ELARA'S POV:
"We're almost there," Lady Victoria said curtly, her voice laced with impatience.
'The Veilwoods are so beautiful,' Elara whispered, her voice filled with wonder.
Her emerald green eyes sparkled with genuine fascination as she spoke to herself.
The ancient trees have twisted branches and moss-covered trunks. And they seemed to whisper secrets of a forgotten time.
They have just passed the ancient trees that guard the Palace. And now they were entering its zone.
The air was heavy with the fragrance of wildflowers and the earthy scent of the forest.
And it further enhanced the enchantment that enveloped her.
Aurora sighed, "I can't wait." Then she crossed her arms over her chest.
Meanwhile, Elara peeked out the carriage window. Her eyes widened at the sight before her.
The Palace was situated in the middle of lush gardens and guarded by giant stone walls. And it exuded an air of regality and glory.
"We've arrived," the carriage driver announced, bringing the carriage to a stop.
Elara took a deep breath, mustering her resolve.
She has decided to accept Lord Malachi's offer. But it was only a bridge so she could get out of the Manor and escape again.
Today is the King's meeting with the participants of the Union of Hearts.
'And hopefully, this was also the means so I can take my freedom back.'
She pushed open the carriage door. And she was about to step out onto the cobblestone pathway.
But the gentleman-in-waiting offered his hand for assistance.
"I can manage, good sir." She smiled at him before she jumped down from the carriage.
Aurora rolled her eyes in disdain as she extended her gloved hand so the servant could assist her.
Meanwhile, Elara's eyes widened in awe as she took in the magnificent sight before her.
'It's more beautiful up close than I ever imagined,' Elara exclaimed to herself. Her inner voice filled with genuine awe.
'The King must feel lucky to live in a place such as this.'
The walls were made of aged stone. And they bore the weight of countless stories etched into their very foundation.
The main entrance was adorned with elaborate carvings and decorative motifs. And it served as a gateway to a world of opulence and splendor.
'The gardens seemed to be meticulously maintained, too.'
Elara's gaze wandered towards the blooming flower beds.
The vibrant petals reached towards the sky. And they were seemingly in competition with the palace itself.
Lady Victoria must have sensed her distraction as she cleared her throat. "Let's not forget why we're here."
Elara immediately acted prim and proper as soon as she heard her mother's voice.
'She's right. I have to see where I can get out also.'
Elara's eyes darted around the Palace, not looking at its beauty anymore. But finding an escape route.
"Where is Lord Malachi, by the way?" Aurora asked, her voice filled with curiosity.
"I'm here, my lady," Lord Malachi said, suddenly appearing beside Elara.
Elara was surprised. But she couldn't deny the intensity in his eyes.
And she felt a mix of anxiety and intrigue.
They walked towards the palace entrance. And Elara observed Lord Malachi.
He had a powerful presence and striking features, with dark hair and pale skin.
'Is it worth it? Can I trust him, this mysterious demon with his crimson eyes and brooding charm?' she mused.
She does not have strong feelings for him. But Elara found herself tempted by his offer of freedom.
Elara pondered, 'What about the cloaked man?'
She recalled about the sensations that surged through her when they made contact.
"We will finally eliminate her and acquire wealth simultaneously." Lady Victoria's whispers caught Elara's attention.
Elara's chest tightened as she recognized the coldness in her mother's voice.
Aurora's voice joined the conversation, her tone a blend of excitement and treachery.
"Yes, it's high time she was gone. We can't let her tarnish our family's name any longer. It's for the best, Mother."
Elara's breath caught in her throat, her eyes stinging with unshed tears. But she shook her head and lifted her face.
"Yes, this is for the best. I will finally get rid of them, too," she whispered with determination, and a tinge of brokenness.
As Elara and her family entered the grand hall, they were greeted by a scene of bustling activity. The hall was adorned with lavish tapestries.
Elara's eyes also swept across the other parts of the room. She took in the array of finely dressed men and women.
The women wore elegant gowns in vibrant colors. Their jewelry sparkled in the light.
"Oh," Elara gasped softly. Her hand instinctively reached up to touch her own simple necklace.
The contrast was obvious. But she couldn't help but feel a surge of admiration for the ladies' elegant adornments.
However, the ladies seemed to have a different opinion of her. They whispered to one another and gave her condescending gazes.
Meanwhile, Lady Victoria coached Aurora.
"Keep your back straight, Aurora. Don't forget to smile demurely," she whispered, a devious smile playing on her lips. "The king must notice your beauty above all others."
"Yes, Mother. I will do as you say," Aurora replied, her voice tinged with a mixture of excitement and nervousness.
Elara's heart sank as a wave of sadness washed over her.
"I shouldn't have expected anything," she murmured, her voice tinged with sadness.
She somehow hoped they would share in the joy of her impending marriage, even if she knew they wanted to get rid of her.
"They will not just get rid of me. They will also use the King as a means to further their own ambitions," Elara said, gritting her teeth.
Unable to hold back her biting remark, she leaned towards Aurora and spoke in a mockingly sweet tone.
"Oh, dear sister, you need not put on such a show. I'm sure the King will see right through your gentle facade. He will witness the true essence of your wickedness."
Before Elara could fully revel in her retort, a sudden yank on her hair made her gasp in pain.
"Ouch!" Elara heaved.
The scene threatened to escalate further. But Lady Victoria swiftly intervened, her voice hushed but authoritative.
"Enough! The King is here! Lady Victoria's tone cut through the air.
It commanded both Elara and Aurora's attention.