"And again, I need you to make findings about a lady in the Fairy Palace named Celeste Brookleaf," Malum said suddenly.
The moment her name left his lips, his fury faded. A strange calm washed over his heart.
"If I may ask, Milord… is she related to the Heavenly Fire attack in any way?" Viktor asked, curiosity leaking into his voice.
Malum cleared his throat, slightly embarrassed. They had been discussing the Heavenly Fire attack, and he had suddenly shifted the topic.
"She's not," Malum replied plainly.
Viktor frowned in mild confusion. If she wasn't related, then why had Milord brought her up so abruptly while discussing about something crucial?
"May I know who she is, Milord?" Viktor asked carefully.
"These days, my black panther has been craving dark, bold, talkative vampire blood," Malum said, expressionless.
A cold shiver ran down Viktor's spine as he understood exactly what Malum meant.
He bowed his head immediately. "I'm sorry, Milord."
"Keep this a secret from everyone, even those in the Fairy Kingdom. And bring me a report today," Malum ordered.
"Yes, Milord."
Viktor left quickly, the majestic doors closing behind him.
Only Malum and the guards remained in the throne hall.
Celeste's face flashed through his mind, her bright green eyes, her healing smile. Somehow, her presence had softened the ice around his heart. He couldn't deny it anymore.
He was getting… attracted to her.
A voice rang from outside.
"Presenting the King's mother, Queen Ravenna!"
The majestic doors opened once more.
Standing in the center was a tall, breathtakingly pale woman with long, raven-black straight hair. Her lips were blood-red, and she wore a sweeping gown that trailed gracefully across the floor. Her hands were clasped together as she glided forward like a shadowy goddess.
She bowed slightly and extended her right hand toward Malum.
Malum stood, took her hand, and kissed it gently.
"Your Majesty," She greeted, her voice soft and soothing.
"My beautiful mother," Malum replied.
Malum released her hand and returned to his throne. Queen Ravenna sat gracefully on the smaller throne beside him.
"And to what do I owe this visit, Mother?" Malum asked politely.
Queen Ravenna snorted.
"We live in the same palace, yet my son has not visited my courtyard for days. At least do not be like your useless father who ran off to hell, abandoning his family."
Malum smirked at her familiar complaining tone.
"Forgive my manners, Mother, but I have been quite busy with palace affairs," Malum said.
"I know, my son. And again, what about the wife selection we talked about? You remember the Grand Duke's daughter, Alina Vale? She visits the palace often to take care of me. She is a very nice girl, she could make a..."
"Mother." Malum cut her off. "The wife selection will go on, and I will choose whoever I want... the right queen."
"But I heard you invited the Fairy Royal Family to the palace to discuss wedding plans," Queen Ravenna said sharply.
Malum looked forward and smirked.
"Hmph. I changed my mind."