Cruel Hearts and Elegant Blades

Chapter 3

 As the days passed, preparations for the imperial wedding were in full swing, and this could be seen in every corner of the palace. Flowers were placed in every room, the great hall and corridors began to be decorated with silver and blue tones, the kitchens and cellars were replenished with supplies, and exotic delicacies were ordered.

The number of guards increased, and patrols constantly walked around and inside the palace. Not only the imperial guards and soldiers were involved, but also the knights of the four orders – they are special troops of the crown, including only the best of the best. It's not so easy to get into the knightly order – only those who came from noble families, as well as the four winners of the annual Silver Light Tournament were accepted.

Lady Lunet was immersed in business, but a happy smile didn't leave her face. Every, even small, meeting with Lord Darnell caused a delight in her heart. Although the political situation remained tense, the new Emperor and Empress gradually got used to it and found ways to take time to relax and spend these moments together. And at such moments, Darnell couldn't help but pull Lunet closer to himself, burying his face in her hair and breathing in her scent, as if possessed by her. Their hearts beat in unison.

The tailors finished sewing outfits for the wedding, and it was time for the first fitting. Lady Lunet stood in front of the mirror on a small platform, closely examining the silver dress with pearl patterns from all sides. Her light gray skin contrasted with the light shades, creating an even more expressive image. The skirts cascaded from her waist like sea waves, and the neckline was decorated with delicate embroidery. Azure eyes skeptically examined every little thing, looking for imperfections.

Lady Lunet smiled and turned to Sir Paies, who stood near the door with a concentrated expression.

'Well? What do you think?'

Despite his respectful expression, Sir Paies's dark-green eyes were filled with genuine happiness.

'You look magnificent, my Empress. I am sure everyone will be enchanted.'

Lady Lunet nodded gratefully to him and turned back to the mirror.

'I hope everything will go well.'

Sir Paies confidently stepped forward. A look of determination flashed in his eyes.

'Do not doubt, my Empress. I will personally check every corner of the palace and the guards. Additional guards have already been assigned, all your orders have been carried out and updated with improvements by me. Neither you nor Lord Darnell need to worry about anything except enjoying your special day.'

Sighing slightly, Lady Lunet smiled at him.

'Thank you, Paies. You are right, everything will be fine. It's just that the incident on the hunt keeps me thinking about other possible attacks. Count Dray Goran was a pawn, yes, but those behind him won't calm down that easily.'

When Lady Lunet returned from the Imperial Hunt, the first thing she did was to find out everything about the Relex Bank, which sponsored Lord Dray and his father in their attempts to seize the throne. It turned out that the bank was based in the free county of Afenta, located near the southern border of Santera. The Counts Hatar, who ruled there, were among the most heavily armed, compared to other free counts. Lunet and Darnell had heard rumors that Count Hatar was building alliances with other counts and barons, but in the chaos after taking the throne, they physically couldn't pay attention to every little message.

Sir Paies frowned and unconsciously clenched his fists. His voice became serious and collected.

'You think Count Hatar is behind this?'