4

~ Anisel ~

The meeting hall was filled with all types of nobles; even Hazel's top men were there. I have never seen such a crowd, but I needed everyone here to discuss business. When I sat down, I saw Matthew three chairs away. Good, he read the letter. “I'm glad that you made it, Lord Matthew. I do apologize for the bother.” I said as I bowed my head.

“Desperate times call for desperate measures. It must be important for you even to reach out. What has troubled you, your highness??”

“Foreigners have stepped into our lands and caused mischief. They have threatened to start a war because of what has been done. These people are soldiers; however, they used to live here in Satia. Well, their leader did, and the Royal Mint Diamond has been missing for years.” I stated. The whole room went silent as they couldn't believe what they heard.

One of the officials has thought what we all were thinking– how did the kingdom function without its precious gem?? We rely on the diamond for support, and if something happens, we know what we need. I explained how the former rulers would arrive and tell us the truth about this mystery because these people want 2.4 million soon.

Matthew stood up violently, “Satia doesn't receive money like that. I should know. My king, how will Satia survive this situation?? Especially if a war breaks loose.” He asked.

“Which is why I brought you here today, Lord Matthew. We need your technology– it is time for an upgrade. The queen and I are in a crisis. We need everything you have.”

Matthew squinted his eyes and crossed his arms. I wouldn't blame him if he rejected us. But, he agreed to help as long as we supply the services required for what they want. If he is willing, then I will do whatever he desires. I did a full bow as I am honorably grateful. Now, I have to find land for his base and for him to train the Blue Rose.

He begins to help me strategize a plan. Matthew wants Mia and me together to be on the same page. I don't think that would happen. My wife despises him and wants him gone for good. However, I agree with him as she needs to be part of this. I mentioned she was pregnant and couldn't be more stressed than she was. His eyes widened with shock. After he left the kingdom, he wasn't involved in any way.

He apologizes for not bringing a gift for the new life, which isn't a big deal right now. Once this is over, he will get all the blessings he desires. While distracted, Hazel explains that there are three significant areas that Matthew could take. That land that the palace hasn't used. I was hesitant at first because it would be too awkward. Matthew is better off selecting another place.

“We can ensure that our factories can supply when you need it. If you want help, then you have to make changes. Come to me when you make your decision.” I said as I got up and bowed. Everyone did the same.

Hamon stood by the door waiting for me and asked if I was okay. Of course, as things went smoothly– I think. Matthew came rushing out of the meeting hall and wanted to seal the deal. He has agreed to any wishes we make. With that, we both went our separate ways. Down the hall, I saw my wife running towards me with tears flowing down her face.

What exciting news she brought for me?? I stopped her before she made contact. I didn't want her to fall. Then behind her were Jabrel, Lily, and Mikhal, out of breath. I asked her what she was running for.

"ANISEL!! WE ARE HAVING A BOY!!! OUR WISH CAME TRUE!! WE ARE HAVING A PRINCE!!" she shouted with joy. My body froze in place. We always talked about having a son. But I never thought it would happen. In her family, the parents always had a girl first, then a son. I don't know about my side that much. It's just me and my brother. The odds were against us.

If we had a daughter, we would have been happy as well. But a son... I know that Mia is delighted to break that cycle. "Our little prince. A little one who is just like me." I said with joy.

"He could be just like me, Anisel. What if he is like both of us?? What a troublesome mess we got ourselves in too." Mia said as she began to chuckle. The others wiped their faces as they smiled and congratulated us. This was the best news ever. Until it got interrupted by you know who.

Mia’s face went sour when she saw them. I didn't want to say anything, but the silence was getting to me. Matthew smiled and greeted Mia with respect. She let me go and mentioned to bow immediately when seeing royalty. His eyes went into panic, then he quickly bowed. With a chuckle, he apologized for being rude. He was stunned to see her with a belly.

“Don’t let it happen again. I hope I don't see you around as much. I'm still not over on what you did. But I will push that aside and protect my kingdom.” She said,

“I understand. Satia is the top priority. This kingdom is the pride and joy of the Satia country compared to the other kingdoms on the land. Technology shouldn't cloud that beauty.”

“Technology is the only thing that can save us and keep the beauty around. Periva can't help us because of their war. You're the only person that we can go to.” She stated.

Matthew was honored to be called for help and wanted to keep the kingdom healthy. He wants to bring a truce between him and Mia. He stuck his hand out for her to shake. Hamon and Mikhal become protective, but she stands them down. She said this is only temporary as we need his company with the upcoming war. If he betrays us– then it will be problematic. Matthew doubts that.