The Devil's Betrothed novel Chapter 581

Chapter 581: Teaching From The Queen

Meanwhile, Oriana strolled through the garden alongside Queen Julien, who took the opportunity to discuss the responsibilities Oriana would assume starting that day.

"Today, I have invited the ladies from noble families. You shall join me," Julien announced.

"Yes, mother."

"These women are not to be underestimated. Unseen by others, they could either become troublesome or our strongest allies. It’s within our power to shape which outcome will prevail. Remember, politics isn’t solely the domain of men; we too must play our part. By influencing these women, we can manage various situations indirectly through their husbands, who will be handled by our men. We must be clever in our approach..." Julien continued to explain, concluding with, "I have watched you interact, Oriana, and I can tell you are versed in handling people, so I do not have to worry about you."

"Erin is sensible, Evie is innocent and the other two lack brains," Oriana answered, making Julien laugh at her honesty.

Julien’s light, sweet laughter drew the attention of nearby servants, as it was a rare sight for them to see.

"Your evaluations are quite accurate," the Queen remarked, "Erin will be invaluable as a steadfast confidante of yours. Evie, with her serenity and innocence, will provide a pleasant counterbalance. And as for the other two—they are crucial in their own way."

"Huh?" Oriana expressed her surprise at the last comment. "Crucial?"

"Yes," the queen affirmed, "while they may be irritating at times, they can be immensely valuable when the need arises. They will serve as your personal informants, the sources of the happenings within other noble families and it’s due to their fondness for gossip. It’s important for us to stay informed about the internal dynamics of other noble houses. Moreover, their lack of brain you say, is your advantage."

"Easy to manipulate?" Oriana inquired.

Julien nodded, adding, "Indeed, these four, each with their distinct traits, will compensate for the absence of a broader circle of people around you, now that you are far removed from the life of a commoner. While handling the other two, you will get first hand experience on how to handle troublesome people without having to resort to extreme means and learn to get along with them. The outside world you lived in, is straightforward where either you live or die. But here, you have to stay in between, dealing the things in political correct way," the queen sighed, "Politics? the worst thing to get into, but there is no other choice for the likes of us. who holds power."

"I understand, mother," Oriana replied, gaining a deeper appreciation for the queen’s strategic foresight.

As planned by the queen, the noblewomen soon began arriving at the Rose Palace. The grand hall, where Queen Julien often entertained guests over tea, was exquisitely prepared to welcome them.

----

After discussing the important matters with his father, Arlan retuned to the Thistle Palace where Yorian was waiting for him in his study.

"I see Snowflake around," Yorian commented with a knowing tone.

"Her body started to get weaker so I had to take Snowflakes help but it was not enough so I had to resort to my way," Arlan explained.

"The essence you provided should have sustained her longer, but the stone’s presence is accelerating her deterioration. It senses Oriana and affects her more rapidly. Even if we prevent the stone from getting closer to Oriana, it will continue to drain her as long as it remains in the mortal realm," Yorian elaborated. "It’s a method to coerce her return to the demon realm. That Lord is cunning; he placed that stone here with ease."

"Can’t we send that rock back to the demon realm?" Arlan inquired.

"None of us can enter there; it’s sealed by Esmeray’s powers. Only Oriana has that ability."

"What would happen if the stone reached Oriana? Even if it did, that Lord couldn’t just emerge from the demon realm to take her," Arlan reasoned.

"That rock is not simply a medium to detect her presence, but...."

"But?"