Kissing Hellfire: Marry Me, Evil Lord
Chapter 203: The Sage is Back

Chapter 203: The Sage is Back

The next morning, when Lauren and Alec went to the castle’s dining hall for breakfast, Vincent was already present in the hall. He flashed his perfect set of white teeth, his sharp fangs visible, as he greeted the couple.

"Good morning, Vincent," Lauren replied to Vincent’s cheerful greeting as she sat beside Alec. "I remembered what you said the last time you slept here, so I had the maids put scented candles in your room yesterday."

Vincent’s smile widened as he responded, his words carrying a playful undertone. "Queen Lauren, you truly know how to treat your guests. King Alec, perhaps you could learn a thing or two from your wife about hospitality."

Alec’s serious demeanor shifted slightly as he playfully addressed Vincent’s remark about hospitality. His tone carried a hint of mock reproach as he responded, emphasizing a lighthearted yet pointed observation.

"Vincent, while we appreciate your enthusiasm for breakfast, I must applaud your great appetite for being the first one to partake without waiting for your hosts," Alec quipped, a mischievous glint in his eyes.

Lauren couldn’t help but stifle a laugh, finding amusement in the light-hearted banter between the two. She glanced between Vincent and Alec, enjoying the friendly exchange.

Vincent, never one to be outdone, chuckled in response, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "Touché, King Alec. I suppose my hunger got the best of me this morning. I shall remember to exercise more patience in the future."

As the lighthearted breakfast banter continued, Lauren found herself momentarily distracted from her own thoughts. The laughter and friendly exchanges served as a temporary respite, diverting her attention from the vivid dream that had occupied her mind the previous night. However, in the quiet moments between conversations, her mother’s voice echoed in her ears, a reminder of the dream’s lingering presence.

Lauren’s mind began to wander, retracing the fragments of the dream that still clung to her memory. The vividness of the experience lingered, leaving an indelible impression on her consciousness. She could almost feel the weight of her mother’s words, resonating within her as if they were real.

She wondered if there was a deeper meaning behind it, if her subconscious was trying to convey a message or stir unresolved emotions within her.

Later that day, Darius had arrived from his trip from the north. Alec was busy planning their actions for the lunar festival in preparation for the rebels’ attack, and while he was at it, Lauren talked to Darius about the task she gave him.

"Do you have the pacifiers?" asked Lauren. They were seated in one of the castle’s private rooms, where they were out of anyone’s sight.

"Yes, Your Majesty," Darius responded. His hand reached into his pocket, retrieving a small, ornate box with intricate engravings. As he held the box delicately, his eyes flickered with concern.

Gently opening the lid, Darius revealed a collection of vials nestled within, each containing a potent pacifier. The vials gleamed softly, their contents shimmering with strange radiance.

With a deep breath, Darius continued, his voice laced with earnestness. "But these pacifiers, Your Majesty, are much stronger than the previous ones you have taken. It is of utmost importance that you exercise caution and restraint. I implore you to adhere to the recommended dosage—once a week."

Darius was aware of the potential harm that overindulgence could inflict upon Lauren’s health, jeopardizing her well-being, which he didn’t want.

Lauren’s gaze fixed upon the vials, a glint of unease settled in her eyes.

Darius took a step closer, his voice lowering as he emphasized his concern. "Your Majesty, I speak from a place of deep care for your well-being. These pacifiers, while it can be useful, should be approached with great caution. Taking more than the recommended dosage could pose unforeseen dangers to your health."

Lauren nodded, acknowledging the seriousness of Darius’s words. She respected his wisdom and his dedication to her safety and she understood the need to temper its usage with prudence.

"Thank you, Darius," Lauren replied, her voice filled with gratitude. "I appreciate your guidance and concern. I will strictly adhere to your advice and take one vial once a week."

After their talk about the pacifiers, Lauren told Darius about what would happen on the night of the lunar eclipse. She tasked him with preparing his men so they could defend Evardin alongside the royal army.

* * *

"Your Majesty, King Alec, is requesting your presence in his office. Matthias’s voice echoed through the door, interrupting Lauren’s solitude in the bedroom. The sound of his knock reverberated, breaking the silence of the afternoon.

Lauren’s attention was momentarily diverted from her thoughts as she processed Matthias’s message. The pacifiers Darius had provided lay before her. She had just taken one vial because her chest was starting to ache again. The pacifier had proven effective, at least for the time being, easing her discomfort and granting her respite.

Her mind raced with mixed emotions. Relief washed over her, and she was grateful for the temporary alleviation the pacifier had brought. Yet, an undercurrent of doubt lingered, questioning the longevity of its effects. How long would this respite last? And what would happen once its potency waned?

Lauren sighed, recognizing the urgency of Alec’s request and setting aside her uncertainties for the moment.

She rose from her seat and stored the pacifiers away, before she made her way to Alec’s office.

Lauren pushed open the grand double doors of the king’s office and paused when she noticed Alec was not alone.

Seated at a large, intricately carved wooden desk was Alec, whose presence was commanding and regal. To his left sat Vincent with his usual mischievous smile. ON his right was a surprising sight that elicited a wave of relief within Lauren’s heart—Anthony, who had caused her worry in recent days.

Lauren’s gaze fixed upon Anthony, his presence a welcome sight. She had feared for his well-being, uncertain of what had transpired during his disappearance. But now, seeing him sitting there, unharmed and seemingly in good health, a sense of relief washed over her. Anthony was a kind man and she would feel bad if something were to happen to him.

As Lauren was pulled gently by Alec to his side, Anthony’s warm smile greeted her.

"Nice to meet you again, Queen Lauren."

Lauren returned the greeting with a polite smile. "Hello, Anthony."

She felt a sense of reassurance knowing that he had returned and was ready to contribute his knowledge and guidance to their problem.

Anthony’s expression softened as he spoke, his gentle smile reflecting a sense of amusement. "I heard you came with King Alec last night to my house for a visit. I apologize for not being there to welcome you." His chuckle carried a hint of mischief, as if he had stepped out briefly to attend to errands, oblivious to the upheaval that had transpired in his absence.

"I also heard from King Alec that you got worried. I haven’t been harmed in anyway, though. I won’t survive this messed-up world for centuries if I am easy to kill," Anthony said, smiling.

"I’m glad to hear that," Lauren responded with a soft smile. "I was worried, though. It was easy to assume that something bad happened to you when I saw the state of your house."

"I understand, Queen Lauren, but you see I am perfectly fine. Good as bull," he let out a low chuckle.

Anthony’s eyes shifted momentarily to King Alec, and Lauren caught the unspoken understanding between the two men. Alec had evidently shared the matter concerning the mysterious book with Anthony, and even Vincent seemed to be in the loop, which didn’t take her by surprise since Vincent was someone close to Alec.

With a gentle air of curiosity, Anthony broached the topic that had brought them together. "So, I heard that you needed my help about some book you found..." His tone was both inquisitive and supportive, indicating his willingness to offer his expertise and assistance.

"Yes," she replied, her voice steady and determined. "I will go get it in our bedroom so you can take a look at it."

Walking out of the room, Lauren felt nervous. She wondered if Anthony could truly give them answers, and if the answers he had could help them solve the dilemma they were facing. Worry settled deep in her heart and she heaved a sigh as she took the book from the safe place she kept it in.

Gently cradling the book in her hands, Lauren returned to the king’s office. The three pairs of eyes fell on the book she carried.

The room seemed to hold its breath, awaiting the sage’s wisdom to breathe life into the forgotten pages.