The Devil's Betrothed novel Chapter 499

Chapter 499: Familiar Man In The Crowd

After the banquet, the open parade beckoned—a moment for the newlyweds to grace the capital city in an open carriage, embracing the well-wishes of Karlin’s citizens.

Arlan guided Oriana out of the grand hall, where just beyond the threshold, a beautifully adorned carriage awaited. Positioned around it were royal knights and guards astride their horses, forming a ceremonial escort.

Arlan’s loyal knights, Imbert and Rafal, took their positions closer to the carriage, serving as the protective guardians of the Crown Prince. Leading the parade was Sir Conor Loyset, the esteemed commander of the royal knights.

Rafal, with a gallant gesture, opened the carriage door, allowing Arlan to assist Oriana as she gracefully ascended the carriage steps. Oriana’s eyes met Rafal’s, and she noticed his gaze respectfully lowered in the presence of the Crown Princess.

This was the same man who had engaged in countless disagreements with her, but now, he stood with humility before her. She pondered what thoughts traversed his mind—whether remorse for past actions lingered. Despite the contentious history, Oriana harbored no animosity towards him. In her view, Rafal was an admirable and devoted knight, a compassionate soul sculpted by a childhood shaped for toughness rather than refined eloquence.

Seated on the cushioned carriage seat, she listened as Arlan inquired, "Are you comfortable?"

With a subtle nod, she withdrew her hand from Arlan’s grasp, a silent indication that she preferred not to hold hands at that moment. Arlan respected her unspoken wish and settled beside her.

As the carriage gracefully glided along the palace roads, spectators—those who couldn’t attend the wedding—lined the route, exuberantly cheering for the newlyweds. Exiting the palace grounds, the royal entourage entered the heart of the city.

The entire city had transformed into a vibrant celebration, adorned in festive decorations. Even the common folk had adorned themselves in their finest attire, eager to witness the grand royal parade.

While such scenes were customary for Arlan, Oriana found herself marveling at the extravagant display. The enthusiasm with which the people treated royalty, almost elevating them to godlike status, was a spectacle that left her a bit awestruck.

In her imagination, she had once stood among the crowd, watching the royal carriage pass by, perceiving those within as distant figures with whom she’d never connect. However, the twists of fate had woven her into the fabric of royalty, making her a member of a family she had previously believed to be beyond her reach.

As the carriages continued their journey through the resounding cheers and blessings of the crowd, with everyone on the ground bowing in reverence, Oriana couldn’t shake the realization that a new responsibility now rested upon her shoulders—not just towards Arlan but also to these people.

The procession came to a halt at the vast city center square, where a massive circle had formed, and people knelt around the carriage. Amidst the bowed heads, Oriana’s eyes caught sight of a man in the crowd who stood upright, his gaze fixed directly upon her.

Luke!

At first, she questioned if it was a mere illusion, but as moments passed, he continued to stare. Her eyes welled with unspoken emotions, leaving her uncertain about the feelings that stirred within her. Arlan noticed the shift in Oriana’s emotions and followed her gaze, discovering her intense focus on the man.

Though Arlan had never met Luke before, he was acquainted only through descriptions. There was only one such man who Oriana knew, and it didn’t take Arlan long to deduce his identity. Perhaps he was not aware of Oriana’s identity and gender the way this woman had hid it from everyone.

Luke remained composed, his gaze resembling frozen water, expertly concealing his emotions. However, the intensity with which he looked at Oriana spoke volumes to Arlan, revealing the depth of meaning behind that gaze.