the Duke of Wimark."

"Thank you, Mister Roman."

With the butler pointing out Arlan’s kindness, Oriana realized she had indeed taken great advantage of the prince. Doubt appeared in her mind. Arlan might be annoying and unreasonable at times, but he was not a bad master. The plan to never return from Wimark and run to another kingdom with her grandfather seemed less appealing to her now, especially since there were many benefits from staying as a royal servant.

Oriana remained confused until she arrived at the Palace of Oak.

Inside the workroom, she saw Adam putting together several bottles inside a case along with a set of silver tools and instruments Oriana could not recognize.

"Senior Brother, I’m here," she greeted the curly-haired man. "Are you heading off to see His Majesty?"