Chapter 250:
Hansel’s face lit up, his dimples deepening. “Thank you so much!”
Together, they strolled through the festival. The air was alive with the sounds of laughter and music. The sweet scent of blooming flowers mingled with the smoky aroma of grilled delicacies.
EMERIEL
Emeriel and Lord Herod strolled beneath the moonlit sky, their lanterns casting soft lights on the cobblestone path.
As they passed, heads bowed and curious eyes followed them.
“They are surprised,” Lord Herod remarked with a gentle laugh. “I haven’t been seen with a female since Vera’s passing. Most often, it’s Ezra, my bloodhost, by my side.”
Emeriel glanced around, a soft smile gracing her lips. “Everyone adores you, My Lord. And why wouldn’t they? You’re the kindest Urekai I know.”
He chuckled. “You flatter me.”
They reached a crowded square, its air filled with music and laughter. Urekai commoners gathered under a canopy of glowing lanterns, the women swaying and singing in unison as the men watched with adoration.
“Many find love on nights like these,” Lord Herod mused. “Some will return home with a bond after the seven-day bonding ritual, while others will carry a broken heart.”
Emeriel only half-heard his words, her thoughts drifting to the grand king.
Lately, he had dominated her thoughts so much that any moment he wasn’t in her mind felt strangely empty.
Last night had been terrifying. Yet the memory of his touch… the passion in his eyes… they had been in her mind all day. His kisses had left her weak in the knees.
Lаτєѕτ chɒρτєrs ιn g𝓪l𝗇ovєls.𝒸𝑶𝓶
“Emeriel?”
Lord Herod’s voice pulled her back to reality. He had stopped walking, his brow furrowed with concern. “You’ve been lost in thought all day. It’s not healthy to dwell on things, little one. What troubles you?”
“I’m fine, My Lord,” she gave a forced smile to mask her inner turmoil.
“No, you’re not—” Before he could press further, a graceful Urekai woman approached them, her eyes sparkling with admiration.
“Blessed night, My Lord,” she greeted, bowing. “I saw you from afar and could not resist saying hello.”
Lord Herod smiled warmly. “Orin, it’s good to see you. How are you faring?”
“Well, thanks to your family’s generosity, My Lord.” Orin’s gaze shifted to Emeriel.
“Orin,” Lord Herod began, “allow me to introduce Princess Galilea. And Leah-” he turned to Emeriel “-this is Orin, our family’s esteemed healer.”
Both females exchanged a respectful bow—Orin’s gesture acknowledging Emeriel’s royal status, and Emeriel’s a simple acknowledgment of the introduction. Orin’s eyes sparkled with curiosity.
“This reminds me,” Lord Herod began, addressing Orin, “I intended to send for you tomorrow, but since we’ve crossed paths, perhaps you could assist me with something?”
Orin nodded eagerly. “Of course, My Lord. My daughter carries my medicine bag just across the street. I rarely venture out without it, in case of emergencies. How may I be of service?”
“I need you to assess Galilea for her full heat. It will be her first, and we must know the day to prepare accordingly.”
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