As I glanced up I felt a sense of familiarity when I met his eyes it's like something In me awakened,acia was very confused her heart beating fast.
I couldn't look away like the world stopped for a second I couldn't look away I didn't even know why the name slipped from my mouth.
"Acia," Alex called, pulling me out of my daydream.
"You need to look down acia," he said.
"Do you want the king to scold you? Today is the last day you'll be here, and you wouldn't want to mess up the plan."
He spoke quietly to keep others from overhearing their conversation.
"The plan has to succeed, alright?" He glanced at her face.
"I'm sorry," she muttered, guilt washing over her.
"It's alright, Acia, I'm not upset," Alex said gently.
"All I want is for you to be safe, and my father won't punish you."
"Thank you, Alex," Acia replied, feeling his sincerity fill her with warmth.
Everyone bowed to greet the king and queen, with the royal family members lined up. However, the most powerful presence was emanating from Devilin, whose gaze seemed capable of destroying everything around him.
King Lucian and Queen Yashti stepped forward to greet the royals, including the immortal family members and their accompanying council.
"Welcome to the human world," he said, feeling somewhat nervous, though he managed to conceal his emotions effectively. Nevertheless, the royals could still sense his unease, as they were quite attuned to such feelings. King Avic, the immortal king, looked up and returned King Lucian's greeting with a warm smile.
Queen Astrid, the immortal queen, returned King Lucian's warm smile.
Although King Avic had a commanding presence, his gentle smile provided some reassurance. However, King Lucian's heart began to race again when he felt another strong, cold presence beside him, leaving him momentarily speechless.
"I believe King Lucian has forgotten that I'm actually here," he said, "or perhaps I'm starting to think you might be the bride I want to marry, considering how you keep gazing at me," he added, a dangerous smile playing on his lips.
He glanced up and couldn't shake off the pressure from the cold aura radiating from the menacing prince. Although the prince wore a smile, it resembled that of a devil. "Welcome to the human world," he said with a slight bow, addressing the king and queen as well.
"I hope my stay will be quite memorable," he added, still grinning.
"I hope so too,prince devilin," King Lucian replied.
"And... you know how much we Immortals enjoy blood; you wouldn't mind offering yours, would you, King Lucian?" devilin said with a smirk.
"Blood?" Lucian stuttered.
"I believe the prince means something different," King Avic interjected.
King Lucian gave an awkward smile to Prince Devilin.
"No need for formalities," King Yashti said, attempting to lighten the tense atmosphere. "I'll take the lead," she added.
One by one, the others from both the human and immortal realms exchanged greetings as the royals were escorted to their cars. Guards were positioned everywhere, ensuring that everything was flawless. Although Lucian felt quite uncomfortable, he knew he had no choice; this was essential for his plan if he wanted to rule the kingdom in a way that would instill fear in the council.
The councils have posed a threat to him since the death of his brother, the former king. While some members are loyal to him, he cannot eliminate the elder members, as they were instrumental in his ascension to the throne, yet they still remain loyal to the late king. The killings of the humans have also had a significant impact on him; he is striving to ensure that his reign is flawless and free from the secret of the past. He even brought Acia into the picture to demonstrate how much he pretends to care about his brother's daughter.
The entire royal family departed, along with their relatives. Acia watched as everyone was escorted away, leaving her with Alexander, two guards, and the driver.
"It looks like our plan is going to work out well," Alex remarked. "The king has even forgotten you're here," he added.
However, when he looked up, he noticed that Acia seemed distracted again.
"What's wrong?" Alexander asked, concerned.
"Nothing," she replied, not wanting anything to interfere with their plan or their main objective.
"You know you can talk to me," Alex said softly.
"I'm just worried about the plan," she said, lying, aware that Alex would keep bothering her if she insisted that everything was fine.
"Let's go now; Elizabeth should be waiting for us in the palace," Alex said. He led the way to the car, and the guards opened the door for them and helped them inside.
"Why did Inyan go alone?" she asked Alex.
"She knows Devilin well and has feelings for him; that's the main reason she left when the others did," he replied.
"But Prince Devilin is a very dangerous person. I wouldn't want sweet Inyan to be associated with him," Acia said sadly.
"I hope so too, but what can we do?" he shook his head.
"Won't the king..."
"Do you know how long you were lost in thought? You didn't even hear anything I said about the king not noticing your presence, and that's actually good for us," he stated.
However, I don't think he noticed. Don't worry, he laughed, and Acia sighed in relief.
"Drive," he instructed the driver.
Acia glanced outside and observed that the city was unusually quiet and empty.
"Is this how the city is now?"she asked with curiosity, as she could barely remember her childhood when the city was always bustling with activity.
"No, Acia, we humans are fragile beings; of course, we fear the supernatural," he chuckled at her innocence and the way she gazed more intently out the window.
Before long, they arrived at the palace, and Acia was astonished by how much more beautiful it had become.
The grand entrance gates were beautifully decorated with lush greenery, colorful flowers, and sparkling fairy lights. A magnificent masquerade banner hung overhead, inviting guests to the lavish ball. The pathway to the palace was lined with stylish candelabras, their gentle glow providing a warm and welcoming light on the cobblestones. The air was fragrant with the scent of blooming flowers, accompanied by soft music emanating from inside. The central fountain of the palace was lit up with vibrant colors, creating a captivating display of water and light. The building itself radiated a soft, otherworldly glow, with spotlights emphasizing its architectural features. The facade featured intricate projections and patterns, adding an element of whimsy and fantasy. Lanterns of various shapes and sizes dangled from the balconies, casting a warm, golden light into the evening. Red carpets were laid out, attended by uniformed staff, greeting distinguished guests at the grand masquerade ball. The atmosphere was charged with excitement, filled with the allure of mystery, romance, and unforgettable experiences.
"Is it a masquerade ball?" Acia asked Alex.
"I convinced my dad to make it a masquerade ball; it's part of our plan," he replied.
"That's great!" Acia smiled.
They both got out of the car, and Acia felt joyful seeing the new decorations she hadn't seen in years.
Alex watched her with admiration, chuckling softly as he let her soak in the moment.
However, their happiness was interrupted when she heard someone call her name from a distance.
"Princess" She turned to see who it was and froze, her eyes widening in surprise.