Exhaling a resigned sigh, Drayce sat into his chair.
Observing Drayce’s evident concern, Arlan remarked, "You should redirect your worries toward Seren. Zaria Lynx now carries the Dragon’s blood with her."
"When I gave her my blood, I was aware it would put Seren in danger, but do know that I trust your abilities. I know you are able to protect Seren by all means," Arlan explained.
"There’s no need for explanations. I do not blame you for anything," Drayce reassured him sternly, "In fact, Seren needs to be protected from something more dangerous than that Black Witch. She is not even a threat. Next time I see her, I might make it the last moment of her life."
A faint smile tugged at Arlan’s lips. "You’re free to handle her as you see fit. My deal with her is completed and I have nothing to do with her now."
"You’re determined to refuse my aid in healing," Drayce reiterated, his displeasure evident, circling back to their earlier conversation in hopes of swaying Arlan.
"Instead on me, you should better utilize that essence for Oriana’s swift recovery, so she can recover faster and exact her retribution upon me once more," Arlan quipped nonchalantly, his attention shifting to the scroll he held.
Drayce struggled to find words, momentarily silenced by Arlan’s cavalier attitude. "I’m at a loss for words now." He then asked, "Tomorrow marks the wedding day. What is the situation between you two?" Drayce inquired, attempting to redirect the conversation.
"Uncertainty," Arlan replied tersely.
"This involves the Griven royal family and prestige of your kingdom as you’re their Crown Prince. Delegates from across the continent have convened. You cannot afford to treat this matter lightly. Once Oriana wakes up, you must address the situation," Drayce urged with gravity. ƒrēewebnovel.com
"It’s her choice to make. If she opts not to proceed with the wedding, I’ll bear the responsibility and weight of that rejection," Arlan declared with solemnity.
"This is a significant issue, Arlan. King Ailwin would not be pleased at all. The royal family will be a matter of laugh among all the delegates and entire continent," Drayce pressed, concern evident in his tone.
Arlan put the scroll down and looked at his friend, "I’ve done all I can, Dray. Circumstances have conspired against us, complicating everything. Regardless of whether this wedding happens, what’s important is her presence by my side," Arlan asserted.
Their discussion was interrupted by a knock at the door.
"Your Highness, the Crown Princess has expresses a desire to return to the palace," the butler announced.
Arlan was aware that Oriana was awake and her servants were helping her.
"Arrange for her departure; she’ll accompany me," Arlan instructed.
"The palace?" Drayce queried, eyebrows raised.
"She likely wishes to visit her grandfather," Arlan clarified.
----
Oriana had dressed in fresh attire and partaken of a meal, despite her lingering weakness. Her thoughts were consumed by her grandfather; guilt gnawed at her for having neglected him.
"Your Highness, you have a visitor," Ana announced softly.
Oriana’s eyes shifted towards the door, locking onto the figure of a woman with striking purple eyes. Surprise flickered across Oriana’s face, and she began to rise from her bed in a gesture of respect.
However, Seren intervened gracefully, saying, "Please, remain seated, Oriana," as she approached and took a seat at the bedside.
"Greetings, Your Majesty," Oriana began formally.
Meeting Oriana’s gaze, Seren asked, "How are you feeling, Oriana?" her eyes revealing a depth of understanding, acknowledging the tumultuous events Oriana had recently endured.
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