Callidus and Cressida entered the Great Hall, their footsteps hushed by the rich tapestries lining the grand chamber, the decorations for his Coronation well under way. The air was heavy with the scent of fresh flowers, and everywhere was a flurry of motion.
Servants bustled about, meticulously adjusting banners that hung from the ceiling, skilled hands smoothing out every crease and wrinkle. Others painstakingly cleaned each nook and cranny, making sure every surface gleamed with pristine brilliance.
At the far end of the hall, a figure stood waiting, bathed in the soft shine of the chandeliers. Queen Conitine was a woman of mature age, her presence exuding an aura of authority that spoke volumes about her reign in Meross. Her Merossian gown, adorned with opulent fabrics and jewels, glowed like embers under the warm light. Her long silver hair was elegantly coiled atop her head, and her sharp, intelligent eyes immediately locked onto Callidus as he approached.
Three attendants dressed in similar opulent clothing stood nearby, holding ornate chests close to their bodies.
The Queen acknowledged his presence with a deeply respectful curtsy. However, her mouth immediately quirked into a derisive smirk, her gaze trailing over the deep gash on his lip and the bruises that lined his jaw.
Cressida squeezed Callidus's hand, as if sensing the sudden unease that flooded his gut. The physical resemblance between the Queen and his late mother was uncanny, but the contemptuous look in her eyes was just like his father.
Callidus extended a courteous bow, his discomfort hidden beneath a formal mask. "Your Majesty, I am Crown Prince Callidus of Ashlar, and this is Princess Cressida of Eflia." He briefly paused before proudly adding, "...my betrothed."
"Your Majesty," Cressida said, executing a perfect curtsy, "the pleasure is ours. We are grateful for your presence during this significant occasion."
Queen Conitine's gaze lingered on Cressida, assessing her with narrowed eyes, before returning to stare at Callidus.
"Greetings to the both of you," she began, her voice low and laced with a thick Merossian accent. "Your Highness, I extend my congratulations on your forthcoming Coronation." She paused, her words carrying a note of skepticism, "And on your impending engagement. I must admit, I was unaware that Ashlar still intended to pursue ties with Eflia after the recent events. It is, indeed, a unique honor to meet you during this significant time."
The Queen's thinly veiled disapproval immediately irked him.
"Thank you, Your Majesty. We are honored by your visit," Callidus responded evenly. "Although I was not expecting to see you until the day of my Coronation. Was there an issue with staying at the Renton Duchy?"
"The Renton Duchy is a... suitable arrangement," Queen Conitine replied, her tone suggesting otherwise. "However, I find that one can gain a deeper understanding of a kingdom when they reside within its heart."
"I see," Callidus murmured, "...unfortunately the Guest Wing of the palace is currently occupied."
The Queen's lips curved into a challenging smile. "Adaptability is a widely admired trait in Meross. I am curious if you are of the same opinion."
He responded with a measured tone, "Adaptability is indeed admirable, but well-laid plans have their purpose, Your Majesty. The Duke and Duchess of Renton have invested considerable effort in preparing for your stay."
"I value their anticipation," the Queen replied, her voice holding a hint of nonchalance, "but circumstances change, and sometimes, so must plans. I hope you will not begrudge me the chance to stay closer to my only remaining family."
YOU ARE READING
Book Two: The Larkspur's Longing ~ A tale of deep obsession and devotion
Romantik(Sequel to The Marigold's Larkspur) Crown Prince Callidus finds himself on the cusp of achieving his dreams. With Princess Cressida by his side, the woman he has long yearned for, their future seems promising. However, a formidable obstacle threaten...
