Mated To The Cruel Prince novel Chapter 401

Chapter 401: Aldric Took Control Of Her

The dance concluded, signaling the beginning of Fae Queen Maeve’s opening speech. Stepping onto the dais with an air of intelligence, her gaze surveyed the room, taking in the sight of the attending Faerie. Some were seated while others stood, all with drinks in hand. The Fae had a notorious love for drinking.

From her position, Queen Maeve spotted Islinda, causing a shiver to run down her spine. Islinda immediately averted her gaze, still feeling the intense attention from the Queen. She wanted to scream out in frustration, to make it clear that she wasn’t pursuing her son and was just minding her own business. But she remained silent.

The Queen, with an easy smile upon her face, glanced away from Islinda and began her speech. Her voice carried powerfully across the room, augmented by some form of magic.

"Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed members of the Fae realm, I welcome you all to tonight’s event!"

The crowd erupted into applause and cheers in response to the Queen’s welcome. Though Islinda didn’t feel inclined to applaud, she didn’t want to stand out as the odd one and reluctantly joined in. However, Aldric, with a blank expression, continued to stare fixedly at the Fae Queen.

The Fae Queen exuded grace and elegance as she continued with enthusiasm, "Tonight marks a momentous occasion in the history of Astaria. We gather here not only to celebrate the grandeur of our majestic kingdom, but also to partake in a tradition that has bound our destinies for generations - the Matchmaking Ball.

"His majesty and my husband, King Oberon..." Her gaze glanced towards his empty throne, "unfortunately isn’t able to join us due to matters concerning the kingdom." Despite the awful memories of the day weighing on her mind, Queen Maeve’s facial expression remained unwavering.

"He built Astaria from scratch with his own hands, sweat, and the wisdom bestowed upon him by the gods. Today, we stand in the enchanting realm of Astaria, where magic and destiny intertwine. Once more, we come together under the auspices of love and unity. The Matchmaking Ball is not merely an event; it is a celestial dance orchestrated by the stars themselves, guiding us towards the connections that transcend time.

"As your Queen, I stand before you with the fervent hope that each of you finds a love as deep as the ancient roots of our trees. Let tonight be a celebration of love, a testament to the enduring power that unites us all. May the spirits of the Fae bless this gathering with harmony and serenity.

"In this radiant ballroom, adorned with the brilliance of our kind, open your hearts to the possibilities that destiny lays before you. Seek out the connections that resonate with your very essence, for in those bonds, you shall find strength, joy, and eternal companionship.

"To the eligible Fae attendees, may your steps on the dance floor be guided by the threads of fate. Embrace the melodies that fill the air, for they are the whispers of the cosmos, revealing the matches meant to be.

"And to those who approach the dance of destiny with trepidation, remember that love knows no boundaries. Let your hearts be free, and may the Matchmaking Ball weave tales of enduring love that shall be sung for generations to come.

"As the Queen of Astaria, I hereby declare this Matchmaking Ball open, invoking the magic that binds us all. May love find its way into every heart present here tonight. Enjoy the festivities, dance with abandon, and let the magic of this evening create bonds that withstand the test of time.

"Long live Astaria, and may the Matchmaking Ball bring forth unions that illuminate our kingdom with everlasting love and joy!" The Queen concluded, met with a silent hall.

As if on cue, the crowd erupted into cheers and applause, acknowledging Queen Maeve’s powerful speech. Even Islinda had to admit that the Queen was an excellent orator with a captivating stage presence. Yet, Islinda saw through the façade.

The Queen had spoken of love knowing no boundaries, and yet she had already chosen a suitable match for her son, Valerie - Elena. It was clearly a political move, and only fools would believe that their steps were guided by the threads of fate tonight.

If there had been dancing before, the intensity doubled this time as almost everyone sought a partner. Islinda watched as Valerie finally took to the dance floor with his intended, Elena and it pained her. Getting over her first love was no easy task, especially when Valerie had so quickly dismissed her in front of his family and the Faeries of Astaria. And now, he danced proudly with this new companion, simply because she was Fae and from a powerful family.

He had never loved her. She was merely a consolation prize when he was feeling vulnerable and needed someone in his life to help him. Islinda felt her stomach sink as she realized just how thoroughly she had been used. It was not exactly a startling discovery, everyone seemed to use her in this real realm. A self-deprecating laugh escaped her lips, drowned out by the sounds of music and joyful chatter.

"Is it torturous for you to watch them?" a voice whispered in Islinda’s ear, startling her. She turned to see Aldric seated beside her, a sinister thrill in his eyes as he seemed to relish her misery.

"Mind your business," Islinda spat, hastily wiping away the tears that had involuntarily streamed down her face.

"You could return the favor," Aldric suggested.

"What?" Islinda replied, her voice filled with disbelief.

"Kiss me," Aldric repeated, his eyes cold and calculating.

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