"In fact, Earl Laureen knows everything and understands everything."

Viktor waved his hand gently, and the flames around him shot into the sky like shooting stars, flashing on the ceiling.

It replaced the magic light bulb that would never light up again, illuminating the entire room as bright as day.

"So the one who actually died was not Earl Laureen's daughter."

The instant the light shone, a beam of intense white light also enveloped the ghost dressed in a black suit beside him.

That was the beautiful yet pale Priscilla.

She held one hand tightly to her chest, while gently stroking her black clothes with the other. Her face was as white as snow, filled with immense worry and fear.

Victor looked at her, then pointed to the distorted monster whose face was exactly the same as Priscilla's:

"But it is your human mother."

"Am I right, Priscilla?"

...

Inside the banquet hall, magnificent lights illuminated every corner.

The nobles, holding wine glasses, took their seats one after another with elegance, whispering and discussing various topics.

Soon, a trolley carrying a huge, exquisite cake slowly entered the banquet hall, attracting everyone's attention.

This cake, with its sixteen layers stacked upon each other, resembled a small tower, drawing admiration from the many noble lords.

They had never heard of anyone preparing a cake for this diplomatic banquet.

Who is this cake for?

But no one could guess the answer.

Just as everyone was discussing this, Aurelion and her entourage slowly walked out of the magnificent golden corridor, attracting the attention of countless nobles.

August walked side by side with Aurelion, while Earl Laurean followed closely behind.

As the two approached the cake, August raised his voice and said:

"You might be wondering who this huge cake is for."

The crowd was indeed curious, and the nobles began to discuss it amongst themselves, creating a rustling commotion.

Only the twelve foreign ministers from the Empire smiled and showed no sign of doubt.

Because this was something they told Earl Laureen to prepare.

At this moment, August, with a smile on his face, continued:

"The banquet is being held today not only to establish friendly diplomatic relations with the Empire."

"And also to celebrate our Princess Aurelion, who came from afar from the Empire."

"Her sixteenth birthday."

The nobles present immediately understood upon hearing this.

No wonder this feast is so grand; today, she is even the princess of Aurelion.

They might disrespect the king, but they certainly wouldn't dare disrespect the imperial princess.

Not only is she a princess from the empire, but her background is also very powerful, as everyone present can see.

Her father was Aubrey, the most powerful warrior in the world, and her teacher was the legendary Scourge mage, Victor.

And there's also their kingdom's most powerful duke, Festan Barlow, who is also Aurelion's maternal grandfather.

With so many connections and such a powerful background, who wouldn't dare to give them face?

The nobles present burst into applause, and thunderous applause filled the entire banquet hall.

Elegant violin music also switched to hers, seemingly singing a hymn for Aurelion's birthday.

Aurelion also politely smiled slightly at everyone.

Only when the applause gradually subsided did August turn to the crowd, his eyes deep as he spoke:

"Well then, on this special day, I happen to have something I want to announce."

"My future queen has been chosen."

Countless people instantly raised their heads and looked at August.

Even Hilda, who was sitting with her sister, suddenly looked up upon hearing the news, her eyes fixed on the king.

Aurelion looked on in astonishment, her eyes widening as she stared at August in disbelief.

Why would the king bring up such a topic on her birthday?

Suddenly, all the eyes of the kingdom's nobles were focused on Aurelion.

Clearly, countless people have realized this.

August is going to propose to Aurelian?

To this princess from the empire!?

This is the perfect marriage alliance.

After all, Aurelion has a powerful background, and allying with her would be equivalent to gaining support from three parties.

Moreover, August happened to choose Aurelion's birthday, which made it perfect for the engagement.

And August's mention of Aurelion's birthday seems like a perfect match.

As for Aurelion not agreeing? The Empire not agreeing?

That's impossible, unless Aurelion is the heir to the empire.

Otherwise, the benefits of a marriage alliance with the Kingdom of Kant would be far too numerous, so how could the empire possibly refuse?

Moreover, a girl becoming the heir to an empire? How is that possible?

All eight emperors of the empire were male!

A marriage alliance with Aurelion would further solidify August's rule.

Even their names contain the character "奥" (Ao), seemingly foreshadowing their destined connection.

This is a win-win situation.

Everyone present seemed to think that the marriage was a done deal.

Aurelion seemed a little confused, because August's gaze had already locked onto her.

An ominous premonition rose in her heart.

Finally, August, with a gentle smile, said to her:

“I have decided to marry Priscilla Nice, daughter of Earl Laureen, as my future queen.”

"I hope Princess Aurelion can be my witness on her birthday today."

At that moment, the entire venue fell silent.

Even the cheerful music came to an abrupt end.

It seemed to be speaking of a deafening silence.