Chapter 41-50

Chapter 41 – Candidates
“Milady, uhm… would you like to eat in the terrace again? Something important came up suddenly so His Highness cannot join you.” Elias was hesitant in his suggestion, sounding apologetic as he explained the dining arrangement to Evie.

Evie who was about to take her seat halted but she forced a smile on her face to assure the butler. “It’s alright, Elias. There is no need to transfer places. I am fine with dining right here. It’s not like this is the first time I’m going to eat alone,” she replied when someone’s voice echoed, pulling their attentions.

“Would you mind if I join you, Lady Evielyn?” Evie whipped her head towards the source of the voice, and an elegant grey-haired lady was smiling, approaching her. This was the first time Evie saw a grey-haired vampire.

They said that the major indicator that a vampire was old and ancient was their grey hair. The woman walking towards her was still very beautiful and elegant, exuding a regal aura of probably a queen dowager. Could it be that she’s the mother of the late empress?

“Duchess Aurora,” Elias greeted the woman and gave a deep bow to her. Evie followed Elias’ actions and immediately did the same. She had yet to meet anyone other than Gavriel and his men in this castle – not even the Duke and Duchess – so having the duchess suddenly approaching her totally caught her off guard. Was it alright for her to interact or stay close to her?

“Duchess, it’s a pleasure to meet you,” Evie greeted and the Duchess’ smile widened. “I thank you for gracing me with your presence at this meal. I’m sure it must have been hard for an important figure like yourself to put aside some time to deliberately come all the way here to accompany me.” Evie remembered to be polite and gracious in speech as was expected of a noble lady.

“The pleasure is all mine, Your Highness. I have been wanting to meet with Prince Gavriel’s wife ever since I’ve heard of you.” She replied and the two ladies finally settled and sat across each other. After exchanging pleasantries, the servants laid out the dishes and both ladies started on their meal.