Chapter 19: Bullfighting
"It is that time of the year again!" Aurora exclaimed, her face aglow with excitement as the women of the palace gathered in the garden, enjoying tea amidst the fragrant blooms.
"What time of year?" Mia inquired, her curiosity piqued. The past year under Aurora and the King’s care had been nothing short of blissful. Mia had never once regretted being adopted by them, and not a day passed where she wasn’t grateful for her newfound happiness. What delighted her most, however, was seeing Belle thrive once more, free to pursue her desires.
Grinning broadly, Aurora replied, "The bullfighting competition! A champion bull is crowned and granted its freedom." Her enthusiasm was contagious as joy radiated from her every word.
"Bullfighting happens all the time, doesn’t it? What makes this one so extraordinary?" Belle asked, her brow slightly furrowed in puzzlement.
"Oh, sister-in-law, this is no ordinary bullfighting contest," Aurora explained, her hands gesturing animatedly to emphasize her excitement. "This event draws spectators from every kingdom, even vampires and elves attend! It is the grandest, most renowned occasion in all the werewolf territories."
Belle’s expression shifted to one of slight concern. The mention of vampires unsettled her, as they were well-known enemies of the werewolves. Vampires were proud, often refusing to compromise for the greater good.
"The vampires?" Mia echoed, raising a skeptical brow at Aurora.
"Do not worry," Aurora reassured them, reading their unease. "There is an agreement in place to maintain peace during the event. You might wonder why the vampires would agree to such terms, but you must remember: we werewolves remain the strongest among all supernatural beings. We breed the mightiest of carnivorous beasts, and the vampires have little choice but to comply if they wish to attend."
Both Belle and Mia exhaled in relief, their earlier apprehension subsiding.