chapter 11- Cassian

Elizabeth meticulously closed the door, making a concerted effort to prevent even the slightest creak that could disrupt the prevailing silence. She briefly surveyed the guards stationed outside the room, their stoic figures adorned in polished armor, prepared to address any potential threat. The crown prince's residence functioned as a bastion of security, with numerous knights patrolling the grounds, their vigilant gazes ever watchful. Within the confines of the room, the Queen Dowager remained by Cassian's side, her presence serving as a reassuring shadow until the gentle cadence of his breathing signaled that he had finally succumbed to slumber in his comfortable bed.

 "Given that he may experience discomfort in an unfamiliar environment, I request that you remain close to his bedside," Elizabeth instructed the nanny, her tone both gentle and authoritative. The nanny acquiesced, positioning herself quietly beside the secretary, who observed the exchange with evident concern.

 With a heart filled with apprehension, Elizabeth exited the room, her footsteps resonating softly in the opulent corridors of the crown prince's residence. As she traversed the lavish hallways, a multitude of memories surged to the forefront of her consciousness. Cassian had entered the world mere moments after the loss of his mother, a tragedy that had created a profound void. From that moment onward, Elizabeth committed herself to his care, diligently attending to his needs both day and night. She harbored an unwavering belief that without her vigilant protection, his survival would be jeopardized.

 The political landscape was rife with peril; many sought the queen's title in the aftermath of his mother's demise, and sinister intentions lurked in the shadows. It was evident that there were those who aimed to eliminate Cassian, the vulnerable infant destined for kingship, to further their own ambitions.

 Demetrius, preoccupied with the turmoil of war, exhibited little interest in his newborn son. Grief had permeated his being, leading him to withdraw emotionally following the devastating loss of his wife. This neglect fostered a dangerous disregard among those hungry for power, prompting them to conspire against Cassian and challenge Elizabeth's unwavering resolve to safeguard him.

 The ominous events commenced merely days after his birth, enveloped in an atmosphere of danger and intrigue. One of the nannies, entrusted with the care of the fragile infant, harbored malevolent intentions and attempted to poison him by contaminating his milk with venom. In a matter of moments, his diminutive body became still, and an oppressive silence enveloped the room. Fortunately, a team of vigilant physicians, stationed nearby at the behest of the Queen Dowager, swiftly intervened and executed a miraculous procedure that restored him to life.

This distressing incident marked merely the commencement of a series of increasingly malevolent conspiracies. Nevertheless, Cassian seemed to be inexplicably favored by fortune, which consistently shielded him from mortal peril. In a strategic effort to protect him from the imminent dangers, Queen Dowager Elizabeth made the audacious decision to send Cassian to reside with his maternal grandparents, despite the vehement objections of the king's council. In the nurturing environment provided by his grandparents, he spent his formative years insulated from the treacherous intrigues of the court. However, as he neared his tenth birthday, the moment arrived for his return to the palace. Even within the familiar confines of his childhood home, he found himself once again precariously positioned on the brink of danger, with threats lurking in the shadows.\

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 As dawn broke, casting a warm golden hue across the landscape, Anastasia's day commenced with the receipt of an elegantly composed letter from the Queen Dowager. With a glimmer of anticipation in her eyes, she readied herself for the day's events. Venturing outside, she meandered through the verdant garden, basking in the gentle warmth of the sun. In her delicate, pale hand, she held a vibrant yellow rose—a symbol of hope and affection—as she approached the residence of the crown prince.

 With her heart fluttering like a caged bird, Anastasia opened the door, acutely aware of the crown prince's indifference towards her. She moved quietly, almost on tiptoe, towards the bed where Cassian lay. He appeared tranquil and angelic, immersed in a peaceful slumber. Taking a seat gently on the edge of the bed, she tenderly caressed his hair and cheek, her fingers gliding over his skin with utmost care. Despite her affectionate gestures, Cassian remained blissfully oblivious, showing no signs of awakening from his dream-laden rest.

 "Your Highness," Anastasia called softly, her voice soothing like a gentle breeze. Cassian stirred, opening his bleary eyes and emitting a discontented sound that disrupted the morning's tranquility. He turned his drowsy head towards the source of the sound, his gaze landing on the unfamiliar figure before him. Cassian regarded her with a look of confusion, attempting to ascertain her identity. In response, Anastasia met his gaze with a warm smile, her eyes sparkling with kindness as she noted the little prince's bewilderment.

 In a sudden moment of recognition, Cassian sprang from his bed, sitting upright in astonishment as he realized that she was the lady from yesterday. "Did you sleep well, Your Highness?" Anastasia inquired, her voice remaining soft and inviting, her smile offering reassurance.

Cassian responded with a shy nod, subtly indicating his agreement. An uncomfortable silence ensued as both individuals grappled with the next steps in their conversation. Cassian averted his gaze, a hint of shyness preventing him from making eye contact with the Queen.

 "Your Highness, permit me to introduce myself, as this marks our second meeting since your arrival," Anastasia stated in a gentle tone.

"I am Anastasia, the Queen of Hwagwande and the third wife of your father." Cassian remained unresponsive, continuing to look downward.

 "You may not be aware of my existence, as we have not crossed paths in previous years. However, I have observed you since your infancy," she continued, attempting to engage his interest. "Your mother, the late queen, possessed the same eyes as you. In fact, she bore a striking resemblance to you; she was truly one of the most beautiful women."

 At this remark, Cassian's curiosity was piqued, and his eyes widened as he absorbed her words. The mention of his deceased mother visibly altered his expression, and he looked at her with newfound interest.

 "My father was a classmate and friend of your grandfather. In the past, I had the opportunity to meet your mother and her family during our family gatherings. She treated me as a younger sister, my elder sister was her closest friend. Those were cherished times. After my arrival here, I wished to care for you, but regrettably, that did not come to fruition."

 Their conversation was interrupted by a knock at the door, as Cassian's nanny entered, holding a bouquet.

 "Your Majesty, it is time for His Highness's bath," the nanny announced respectfully.

 Anastasia rose from the bed, gently smoothing the child's tousled hair.

 "Your Highness, let us share breakfast today," the Queen suggested before departing the room.