The Villianess story: A 100 ways to kill your husband-Chapter 288: Lantern festival

"I understand, the princess won’t escape my sight." Elias accepted the task. Cedric’s head was racing with thoughts.

A lot was going on and he was distracted. The reason he was going to the festival with Callista was because of a hint they had. This has been the plan for a long time. That aside there was also the issue with Eleanor.

He has been trying to stop the summon since he found out today but Kaiden was too occupied to spare him an audience. That was the excuse the king used for avoiding to see him

He was sure Eleanor was behind that and then there was Abrielle that was hiding things. Each day it seemed they grew more apart. She did not even act jealous in the slightest way that he gave the last red rose to Callista.

It was hopeless and stupid of him. All he could do now was just to protect her the least he could do.

"If anything happens, don’t hesitate to get her to safety. Her safety should be your priority even before you get word to me."

********

The sun went down, and the sky was dark, adorned with multiple twinkling stars, and the moon shone about the city of Vitalis.

It was the lantern festival, or some call it the festival of love because it was held to celebrate the ending of the rose duel.

The city was covered with beautiful flowers at every corner. Bright magic stones shone all around, laughter and chatter could be heard.

It was already very late, a few minutes to midnight, yet children were allowed to stay awake past their bedtime for just this night. Most of these carried glowing items of different colours; it was the lanterns and the highlight of the night.

At the end of the festival at the stroke of midnight, multiple lanterns or different colours and designs would be lit and allowed to fly up to the sky under the midnight sky freewebnσvel.cøm

They say if your heart means it, the lanterns grant the wish of the owner. People wished for several things: love, children, death, loved ones, and good harvest. It was the activity used to mark the New Year in Darconia. Wishing on the lantern as it crosses the moonlight for the new year ahead.

Cedric had left the castle way earlier before dinner so the princess ate on her own. Since the festival event took place at the late hours of the night Abrielle made sure to have dinner before leaving the castle.

"Do you have any idea of the lantern design you want for the festival?" Evelyn asked Abrielle who was engrossed watching the festivities outside. It was so bright it didn’t feel like night it kind of reminded her of the Chinese New Year back on earth that was also celebrated during spring

Although she had never travelled to China before, she had seen a lot of images online. "Your Highness," Evelyn repeated because it seemed Abrielle didn’t hear her.

The princess snapped out and glanced at Evelyn, whose brows were furrowed. Zoltana, who was also in the carriage, did her best not to burst into a laugh.

"Did you say something?" Abrielle asked Evelyn, Her eyes weren’t focused, and her brows furrowed.

Evelyn’s reaction relaxed. "I was asking about how you plan on getting your lantern. The royal family is actually in the city square holding a small event where the queen and some noble ladies help children make lanterns. We can attend that or just get a suitable lantern from a store." Evelyn explained, Abrielle nodded.

She was aware of the fact Eleanor was doing something like an act craft class, but she didn’t have any intentions of going there until the main event, when the gold rose would be presented to the victor and the lanterns would be lit. That was close to midnight.

The reason being Callista would be there meaning Cedric will also be there. "I don’t know yet; when we get to the square, I will decide," Abrielle replied.

The carriage continued rolling through the heavy traffic until she arrived at the city square. Her eyes fell on the grand market square pavilion that was heavily decorated.

The door of the carriage was opened and the first thing that welcomed Abrielle was the sound of fine music. The square was bright and beautiful colours all over the place. The air smelled like flowers and pastries.

"The craft session is being held in the pavilion," Evelyn informed Abrielle after she stepped out of the carriage. It was a breathtaking sight.

"How long do I have before the official lantern festival?" She asked, intending to skip the craft session.

"After an hour or more." Evelyn diligently answered. Abrielle nodded then proceeded weaving her way through the crowd. Her eyes were searching for a particularly annoying person, but fortunately, she didn’t have to search long.

Alfonso found her himself. He was dressed in blue which suited him perfectly. "What an odd surprise to see you without Cedric here?" Alfonso chimed, his eyes sparkling as he approached the princess. They were at the pavilion entrance which was not crowded.

"He decided to attend with the Priestess." Abrielle shrugged. Alfonso’s smile grew wider. "I guess your answer is yes then." He bowed, taking her hand to place a kiss on it. Evelyn felt uncomfortable by this but held back her complaints. Zoltana didn’t have much of a reaction.

"As long as you keep your promise. Tonight will be the first and last." Abrielle answered with a smile that seemed forced as she pulled her hand from Alfonso’s hold.

"Sure, it is an honour to be celebrating the New Year with you," Alfonso replied, the final day of the rose duel was referred to as New Year’s Eve by some. Darconia had a rather unique calendar.

"Unfortunately I don’t share the same sentiment," Abrielle sneered at him. He shrugged off knowing she was just trying to get on his nerves.

"You have to try harder. By the way, you do look good in red," Alfonso said, leaning over to whisper in her ears. "No maids allowed." After which he backed away

Abrielle sighed then turned towards Evelyn and Zoltana. "You don’t have to follow me around. I will be with Alfonso. Enjoy the night." She simply said leaving Evelyn stunned while passing a secret message to Zoltana.

Evelyn didn’t even have the chance to oppose before Abrielle left with Alfonso.