The night was calm and peaceful, with a gentle breeze brushing through the neighborhood. Most residents were winding down, their homes illuminated by soft glows from windows. However, for Lucas and his mother, the tranquility was disrupted by the frantic bustle of packing. The sound of hastily zipping suitcases and the hurried shuffling of belongings filled the air. Lucas, a 16-year-old boy with striking red hair and piercing golden eyes, neatly folded his clothes and carefully stowed away his personal items. "Lucas, let's pack up quickly," His mother's eyes betrayed an undercurrent of panic as she moved about the room, checking and double-checking that everything was ready to go. "Mom, why do we have to leave? I like living here," Lucas said while packing his stuff. Despite the urgency, the warmth of their home still lingered, and Lucas couldn't help but feel a twinge of reluctance to leave behind the familiarity of their current abode. "Lucas, you trust me, right?" his mother ask

The day began, the grand duke's vassals arrived at his house, consumed with curiosity and concern over the rumors that the duke intended to adopt someone of unknown background. An air of anticipation hung over the gathering in the duke's office as they waited for him to arrive. The room buzzed with speculation and unease, and the vassals exchanged knowing looks and hushed whispers as they wondered about the implications of the duke's decision. The atmosphere in the room was tense, and the vassals were eager to hear from the duke himself about this surprising development. They shifted in their seats, exchanging nervous glances, and the air was heavy with anticipation. Some vassals were openly skeptical, while others were more resigned to whatever the duke's decision might be. As the minutes ticked by, the tension in the room seemed to grow, until finally, the grand doors to the grand duke's office swung open. The duke entered, his expression unreadable, and the room fell silent as all

The imperial palace was a sight to behold, with its grand architecture and lavish decorations both inside and out. The halls were adorned with exquisite tapestries, ornate chandeliers, and intricately carved furniture. The lush gardens surrounding the palace were filled with vibrant flowers and sculpted hedges, creating a serene and opulent atmosphere. King Felipe Evreux, the ruler of this splendid domain, desired power and influence over his people. He enjoyed spending time with his concubines, finding pleasure in their company. However, none of them had been able to bear him a child, except for the empress, Regina Brosethorn. Early in the morning, the king summons the empress to his office and Regina was shocked by the news. She had always prided herself on her position as her son, the king's only legitimate heir, and the thought of someone else vying for the throne filled her with a mix of anger and uncertainty. As she studied the king's face for any sign of deceit, she found non

The evening sun fades into the horizon, the maids flutter around Regina, adorning her with opulent jewels and draping her in a resplendent scarlet gown. Her hair is meticulously styled, and a delicate touch of makeup enhances her features. Tonight, she is to spend the evening with the Emperor, and so she presents herself with utmost grace and allure. There’s a purpose behind this arrangement – she intends to broach the subject of his illegitimate son, aiming to sway him into acknowledging another child. A son from her would surely solidify her standing as the Empress. With determination in her eyes, Regina sets off down the hallway, the grandeur of her presence illuminated by the flickering torches. The knights announce her arrival, yet the door remains shut, denying her entry. Her frustration boils within her as the seconds tick by, and soon enough, the Emperor’s assistant emerges, bearing the news that the Emperor is presently occupied with his concubines. “Your Majesty, it is the

The grand duke of Adelstein stood at his window, gazing out at Elen and his two sons playing in the garden with their kites. Elen held a pink kite, Max had a black one, and Elliot clutched a red kite. Their laughter filled the air, and for a moment, the duke allowed himself to smile. "My lord," Caleb knocked on his door, holding a letter in his hand. "We have an invitation to the temple, along with the high priest and the Duke of Windsor. I also heard that they're pressuring the temple right now." "How audacious of Dominic," the grand duke said with a smirk. "Very well, let's pay the temple a visit." "But my lord, the temple has also extended an invitation to the lady," Caleb hesitated, knowing the duke's protective nature towards her. "Dominic seems to know something," the grand duke said, his voice tinged with suspicion as he tapped his fingers on the table. "When is the date?" "Tomorrow morning at 9 am," Caleb replied. "Alright, I'll talk with Elen and the kids," the grand du