Chapter 18

~ hope is just an illusion and when this illusion shutters so does hope ~

Early in the morning, Ana left the palace after seeking permission from the butler. She was to return before evening with Sophia. Most of the workers who knew her were happy to meet her again. Over time new servants replaced the old servants leaving the likes of Ana,the butler and Nora. It was good to work for the royal family thought Ana.

Arriving at home she was flabbergasted to hear that Becky was married which she couldn't attend and that his brother was ill after being attacked by a wild animal. Elle told her not to worry that the healer had said he would recover, all that he needed was enough rest.

Sophia who had gone to the river came back with a bucket of water on her head. Dropping the bucket she hugged Ana very tightly, this was because she had missed her. The two shared a strong bond just like mother and daughter. Sophia enjoyed being in the presence of Ana than Elle but she was like a beggar who couldn't choose.

" Sophia go and pack your clothes as we will be leaving early. I asked the palace butler to allow you to work there. I know you can't remember everything but you don't have to worry I will be there.' Ana assured her while rubbing her hands on Sophia's cheeks.

Packing her clothes,, Sophia bid her father goodbye who returned it with a smile while her mother did not bother to acknowledge it. It was evident to Sophia that the woman did not like her.

It was daytime and the sun was shining brightly. The weather was very hot making people sweat and drink water every now and then. Sophia and Ana used a local carriage to shorten their distance. After two hours they had arrived. Evening was soon approaching and the sun was showing signs of setting.

Arriving at the palace, Sophia was stopped by one of the guards to check her, finding nothing she was allowed to pass. Rasmus was happy to see the young girl was now big. Welcoming her she was shown around the palace and given orders on what to do and what not to do.

The palace was very big and beautiful thought Sophia. She had heard from Ana tales about the palace and the queen who was a jovial and kind lady. She spoke with politeness and was always cheerful. Sophia wished to meet the queen and see for herself not that she didn't believe Ana.

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Prince Aiden had just finished helping his father in signing some parchments when he decided to go and have some rest. On his way he met a maid who informed him that his mother needed him in the drawing room. Nodding his head he headed towards the drawing room. On reaching near the door he could hear his mother talk to a young lady,, the voice was familiar to him. It was Elsa Mason the only daughter of Edward Mason and Madeline mason.

Opening the door,, Aiden went to where his mother sat and placed a kiss on her cheeks before joining Elsa and kissing her delicate hands which earned a blush from her. Tea and some snacks was served to them and after talking for some time the queen excused herself.

With the queen leaving, Elsa leaned her back on the prince who enjoyed every moment. It was obvious that the prince was in love with her. Elsa felt lucky to be loved by the prince.

Spending their time Elsa decided to leave, seeing her off the prince was on his way to his room when he saw Siera walking towards him. Not wanting to pass her like a nobody the prince bowed his head to show his respect. Siera nodded with a smile and Aiden left.

Siera's smile was quick to falter. The prince was surrounded by a dark aura. He smelled different causing her nose to itch. It seemed like the dark witch was somewhere around waiting for the right time to strike. She wished she could do something but even she knew well it was beyond her control. Even though prince Aiden walked like everyone else he was different, part of his soul was missing and when the dark witch was to strike chances of him surviving were next to impossible. The protection bracelet could not protect him unless the other pair was with him.