Viktor's gaze drifted from the swaying tulips to Malcolm, who walked towards him with a purposeful stride, his boots crunching on the gravel path. The guardian's stoic expression softened ever so slightly as he approached.
"I'm perfecting the art of wasting time," Viktor said, his voice laced with sarcasm, as he raised his cigarette. "Care to join me?"
Malcolm's lips curled into a faint smile, and he took the unused cigarette from Viktor. With a swift motion, he clicked his fingers, igniting the tobacco. The flame danced momentarily, casting a warm glow on Malcolm's features.
Viktor's gaze returned to the tulips, their vibrant petals swaying gently in the breeze. "That power of yours could come in handy one day."
Malcolm raised an eyebrow, settling beside Viktor on the stone bench. The scent of smoke and flowers mingled in the air.
"In lighting cigars?" Malcolm asked, his voice low and smooth.
Viktor's eyes sparkled with dark amusement. "In setting unnecessary people and things ablaze." His voice dripped with sarcasm. "And yes, in lighting cigars."
A genuine smile spread across Malcolm's lips, creasing the corners of his eyes. "You haven't changed one bit, Viktor."
Viktor puffed on his cigarette, exhaling a stream of smoke that dissolved among the tulips. His voice was laced with a mix of sarcasm and vulnerability. "How disappointing. I was hoping to be seen in a different light... especially by you."
"You wish," Malcolm mumbled, puffing at his own cigarette. "Welcome back, prince Viktor, it's good to have you back."
Viktor and Malcolm were friends before the situation of things changed. Malcolm, who came from a family that produced guardians, had been selected to replace his father. He thus became the head guardian, much to the envy of most people.
"I'm not sure everyone shares the same opinion as yourself, Malcolm." Viktor paused. "Considering the outstanding gift I received."
Malcolm's gaze turned serious, his gray eyes narrowing slightly. "I heard about the note found on the king's body."
Viktor nodded, "the murderer must have been ticked by my return." He pursed his lips, his gaze narrowing. "How did you find out about the note?"
Malcolm chuckled, stretching himself a little. "I have my sources, Viktor. Besides, rumors do spread quick."
Viktor scoffed, puffing the last of his cigarette before stomping on it. "Keep your eyes on your fellow guardians, Malcolm. My intuition tells me they have something going on."
Malcolm nodded, humming in agreement. "And you keep a watch here in the castle. The murderer needs to be found as soon as possible. I'll try to keep the Bloodstone under control for now."
Malcolm turned to viktor, his expression turning serious once again. "Is there anything else you found relating to the murderer?"
Viktor's mind went back to the embroidered letters he found on the king's body. He contemplated on telling Malcolm about it but shook his head instead. "No, there's nothing for now."
Malcolm nodded, leaning on the back rest, and puffing at his cigarette. They both sat there quietly, each lost in his own thoughts.
As the hours slipped by, the sun's rays gave way to the moonlight. Torches were extinguished and the corridors grew quiet.
In another wing of the castle, Markus stood before his reflection in the mirror. His hands reached out for his cloak which he draped over his shirt.
With a swift glance around his room, he ensured everything was in order. His hand lingered on the hilt of his dagger, a habitual gesture. Shutting the door behind him, he stepped into the darkness.
His footsteps were muffled by the thick carpet, his movements swift and purposeful. He walked for a while, the corridors stretching endlessly before him. His footsteps finally halted before a hidden door.
He turned the knob, and the door opened. He stepped inside the room, which was dimly lit by torches at the side of the wall. The light got brighter as he walked deeper into the room, revealing Genevieve, Raphael and Uriel.
Genevieve's eyes gleamed in the dimly lit room, her hands gesturing towards the empty seat beside her. "Take a seat, Markus. It's good that you're here."
Markus nodded, taking the seat beside his mother.
"I believe we are all aware of the proceedings of the court meeting today." Genevieve began, her eyes sweeping through the different faces. "Congratulations to you Markus, on your new position as Regent."
Markus's gaze never wavered, his expression unyielding. "I don't think a congratulation is fit for such a position. I won't celebrate until the throne is fully mine."
Genevieve's lips curled into a smile. "Patience Markus. We must bide our time carefully. The regent position grants you influence, and with careful maneuvering, the throne isn't that far."
Raphael clicked his tongue, his eyes showing a hint of disapproval. "Do you really believe that the throne will be yours, with the Queen mother at the top?"
Markus's eyes narrowed, his expression turning thoughtful. "What are you getting at, Raphael?"
Raphael leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers. "The Queen mother says prince viktor is unfit to rule with a dormant essence. But do you believe that she will let you rule in place of Viktor?"
Uriel's voice was laced with malice. "Then perhaps it's time to reconsider her position. Weaken her, and the throne is within your grasp."
Markus's jaw clenched, his eyes flashing with conflict. His grandmother, the Queen mother had always been a complex figure in his life--both a symbol of family and a barrier to his ambitions.
It was obvious to everyone in Bloodstone that the Queen mother treasured her first grandson, more than anything else. She had shown that on countless occasions. Despite knowing that, Markus couldn't bear the thought of harming her in anyway.
"I-I won't harm her," Markus stated, his voice shaking slightly. "She's family, we have to find another way."
Raphael's expression turned cold. "The Queen mother will choose prince Viktor over you without a second thought. Aren't you family too?" He paused. "Do not let your emotions cloud your judgement."
Markus's fists clenched, his mind running with different thoughts. "S-still...there has to be..."
"There is no other way, prince Markus." Raphael interjected, his tone icy. "Take down the Queen mother and the throne is yours."
Markus let out a sigh, his knuckles turning white from his tight clenched fists. "Then...do you mean we have to kill her?"
Genevieve chuckled, her eyes twinkling in the dim light. "Who says we have to kill her? All we have to do is weaken her and keep her indisposed ."
Uriel leaned forward, his eyes glinting. "Difficult choices, prince Markus, mean sacrifices. Are you prepared to make them?"
Markus hesitated before nodding in agreement. "I will do what's necessary," he mumbled, his gaze hardening along with his clenched fists.
"Great!" Genevieve chimed, her eyes twinkling in delight. "Then I'll have everything sorted out. I believe the Queen mother doesn't miss her evening herbs, right?"
Raphak nodded, humming in agreement. "Don't forget our deal, lady Genevieve. If everything works out, I'll take the position of the head guardian."
Genevieve offered him a calm smile. "You need not worry, Raphael. The position of the head guardian is as good as yours."
"And what do I get from all these?" Uriel asked, raising a brow.
"Make your choice, Uriel." Genevieve said, her voice low and measured.
Uriel smiled, revealing his pearly teeth. "I'll have the lands at the western borders."
Genevieve clasped her hands together, a smile etched on her face. "Consider it yours, Uriel." She paused, her eyes lingering on their faces before she continued;
"I believe the meeting has come to an end, let's make our preparations towards the king's burial."
They all nodded in agreement before dispersing to their distinct chambers.