Chapter 23: Morning Looks
By Midnight, Abdiel and the Queen Mother were taking a little stroll towards the elegant balcony that had arched windows draped in onyx-colored curtains. Due to the Candlelights flickering brightly, their shadows were casted against the window as they stopped walking.
"Mother, what are you saying?" Abdiel questioned the Queen Mother who strictly remained firm to her decision. "If Ivan isn’t ready to settle down with a princess, then don’t force him into it."
"Actions must be taken without further delay." Grandmother Abrielle asserted without giving it a second thought, a clear look of discomfort showcasing on her features. "That dream still haunts me like a shadow in shadows, Abdiel, and you know I don’t joke with dreams that I receive more than twice."
"It will remain a dream." Abdiel tried to explain to his Mother. "If he wants to keep searching for the mystic orb then I say we let him do it. It is for the benefit of the Kingdom and its empire. Fixing Marriage alliances will only distract him on the path he has forged for himself."
"What are you trying to say to me? That my decision is wrong and that I do not care about the well-being of my Grandson?" Grandmother Abrielle questioned her son who’s expression remained stoic and hard. "He is the crown Prince! The people need a King to take over, and Ivan is only delaying things."
"Lord Ivan is a talented prince and a skilled warrior, he has made many progresses in his life at a young age, and I have never been more proud." Abdiel said without any slight change in his impassive tone. "He found his Father - my brother’s culprit and brought justice to our Empire. Grandmother, he’s already doing what a King should do, but I insist you let him figure this one out without the pressure."
"But he only needs to meet with the princesses, how is it pressure that I want my Grandson to find an equally royal spouse he can lean on for support?" Grandmother Abrielle saw it as nothing but an excuse. "Also, why argue over what is inevitable? It has been a part of the Empire’s royal tradition that we must celebrate every victory achieved." She tipped up her chin, knowing Abdiel could not argue this one since she was correct.
"You’re impossible, Mother." Was all Abdiel could say since winning an argument with her had always been pointless.
"I want the invitation cards to be made and sent to all the powerful Kingdom in two days. I want the invitation to reach King Aberforth, he has a really beautiful daughter and the last time she was invited for the soiree, I felt a good chemistry between her and Ivan. She is also the only woman Ivan hasn’t pushed away so I still have my hope safely hanging on a thread."