Witch's Daughter And The Devil's Son Chapter 791: Evanthe Is Returning

During the night, as Theodora sat alone in the lounge, Drayce approached her, sensing she had matters to discuss.

Upon sitting, he inquired, "What occupies your thoughts, Grandma?"

Her gaze shifted silently towards him. "I was merely contemplating that all is now in its proper place and everyone finds happiness, so I too should find peace."

Drayce observed her for a moment before offering a slight nod. "Yet, the worry for your own son persists."

Theodora no longer concealed her feelings. "He is my son, regardless of his age."

A brief silence ensued before Theodora voiced a question, "Did you encounter your mother?"

"I did," he confirmed.

"How is she?"

"She is navigating life as it unfolds."

"Then she remains unchanged," Theodora chuckled. "Back then, I compelled her to stay, and she accepted all I provided. However, as time passed, she seemed to forget me. I yearn to see her one last time before my eyes close."

"She might return," Drayce suggested, witnessing the old lady's calm yet regretful expression transform into surprise.

"Will she?"

Drayce offered a soft hum. "She mentioned it before we departed from that place."

"Then I shall await her," Theodora declared, releasing a shaky breath and closing her weary eyes.

Drayce placed his hand over Theodora’s, sensing her life force, noting her frailty. Age, he recognized, was inevitable. Nonetheless, he felt reassured to perceive her life force as stable.

"I am not departing just yet, Dray," he heard her say. "Not until I have met my witch of a daughter-in-law, who left me without a farewell."

Drayce offered a faint smile at her words. "I am aware."

Without opening her eyes, she mused, "Now that she is returning, I wonder if I should be the indulgent mother-in-law I was before, or adopt the role of the typical one who finds fault with her daughter-in-law at every opportunity?"

"Whichever path you choose. Mother will cherish you regardless."

"In that case, the latter appeals more. Criticizing her might provide some satisfaction. Besides, I've heard that wicked mothers-in-law tend to live longer, creating mischief for their daughters-in-law. And given my daughter-in-law is a witch, I might accumulate more wicked deeds, thereby extending my life."

Drayce let out a light chuckle. "As you wish, Grandma."

----

The following day, after sharing a morning meal with Theodora, Drayce and Seren returned to the palace. They made their entrance at the royal court before the assembled ministers.

Joyful at the return of their King and Queen, everyone offered a warm welcome. Seren no longer wore her veil, revealing her captivating beauty to all; she was certainly no witch.

Seren was permitted to depart as Drayce remained to attend to crucial royal court matters. Not possessing any particular interest in such affairs, Seren left with evident delight.

Tyra, Eva, Marie, and the other servants rejoiced at their Queen's return, having awaited her for a year.

As she departed the royal court in her carriage, she expressed, "I wish to visit the lake."

Following her request, the carriage was rerouted towards the lake. Standing in the gazebo, she savored the tranquil vista.

"Lady Tyra," Seren addressed the woman standing a short distance behind her.

"I never imagined I would miss this place so profoundly. It feels like an eternity since my departure," she remarked.

"Because everyone misses their home, Your Majesty," the elder lady responded. "No matter where we roam in the world, our home remains the ultimate heaven we find in the end."

"Indeed," Seren agreed. "I recall my arrival here as a bride. At that time, nothing seemed as significant as it feels now. It appears that only after we leave do we truly appreciate what we possess."

"You are absolutely correct, Your Majesty."

"Your Majesty," Marie announced, "I have prepared your favorite tea."

"Thank you, Marie," Seren replied, turning and settling into a chair at the tea table. "Lady Tyra, please join me."

Lady Tyra took the seat opposite her, and they shared tea together.

"It’s just as it was last year," Seren commented on the aroma and taste of the tea, looking at Marie. "Your skills remain impeccable."

"I am delighted you enjoy it, Your Majesty."

Seren became lost in thought for a moment before speaking again. "Lady Tyra."

"Yes, Your Majesty?"

"I spent merely a year in this place, and yet I missed everything so deeply. I can only imagine how my Mother managed to stay away after years of calling this place her home."

"The former queen held this place in high regard. I am certain she misses it even now," Lady Tyra added.

"Once she returns, I hope she can find solace for all the longing she must have endured."

This statement surprised Lady Tyra, and she inquired, her eyes reflecting a deep wellspring of hope, "Your Majesty, Her Eminence is returning?"

"She indicated as much," Seren replied, taking a sip of her tea. "It should be any time soon."

Lady Tyra exclaimed in surprise and then felt perplexed. "Then... perhaps I should make arrangements for her lodging. We can't possibly fall short..."

"Please calm yourself, Lady Tyra," Seren's voice was steady. "You are aware Mother does not concern herself with such trivial matters."

Lady Tyra inclined her head. "However, a place to stay, she will certainly need."

"I am quite certain the Obsidian Palace possesses ample space to house the wife of its master," Seren stated, a faint smile gracing her lips.

"Your Majesty, do you imply she will reside with His Excellency?" Tyra inquired.

"I suspect she would prefer precisely that," Seren added, "and her husband alongside her too."

"If you believe so... then it must be correct, Your Majesty," Lady Tyra still harbored a degree of uncertainty.

"They have been absent for nearly two decades. Why should they remain apart any longer?" Seren questioned.

"I am uncertain how His Excellency might react upon seeing her. What if he does not forgive her promptly and insists she depart?" Lady Tyra voiced her concern.

"In that event, as the reigning Queen of this entire Realm, I shall inform His Excellency that I have no other suitable accommodation for his wife," Seren declared, a spark of mischief dancing in her eyes.

Despite her hesitation, Lady Tyra could not suppress a smile, and Eva and Marie mirrored her amusement.

"We have only just returned, and already my Queen is in the mood to assert her royal prerogatives?" a voice chimed in.

Lady Tyra rose and stepped aside as they all offered a respectful bow to Drayce.

Seren remained seated, proceeding to pour herself another cup of tea. "Is it not my prerogative to do so?"

Drayce took a seat. "I am more than pleased to witness you behaving in such a manner."

"Indeed, I am acting on behalf of your parents as well," she poured a cup of tea for him, offering it across. "I find it unbearable to see them separated."

"Proceed as you deem fitting," Drayce replied.

"Should your father become displeased, I shall rely on you to shield me."

"Without fail."