Chapter 65: A Royal Reward… or Another Headache?!

Chapter 65: A Royal Reward… or Another Headache?!

Seraphina had one goal after fighting a giant bloodbeast.

To SLEEP.

To EAT.

To PRETEND NONE OF THIS HAPPENED.

Unfortunately, life had other plans.

—

A Summons from the Royal Palace

Just as Seraphina was about to sneak away, a royal messenger arrived.

"Lady Seraphina," he announced, "His Majesty requests your presence."

Seraphina froze.

"…Did you say 'request' or 'demand'?"

The messenger gave her a look.

"Request."

"Which actually means…?"

"Demand."

Seraphina groaned.

Lucien chuckled.

"Well, you did help defeat a dangerous beast. The king must be impressed."

"Or annoyed," Vincent added.

Seraphina sighed dramatically.

"Fine, fine. Let's get this over with."

—

At the Royal Palace

The palace was as grand as expected.

Golden chandeliers. Velvet carpets. Guards everywhere.

Seraphina resisted the urge to pocket a fancy vase.

Then she saw the king.

A tall, imposing man with piercing eyes.

"Lady Seraphina," the king said.

Seraphina curtsied… sort of.

"Your Majesty. I hear you wanted to yell at me personally?"

The king's eyebrow twitched.

Lucien stepped in.

"She means, it's an honor to be summoned."

The king sighed.

"You are… unique."

Seraphina beamed.

"Why, thank you!"

Damian smirked.

"Careful, Your Majesty. She'll take that as encouragement."

—

The Royal "Reward"

The king studied Seraphina.

"You helped defeat a great threat. I wish to grant you a reward."

Seraphina perked up.

"Cash is fine."

The king ignored her.

"I shall grant you a noble title."

Seraphina blinked.

"…What?"

"You are now Duchess Seraphina Nightshade."

Silence.

Seraphina gaped.

"Wait. WAIT. I just wanted money!"

Lucien chuckled.

"This is better."

"No, it's WORSE!" Seraphina groaned.

"This means more responsibilities! More nobles! More paperwork!"

Damian grinned.

"And more power."

Cedric smirked.

"Congratulations, Duchess Seraphina."

Seraphina buried her face in her hands.

"…I hate everything."

—

To Be Continued…

Next Chapter: A Duchess?! Seraphina's New Nightmare Begins!