Neil and Rowan were sitting on opposite sides. They exchanged surprised glances and were hesitant to speak. They
had entered the palace together, following Zuko’s instructions, but they didn’t expect to hear about it again in this
setting.
The three of them sat in silence in the spacious hall, interrupted only by the sound of boiling water.
Alexander took a deep breath and inquired, “What else did he say?”
Loyal and devoted, Remus smiled and replied, “His Lordship also mentioned that if this task isn’t accomplished, he
will inform his father and ensure that his father never visits Southeast Aciatic again!”
Alexander coughed, almost choking on his tea.
“That… That rascal!” He was amused and irritated, casting a helpless look at the two men.
Neil struggled to hold back his laughter while Rowan quickly stood up to apologize.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt“Your Majesty, please forgive us. Zuko is still a child…”
“Yes, still a child!” Neil interjected mischievously. “Your Majesty, you mustn’t let him off the hook! Haha!”
“You!” Rowan glared at Neil, clearly annoyed.
Neil discreetly gave a thumbs-up to Alexander. “Our Zuko is quite clever with this move!”
Alexander felt another blow. “Who started spreading these notions in front of the child!?”
“No one dares to!” Neil mused, rubbing his chin. “Our children are smart. He must have figured it out on his own!”
Alexander frowned. “When did he get married?”
“I’m not entirely sure.” Rowan pondered. “But there was a time when he wanted Xyla’s painting. It might be related
to this girl!”
“It’s unlikely they are officially married,” Neil analyzed. “Young people these days call each other husband and wife
even while dating! But it seems this girl has a strong hold on our Zuko!”
“But Zuko—” Rowan began to mention his existing engagement but stopped himself mid-sentence.
Alexander smiled helplessly and glanced at Remus, who awaited his command.
Remus tentatively asked, “Your Majesty, what should we do?”
“What choice do we have? Follow the young Count’s instructions!” Alexander shook his head, a wry smile on his
face. Was this a plea for assistance or simply blatant blackmail?
The following day…
The designated teacher shared some exciting news with the class.
“Class, we received an official invitation from His Majesty the King last night. Today, we have the opportunity to visit
the palace!”
As everyone enjoyed their breakfast, Heidi’s words brought a momentary pause, followed by cheers that erupted
throughout the hotel buffet restaurant.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm“Wow! We can actually enter the palace?”
“The real palace, not just the tourist section!”
“Unbelievable! How did the king invite us? This is incredible!”
“We attend a prestigious university! Education is highly valued in Southeast Aciatic, so it’s only natural for students
from esteemed institutions to receive special treatment!”
Amidst the cheers and animated discussions, Lina’s silence was conspicuous.
Keira nudged her arm. “Lina, aren’t you happy?”
Lina shook her head, still in shock.
She never expected Zuko’s words to be so accurate. The superstitions surrounding the stars in Southeast Aciatic
turned out to hold some truth!
“Lina, stop daydreaming!” Keira called out to her. “Hurry back to your room and pack. Ms. Lister said we should
gather at the entrance by nine sharp!”
“Oh…” Lina snapped out of her daze and was about to join everyone upstairs when she encountered Heidi’s
disdainful gaze.
Heidi sneered, crossing her arms. “Lina Jenner, you don’t have to go!”