When we finally arrived at the de Forest Castle, the sun had already set, enveloping the surroundings in semi-darkness. Count Lindwood helped me out of the carriage, and we headed towards the entrance of the castle.
At the entrance, we were greeted by a butler who bowed and informed me that the King was expecting me in his study. Count Lindwood accompanied me there. The study was magnificent, adorned with wood paneling and filled with an atmosphere of power.
Sitting behind a massive desk in his beautiful and solemn chair was a serious man, King Frederick de Forest. His gaze was penetrating, reflecting his determination and authority. A bit to the side, engrossed in some documents, sat Sebastian. My heart squeezed at the sight of him, but I couldn't dwell on it too much, as the King stood up and gestured for me to approach.
Making a curtsy, I respectfully greeted, "Greetings, Your Majesty," then lowered my head and stood still, waiting for permission to rise and begin the conversation. All attention was focused on the King, and I felt a wave of nervousness washing over me.
After a few moments, the King allowed me to rise, dismissing Count Lindwood with the words, "Count, leave us." Waving his hand, he signaled for Lindwood to leave the study.
Then he turned to me and said, "I assume you are acquainted with Prince Sebastian." The Count gestured towards Sebastian, who put his papers aside and rose from his chair.
Speaking on behalf of both of us, Sebastian replied, "We are acquainted, Your Majesty, Lady de Savoyar." He took my hand and lightly touched his lips to it, sending shivers down my spine.
Lowering my head and curtsying slightly, I replied, "Your Highness." Excitement mingled with fear and anticipation.
The King watched us closely, his eyes moving from my face to Sebastian's and back again. In his gaze, I sensed a mixture of curiosity and expectation.
"Sebastian, leave us with the Duchess," the King said, addressing the prince. Sebastian nodded in agreement. He gently brushed my hand with his thumb, caressing it before letting go, and then made a slight bow to the King before turning and heading towards the study door. I watched his movements, noting his serious and focused expression.
When the door closed behind Sebastian, I was left alone with the King. Judging by his attentive gaze, Sebastian's gesture did not go unnoticed.
"Well, Lady de Savoyar, I see you have found common ground with the prince, interesting," the King spoke without looking at me, pacing the room and rubbing his chin. As if to himself, he had uncovered new information and was now considering how to use it.
I didn't know how to respond to the King's statement, unsure of how much he already knew.
"Your Majesty..." I began, trying to maintain composure, but the King gestured to indicate that he did not wish to listen.
"I believe the journey has tired you, Lady de Savoyar. We will discuss all matters tomorrow after breakfast. Rest now. You will be escorted to your designated quarters," King Frederick pressed an artifact, and a servant appeared in the doorway.
"Escort the Duchess to her chambers," the King ordered the servant and then returned to his desk.
"Thank you," I curtsied and followed the servant. He led me through the corridors of the castle, and we climbed a marble staircase to the guest wing, where my assigned quarters were located. Soon, we stopped in front of a door, and the servant opened it, inviting me to enter.
"Thank you," I said to the servant as I stepped into the room. He bowed and closed the door behind me, leaving me alone with my thoughts.
I surveyed my new chambers - a lavishly furnished bedroom with high ceilings and elegant furniture. Opening the window, I saw the majestic view of the surrounding lands of the kingdom.
With a deep sigh, I realized that ahead of me lay difficulties and challenges. After changing out of my gown and graciously accepting the late supper and mint tea offered to me, I climbed into bed. Questions about Sebastian, his involvement in all this intrigue, and how much the King knew swirled in my head. I felt lonely and indecisive, finding no answers to the myriad questions flooding my mind. Finally, exhaustion took over, and I fell asleep, hoping that the morning would bring some clarity.
However, my sleep was interrupted by a sudden sense of someone's presence and a touch to my hair. It took me a moment to remember where I was, and in the next second, I jolted, rolling off the bed and standing up. My heart pounded in my chest, and every cell in my body tensed, preparing for self-defense.
"Nice reaction, but control your breathing so as not to give away that you're already awake," Prince Sebastian whispered with a smile, chuckling softly. He stood on the opposite side of the bed, looking smug, with his hands raised to show he was unarmed.
"Sebastian," I exhaled with relief, realizing the situation I was in, standing before him, dressed only in a semi-transparent nightshirt. I hissed, trying to remain composed, "SssSebastian!"
Still smiling self-assuredly and with his hands bent, he stealthily approached me, like a predator stalking its prey.
"Shh, shh, my tigress. I haven't even spread my canopy yet," he said, chuckling again, clearly hinting at our intimacy in the garden.
I never thought my entire body could blush, but it felt like I turned crimson all over. I even had to put my hands on my cheeks to cool down a bit. Sebastian, with a quiet laugh, came closer.
"We need to discuss some things, but first..." – he removed my hands from my cheeks and pulled me towards him. Leaning in, he began to kiss me gently and slowly, as if waiting for my resistance.
I was tense and overwhelmed by memories, so I didn't immediately respond to his kiss. But his hand, gently caressing my back, and the other hand cradling my head, gradually helped me relax. I felt my legs beginning to tremble.
His kisses drowned out all my worries and anxieties from meeting Sebastian; it was as if the sun was melting away the ice.
"Sebastian," I exhaled with relief. For the first time since that evening, I could genuinely breathe freely.
"I'm here with you, my dear. Everything is fine; I'm here," he said, interrupting the kiss. As if sensing my relief. But not letting me go from his embrace, he led me to the bed, and we sat on the edge.
I had a million questions: "How much does the King know about my escape?" "Why was I invited to the castle?" "What does the King want to talk about?" "How did he find out about me being at Lady Price's?" "Why did they summon Sebastian?" "Why did they send the Count for me?" "What does he know about our relationship?" After this question, Sebastian tensed and became serious.
After my third question, Sebastian moved us further onto the bed, making us more comfortable, as he understood he couldn't escape from me so easily. I was determined to find out everything immediately. Spreading his canopy, he leaned against the headboard of the bed, pulling me close to him, with my back against his chest. He rested his chin on the top of my head, one hand buried in my hair, while the other gently caressed my bent knee, sending shivers down my spine.
I raised my head and looked at Sebastian, knowing I had stumbled upon the most critical question: "What does the King know about our relationship?" I repeated the question.
Sebastian sighed and turned me to face him so that our eyes met. "I don't think he knows anything. What did he say to you?" he asked, assessing the significance of his father's words.
"He said we found a common language, and it was amusing. What does that mean?" I asked, watching Sebastian evaluate the possible meaning behind his father's words.
"That's too vague of a phrase; I don't think it means anything specific. Perhaps he wanted to make you nervous or observe your reaction. Don't worry," Sebastian said, kissing my temple and slightly relaxing. So, it seems there was nothing serious behind it.
"As for the escape, he knows nothing about it; even Christoph's mind readers couldn't find anything. It's all clean there. If he asks, just evade the answer or give a vague response," he continued, kissing my temple again and looking into my eyes. I nodded.
"Regarding Lady Price, it's straightforward. Apparently, when I was at the summer residence, I didn't change all the servants, and someone reported it to the King. You know, people recognize Nena in the residence, and based on the description, it wasn't difficult to figure out it was the same duchess." Sebastian explained, gazing ahead as if it helped him concentrate on his thoughts. Every time he finished answering the next question, he kissed my temple and looked into my eyes to ensure I had received enough information. I simply nodded and listened attentively.
So, I learned that the Count was sent because he was the only one who could cross the Kingdom of Seas' border freely due to his diplomatic status. As for the reasons for my visit, Sebastian's answer was uncertain. He himself didn't know precisely. He arrived at the castle that morning when the Count had already been sent for me and didn't want to cause a commotion or argue with the King to avoid raising suspicions.
Sebastian was summoned for the same reason. The King wanted to know how and when he managed to find me. The version Sebastian presented was quite amusing. According to him, I found him myself and asked for his help after receiving a letter from my father just a few weeks ago. Before that, I had been in hiding, and only I knew my whereabouts. However, I didn't intend to share this information. According to rumors, I was hiding among novices at one of the temples at the far end of the kingdom, and according to other rumors, I sought protection from the elves and returned closer to adulthood to claim my rights over the Borderlands.
Sebastian advised me neither to deny nor confirm any of the versions. I wasn't obligated to justify myself. I already had an excuse – my father's letter. According to our version, after my parents' disappearance, I had already suspected the existence of a threat and decided to escape. I also learned that the King knows the content of the letter, in which my father accuses Christoph of attempting to seize the continent and mentions his plans for me. However, the King is unaware of the part that my father wrote personally for me.
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Towards the end of our discussion, I found myself lying on Sebastian's chest with half-closed eyes. His gentle strokes on my back were calming, and I felt myself drifting off to sleep. After a small yawn, Sebastian chuckled softly and leaned in closer to my ear, whispering, "Goodnight, my girl." His voice was filled with tenderness and care. I whispered back, feeling protected. Soon, I slipped into the embrace of sleep, feeling Sebastian's presence still lingering.
When I woke up, I found myself alone in the room. Sebastian had somehow slipped away without disturbing my sleep, even though I usually woke up at the slightest sound. Despite his absence, I felt the warmth and tranquility he left behind, and I happily stretched in bed. Despite the upcoming conversation with the King, my mood was excellent.
A knock on the door interrupted my thoughts, and the chambermaid entered, informing me that breakfast would be served in the dining hall in an hour and offering to assist me with getting ready. How fortunate it was that I had brought a bag with a spatial artifact containing outfits left by Sebastian at the summer residence; they came in handy now.
An hour later, I descended the marble staircase. My hair was pulled back only at the crown of my head, while the rest cascaded in curls down to my shoulders. I chose a light peach dress with a silk skirt that accentuated my femininity and added a touch of gentleness to my appearance. The lightly corseted top with a not too revealing neckline enhanced my figure, while the partially exposed shoulders added a playful and elegant touch.
Today, I wanted to look particularly attractive for Sebastian. For the second time in a short period, I felt like a true princess. Next to him, I discovered new sides of my femininity and grace that I had never pursued before. I craved his admiring glances; they meant so much to me.
Upon entering the dining hall, I was taken aback by an intriguing sight. Sitting next to Sebastian was a beautiful blonde woman with curly hair, several years older than me. She was dressed in a striking, I would even say provocative dress. I was puzzled as to who she was and how she ended up here.
Whispering something to Sebastian's ear, she looked at me with curiosity. On the other side of her sat Count Lindwood. I noticed an inconsistency in their seating positions; usually, seating was determined according to one's status, and the girl couldn't be seated higher than the Count. Numerous questions arose, and I tried my best to hide my surprise and bewilderment at what was happening.
The gentlemen politely stood up, greeting me, and I replied in kind as I walked forward. A servant guided me to the seat opposite Sebastian. Despite my inner doubts and confusion, I tried to maintain external composure and dignity. Seating myself, I smiled and glanced at Sebastian, attempting to understand what was going on and how he would explain the presence of this enigmatic woman next to him.
Sebastian seemed to avoid my gaze, which made me wary. However, I put on a mask of decorum and tried to remain composed.
The situation was somewhat clarified by the Count: "Allow me to introduce my daughter, Countess Alicia Lindwood. Alicia, this is Duchess Alessandra de Savoar. She is a guest of His Majesty."
Alicia forced a smile and said, "Nice to meet you." Then she turned to Sebastian and added, "Bastian, is this the runaway Duchess you were sent after by your father?"
Bastian? The way she addressed him sent a shiver down my spine. If she's not a sister or close relative, which is impossible since the de Forests and Lindwoods are not related, then there are only two possible options for such an address: an official favorite or a fiancée. Both options filled me with rage.
Runaway Duchess, meaning, she's trying to assert her position, attempting to point out my place and showing her contempt towards me. The etiquette lessons and tricks I had learned at the boarding school came to my rescue once again.
Putting on a smile that resembled more of a grimace, I raised my chin with dignity and replied, not giving the prince a chance to interfere, "Yes, that's correct. I am Duchess Alessandra de Savoar, the guardian of the Borderlands." Then I lowered my head, and the smile became more genuine, seeing the blonde's eyes widen. It seemed that my appearance didn't impress her much, unlike my status.
The blonde narrowed her eyes and turned to her father, seeking confirmation. "The Guardian? Excuse my surprise, I just imagined the guardian to be someone more..." She gestured with her hands, trying to find the appropriate word.
"Valiant?" I inquired with a smile, raising an eyebrow and looking straight into her eyes. From the corner of my eye, I noticed Sebastian's slight smile. Throughout the conversation, he sat there with a bored and serious expression, seemingly ignoring my presence, as if not noticing me. It worried me, but the smile I caught on his face changed my thoughts; he was carefully observing the situation but chose not to interfere. It seemed he was playing his own game and thus avoiding drawing the attention of the blonde and the Count towards me.
At the moment I asked the question to the blonde, the King entered the dining hall. Everyone stood up and bowed to His Majesty. I felt the King's attentive gaze, which briefly stopped on me before he proceeded with breakfast.
The King approached our table and spoke with dignity, "Welcome, Duchess Alessandra. I'm pleased to see you in our palace." I replied with a bow to the King and thanked him for the invitation.
The blonde and Count Lindwood also bowed to the King, and then he invited everyone to sit and begin breakfast.
I engaged in conversation with other courtiers, trying to behave with dignity and not stand out. However, every time I glanced at Sebastian, he still seemed lost in his thoughts, avoiding my gaze.
The King led a casual conversation, asking questions to the guests, including me. I answered with confidence and elegance, striving to make a good impression.
As breakfast progressed, I realized more and more that Sebastian's game had a purpose. He wanted to keep our acquaintance a secret from others, including Countess Alicia, possibly to avoid unnecessary attention or potential issues. And I decided to follow his lead.
As the meal was coming to an end, I increasingly realized that Sebastian's game made sense. He wanted to keep our acquaintance a secret from others, including Countess Alicia, possibly to avoid unnecessary attention or potential issues. And I decided to follow his lead.
When the breakfast was almost over, the King stood up from his seat and said, "Dear guests, I would like to thank you all for your presence and pleasant company. Duchess Alessandra, please come with me to my study. Let's discuss the situation in private."
I felt the attentive gazes of the blonde and Count Lindwood on me. Rising from my seat, I bowed to the King, then looked at Sebastian. He gave me a barely noticeable nod of support, but his expression remained unchanged.
The servant standing near the doors leading to the King's study opened them for me, and I followed the King inside. The study was quiet and cozy. Richly decorated walls, luxurious furniture, and heavy curtains created an atmosphere of privacy.
The King invited me to sit in a chair across from his desk. I felt a bit nervous, not knowing for sure what the King intended to discuss. Frederick sat behind the desk and stared at me with a serious expression for a few moments.
"Duchess Alessandra, I would like to talk to you about the situation with the King of Seas and the Rift. Prince Sebastian has briefed me on the contents of your father's letter and the circumstances of his demise," the King began. "You understand that this threat concerns not only the Borderlands but poses a danger to all mages on the continent?"
I nodded, trying to remain calm and convey my readiness. "Your Majesty, I fully comprehend the seriousness of this problem and am prepared to take the necessary measures to protect the Borderlands and mages of the continent," I replied, striving to sound resolute.
"What measures do you intend to take? Do you expect me to trust the fate of the continent's mages to an 18-year-old girl, even with the gift of the Guardian? I am not sure you are capable of handling this game," the King said, looking at me with doubt and suspicion.
"Your Majesty, I understand your doubts and concerns," I responded with confidence in my voice. "But allow me to explain. For many years, my father trained and prepared me as the Guardian. I not only possess the gift of the Guardian but also have knowledge and skills that will help me effectively deal with the threat of the Rift." I spoke sincerely, trying to show my determination to the King. However, he remained grim and looked at me with disbelief.
"I cannot risk the fate of the continent's mages, especially when you are no longer under the guidance of an experienced Guardian, and are acting on your own," the King continued, maintaining his wary expression. "I have experienced and skilled mages and warriors who can take on this responsibility. I don't believe you are capable of carrying such a heavy burden."
My hands clenched into fists, and I felt anger rising within me. "So, your plan is to send elemental mages to the Rift? You know what awaits them there. It will be needless sacrifice," I raised my tone slightly, which elicited displeasure from the King.
Only for a second, anger flashed on his face, but then he looked at me calmly and sternly and said, "No, my intention is not to sacrifice mages. In fact, from now on, I want you to act only under my guidance and control."
I was stunned by what I heard. King Frederick was trying to subordinate me to his interests and use my power in his political games. Anger turned into determination, and I raised my chin, looking directly into the King's eyes, and said, "Members of the de Savoyar lineage are not subjects of the kingdom. As Guardians, we have a special status and do not obey the orders of kings, Your Majesty. I have been appointed as the Guardian of the Borderlands, and I will serve them, protecting them from the threat of the Rift and the King of Seas."
The King smirked, seemingly amused by my resolve. "You can resist all you want, little Guardian, but you will be under constant surveillance. Count Lindwood will lead a squad of battle mages stationed in the Borderlands. You will act only under their control and with my approval. And that's not up for discussion."
I felt anger and helplessness, but I was not willing to give in. "I won't let you control me and my lands," I declared firmly.
The King erupted into an unfriendly laugh, which held malice and mockery. Suddenly, Frederick stood up, leaning on his hands on the desk, and growled, "Is that so? You refuse to submit? A lonely and defenseless girl hunted by the entire Kingdom of Seas. I'll even lower myself to your age, child. Your father was more reasonable, but it seems it didn't rub off on you. Very well..."
He sat back down and looked at me with disdain. "You have two options, Alessandra. You can accept my terms and go to Savoyar to prepare the lands for the squad's arrival. Or you can display childish naivety and stubbornness, and then I will declare a bounty on your head. But unlike the Kingdom of Seas, I will put a reward for your dead body. Christoph won't be able to use a dead Guardian. Make your choice. Count Lindwood's squad will arrive in Savoyar in three days. They will come either for placement and control or for your head. The discussion is over!" His voice sounded cold and confident, as if he was throwing swords at me, and each one was hitting its target.
His words felt like a sentence, full of coldness and threats. I felt a shiver run down my spine, and my heart pounded faster, fear gripping me from within. I could never have foreseen such a turn of events.
Lowering my head, I curtsied before the King. "Allow me to return to the castle of de Savoyar, Your Majesty," I said in a quiet voice, trying to contain my emotions.
The King, looking at me with contempt, nodded and said sarcastically, "Go, return to your castle, little duchess." He pressed on an artifact and called for a servant.
I lowered my head even further and hurriedly left the room, leaving behind the King's unfriendly gaze and his ruthless words. Let him think I submitted; I had three days to find a way out. I had to make a decision on how to protect my life and the future of the Borderlands.
As I exited the chamber, I bumped into Count Lindwood. His arrogant look and smug smile indicated that he already knew about the King's proposition and my predicament. "Leaving us so soon, Lady de Savoyar?" he said with disdain. "I see you've understood your position and accepted the King's offer." His arrogance and self-satisfaction oozed from every word.
I clenched my fists but didn't raise my head, letting my hair shield my eyes so he wouldn't see my fury. His interpretation of my posture was wrong; he took it as submission. The Count approached my ear and whispered with a smirk, "I look forward to our meeting in a few days, Your Grace. I'm sure you'll be more courteous and kind towards me now. We have a very close and long-lasting collaboration ahead. I'll even allow you to make amends for your insolence, hoping that you'll be more obedient and affectionate now." He attempted to touch my cheek, but I stepped back, rejecting his inappropriate gesture. The Count snickered and made his way to the chamber.
His tone and insinuations puzzled me. It was evident he hinted at something more intimate and unacceptable. I needed to find Sebastian. He probably wasn't aware of the King's plans and the Count's desires concerning me.
I rushed to my quarters to gather my belongings and change into a comfortable outfit. My heart was racing, and thoughts were swirling in my mind, trying to find a way out of this complicated situation.
Time was of the essence, and I decided that the best way to reach Savoyar quickly was to take Sebastian's horse. This way, I'd gain an extra half-day.