In a world where magic courses through the very veins of existence, there exists a delicate balance between light and darkness, good and evil. From the humblest village to the grandest kingdom, the people are divided by the gift—or curse—of magic.
Among the populace, there are those blessed with the ability to wield magic for the greater good, harnessing its power to heal, protect, and nurture. These individuals are revered as guardians of the light, entrusted with the sacred duty of upholding justice and harmony in the world. Yet, alongside the benevolent wielders of magic, there exists a darker counterpart: those who twist and pervert its power for their own selfish desires. These practitioners of dark magic lurk in the shadows, their hearts consumed by greed and ambition, seeking to subjugate all who stand in their way.
At the heart of this conflict lies the royal bloodline, for only those of noble lineage possess the innate ability to channel the most potent forms of magic. The fate of the world is intertwined with the destiny of those who bear the mantle of royalty.
For generations, the royal family has stood as both guardians and arbiters of magic, wielding their power with wisdom and compassion. It is their sacred duty to ensure that the balance between light and darkness is maintained, lest the world be plunged into chaos and despair.
For generations, the House of Aurelius has safeguarded the kingdom with their extraordinary powers, weaving spells of protection and prosperity. Their ethereal appearance, with hair as shimmering as moonlight, sets them apart as true heirs to the throne. Legends whisper of the origins of their unique trait, attributing it to a divine blessing bestowed upon their ancestors by celestial beings.
they are renowned for their ethereal silver-white locks, a trait that symbolizes their connection to the mystical forces that flow through their bloodline.
—
I am the House of Aurelius' youngest prince, as well as the strongest, handsomest, most skilled, and most powerful.
I am the protagonist.
And This is the story of how I got the title 'the uncrowned king' .
But wait! We're getting way ahead of ourselves. Allow me to rewind. This is merely the beginning..
I am Prince —-
"Lucian !! Prince Lucian--"the younger prince could hear the butler's pleas.
"Shit he found me." Lucian conceals behind the kitchen counter, shushing the royal cooks.
"Prince Lucian, I know you are here. I understand you don't want to go to the ball, but your father will not forgive me."
Prince Lucian peered out from behind the bar, his eyes bright with malice. "Oh, Jarvis, you know how much I dislike stuffy affairs. Besides, I have far more important things to do than dance with some vapid nobles and listening to their tedious gossip."
Jarvis the butler sighed, his portly figure heaving with exasperation. "Your Highness, you must understand the importance of these events. They are not just social gatherings; they are opportunities to strengthen alliances, forge bonds, and showcase the unity of the kingdom."
Lucian rolled his eyes, his fingers drumming impatiently on the marble countertop. "Alliances and unity can wait, Jarvis. Right now, I have a far more pressing mission."
The butler raised an incredulous eyebrow. "And what mission might that be, Your Highness?"
Lucian leaned in conspiratorially, a mischievous grin playing on his lips. "I'm on a quest for the perfect chocolate soufflé recipe."
Jarvis blinked in disbelief before his expression morphed into one of resignation. "Your father will not be pleased, Your Highness."
Lucian waved a dismissive hand. "Let him fume. Tonight, I shall be the prince of pastries, not the prince of Aurelius."
"My Prince don't forget that the queen, your mother. won't be happy knowing that you disregarded your responsibilities.
The Prince paused as he was about to leave. His butler knew that his mother was his weakness, he can't handle his mother being upset. His mother is severely ill.
He took a deep breath and sighed.
"Fine, Jarvis. You win. But I'm not happy about it." He straightened his doublet and smoothed his hair, trying to compose himself.
"Of course, Your Highness." Jarvis bowed slightly, hiding a smile.
The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a soft glow over the ancient stone walls of the castle. As guests arrived, their footsteps echoing across the marble shiny floor. A towering white-golden door swung open, revealing the grandeur within. Inside, the great hall was aglow with flickering candlelight, illuminating the intricate tapestries and heraldic banners that adorned the walls. The air was alive with the sound of laughter and music, as minstrels serenaded the crowd with melodies from forgotten eras. Guests swirled and twirled across the polished marble floor, their elegant attire shimmering in the firelight.
Lucian walked in, hands in his pocket. He knew the moment he stepped into these doors no one would bat an eye towards his direction as he stood in the shadow of his three older brothers, who stood as towering pillars of the family's legacy. they embodied the epitome of royal grace and strength, revered by the kingdom as paragons of virtue and honor.
While Lucian was the epitome of royal mischief.
He didn't even try to be nice.
As the youngest, the burden of the crown was not his. He was the fourth child, and therefore had no obligation to follow his brothers' footsteps. But being a prince meant a certain expectation was placed on his shoulders. His siblings' success made him feel like an afterthought, a forgotten son who could never measure up.
So Lucian rebelled.
Lucian snapped his finger at the butler to pour him a wine cup, his eyes wandered across the crowd. There was nothing more boring than this ball. He took a sip, the bitter liquid stinging his throat. A sudden hand snatched the cup from his grasp, causing Lucian to glare up at who did this.
It was his third oldest brother Vincent, who was only two years older than him. Lucian had to look up to his older brother who was a head taller. Vincent had a stern expression, his brows furrowed as he frowned down at his younger brother.
"What is this?" Vincent asked, holding the empty cup of wine. "What does it look like?" Lucian rolled his eyes, he was not in the mood for his brother's scolding. "This is a party, let me have a little fun."
Vincent's frown deepened. "You're underage, and besides, father has asked me to keep an eye on you tonight."
Lucian scoffed, "As usual, he sent his loyal dog to babysit me." He mumbled under his breathe.
"What did you say ?"
He forced himself to smile. "I was just saying that you should lighten up and enjoy the party vin."
Vincent looked skeptical, but let the issue drop. He placed the empty cup on the tray of a passing servant, and turned his attention back to Lucian.
Lucian wasn't very fond of his siblings, but Vincent was the most tolerable one out of the other two. Vincent was like king's loyal dog. He followed every instruction given by the king, father. Lucian could clearly tell Vincent is greedy person who is trying to win the king's favor to rule the throne.
"Must I remind you to behave tonight, brother. We have very important guests attending this ball." Said Vincent in monotone tone.
Lucian rolled his eyes. "Really and who could that be ?"
Vincent gave him an incredulous look. "Have you even paid attention to anything we have been saying for the past week ?"
Placing a finger on his chin, Lucian pretended to be thinking. "Mhmmm-nope."
"The Sinclair family, one of the biggest families who are known for using dark magic." Lucian's interest piqued at the mention of the Sinclair family.
The mere thought of dark magic sent a shiver down his spine, but it also ignited a spark of curiosity within him. He had heard whispers of the Sinclair's reputation, tales of their mastery over forbidden arts that delved into the darkest depths of the arcane.
"So, what brings THE Sinclairs here ?" Lucian asked, unable to suppress his curiosity.
Vincent's expression grew serious. "They seek an alliance with our kingdom, but their intentions are shrouded in secrecy. Father believes that a union between our houses could strengthen our magical defenses against potential threats, but I fear that the Sinclairs have ulterior motives."
'They've the potential threat.'
Lucian's brow furrowed as he mulled over his brother's words. The idea of forming an alliance with practitioners of dark magic seemed like a risky proposition, one that could potentially tip the delicate balance between light and darkness in their world.
"Shouldn't we be wary of associating with them?" Lucian asked, his voice tinged with skepticism.
Vincent nodded solemnly. "Indeed, but father believes that diplomacy is the key to maintaining peace. We must tread carefully, lest we become entangled in the web of deceit that the Sinclairs are known to weave."
The Sinclair biggest trait was their jet black hair that contrasted with their pale glass skin. Their eyes were a vivid shade of green, almost like emeralds, a mark of their lineage.
It was obvious that the Sinclairs were not like the others.
And they were not here for a mere social gathering.
Vincent joined his father and brothers in welcoming our distinguished guests. Lucian seized this opportunity to consume a few more wine glasses. He snapped at the servant, telling him to pour him more.
"My prince, I believe you had a lot—" the servant responded quietly.
"Pour me more if you don't want to lose your job." The servant obeyed and poured him another cup. As he drank, Lucian heard familiar voice.
"Well, well, well. If it isn't the prodigal brother. Have you finally decided to grace us with your presence, Lucian?"
Lucian turned around, meeting his second brother's gaze.
"Caspian." Lucian said in a mocking tone.
"I see you're already indulging in the wine." Prince Caspian said, noticing the empty cups littering the table.
"What can I say? It's a party, and I intend to enjoy myself." Lucian shrugged, taking another sip.
"You should learn to act like a prince, instead of a drunken fool." Caspian sneered.
"You should learn to fuck off." Lucian gave sarcastic smile.
Caspian shook his head in disappointment, his eyes glinting with contempt. "You'll never change, will you, Lucian? No matter how hard we try to shape you into something better, you'll always be a failure. The family disappointment." Lucian felt a surge of anger well up inside him. His grip tightened around the cup, threatening to shatter it. Caspian tapped his shoulder and leaned down next to his ear
"You can shit talk me all you want brother but we all know, you would never utter a word like that in front of Eden." He raised his head and walked passed him. Lucian seethed with anger at Caspian's words, his chest tightening with frustration. He hated how his siblings always seemed to look down on him, to belittle him at every turn. But Caspian's mention of Eden struck a nerve, stirring up memories of their strained relationship.
Eden, the eldest brother, and the potential heir to the throne, carried himself with an air of authority that seemed to command respect from all who crossed his path. He was the epitome of royal dignity, his every movement exuding confidence and power. Yet, beneath his composed exterior lurked a darkness that sent chills down Lucian's spine. Their interactions were few and far between, each one filled with unspoken tension and unspoken resentment. Lucian couldn't quite put his finger on what it was about Eden that unsettled him so deeply, but he couldn't deny the palpable sense of unease that washed over him whenever they were in the same room.
The Prince loosened his tie, he felt a bit tipsy from the wine. He stumbled through the dimly lit halls, his footsteps echoing on the polished marble floors. He pushed the bathroom door. He felt so nauseous
He pushed the stall opened and sat on the floor, feeling himself throw up in the toilet. A moment later he felt a hand on his back, rubbing his back.
Who was that ? And when they did they enter the bathroom.
Lucian wiped his mouth, and looked up at the stranger. Dark hair, emerald eyes. Why does that look familiar. His brain was too foggy to think at the moment the stranger was squatting next to the younger prince a lollipop in the corner of his mouth.
"take your hand off me —agh" His words were interrupted as the stranger pushed his back aganist the floor. The stranger's grip tightened, his green eyes glinting with malice.
"Easy there , just let me do my job will ya ?"
"What the hell are you doing?" Lucian growled, his voice barely above a whisper.
The stranger lifted Lucian's shirt up exposing his stomach. He ran his index finger across the prince stomach before He put his palm on it and began chanting spells that Lucian didn't identify. The words were weighty and ominous. Lucian's breathing rate rose with each word said.
What type of magic was this?
A whirling black tattoo formed on the prince's stomach.
"Agh- " Lucian tried to fight back.
Suddenly the stranger let go at the sight of the mark appearing. His emerald eyed glistened. "Found it."
Lucian tried to push him off, but the stranger held him down strongly. Lucian would be lying if he said he wasn't scared. Was that an assassin. Is he going to kill him —
In fucking bathroom.
Lucian could feel tears prickling his eyes, his mind reeling from the situation. He felt helpless, trapped. The stranger's eyes raked over his body.
"Oh !! Don't cry you're breaking my heart ~" The stranger pretended to be hurt as he clutched his own clothes. His fictitious sweet tone was tinged with sarcasm and mockery. The dark haired guy returned to pushing his hand against the black mark. The black mark began gleaming, causing Lucian to squirm with anguish.
"Just stop please it hurts- " he heavily breathed.
Lucian felt a searing pain spread throughout his entire body. His muscles tightened, and his joints felt as though they were being stretched to their limits. He gritted his teeth, trying to stifle his cries. He wanted to scream, but his voice was caught in his throat. "Don't worry, it'll all be over soon. Just hold it in for more tiger." The dark haired guy other hand wondered across through Lucian's silver hair, wiping it off his face, while his other hand was still on the black mark.
"Be patient for me."
A sudden sharp pain stabbed through Lucian's stomach. His vision went dark, his body convulsed as the searing pain became more intense. He could feel his consciousness slipping away.
He didn't have the strength to fight back anymore.
The last thing he heard before he closed his eyes.
"I will see you soon tiger~" the stranger popped the lollipop out of his mouth and dropped it on the floor.
—-
Lucian woke up with gasp, Lucian woke up with gasp, he could feel sweat dripping from his forehead. He blinked and looked around. He was lying in his bed, his silk sheets tangled around his legs. He slowly sat up, his head throbbing with pain.
"Your Highness, you're awake." Jarvis rushed to Lucian side and handed him glass of water.
Lucian took it and placed the glass to his lips.
"My prince, you have consumed too much alcohol yesterday. I found you passed out on the bathroom floor." Jarvis stated, worry apparent in his voice. Lucian sighed and ran a hand through his hair. The events of the night before came flooding back, the mysterious stranger, the excruciating pain.
It was all just a dream.
Right ?
He was probably so drunk that his brain had conjured up some absurd nightmare.
He took a deep breath and swung his legs off the bed. He stood up, his feet landing on the cold marble floor.
"His grace, require your presence immediately in the dining hall for breakfast."
"Like now ?" Lucian groaned, what does his father want. He never ask him to attend breakfast with him.
"Yes, Your Highness. His Grace seemed quite insistent." Jarvis replied, his tone leaving no room for argument.
Lucian sighed, resigning himself to the inevitable. He quickly freshened up and followed Jarvis to the dining hall, his mind still reeling from the vividness of his dream.
As he entered the hall, he noticed his father, King Aurelius, seated at the head of the table, his expression unreadable. Lucian took his place beside his father, trying to ignore the lingering unease from his dream. He noticed all his siblings were seated at the table as well.
"Good morning, Father." Lucian greeted, forcing a polite smile.
"Good morning, Lucian." The king's voice was stern, his gaze piercing. Lucian shifted uncomfortably under his father's scrutiny.
"As you know, we had special guests yesterday." The king began as he cut down his meal.
Lucian nodded. "The Sinclairs. Yes, I'm aware."
The king sighed and put his utensils down. "I'm sure you're also aware of the delicate situation we are in. We cannot afford any missteps, Lucian. You must remember that we are dealing with practitioners of dark magic, and such magic can be unpredictable and volatile." Lucian furrowed his brows, confused by his father's words. "Father, what are you implying?"
The king's eyes narrowed, his gaze turning steely. "What I'm saying, Lucian, is that there is no room for messing around. No foolishness will be tolerated. While your brothers were by my side attending our guests were exactly were you ?"
"I was — "Lucian stammered, trying to come up with a reasonable excuse.
"Drunk." His older brother's voice rang out. All eyes turned to Prince caspian, who had a mischievous glint in his eye. "I'm afraid our dear little brother was a bit too enthusiastic with the wine. He was absolutely wasted by the time we got him back to his chambers." The king's gaze hardened, and his knuckles tightened around the fork he was holding. He stared daggers at Lucian, his voice barely a whisper.
"Is that true, Lucian?"
Lucian swallowed thickly, his palms sweating. He opened his mouth to reply, but the words were caught in his throat. The memory of the stranger's emerald eyes flashed in his mind, and he could feel a chill run down his spine. He nodded, averting his gaze. The king slammed his fist on the table, his expression filled with rage. rosing up from his chair and storming off.
Lucian stood up from his chair, leaving the dinning hall. He could hear Vincent calling his name, but he refused to look behind. He went back to his chamber slamming the door closed.
"Fucking caspian !!" He slammed his hand against the wall.
He sudden felt strong pulses in his stomach that caused him to grasp his shirt. "Ah-"
'What was that ?'
As Lucian's anger simmered within him, the pulsing sensation in his stomach intensified, sending waves of pain coursing through his body. He stumbled backwards, collapsing onto his bed, clutching his abdomen. Beads of sweat formed on his forehead as he struggled to catch his breath. He barely walked to the mirror and weakly lifted his shirt he saw the same black mark.
No fucking way, it wasn't dream. It wasn't just dream. He stepped backwards accidentally stumbling.
He needed answers.
He hurriedly walked out of his chamber. He stood in front of the big doors that lead to the palace library. Lucian never stepped foot inside here before, he never liked reading. or studying like his brothers did. But now, he had no choice. He pushed open the heavy doors, the scent of old books and parchment filling his nostrils. Rows upon rows of shelves lined the vast room, filled with knowledge and secrets waiting to be uncovered. Lucian walked down the aisles, his fingers trailing along the spines of the books. He scanned the titles, searching for anything that might offer insight into the mysterious mark on his stomach.
"There is nothing here—" he sighed
"Are you looking for something your highness?"
"Ah- " Lucian almost lost his balance. He looked behind him to see Jarvis standing, tilting his head to the side confused.
"You scared me Jarvis." Lucian sighed. "But no I don't need your help you can shoo." Lucian waved his hand at him, Indicate that he leaves.
"Actually wait !!" Jarvis stops.
"Do you perhaps have any knowledge on uhm black symbols erm— marks ?"
Jarvis shook his head. "I am afraid not your highness."
—-
He spent all day in library. The young prince was sleeping on the floor, books all around him.
"I never seen him read before my dear brother must have been possessed." Vincent was looking down at Lucian with sarcasm dripping from his tongue. The older one nudged him with the tip of book, causing the prince to groan. He opened his eyes slightly, and stiffened when he saw Vincent looking down at him.
"For fuck sake what are you doing here." Lucian racked a hand through his white hair.
"I could ask you the same thing. This is where I study." Vincent's tone was mocking, a hint of superiority laced in his words. Lucian clenched his jaw, suppressing the urge to snap back at his brother. Instead, he pushed himself up from the floor, his muscles protesting from the uncomfortable position he had slept in.
"Shouldn't you be off doing your princely duties or something?" Lucian retorted, his voice laced with annoyance.
Vincent raised an eyebrow, his expression unreadable. "Unlike some people, I take my responsibilities seriously, Lucian. You should try it sometime."
Lucian scoffed, rolling his eyes. "Right, because being cooped up in this stuffy library all day is really my idea of responsibility."
Vincent's lips twitched into a smug smile. "At least I'm not passed out on the floor like a drunkard."
Lucian's temper flared at the jab, but he bit back his retort, not wanting to escalate the situation further. Instead, he forced himself to focus on the task at hand, pushing aside his annoyance with his brother.
As the hours passed, Lucian poured over countless tomes and scrolls, his eyes scanning the pages for any mention of the mysterious black mark that now adorned his stomach. But despite his efforts, he found nothing that provided any answers. Frustration gnawed at him, mingling with the fear and uncertainty that churned in the pit of his stomach.
"Why are you looking into magic books anyways? you know you can't do magic right?" Vincent was Holding a book to his face.
Despite Lucian being a prince and having the blood of nobility and royalty running through his veins. He wasn't able to cast magic like the rest of his family. He was told it was misfortune.
A curse.
"Ah yes, the infamous curse." Lucian's voice dripped with bitterness as he spoke. "The curse that has plagued me since birth, robbing me of the one thing that defines my family's legacy." It was a sore subject, one that he had grappled with for as long as he could remember. He had always felt like an outsider in his own family, the odd one out who could never quite live up to the expectations placed upon him.
"I may not have the gift of magic, but that doesn't mean I can't try to understand it," Lucian replied through gritted teeth, his frustration evident in his tone. "Besides, I have my reasons for delving into these books."
Vincent raised an eyebrow, curiosity flickering in his eyes. "And what reasons might those be?"
Lucian slam the book closed. "And that would be none of your business."
Vincent arched an eyebrow. "Suit yourself," he said, turning back to his own book.
"You know I may not be here for the next two weeks." Vincent mumbled, not taking his eyes off the book.
"Oh finally some good news."
Vincent rolled his eyes. "Father is choosing two among the four of us to visit the Sinclair kingdom in the north." Lucian's interest piqued at the mention of the Sinclair kingdom.
"Sinclair kingdom, huh? What's the purpose of the visit?"
Vincent sighed, closing the book and looking at Lucian. "Father believes it's important to establish a closer relationship with the Sinclairs, given their expertise in dark magic. He sees it as an opportunity to strengthen our kingdom's defenses and forge alliances."
Lucian raised an eyebrow, skepticism evident in his expression. "And you're one of the candidates for this visit?"
Vincent nodded. "Yes, I believe father will choose Eden and me to represent the family."
"Well, isn't this just delightful," Lucian muttered sarcastically, a wry smile playing on his lips.
…
Lucian decided to give his mother a visit on the next day. He stood in front of his mother's chamber. He anxiously knocked on the door. He heard weak voice from behind, slowly opening the door. he could see his mom laying on the bed. She was pale and frail, her once vibrant eyes now dulled with illness. Lucian's heart clenched at the sight of her, a pang of guilt washing over him for neglecting his duties as a son.
"Mother," he whispered, stepping into the room. "It's me, Lucian."
The queen's gaze shifted towards him, a faint smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Lucian," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper. "I missed you Lucian. Tell me have you been eating well?" Lucian's chest tightened as he approached her bedside, sinking to his knees beside her. "Yes, I have been mother."
"Lucian listen to me carefully." The queen reached out a trembling hand, gently cupping his cheek. "My sweet baby, please be good to your father and your siblings. And don't neglect your duties, okay ?"
Lucian nodded, his eyes brimming with unshed tears. "I won't, Mother. I promise but why are you saying that all of sudden. I am also going to be good for you since you're here with me."
The queen's smile softened, her eyes filled with maternal affection.
"The queen require rest now, your highness." The maid informed from behind.
Tears welled up in Lucian's eyes as he leaned forward, pressing a gentle kiss to his mother's hand. "I will go now mother." He stood up.
"Okay my dear." The queen's voice was barely a whisper as she closed her eyes, drifting into a peaceful slumber.
Jarvis hurriedly walked towards the younger prince. "My prince, the king require your presence at the main hall."
Lucian took a deep breath, trying to compose himself before facing his father. He followed Jarvis to the main hall, his mind still reeling from the emotional visit with his mother.
As he entered the hall, he noticed his father, King Aurelius, standing at the head of the table, his expression grave. Eden, Vincent and caspian were already seated.
"Lucian you're late." the king's voice echoed through the hall as he gestured for his youngest son to approach. Lucian stepped forward, his heart pounding in his chest.
"I apologize." he greeted, his voice barely above a whisper.
" i have come to a decision regarding the upcoming visit to the Sinclair kingdom."
"I have chosen Eden and—"
Vincent eyes twinkled as he knew his name will be said any moments now.
"And Lucian."
"What ??" caspian and Vincent yelled in unison while Eden not phased drinking his tea.
"Wait what ?" Lucian finally started progressing the news.
Vincent's expression shifted from one of anticipation to disbelief. His eyes widened, his jaw dropping slightly as he processed his father's words. "Father, surely you jest," he exclaimed, his voice laced with incredulity. "Lucian is hardly fit for such an important diplomatic mission. He's reckless, irresponsible—"
"Enough, Vincent," the king interrupted, his voice firm. "I have made my decision. Lucian will accompany Eden to the Sinclair kingdom."
Vincent's protests fell on deaf ears as the king continued to outline the details of the visit. Lucian stood in stunned silence, his mind racing with a whirlwind of emotions. He couldn't believe his luck, or lack thereof, at being chosen for such a significant task.
As the meeting concluded, Lucian exchanged a wary glance with Vincent, sensing the simmering resentment beneath his brother's facade of composure. The moment the king left the hall. Vincent stood up hands slammed on the table. Vincent's eyes blazed with anger as he turned his attention to Lucian. "This is absurd! You have no business going on this mission. You'll only bring shame upon our family."
Lucian crossed his arms "And what makes you so qualified to judge, Vincent? Last time I checked, you were nothing more than father's obedient lapdog."
Caspian, who had been silently observing the exchange, couldn't help but smirk at the escalating tension. He leaned back in his chair, thoroughly enjoying the drama unfolding before him. "Oh, this is getting good," he murmured to himself, a glint of amusement dancing in his eyes.
Before their argument could escalate further, Eden intervened, his voice calm yet commanding. "Enough!" he said, his tone cutting through the tension like a knife. Both Lucian and Vincent fell silent, turning their attention to their eldest brother.
"Father has made his decision, and we will abide by it," Eden continued, his gaze steady as he addressed them both. "Lucian will accompany me to the Sinclair kingdom, and we will represent our family with dignity and honor."
Lucian swallowed hard, his anger still simmering beneath the surface, but he knew better than to defy Eden's authority. He nodded silently, his jaw clenched in frustration.
Caspian couldn't help but chuckle at the sight of his younger brothers' tension-filled exchange. "Well, this certainly spices up breakfast," he remarked, earning a disapproving glance from Jarvis, who stood nearby.
Vincent shot one last glare at Lucian before storming out of the hall, his footsteps echoing down the corridor.
Eden turned to Lucian, "We leave at dawn tomorrow. Be ready."
Lucian calmly nodded but in his head he hit a mental pelvic thrust for his victory.
Lucian couldn't help but grin as he watched Vincent storm out of the hall like a thundercloud. "Well, that was dramatic," he remarked, his tone laced with amusement. "I wonder if he'll still be this grumpy when he realizes he forgot his morning tea."
Caspian chuckled, shaking his head at his brother's antics. "Oh, Lucian, you never fail to entertain," he said with a smirk.
Lucian walked back to his chamber with Jarvis following him behind. "Looks like we'll be causing a bit of chaos on our diplomatic mission, eh, Jarvis?" he teased, earning a chuckle from the butler.
"Indeed, Your Highness," Jarvis replied with a twinkle in his eye. "But let's try to keep the chaos to a minimum, shall we?"