Call of the Remains

Chapter 4

On the other side of the ballroom, Lucas and Anais stood on the balcony, gazing out at the vast, moonlit sea. The waves shimmered under the night's sky, providing a serene backdrop to the bustling celebration inside.

**Lucas**: (sighing) I still can't believe I let Marie talk me into this.

**Anais**: (smiling) You know how persuasive she can be. Besides, it's good to be here. It's a night of celebration, after all.

**Lucas**: (reluctantly) I suppose so. But all this opulence and formality—it's not really my scene.

**Anais**: (softly) Sometimes, it's nice to step out of our comfort zones. Who knows, you might even enjoy yourself.

As they stood there, the sound of laughter and music drifted through the air, blending with the rhythmic crashing of the waves. Despite his reservations, Lucas couldn't help but feel a small sense of contentment being there with his sister.

**Lucas**: (smiling) Gotta admit, Marie sure does know how to pick out a dress.

**Anais**: (laughing) I know, I'm so happy Gabriella let us enjoy the ball earlier than usual and I was able to where it.

**Lucas**: That's good.

As they shared a moment on the balcony, Anais suddenly realized she hadn't seen her daughter since their arrival. Concern flickered in her eyes as she scanned the ballroom, searching for Marie among the guests.

**Anais**: (frowning) Lucas, have you seen Marie? I haven't seen her since I changed.

**Lucas**: She and Grace went out into the garden with the other children.

**Anais**: Maybe I should go check on them. Nothing is happening right now.

**Lucas**: Yeah, maybe you should. Plus, I gotta go find and meet up with Cassandra.

**Anais**: (curious) What are you meeting Cassandra for, anyway?

**Lucas**: (deflecting) No reason.

Lucas said as he smiled. Anais raised an eyebrow at her brother, sensing there was more to his meeting with Cassandra than he was letting on. But her priority was finding Marie and making sure she was safe.

**Anais**: (sighing) Alright, just be careful. I'll check on the kids and meet you back here later.

**Lucas**: (nodding) You too. Let's make sure everyone's alright.

As Anais made her way towards the garden, Lucas headed off in search of Cassandra, leaving the bustling ballroom behind. The night was full of secrets and uncertainties, and each step brought them closer to uncovering them.

Back with Prince Alexei and Zachary, their conversation continued to weave through old memories and new questions.

**Alexei**: (insisting) I'm telling you, she said she wanted to talk to you.

**Zachary**: (doubtful) I don't believe Nikita would say that.

Alexei laughed heartily, then cleared his throat as they approached Princess Nikita.

**Alexei**: (grinning) Well, why don't you ask her yourself?

As they reached her, Princess Nikita turned with a warm smile, her eyes sparkling with amusement.

**Princess Nikita**: (teasingly) Well, if it isn't the king of the sea.

Zachary chuckled, giving a slight bow.