Ch. 203 The Curse on The Imperial Family (2)

His eyes widened momentarily in surprised. Soon after, however, he regained his composure and answered softly.

You are very quick, my daughter-in-law.

A faraway expression came on his face as if he were remembering the distant past.

Ive been told many times since childhood that I inherited less of the dragons blood because of my gentle personality. Ironically enough, I was able to rise to the throne for that reason. And yetIve always been envious of Archduke Lunen.

Sullivan seemed to genuinely envy his older brothers strength. Perhaps that was why he named Carlisle as his heir, as he bore no resemblance to his weaker self.

In the past, Elena had heard that the previous emperor chose Sullivan over Paveluc, in order to continue the prosperity of the Ruford Empire down a path other than war. Now as she listened to Sullivans words, the rumor did not seem wrong.

Does he feel inferior because of his father?

Although Elena couldnt fully understand Sullivans feelings, his rise to the throne enabled the Ruford Empire to make many advances. It was an undeniable fact.

Im sure he would be devastated if he finds out that Paveluc would eventually take over the throne.

Sullivan was ignorant that, in the near future, Paveluc would attempt to destroy the imperial family and take the crown for himself. Elena wouldnt allow that to happen again.

However, the thoughts in Elenas head remained tangled in a complicated net. She no longer thought of Sullivans beliefs as mere superst.i.tions, and, a.s.suming that Carlisle and Elena would have a son, she would have to give the child human blood.

There was a horrible feeling in her stomach as she imagined herself feeding that child with her own hand.

Father thinks it a blessing, but this is a curse on the imperial family.

Although the couple would not immediately have children, this wouldnt be an easy matter to approach. Elena suddenly recalled something else Carlisle had said a long time ago.

I hope you will have my child. They would be lovely with blonde hair and red eyes like you.

She had wondered whether Carlisle could only love a child if it looked like her, but what she knew now gave her a more ominous perspective.

As Elena stood there in a brooding silence, Sullivan once again spoke with a solemn voice.

Carlisle tends to think poorly of his lineage, but you shouldnt do so. Because of the dragons power, the Ruford Empire has grown strong and never lost a war with another kingdom.

Sullivan was right as well. When it came to military power, many kingdoms could not even reach the foot of the Ruford Empire.

If something happens to me, please keep this secret s.p.a.ce safe and protect the bloodline in the future.

Elena finally understood why Sullivan told her the secret of the Imperial Family. However, she found it difficult to give him a reply. She closed her eyes tightly then opened them again.

Father, you must understand that this is sudden and overwhelmingplease give me time to think.

Very well. This all must be quite a shock. If you have any further questions, Ill be happy to answer them.

He wore his usual smile on his pale, gaunt face. However, it was now difficult to hide that Sullivan was now dealing with a comrade who shared the same secret. Elena was at a loss at how to accept this and what to do in the future. Among her many worries, she remembered the lonely look Carlisle made when he once called himself a monster.

How terrified Carlisle must be when he realized all this as a child?

For some reason, it was pained her to imagine it.

*

*

*

Elena left the Emperors palace with conflict in her heart. Sullivans health hadnt allowed for a long visit, and they said their farewells as soon as they left the secret room. She wasnt feeling well herself from the arrow wound, though she showed no outward sign of discomfort.

As Elena strode through the grounds lost in thought, a voice called out to her.

Where are you going in that condition?

She turned her head at the familiar voice, and saw someone briskly walking towards her.

It was Carlisle, looking incomparably handsome with his dark hair, luminous blue eyes, and sculpted features. Elena smiled as he approached.

Are you here to pick me up?

Of course. I thought you were sleeping, but you werent in your room. I was suddenly summoned by my father to the Emperors palace, saying I was to escort you.

Im not a child, and you dont have to.

Youre not well, so dont go about simply because he calls you there.

Hes not just anyone. Hes my father, the emperor of the Ruford Empire.

Carlisles expression remained resolutely stubborn.

Hes not your father

Carlisles voice was dangerously low. Elena looked up to see a heat burning in his eyes.

Even if its G.o.d, I cant allow it.

?

I cannot tolerate anyone forcing my wife to move when shes unwell.

Elena froze for a moment, then let out a soft chuckle. Indeed, Carlisle was such a lovely man.

His expression softened at the image of Elena smiling.

Is this such a funny story?

Yes. Though Im more happy than amused, to be precise.

Carlisle grinned and reached out his hand, and Elena immediately knew the meaning. She had taken his arm numerous times, but until now they had no memory of walking hand-in-hand together. One might not consider it important, but to Carlisle and Elena, the subtle distinctions were understood between them. They had been sure to display an outward appearance of love because of their contract marriage, but they had never done such little things as lovers in private.

Seueug.

Elena took Carlisles hand with no hesitation. There was no need for special words between them.

They ambled at an easy pace, quietly holding each others hand. She wished for this moment to last for a long time. Despite the warmth of the emotions was.h.i.+ng over her, however, Elena had many questions she wanted to ask Carlisle.

Did he intend never to tell me that the ring was the Dragons...o...b..

Carlisle had deliberately hidden the truth from Elena, and now she had uncovered his secret without permission. Everyone had something they wanted to conceal. She was hesitant about digging up his wounds, but she knew she could not procrastinate on this. More importantly, this was something Elena must know about.

Caril.

Caril responded with a soft smile.

Speak to me, my wife.

As she took in his perfect profile, Elena forced her lips to move.

What did you wish for on the Dragons...o...b..

Carlisles footsteps suddenly halted. It was a question that could only be asked when someone knew the secret of the Imperial Family.

His expression stiffened, and he looked at Elena with uncharacteristic dread in his eyes. He spoke in the barest whisper.

How do you know?