Love, Thrones, and Past Intrigue: A Fantasy Adventure

Chapter 90 - Augustus's Painful Decision

In the soft morning light filtering through the study's windows, Prince Victor sat at his polished desk, surrounded by a disarray of parchments and reports he barely noticed. His thoughts were consumed by Serena as he traced absent-minded circles on the map before him. He was interrupted by Dominic's entrance.

Dominic's expression was solemn. "Your Highness," he began, his words measured and filled with concern, "I've searched diligently as you instructed, but there's no trace of Serena's family in the capital. It's as if they vanished without a trace. The more I inquire, the more elusive their history becomes."

Prince Victor's heart tightened at Dominic's words, the weight of uncertainty pressing down on him.

"They arrived about fourteen years ago, settling on the outskirts near the forest," Dominic continued, his brow furrowed. "They led a secluded life, rarely interacting with others. Their only notable connection was with a cloth shop owner in the market, whose daughter befriended Serena. However, their story only matches the fabricated details about Serena's family."

Prince Victor clenched his fists, his mind racing with questions.

"There was another nearby family with whom they had good relations," Dominic added somberly. "Unfortunately, the parents passed away a few years ago, leaving behind a son whose location I am still investigating."

He paused briefly, his gaze thoughtful as he gathered his next words.

"Furthermore," Dominic continued, his voice tinged with a hint of disbelief, "I've uncovered that Serena was raised under strict protection by her uncle and his brother Aaron. Until she turned sixteen, she was confined to their house and not allowed outside. The reasons behind this tight security remain unclear."

Prince Victor absorbed the information, each detail adding to the intricate puzzle of Serena's past. The realization that she had been shielded from the outside world for so long only deepened the mystery surrounding her.

"It's getting more puzzling," Prince Victor muttered, his frustration boiling over as he slammed his fist on the table, the sound echoing through the study. His chest tightened with a mix of anger and despair.

Dominic remained steady, his presence a calming influence. "Should I look for the boy? He lived near their house and may know something that could be helpful."

Prince Victor took a deep breath, steadying himself. "Yes, do that," he said, his voice firm but tinged with desperation. "Continue your investigations discreetly. We need to understand more before drawing any conclusions."

Dominic nodded solemnly. "Of course, Your Highness. I will pursue every lead."

As Dominic left the study, Prince Victor slumped back in his chair. The morning light cast long shadows across the room, deepening the sense of foreboding.

"Serena," he whispered softly, his mind swirling with questions. "What secrets are you hiding? What does your past truly conceal? And most importantly, where are you now?"

Miles away from the grand palace, Augustus stood before his uncle, Elder Samuel, his heart heavy with the weight of his decision.

"I'll do the second ritual, Uncle," Augustus said, his voice trembling. He took a deep breath, trying to steady his racing thoughts. "I'll do it... unconditionally."

Elder Samuel's eyes widened with concern. "Augustus, do you understand what you're saying? Do you grasp the consequences?"

"I do, Uncle," Augustus replied, his voice barely above a whisper. "Once it's done, there's no turning back. My soul, my heart, will be tied to her like a thread. The farther she is, the more that thread will cut into me. She'll never know, and that's my cruel fate." Tears welled up in his eyes, spilling down his cheeks. "But I want to give her everything she desires, even if it means sacrificing myself." He placed a trembling hand over his chest, feeling the impending agony.