The Dragon King's Heart

Laina was quite surprised by the vampire's straightforward question. In fact, it was a refreshing change from her subjects and ministers.

"I see Kol and Margaret as my equals, despite their social statuses in society," Laina explained. 

"Traditions and rules are things we abide by but when times change, so should we. Kinshearth holds the traditions of the old in high regard, but the world around us shifts and changes."

Laina placed her hand over her heart as she continued, "As their future Queen, it is my duty to ensure the survival of my people. The need to break away from tradition is necessary. 

If I am not the one to spearhead the changes, who will?"

Florin was impressed by Laina's answer. He could not help but applaud her, and so he did.

"That is a fantastic answer, your Highness. I am impressed. If more monarchs were like you, this world we live in would be a much better place."

"You flatter me, Florin," Laina replied with blushed cheeks. 

They continued to enjoy their tea together, covering various topics. At the end of it, Laina and Florin gained a better understanding of each other. Laina's mention of the Yellow House intrigued Florin. Vampires loved the arts and the reputation of the Yellow House has traveled far and wide.

"We can arrange for you to visit if you like," Laina suggested.

"That might be dangerous," Kol quickly pointed out.

Florin sighed, "Kol is right. While I would love to see it, perhaps now is not the time."

Margaret pondered for a while before voicing out a suggestion, "Perhaps we could invite some of the artists for an art exchange in the Crown Princess's personal quarters. That way, you can meet them and minimal suspicions would be raised."

"Margaret, you're a genius!" Laina exclaimed with excitement. 

It has been a while since she had last spoken to the artists of the Yellow House. This would be the perfect opportunity for them to catch up as well. Florin was touched by Laina's friendliness. 

He did not want to impose on his host, "Princess Laina, I do not wish to trouble you with my request. I've already troubled you enough."

Laina chuckled, "It's no trouble at all, Florin. Good, trustworthy company is hard to come by as it is. Furthermore, I would love to hear your opinion on some of the works I had them work on. An extra pair of eyes is just what I need."

Hearing what she had to say, Florin finally agreed to it. While on the topic of events, Laina remembered their trip to Dracona. She knew it would be dangerous for Florin to remain in Kinshearth Palace for too long. Hence, she suggested that he follow them to Dracona for the Festival of Felines.

As soon as he heard about the festival, Florin lit up. He had attended on previous occasions. Vampires, especially the nobility and royalty, loved to keep cats as pets or familiars. But Florin knew he could not attend, letting out a sigh. 

"I am quite certain. My siblings may be in attendance. Should they discover my presence…" Florin gritted his teeth as he tightened his grip on his fork. 

Kol placed his hand on Florin's, looking straight into his eyes, "You need not worry, I'll be there to protect you."

Laina and Margaret were both surprised by Kol's words. Apart from his protective behavior over Laina, this was the first time they had heard Kol express similar intentions with someone else. Laina and Margaret exchanged looks for a quick moment before whispering to one another.

"Do you think there's something more going on here?" Laina whispered to Margaret while keeping an eye on Florin and Kol.

"I thought I was the only one who noticed! Perhaps…" 

Before Margaret could continue, they noticed Florin looking in their direction. They immediately pretended as if nothing had happened. But from the blush on Florin's cheeks, they had their answer. The vampire prince turned back to Kol.

He carefully removed his hand from Kol's as he said, "I appreciate your concern, Kol. But actually, I had another idea in mind. Since most of the royals would be attending the festival, perhaps…"

"Perhaps?" Kol was curious as to what Florin was trying to say too.

"Perhaps I could take this opportunity to return to Sangium and get my affairs in order." He explained.

Laina had not thought of this before. It was a good plan. The security in Sangium might be a little more relaxed as well, making it easy for Florin to get around. 

"Perhaps Kol could accompany you back," she suggested.

Her suggestion earned a look of surprise from all of them who sat around her. But Laina's suggestion was justified. Not only could Kol lend Florin a helping hand if needed, but he could also take the opportunity to look for his family.

"Kol mentioned to me that you were able to help restore part of his memories in childhood, revealing that his family was likely in the capital city of Sanguim. This would be a great opportunity to go and uncover the truth."

Kol looked over to Laina with a worried expression, "But your Highness? What about you? Who will be there to protect you in Dracona?" 

The Crown Princess smiled, happy to know how much Kol cared for her. Laina quickly reassured him. She still has her Order of Knights and Margaret by her side. She would be well protected.

"But if we all leave, who will govern Kinshearth in your absence?" Kol asked out of curiosity.

Laina took a sip of her tea before replying, "Don't worry, the ministers have always said they could manage things. I'm sure letting them handle things for a while should be alright.

If an emergency occurs, I will return to resolve it."

Hence, it was soon decided. When Laina and her entourage leave for the Festival of Felines in Dracona, Kol and Florin will head back to Sangium. 

"Are you sure you want to return to Sangium, Prince Florin? We could find an alternative solution to get your mother out of there," Laina suggested. 

Florin shook his head. This was his promise to his mother, he had to go back for her. Even if it was the last thing he could do. He was certain they would keep her alive to use her as bait. Should he return, he would be walking straight into their hands. But he did not have any other choice. 

He did not want to risk anyone else's lives for his troubles.