She turned on her heel, ready to leave.
Loki let out a soft chuckle and shook his head. "You really should stop pressuring her like this," he said casually. "You know how she feels about marriage. Cornering her only makes her run faster."
Candice narrowed her eyes.
"Loki, this does not concern you."
"Oh, it concerns me," he replied lightly. "Every time you drag her in here for proposals, I'm the one who has to deal with the aftermath.
"Loki," Candice snapped, "we summoned you so you could talk sense into your sister. Not encourage her stubbornness." He smiled, unapologetic.Then you summoned the wrong son. Because if you ask me, forcing her into a marriage she doesn't want is the real madness."
Robert sighed heavily.
"Enough." Loki glanced at Hailey, then back at his parents. "It's clear you wanted her here, not me. So I'll take my leave."He gestured toward the door, smirking."Come on, trouble. Let's go before this turns into another nagging."
Hailey grinned and linked her arm with his.
"Gladly." Together, they walked out, leaving
Candice staring after them in anger. "Robert, you've spoiled this girl," Candice muttered, eyes stern.
A heavy silence settled over the throne room.
The elders exchanged glances some shocked, some openly displeased, others quietly calculating. A few shook their heads, whispering beneath their breath. The echoes of Hailey's outburst still lingered in the air.
Candice rose slowly from her throne.
Her steps were measured as she descended the dais and moved to the center of the hall, her head bowed not as a queen, but as a mother burdened by duty. She clasped her hands and lowered herself in a deep, respectful bow.
"I offer my sincerest apologies," she said, her voice calm but heavy with restraint. "My daughter's conduct was improper. I take full responsibility."
She bowed again."And again, I am sorry."
Lord Admantha stood, his expression severe.
"How many apologies will it take, Your Majesty?" he muttered coldly. "Each time, it is the same. The girl's attitude is… alarming."
Another elder scoffed quietly.
"Her character lacks discipline. One day, this recklessness will invite trouble not only for herself, but for Wintercrest."
Candice remained bowed, her fingers tightening slightly. "I understand your concerns," she said softly. "And I assure you, they will be addressed."
The elders exchanged one final look before turning away. One by one, they exited the throne room, their footsteps echoing judgment with every step.
When the doors finally closed, only Candice and Robert remained leaving them shaking their heads.
*************************
Hailey's maids fussed around her chamber, hands flying as they tried to dress her for the evening. Dresses were laid out, jewels glittered on the vanity but Hailey was in no mood.
"Frederica, I don't like this hairstyle," she snapped. "Change it."
"Your Highness, but—"
"Are you exchanging words with me?" Hailey's eyes hardened. "Your duty is to serve me. Do your work properly."
The room fell silent.
"Your Highness," another maid said carefully, "which gown would you prefer?"
Hailey waved a dismissive hand. "Just pick one of my blue gowns." Francisca hurried into the closet and returned with a deep sapphire dress, elegant and refined.
At that moment, the doors opened and Queen Candice walked in."Leave us," she ordered.The maids curtsied quickly and exited.Candice approached her daughter, her expression calm but serious."Hailey, I want to address you personally."
"If you say so," Hailey shrugged.
"Hailey," Candice said gently but firmly, "learn how to speak politely. I did not raise you to behave like this. One day, you will either be a queen, a duchess, a countess, or a marchioness. This attitude does not speak well of you."Hailey frowned. "What has come over you, Mother?" Candice took her hands. "I beg you please change your ways."
…Okay, Mother," Hailey replied after a pause. "But why am I being dolled up like this? What celebration is happening?" Have patience," Candice said softly. "You will know soon."
*****PERSIA********
"Damien," Dishon announced, entering the chamber, "your father has requested your presence in his castle."
"And why is that?" Damien asked.
"I have no idea," Dishon replied with a sigh.
Within twenty seconds, Damien stood in Dracula's chambers.
"That was fast," Dracula remarked.
"Why did you call for me?" Damien asked.
"The lords have arranged a marriage for you."
"I'm sorry," Damien said immediately, "but I can't. Goodbye. I have somewhere to go."
"Wintercrest?" Dracula asked."Yes, Father."
Dracula nodded. "Be safe."