Crushing flags and claiming the Villainess - Chapter 35

Chapter 35: Chapter 34- Caught?
[Capital of Eryndor]

The palace was alive with celebration, its usual grandeur glowing with bright and joyful colors. The golden spires gleamed in the light of the setting sun, and banners of red and gold fluttered from every corner, adding a cheerful touch to the royal structure.

The grand gates, carved with images of mythical beasts, were draped in ribbons and flowers. Musicians stood nearby, playing lively tunes that welcomed everyone with a sense of excitement.

The wide marble paths leading to the entrance were lit with torches, their flickering flames casting a warm glow over the arriving guests.

Inside, the great hall was stunning. Lanterns hung from the high ceiling, their soft light making the polished floor shine. The walls were decorated with flowing curtains of green and blue, mixed with garlands of fresh flowers that filled the air with a sweet smell.

Long tables stood on either side of the hall, covered with all kinds of food and drink. There were trays of shiny fruits, steaming meats, and cakes decorated with intricate patterns. Crystal pitchers sparkled as they held colorful juices and wine.

The Lords of several noble houses, their families, and some guests from foreign lands were all gathered around on the joyous occasion of the second Prince’s birthday and the First Prince’s arrival.

“They say it, but I have mostly seen them celebrating the first Prince’s return rather than congratulating the second Prince.” One of the many groups was involved in the conversation relating to the situation with the royal family.

“Well, considering their worth it’s no wonder that they pay more attention to the eldest one.” Another woman voiced her opinion, and it wasn’t just her who felt this way. Mostly everyone present around the grand hall knows that the eldest Prince is both strong and intelligent. There was no comparison between them.

“I have heard that the Second Prince hasn’t even returned this year, yet they are celebrating the day.” The third one muttered with a sneer.

And not only them but many others were aware that Austin didn’t return this year for some unknown reason. However, the very fact that they had arranged the celebration made it obvious who held more importance in the royal family.

…

“This is wrong, mother.” Inside the room of the King, the three family members of the royal family were present, and currently, the eldest child of the Monarch seemed quite displeased.

“I was about to return to the Academy and spend the birthday together with my brother. But you arranged everything here and forbade me to go as well.” Aiden had a frown on his face and his tone was laced with displeasure.

The silver-head woman approached her lovely child and said, “My dear Aiden, your brother chose to remain alone this year and spend the birthday with his fiancée. Your father did ask him to come back but he denied.”

Hearing that, Aiden’s eyes widened slightly, “He said that?” He turned his gaze towards the patriarch and found him nodding,

“He wanted to spend the day with Valerie.”

Aiden was surprised. Turning away from them he slowly muttered, “I thought they didn’t have a good relationship? This is too sudden.”

Hearing his words, the Queen added, “Isn’t it good that now Austin has accepted his fiancée and we don’t need to be so worried about him?”

A malicious grin extended his lips as the silver-headed prince muttered, “Yes, indeed, it’s quite fascinating that they are now close.”

Wiping off his smirk, he turned around and asked his parents, “Duke Corwon is joining the celebration, right?”

Cedric nodded, “Yes, he surely will. Is there something you wish to talk to him about?”

Aiden smiled fondly and told them, “Just wanted to let him know how his daughter was now happy with her betrothed. After all, as a father, he must be worried about her, no?”

Cedric narrowed his eyes, however, before he could say something, his wife beamed,

“Brilliant, baby. You definitely should talk to him and elevate his worries.”

Although it was fleeting Cedric felt something was suspicious. But it was like a faint breeze passing by, he didn’t think about it again.

———–**———

Back in the Academy, as Valerie said, exactly at seven fifteen Austin saw the warden heading toward the garden with her pet bird cradled in her arms.

The woman looked dangerous enough to make Austin hesitate since he knew getting caught meant another week in the infirmary.

However, he held himself together and once she walked fairly away, he draped the shawl over his head to hide his identity and entered the dormitory.

Since it was time for dinner, most of the students have gone to the cafeteria. Since tomorrow was the assessment, some of them were even practicing until now.

Austin was also planning to do some late-night warm-up and train with Valerie tomorrow morning to have his limbs warmed up a bit.

However, as of now, his focus is on reaching his fiancée.

Silently walking through the corridors he followed the small map she gave him. It was adorable how she drew even a few plants and paintings on the map so he could know that he was on the right path.

“Come on, now!”

Just as he reached the floor where his destination awaited, he heard the voice of a few females approaching.

Austin hurriedly climbed the stairs and waited for them to walk away.

Hiding at the corner, he was peeking at those passing girls when suddenly,

*Tap*

His whole body turned still in shock as he asked, “W-Who?”

“Austin?”

Austin felt the voice was familiar and since the other personas identified him, he turned to look at her,

“Student Council President.” He muttered upon seeing the raven-haired woman standing there.

The head of the council stood there with a surprised look on her face, “What are you doing here?”

Austin looked uncertain, but before he could have said something,

“He is with me.” A third voice interrupted them as they turned towards the violet-haired girl standing at the foot of the stairs.

Austin smiled at his beloved, as Valerie stated, “I have something to discuss with him, President.”

The said President grinned, “It must be quite important that the Disciplinary officer broke one of the biggest rule of the Academy and invited her fiancé here.”

The serious expression of the violette was ruined by the subtle blush that appeared on her cheeks.

Descending the stairs, the President paused before Valerie and said, “Don’t worry, your secret is safe with me.”

Once she walked away, Valerie heaved a sigh and extended her hand toward her Lord, “Let’s go?”

———**——-

A/N:- I should increase the word count already. Thanks for reading.