The Mad Princess and the Dying Prince novel Chapter 36

"What did my dear Gaston say wrong? That wretched wench beat our son into this state, and she thinks she can walk away unscathed?"

"Fine, fine, I wash my hands of the two of you," the Marquis of Greenfield scoffed, storming out of his son's chambers with a flick of his cloak.

Joanna turned to Gaston. "My dear Gaston, rest and heal. I will handle this for you."

"Mother, go to the Prince's Estate and drag that wench back here first! I'm grievously injured, and I want her to serve me hand and foot!"

"Of course, I will send men at once."

Joanna hurried out to catch up with the Marquis. "Lord Marquis, I will go to the palace and beg the queen mother for her backing. Gather the men. The moment I leave the palace, we will confront Prince Jareth!"

Just then, the Steward came sprinting toward them. "Lord Marquis! The old king has passed away!"

The Kingdom of Valerius plunged into deep mourning.

Per the old king's past wishes, his funeral rites were not to be overly extravagant. Yet, even so, the entire Royal Capital was draped in black bunting, and a heavy, sorrowful atmosphere settled over the city.

For the common folk, it meant speaking softly and treading lightly. The daily bustle dwindled to a murmur.

All entertainment ceased, and marriages among the populace were postponed.

Families kept their children indoors, terrified they might be caught laughing or playing in the streets.

Those walking the cobblestones wore drab, simple tunics, devoid of any bright colors.

Just before this solemnity blanketed the city, a royal decree had landed upon House Beaumont, blowing their peace to pieces.

"Lord Beaumont, I hear the second daughter of your noble house has been brought back from the country?"

Lord Alistair Beaumont had been in his study, brooding over the matter of Lucia, when he heard that a royal messenger had arrived. He had rushed to the main hall.

Upon seeing the Royal Herald, before he could even offer a greeting, that question struck him like a physical blow.

Was this about Lucia?

"Master Herald, has this matter truly reached His Majesty's ears?" Alistair asked cautiously.

But the Royal Herald was already impatiently demanding they fetch the girl.

Left with no choice, Alistair ordered a maid to go to Sunstone Pavilion and summon Lucia.

He just wondered if the girl, injured as she was, could even get out of bed.

Lucia had just finished drying her hair and bandaging her wound. Hearing that a royal decree demanded her presence, she had no choice but to dress. Supported by Celia and Celeste, she made her way to the main hall.

The short walk left her limbs feeling weak, and she silently cursed Prince Jareth.

The moment Lucia crossed the threshold, the eyes of everyone in Beaumont Manor snapped toward her.

The Royal Herald was briefly struck by her stunning beauty, though he noted with surprise that the second Beaumont daughter was quite heavily bandaged.

"The royal decree has arrived. Lady Lucia, drop to one knee to receive His Majesty's will."

Every member of House Beaumont immediately dropped to one knee.