Edmund took position while waiting for the music to start. As the music began, he moved through the steps, his body more fluid and confident than before. Seraphina had been right—practice was key.
"Excellent," Lady Vivienne praised. "You've improved tremendously."
They went on to other types of dances, making sure that Edmund was ready for the next day.
...
Hours later, Edmund was training his blood abilities.
Edmund cut his palm once more, letting a few drops of blood fall into a bowl of blood.
Concentrating, he formed the blood into sharp blades that floated around him. This time, he managed to maintain control.
The blades sliced through the air with speed without needing any contact.
"Very good," Master Lucius said, nodding approvingly. "Now, show us Internal Accumulation."
Edmund focused inward, channeling his blood essence to his legs. He took off running, and his speed and agility enhanced.
He could do it better now and was significantly improving by the day.
"Impressive," Lady Vivienne commented.
They went on to focus on other aspects and Edmund made sure to focus on this while leaving the poisoning matter to Sasha.
...
On his way back to his chambers, Edmund bumped into a young boy. He was small and slender, with dark hair and bright blue eyes that sparkled with curiosity.
Edmund recognized him immediately—Aragon, his youngest stepbrother.
Aragon was only thirteen and Edmund didn't have much interactions with him but what he did remember was that Aragon didn't show him the same contempt as Lucien.
It was still a surprise that they were born to the same mother.
"Hello, Aragon," Edmund greeted him with a smile. "What are you doing here?"
Aragon grinned, his youthful enthusiasm infectious. "I was just exploring. I decided to step out of my room today. I'm already missing my books but it isn't so bad outdoors. What about you, Edmund? You look like you've been training hard."
Edmund chuckled. "I have. Preparing for the banquet tomorrow. It's a lot of work."
Aragon's eyes widened. "I heard about that! Congratulations on awakening your essence. Everyone's talking about it. Are you nervous?"
"A little," Edmund admitted. "How was it like for you? Your banquet..."
"Oh, I hated it. But it's traditional so I gave it my best shot. I can't wait to see you perform. You're going to be amazing, Edmund," Aragon voiced eagerly.
Edmund felt a warm glow being in the presence of the boy. Despite the complexities of the royal family, Aragon's innocence and enthusiasm were a refreshing change. "Thanks, Aragon. That means a lot."
Jeremiah had been Edmund for nearly three months now and he was only bumping into Aragon for the first time. The original Edmund had come into contact with him multiple times but never him because Aragon was very introverted.
The only company he liked to be in was that of his books since he loved reading. The matters of the crown were none of his concern and their father didn't try to force it on him.
They chatted for a while longer before Edmund continued on his way. As he reached his chambers, Sasha was waiting for him with a serious expression.
"I've found out more about Malachi," she said without preamble. "He's definitely the one you saw. He's been meeting with several influential figures, including some who are loyal to the Empress."
Edmund's jaw tightened. "So... Does this mean that Melisande is behind this?"
Sasha nodded. "It seems very likely. But we can't confront her about it or make any sudden accusations without being able to properly tie her to such a plot. Attempting to poison the crown prince is treason punishable by death but if we point fingers, all of the blame will probably be shifted to the cook who seems to be the most innocent one here."
Edmund took a deep breath, trying to keep his anger in check. "I guess she wants her son as the crown prince. I should have known. We need to gather evidence. Truly there can't be confrontation without proof."
"It is very unlikely that we'll find any since Melisande is no ordinary figure but I'll keep digging. In the meantime, you need to focus on the banquet. We'll deal with this after," Sasha informed him of her skepticism.
At the very least they knew who to be careful about now. Sasha knew it might take time to expose them but she definitely wouldn't stop.
Edmund nodded, "Alright. But be careful, Sasha. I don't want you to get hurt."
She smiled with a hint of mischief in her eyes. "Don't worry about me, Edmund. I can take care of myself."
The rest of the day passed in a blur of final preparations. As night fell, Edmund found himself alone in his chambers once again training his light essence.
...
...
...
The day of the banquet arrived, and the palace grounds of Darkblorne were alive with activity.
Luxurious carts bearing the crests of noble houses from all over the kingdom rolled in with their occupants stepping out in elegant attire.
High-ranking vampires, with their spouses and teenage children in tow, arrived in droves, each one eager to make a favorable impression on the crown prince.
The grand courtyard was filled with the buzz of conversation, the sound of laughter, and the soft rustle of exquisite fabrics. The atmosphere was electric with anticipation.
Edmund stood at the entrance to the royal hall, dressed in his finest attire. His dark, tailored suit was adorned with intricate embroidery, and his golden eyes shone with determination.
Beside him stood Sasha. Her presence was a reassuring anchor amid the chaos.
"Remember, Your Highness," Sasha whispered, her voice barely audible over the din. "Stay confident and composed. You've prepared for this."
He nodded, taking a deep breath. "I'm ready."
As the dignitaries arrived, they were greeted by palace staff and directed to the royal hall. The grand hall was a sight to behold, with towering pillars, opulent chandeliers, and tables laden with the finest foods and wines.
The air was filled with the rich aromas of roasted meats, exotic spices, and sweet pastries.
Among the first to arrive were the representatives of House Velorn. Lord Velorn with a fine hat and monochrome eyes. He was accompanied by his wife, Lady Evelyn, a striking woman with raven-black hair and a regal bearing.
"Your Highness," Lord Velorn said, bowing deeply. "It is an honor to be here."
Edmund inclined his head. "Thank you, Lord Velorn. Welcome to the banquet."
Lady Evelyn curtsied gracefully. "We are delighted to celebrate your essence awakening, Crown Prince Edmund. May your reign be long and prosperous."
Edmund smiled warmly. "I appreciate your kind words, Lady Evelyn."
Next came Lord Thorne, a broad-shouldered man with a weathered face and a mane of red hair. His wife, Lady Mariel, stood beside him, her emerald-green eyes sparkling with intelligence.
"Your Highness," Lord Thorne greeted, his voice deep and resonant. "Congratulations on this momentous occasion."
"Thank you, Lord Thorne," Edmund replied. "Please, enjoy the festivities."
As more nobles arrived, Edmund greeted each one with practiced politeness, his mind constantly alert for any sign of trouble. He noticed a group of teenagers, all dressed in luxurious outfits, watching him with a mix of curiosity and admiration.
Among them was Lady Isabella, a beautiful young vampire with auburn hair and bright green eyes. She approached Edmund with a confident smile, her presence commanding attention.
"Prince Edmund," she said, her voice melodic. "I'm Lady Isabella of House Farnese. It is a pleasure to meet you."
Edmund returned her smile. "The pleasure is mine, Lady Isabella. Welcome to the banquet."
As they exchanged pleasantries, Sasha leaned in and whispered, "The human royals have arrived."
Edmund's attention shifted to the entrance, where a delegation of human royals was being welcomed. They were dressed in splendid attire, their bearing every bit as luxurious as their vampire counterparts.
Among them was King Dreyforious of Eryndor, a tall man with a dignified presence and a crown of silver hair. His daughter, Princess Diana, stood beside him with her golden locks cascading over her shoulders and her blue eyes scanning the surroundings with interest.
"Your Highness," King Dreyforious said while bowing slightly. "We are honored to be here."