Julian laughed softly as he turned away from Eleanor. “When fear gets caged with no way out, Interest rises. And when that interest rises, it can turn into something more. Something you never wished for. Something dangerous.” fгeewebnovёl.com
Julian’s smile widened as he spoke, “And all I am doing is playing with her fear, so that something isn’t just a possibility… but a certainty.”
How can I feel or fear, when I am walking the path of playing with them.
Eleanor’s heart raced, her hands trembling as she struggled to process Julian’s words. She didn’t know how to respond, or even fully comprehend the depth of what he had just said.
However, Julian simply laughed and gestured for her to leave the room. Eleanor did as she was told and made her way to the door.
She froze at the door, her hand still gripping the handle as Julian’s voice echoed in her ears. “But that doesn’t mean I don’t love you. I love you enough to twist your fears, to make sure you are all mine.”
Her heart raced, the words sinking into her like a heavy weight. She didn’t know whether to laugh or cry at his unsettlingly tender words.
The air around her felt heavy as she finally stepped out of the room, the door closing behind her with a soft click.
Eleanor took a deep breath, placing her hands gently on her stomach. She was tied to Julian in a deep, unwavering bond the moment she decided to bear his children.
Despite the manipulation, despite everything that had been said, she knew that it was her choice that had brought her here and she didn’t regret it.
She wasn’t just his sister anymore—she was his wife, even if not officially. If Julian chose to bring in others, even their mother or anyone else, she would support him, no matter the consequences.
Yes, she was shocked at first, but the shock had passed, leaving only a quiet acceptance. She was his, and that was the reality she had embraced.
****
Back in Julian’s room, his grin faded as his usual calm and charming demeanor returned. With composed expression, he slipped into his noble attire.
He left his room, stepping into the hallways of the castle with a confident stride, flashing his signature charming smile as he passed by the servants and guards.
Julian entered the dining hall and noticed both families already seated, enjoying the meal. The laughter and clinking of silverware filled the air as they ate.
He greeted them with his usual charm, his voice smooth as silk.
“Good morning, everyone,” Julian said, offering a polite smile as he made his way to his seat.
He sat down at his own table and began eating, all while observing the interactions between the both families.
As Julian observed the room, he couldn’t help but notice the subtle tension and change in the air.
Regina was still distant and avoided eye contact. Gregoria, on the other hand, seemed uneasy as her gaze flicked between him and Regina.
Isabel and Eleanor sat with a knowing smirk, their connection to him already deepened by the gift he had given them.
The only ones left to be influenced, to be drawn into his intricate web, were Eva and Eliot.
He could feel their presence untainted, still on the outside of his plans, but not for long.
The evening continued, with laughter and light conversation masking the tension that simmered beneath. Julian knew that before long, they would all belong to him, whether they realized it or not.
As the quiet murmur of conversation filled the breakfast table, Frederick’s voice rang out. “Julian, let’s duel. I want to see your full power.”
A wave of surprise rippled through the gathering, the clinking of utensils falling silent. Eyes turned to Frederick, then to Julian.
Alden’s eyes widened as he knew exactly how powerful Julian had become. He had witnessed his son’s strength firsthand and knew that Frederick, despite his rank, was no match for him.
Julian remained unfazed. His smile only deepened as he looked at Frederick. “A duel, huh? Sure, I would be happy to show you what I can do.” His calmness only added to the tension in the room.
Julian smiled knowingly, his gaze narrowing as he read the Duke’s intent. So, he wants to see how powerful I am, so he can measure my worth and gauge the profit of an alliance with our family.
All these old bastards, they really think the whole world revolves around them.
A sly grin curled at the corners of Julian’s lips as he recalled Duke of Ethwer.
What will you do, Ethwer? he thought, Will you be as clever as Hans, or will you be the very reason for the fall of your family?
Although Frederick had challenged Julian, a wave of nervousness still crashed over him. No, I have to do this, he thought, his resolve hardening. For the survival of my family.
The memory of Marcus’s horrifying death and the effortless crumbling of the Norish family flashed before his eyes. It was a reminder of the power Julian held—and the consequences of failure.
Lisa glanced at Frederick, her eyebrows furrowing in confusion. She hadn’t expected him to challenge Julian.
The breakfast soon came to an end, and one by one everyone made their way to the battle halls. The air thickened with tension as they entered.
Julian moved ahead with his usual calm and composure, while Frederick followed closely behind with a hint of eagerness and nervousness.
The family members settled into their seats, their eyes fixed on the arena. The stage was set, and the duel was about to begin.
Julian and Duke Hans took their own places. He looked at Frederick and laughed, his voice carrying a hint of playful confidence.
“Your Grace,” Julian said, “let’s exchange one move.”
Frederick’s nervousness changed as confidence surged through him. His title of Duke and Arch Mage was not just for show.
He laughed as well, clearly eager for the duel to begin. “Sure, Julian, go ahead, attack me.”
Julian raised an eyebrow. “Are you sure, Duke? You are giving me the first move?” His voice was teasing, but there was an underlying seriousness in his eyes, as if challenging Frederick’s confidence.
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Frederick hesitated for a moment, but then nodded and accepted the challenge. The two locked eyes, and the arena fell into a heavy silence as everyone prepared for Julian’s move.