Book Two: The Larkspur's Longing ~ A tale of deep obsession and devotion

Chapter Twenty-six: First Impressions

"Transportation arrangements to the palace, and security measures are all in place, Your Highness. Most guests are scheduled to arrive either tonight or tomorrow evening." Duke Donovan concluded his report, with a slight bow.

"Good," Callidus murmured, "And when is Queen Conitine arriving?"

"The Queen of Meross is arriving tomorrow evening, Your Highness. And we must thank you again for allowing the Renton Duchy the opportunity to host such an esteemed guest."

Callidus nodded, his eyes briefly drifting towards Countess Fenella, who kept pretending as if she weren't looking at his bruises.

Since his initial meeting with Jasper, Callidus had shifted all his business to the Council Chamber, appreciating the privacy it offered compared to the grandeur of the Great or Banquet Hall. This allowed him to catch his advisors' subtle glances, which he had often missed before. Such as the significant look Duke Donovan sent towards Marchioness Arwine, who, in turn, raised an eyebrow at Countess Fenella. This silent communication prompted Countess Fenella to lean forward, wearing a plastered-on smile. "If I may, Your Highness, you look as if you had quite an eventful night."

Callidus quirked an eyebrow, surprised that his injuries had taken this long to become a topic of discussion. "I had a minor altercation with Crown Prince Jasper," he briefly explained, avoiding further details.

"Oh! I... see," she replied, sending a look to Arwine who then sent a look to Leland.

Duke Leland cleared his throat before asking, "And where is His Highness, the Crown Prince?"

"Recovering," Callidus said curtly.

The rest of the council members exchanged furtive glances; unease written on their faces. Callidus knew Jasper had become well liked during his short time in Ashlar, and he could feel each of their concerns like heavy weights.

"...Your Highness, if I may," Duke Donovan, who had been pretending to study the documents in front of him, finally spoke up, "...my daughter informed me of an...outlandish rumor circulating that you were carrying a body through the palace yesterday."

"I carried Crown Prince Jasper to the Sapphire Suite after our altercation," Callidus admitted, "He was injured and needed medical attention. It is where he is currently residing." His eyes slid over to glance at Fenella, "Countess, I believe I had Arden inform you, of the Eflian delegation's change in location."

"You did, Your Highness," Countess Fenella murmured. "...but may I inquire about the extent of Jaz- er, Crown Prince Jasper's injuries?"

Callidus felt a surge of irritation, and his response came out sharper than intended. "It seems you are all more concerned for a foreign prince than your own future king."

The council members shifted uncomfortably in their seats, as Duke Leland cleared his throat once more, "Your Highness, please understand that our concern for Crown Prince Jasper stems from our commitment to maintaining diplomatic relations with Eflia."

Callidus raised an eyebrow at Duke Leland, "Has your stance on Eflia suddenly changed, Duke Leland? I seem to recall you strongly opposing my marriage to Princess Cressida."

Duke Leland immediately appeared flustered, "Your Highness, my concern for Crown Prince Jasper's well-being does not equate to a change in my stance on Eflians as a whole. It's a matter of-"

Callidus interrupted, "Let it be known that Crown Prince Jasper and I had a friendly disagreement during a dice game."

A collective sigh of relief washed over the council chamber.

Countess Fenella smiled faintly, her hand falling from where it was clenched tightly to her chest. "Liar's dice, Your Highness?"

"...indeed. It was simply a game that got out of hand."