The Devil's Betrothed
Chapter 500: Crown Princess’ Residence

Chapter 500: Crown Princess’ Residence

Arthur and Nathaniel maintained silence, allowing Drayce to respond, "Just ordinary places where commoners visit, such as taverns and markets."

Curiosity filled Seren’s eyes as she admitted, "I have never seen what a tavern is."

"Would you like to see?" Drayce proposed.

"Yes?"

He smiled gently, "Alright, I will take you there."

Surprised by Drayce’s swift agreement, Arthur and Nathaniel exchanged glances as they could not imagine the Queen of Megaris visiting the place like tavern, the place that was not meant the decent woman let alone the esteemed woman like the Queen herself. They might have to ask Drayce to close his wife’s eyes so she would not see anything inappropriate and get the cultural shock.

But to their understanding now, as Arlan had attested, Drayce was entirely devoted to his wife, a fact was now vividly apparent to them. He would do anything to fulfil his wife’s wishes.

Cian, however, was less than pleased with the idea. "Are you really planning to take my sister to such a shabby place, King Drayce?" he questioned, clearly discontent.

Drayce, with a touch of mockery, countered, "Keeping her in a tower didn’t do any better as well. She has the right to see the outside world."

Cian, feeling the weight of guilt for keeping his sister locked away, voiced his concerns, "She can see the entire world, but a place like a tavern..."

Seren, with innocent purple eyes and a sincere plea, insisted, "Brother, I really want to see."

Unable to deny her request, Cian sighed and reluctantly agreed, "Alright, but I will come with you, and you are going to stick to me."

Drayce, however, raised a brow at Cian’s protective stance, asserting, "Do you think I cannot protect my wife?"

Cian, with unwavering determination, replied, "I do not doubt your capability, King Drayce, but this is what a brother should do for a sister when she goes to such a shabby place."

Seren, not wanting her brother and husband to clash, interjected, "I will be happy to have you, brother. We will get more time to spend together," she added, casting a pleading gaze at her husband, "We will part with my brother soon, so..."

"As you say," Drayce readily agreed, ever eager to fulfill his wife’s wishes. Whatever she desired, he would never deny her.

Seren turned to the surprised men, expressing gratitude, "Thank you for proposing to go out. Because of you, I will get to see something which I never could."

Arthur offered a hesitant smile, unsure if he and Nathanel had done the right thing, and said, "You are welcome, Your Majesty."

The royal carriage glided back to the palace, and Oriana, lost in her thoughts, remained unaware of their arrival.

"Oriana," Arlan whispered, gently drawing her attention and bringing her back from her reverie. She glanced at him, a perplexed expression on her face, as if uncertain about the current situation.

A pang of hurt flickered in Arlan as he realized that on their wedding day, her mind seemed occupied by another man.

Suppressing his emotions, he spoke, "We have arrived."

As she surveyed the opulent surroundings of the grand palace, Rafal opened the carriage door, and Arlan assisted Oriana as she stepped out. This time, Arlan retained his grip on her hand, the warmth of his touch contrasting with her cold one.

Despite his inner turmoil, he refused to release her hand, as if wanting to impress upon her that she should focus solely on him. He, after all, was the one by her side, and he wished for her to cease dwelling on another man.

Oriana attempted to free her hand from his grasp, but he held on firmly. She surrendered, unwilling to create any disturbance, especially when they were under the scrutiny of onlookers.

The wedding concluded, and the newlywed bride was led to the newly prepared Crown Princess Mansion, her future residence adjacent to the palace of Thistle.

As Oriana arrived at her new home, her retinue of servants accompanied her. Ana, one of her attendants, assisted her in stepping out of the carriage and warmly greeted, "Welcome to your new residence, Your Highness."

Oriana directed her gaze toward the majestic palace building. Familiar with the location, she knew it was designated for the Crown Princess. The palace now bore a name prominently displayed in bold letters, accompanied by the symbolic flower that represented her abode-Honeysuckles.

Observing Oriana’s attention to the name, Ana inquired, "Your Highness, do you approve of the name for your residence? It was chosen because it’s the flower His Highness loves the most, much like his love for you."

Oriana offered no comment, instead lowering her gaze towards the entrance of the residence. The rows of female servants stood in formation on either side, all bowing simultaneously to greet and show respect to their new mistress.

"Good evening, Crown Princess."

Oriana acknowledged them with a simple look and proceeded forward, flanked by Ana and her personal attendants. Unaccustomed to such grand gestures, she remained disinterested. All she desired was to be left alone for a peaceful existence.

Upon entering through the main door, Oriana observed the entire foyer illuminated by numerous lamps and candles, adorned with beautiful flowers and other embellishments. A grand glass chandelier hung from the ceiling, casting a heavenly glow over everything. Yet, despite the enchanting ambiance, nothing could thaw her cold heart in that moment.

"Your Highness, please allow me to guide you to your chamber," Ana requested, leading Oriana upstairs to her bedchamber, followed by two more servants.

As they stepped into the bedchamber, they were met with a sight of opulent decor. The focal point was a sizable bed at the center of the room, adorned with scattered flower petals. Scented candles flickered across entire room, and the gentle breeze made the curtains sway, creating a romantic atmosphere befitting the occasion—

The wedding night.

"Your Highness, let us assist you in changing into comfortable attire," Ana offered.

Oriana, returning to awareness after surveying the room, simply nodded. She allowed her attendants to guide her into a side chamber containing her wardrobe and vanity.