Emperor Randolf and Empress Natalya made their way through the dark areas of the town, accompanied by their entourage of concerned officers.
Their destination was the dungeon where Astrid used to stay with Thomas' headless corpse.
As they approached the cell, they were met with a heart-wrenching sight. Curled up on the ground was little Stella, in a pitiful state.
Her thin frame was covered in grime and her sunken eyes were filled with fear and desperation.
"Mama Astrid! Papa Thomas!" the child cried out weakly, her voice cracking with dehydration.
Natalya rushed to the girl's side, cradling her frail body. "What is the meaning of this?" she demanded, her brow furrowed with worry.
Randolf's expression darkened as he surveyed the scene. "This child must be tended to at once, poor girl, she didn't know her parents passed already" he ordered, his voice stern but laced with concern.
Natalya followed closely, murmuring soothing words as the child's cries for her parents echoed through the shelter.
It was clear that this innocent young life had been caught up in the tangled web of court intrigue and betrayal.
As the distraught child was carried to the infirmary, Empress Natalya's expression softened with a hint of contemplation. She turned to her husband, Emperor Randolf, and spoke in a hushed tone.
"My dear, I cannot help but wonder... What if we were to take this poor child under our wing?" Natalya's gaze settled upon the trembling Stella, her maternal instincts stirring.
Randolf considered his wife's proposal, his brow furrowing in thought. "You raise an interesting point, my love. The child's plight has touched our hearts, and perhaps we could provide her with the care and security she so desperately needs."
Natalya's eyes lit up with a glimmer of hope. "And what if, in time, she were to become a companion to our son, young Edwardo? A union between them could secure her future and solidify our dynasty. They are the same age after all"
The emperor nodded, a small smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "Then it is settled. We shall see to the child's wellbeing and, in due course, explore the possibility of a betrothal between Stella and Edwardo."
The royal couple quickened their pace, determined to ensure the child's safety and well-being.
As they reached the infirmary, Natalya's heart swelled with the prospect of welcoming Stella into their family, a decision that would shape the course of the kingdom's future.
YOU ARE READING
Black Magic
Mystery / ThrillerA woman in the 19th century curses her husband with black magic, she doesn't know the exchange of that, it might end her whole bloodline.
