I am of Royalty?
Julian couldn't help but grin, realizing that his ambitions might just have a clearer path ahead of him than he had thought.
Regina smiled warmly at Julian. "You are the grandson of the king," she said, her eyes sparkling with pride.
Julian blinked in surprise. "Why didn't I know? Why didn't anyone tell me?"
"We wanted to protect you from royal responsibilities," Regina replied gently. "We wanted you to forge your own path without the weight of our lineage hanging over you and besides, there are somethings that you better not have knowledge of."
Julian could feel her sadness especially when she spoke the last sentence. He was curious and intrigued about what the truth was but he did not continue to ask her.
"I get it, mother. I appreciate that you wanted me to have my freedom.", Julian said with a smile spreading across his face.
Regina nodded, her expression softening. "And now, with this knowledge, you can decide how to use it to shape your future."
Julian's smile widened as he imagined the possibilities. Just think of the points I could rack up if I conquer the whole royal palace,*he thought, excitement coursing through him.
Everyone here is connected to me in some way—family ties, blood relations, all leading to a treasure trove of potential. The queen, my grandmother, my mother, all those powerful women around me...*
"Isabelle Hans," she called next, and the beautiful daughter of the Duke Hans stood with poise, her elegance captivating everyone.
As she took her seat again, the headmistress continued, "Marcus Norish," followed by the handsome young man who also rose to bow, his charm evident in the way he carried himself.
"Julia Ethwer," came next, and the delicate girl stood with a shy smile, the attention making her blush.
The headmistress continued to recite the names, each one met with applause, and Julian couldn't help but feel the weight of potential and opportunity in the air, especially as he thought about the many points he could gather from those around him.
As the scrolls of mages were presented, the atmosphere shifted to one of celebration. The hall buzzed with excitement, filled with laughter and the clinking of glasses as everyone prepared for the banquet.
Duke Alden, with a proud smile, mingled with the other three dukes, sharing stories and discussing their families' legacies. Their conversations echoed with the weight of history, each word a reminder of the power and prestige that came with their titles.
Meanwhile, the four duchesses gathered together, their voices soft yet confident as they exchanged pleasantries. They were the epitome of grace and beauty, drawing the gazes of many in the hall. Julian couldn't help but admire the way they carried themselves, their presence commanding attention without even trying.
The banquet was not just a feast for the body but a display of wealth and influence, and he could sense the potential points flowing through the air, just waiting to be gathered.
As platters of exquisite food were brought out, Julian found himself contemplating not just the lavish meal but the opportunities that lay ahead.
Surrounded by so many powerful figures, he realized this was just the beginning of his journey to conquer the hearts and points of those in his family and beyond.