Married To Darkness
Chapter 280: New Knights

Chapter 280: New Knights

She clutched the hem of the dress she was wearing, turning this way and that as she scrutinized her reflection.

"This one’s too plain," she muttered, tugging at the neckline. She tore it off and flung it onto the growing pile on her bed.

She grabbed another gown, this one adorned with delicate lace and soft pastel hues. Sliding it on, she stared at herself again.

Her hands smoothed over the fabric, but doubt clouded her face.

"No, no, no," she whispered, shaking her head. She yanked it off with more force than necessary, her movements growing frantic.

Her insecurities gnawed at her as she tried on gown after gown, each rejection adding to her frustration.

The mirror reflected not just her image but her inner turmoil.

Finally, she slumped onto the edge of her bed, her head in her hands.

Tears threatened to spill, but she refused to let them fall. Instead, a loud, frustrated scream tore from her throat, echoing off the walls.

Breathing heavily, she sat back, resigned. "What’s the point?" she murmured. "No one will notice me anyway."

After a long moment of stillness, she wiped her face, forcing herself to stand.

She chose the first gown she’d rejected—a soft green dress with simple embroidery—and slipped it on. It wasn’t perfect, but it would have to do.

Adjusting her hair in the mirror, she took a deep breath, trying to steady her nerves.

The court and celebration awaited, and while she didn’t feel ready, she knew she couldn’t miss it.

Elsewhere, Lucius grabbed his umbrella with a reluctant smirk, stepping into the corridor.

He didn’t mind attending in shadows, but the day’s proceedings felt heavier than usual.

"Let’s get this over with," he muttered, making his way to the grand hall.

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The grand hall of the castle was abuzz with murmurs and shifting gazes as the court convened.

Sunlight filtered through the tall stained-glass windows, casting colorful patterns across the stone floor.

Alaric and his group stood at the center, the focus of everyone’s attention, while nobles, courtiers, and the bereaved families filled the room.

King Edwin, seated upon the ornate throne, raised a hand, calling for silence.

His voice carried a regal authority that cut through the lingering whispers.

"We are gathered here today to recognize and honor the bravery of Prince Alaric and his companions," the king announced. "Through their efforts, we have not only uncovered the sinister plots that plagued our kingdom but have also avenged the innocent lives that were lost."

Alaric stood tall, his arm resting lightly on Salviana’s shoulder.

His expression was stoic, though his eyes held a flicker of unease at being the center of attention.

Salviana, beside him, radiated quiet grace, her emerald eyes scanning the crowd.

Jean stood slightly behind them, her posture rigid.

Despite her earlier insecurities, she had composed herself, her green gown shimmering faintly in the sunlight.

Lucius hovered protectively at her side, his dark presence contrasting sharply with the vibrant hall.

Emma and Jaefel stood together, their expressions a mix of pride and solemnity.

The families of the deceased were called forward, and their testimonies began.

A mother stepped forth, clutching a handkerchief, her voice trembling as she spoke. "My daughter... she was among those lost. But thanks to Prince Alaric and his companions, we now know justice has been served." Tears streamed down her face as she bowed deeply. "Thank you."

Another man, his voice breaking, said, "My wife... she was taken from me. I can’t bring her back, but knowing her soul may finally rest brings me some peace. You have my eternal gratitude."

The hall filled with cries, gratitude, and sobs as more families shared their pain and relief.

Salviana blinked back tears, her hand instinctively squeezing Alaric’s for comfort.

The king stood again, his gaze resting firmly on Alaric. "For your valor, I hereby decree that Jaefel, Heappal, and Samion shall be formally recognized as knights of this court and assigned to your household. Jaefel shall serve as your assistant, while Heappal and Samion will be tasked with guarding Lady Salviana."

Jaefel stepped forward, bowing deeply. "It is an honor to serve you, my lord and lady."

The announcement caused a stir among the courtiers, but it was the next revelation that brought muffled chuckles and raised eyebrows.

"As for the former guards of Prince Alaric," the king continued, his tone laced with faint amusement, "it seems they have chosen to resign from their positions and take up roles as coachmen. A career, perhaps, more suited to their talents."

Alaric rolled his eyes, unable to hide his disdain. "They were never capable to begin with," he muttered under his breath, earning a soft laugh from Salviana.

The court continued as more nobles offered their thanks, and advisors discussed the ramifications of the recent events.

Through it all, Alaric and his group remained the center of attention, praised for their courage and determination.

Lucius leaned toward Jean, his voice low and dry. "It seems we’ve made a lasting impression."

Jean glanced at him, her lips curving into a faint smile. "I suppose we have."

The court stretched on, but the sense of relief and resolution was palpable. The kingdom was safe, at least for now, and the sacrifices of the fallen were honored.

It was a bittersweet moment, one that marked the end of a dark Chapter and the beginning of a new one.

As the court session settled into a quieter hum of discussions, Jean found herself standing beside Lucius. She glanced up at him, curiosity flickering in her eyes.

"How did you manage to come here in broad daylight?" she asked softly, eyeing the faint glow of sunlight spilling across the floor.

Lucius smirked, the corner of his mouth curling with amusement.

He lifted his black umbrella slightly, twirling it once with a dramatic flourish. "This," he said with a chuckle, "is my grand armor. A vampire’s trusty companion against the tyranny of the sun."

Jean couldn’t help but laugh, her earlier tension melting into lightheartedness. "You’re ridiculous," she said, shaking her head.

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