Test of the Heart (Sequel)

Chapter 12- Discussion

Third person POV
"P-pardon? Conquer?" Akuma tilted her head and her folded hands tighter.

"Why of course! The mighty kingdom of the North! Hyoushou!"

"That poor kingdom has fallen after the brutal death of the royal family in the midst of an ambush!" The ladies sighed with saddened expressions.

"Our Crown Prince Izana was there too! It is a blessing his highness is safe!" A lady cried.

'What the hell... But Izana returned with Kiroyuki. There's no way he could have hidden that fact. Why aren't they saying more?' Akuma strained her eyes and looked down at the ground to hide her expression.

"... What happened to the kingdom after the attack?" Akuma asked with a cool yet bitter tone.

"Eh? Ah, the kingdom was in lockdown. I have never seen such action take place! Quite mysterious even."

"My father said that the attackers rule the place for a relatively short time. There may even be a rebellion group residing there still after a rumored small group grasped the reins of the kingdom."

"Is that so..." Akuma sighed.

'There's no possible way a rebellion group would remain. Neil is gone... So is she. The new force must be them...' Akuma calculated and placed a hand over her mouth.

"I have heard that there is—"

*Knock knock*

"Come in." Akuma creased her brows and looked towards the door.

Obi and the head butler entered the room. The ladies gasped and giggled at the handsome escort and hopingly looked at Akuma. The recognized the golden-eyed boy to be her escort when Akuma entered the party hall. The two bowed their heads.

"Lady Akuma. His Highness the Crown Prince Izana has called for you." The head butler explained.

"Ah, is it already time?" Akuma lifted her heavy body from the couch.

'It seems like there was important information to gain here after all.' She mentally sighed and racked her brain to find another opportunity.

"Dear ladies, would you mind if I invite you some time for tea? It was quite enjoyable to chat with beautiful and young ladies my age for the first time." Akuma shyly placed her hand up towards her mouth and looked up at the ladies with their flushed faces.

"Why of course!"

"It would be an honor!"

"We shall make time whenever you wish!"

"Really? That makes me so happy!" Akuma clapped her hands and turned to the head butler. "Please do write down these wonderful ladies' names! Refill their snacks if they wish to stay and chat here longer!" Akuma smiled.

"Thank you Lady Akuma! You are far too gracious!" The ladies awed at Akuma's saint-like attitude towards them.

"But of course! I shall excuse myself now. I will send out invites shortly!" Akuma bowed and exited the room with Obi.

"Obi." Akuma called out in an indifferent tone. She remained to look forward with a still face.

"Yes?" Obi answered. He waited for a little for her during her silence before bringing up a question. "What did you hear back there?" He glanced down at her.

"Things that make my blood boil, and things that provoke my fears. After the meeting, please... Please leave me and find Ryu." Akuma worriedly creased her brows and looked up at Obi. Her eyes were filled with many emotions that made him feel the urgent desperation from her.