Davinah's POV
I found myself in our base right after my heated confrontation with the gunsmith. Everyone was confused as to why I arrived earlier than I should have. But more importantly, why I'm dressed as a woman. As I sat on the throne, everyone surrounded me with burning questions.
I sighed. Eden was here. She, for certain, will make my "mistake" a bigger deal than it should.
"Davinah?" Marie asked. "Why are you not in disguise? Didn't we agree your identity should be kept from all just in case there are spies?"
I rolled my eyes, ignoring her question. "First of all," I say, "We're going to war against the gunsmith this day next week. Voluntarily, okay? Those who want to fight for Herbert, please go to the right side of the throneroom; those who won't, go to the left."
I was surprised when everyone, including Eden, went to the right. I didn't think I'd have her support.
"So, Duchess, what's the plan?" asked Eden with a smile. "All for one, one for all, right?"
I smiled. "Tonight, there's a ball in the Viscount's place. He holds very good weaponry. While I distract him, I want you to sneak in and grab whatever's of value. Then we shall meet again tomorrow this time to further discuss the matter. Also, I would like to make it very clear that I don't want any civilians hurt; UNDERSTOOD?"
"Yes ma'am!" they all agreed.
"Eden will provide a map for the team who will be in the robbery. Eden's in charge of the operation. Marie, if you could do a cloaking spell with the other witches I would greatly appreciate it."
"Yes," Marie nods.
"I'll see you tonight," I bid them farewell.
As I rushed home, I was met by Eda who was waiting in the drawing-room. She was dressed for festivities, wearing a green dress.
"Mama," I curtsied.
"Did you vanquish the evil-doer as you planned?" she asked, "If not, then I have something you may need." She handed me the family grimoire. "It has everything you may need."
I accepted the book hesitantly. This, I know, will secure our victory over the gunsmith. Magic is always the deadliest weapon apart from one's mind. But I know in my heart I wouldn't use this against him. That would be unfair.
"What?" Eda furrowed her brows, "Is it not what you wanted? Surely the family spellbook will ensure your victory. I can help you accomplish the spell you wish to cast."
"I deeply appreciate this, mama," I say, "But I assure you that I won't use it on a mere gunsmith. Besides, where's the honor in winning the battle if I cheat with our ability?"
"My dear," she says, "Why are you playing fair? You have the advantage. If you don't use it against the enemy, you'll fail."
"I shall use it when we go up against someone more ruthless," I say, "Anyway, mama, why are you dressed like that? The party isn't til this evening."
"My appearance does not concern you, dear," she smiled, "But the way you dress tonight is my concern. I have laid out a dress for you in your chambers. Rumor has it that the prince of Ordic will attend tonight's festivities."
"Why would the prince be attending Vincent's ball?" I asked curiously. "Surely Vince is rich and all, but what are their relations?"
"I don't know," Eda replies, "But you shall be the one everyone's eyes will trail after. Do you understand? This is what you were raised for."
I simply nodded. I just don't care to have the argument. What's the point of fighting a losing battle, anyway? My grandmother has set her eyes on the prince for me, and there's no stopping that. The only thing there is to do is to nod and look as though I'm following her orders.
