Things in the capital progressed just as intended by Lucy. King Khur of Northern Lan could not retreat back to his country, as not attending the wedding would be a clear act of defiance. He was now sure that Lady Teel was gone for good and he would not be finding her any time soon. Who helped her escape, was a big question. He had no idea what was happening in the palace as spies he sent, never returned. He had made two a.s.sumptions, the the Teel family heir he had left in his sister"s care, had escaped the moment his sister was imprisoned. But that was still plausible; Prince Thelmus still remained in the palace and would not let her escape. If Lady Raine is still under their thumb, there is no way she could orchestrate her mother"s escape. That is why he was sure it was the maid. If it was really someone who plotted to rescue Lady Teel, they would have left behind the maid; but the maid was gone too. That only meant one thing, the maid had helped her escape. He may still be safe from the Jade Hand. But he still had to take precautions, so he sent his martial artist to the secure entrance to the capital. Any one with strength is to be prevented from entering.King Larken on the other hand, had written Lucy. He knew Walter was under Lady Wickshire"s employment and as such, could not be touched at will.
Lucy Stared at the letter while nibbling on pastries. It read;
Your Ladyship, Esteemed d.u.c.h.ess of Wickshire,
I have come to some information that a certain Walter Krain, who is under your employment, is pursuing my niece; one dare not imagine what for. I dare not look down on his person, as it would be looking down on yours, but my precious niece is not only a princess, but daughter of Blood King Jin Ke. I would like to know what you see of this and want to know his qualifications to court my niece. If he not be in your trust or acting on your behalf, I dare say he would be dead as I write this letter to you. I think not for myself, but for the interest of the involved parties.
Respectfully,
King Larken of Juhntt.
Lucy chuckled at his words. Was he asking permission to kill Walter, or asking for Walter to stop courting Lady Steinhouse?
"Too bad, this lady has never been a matchmaker before. The marriage I over see, must end at the altar." Lucy smiled and Shilla trembled, while the other two maids continued in their task as though they had not heard a word.
Lucy ordered Shilla bring a pen and paper and she replied;
His Majesty, King Larken,
This lady has intentions for a wedding less grand, yet more important than yours. I wish it happen before you take your bride. This is a task I give to you entirely. It shows His Majesty"s great skill to come to the knowledge of these two"s intentions, even before I let it be known. A woman once married, needs not a large wedding. This must be done in silence, yet with grace. Though small, it must be worthy of the blood king"s daughter. Madame D"hiule has prepared a dress and the Holy Tower has a date prepared. This lady"s task, I hope His Majesty would take to heart and execute in a manner worthy of my esteemed self.
With great expectations,
Lucy Sharterux, d.u.c.h.ess of Wickshire.