Chapter 46: The Boy In The Mask
Twelve years ago
Tatiana was only twelve years old, a young girl with bright blonde hair, curious eyes, and a heart full of excitement. She sat beside her father, Lord Orlova, inside a grand carriage making its way to the Grand Duke’s palace. Her hands fidgeted with the hem of her dress, her smile wide with anticipation. It was her first time visiting such a place, and she could hardly wait to see what it looked like.
"Behave yourself," her father said coldly, not even sparing her a glance. "Especially around the grand duchess."
Tatiana quickly nodded, trying to contain her excitement. "Yes, Father," she said softly.
As the carriage pulled to a stop, her eyes grew even wider. The palace was like something out of a fairytale. Grand and tall, with golden domes that sparkled under the sun, and walls so white they looked like snow. The gardens were trimmed to perfection, dotted with fountains that sang softly in the summer breeze. As they stepped out and began walking through the palace halls, she couldn’t stop herself from turning her head in every direction, admiring the paintings, the sculptures, the chandeliers. Even the air smelled different—like wax, roses, and something old and expensive. She had never seen anything so beautiful in her life.
On the way to the grand duchess’s chambers, something caught her eye. A boy around her age stood silently by the stairs. He wore a dark outfit and a mask that covered most of his face. He didn’t say a word. He just stood there, watching.
"Father," she whispered, tugging his sleeve. "Who is that boy?"
Lord Orlova didn’t look pleased. "That is the prince. The Grand Duke’s son. Don’t be curious about him. He may be your age, but he is dangerous. He is a monster."
Tatiana blinked, confused. He didn’t look like a monster. He looked like a boy. Just a boy.
They arrived at a large chamber where a young Grand Duchess Olga waited. She was in her thirties then, sitting upright with a commanding presence. Her gown shimmered like moonlight, and her golden hair was coiled into an elegant braid, pinned with small sapphire stones. Her gaze fell on Tatiana, who suddenly felt small and shy.
"Who is the girl?" Olga asked, her voice firm but calm.