As the first light of dawn stretched its golden fingers across the horizon, a new chapter in fate's grand design began to unfold. The hidden threads of destiny, long woven in secrecy, now quivered on the brink of revelation. The Cheinzs Manor stood like a jewel of unparalleled grandeur, bathed in the golden embrace of the morning sun. The grand estate, with its towering white-marble pillars and sprawling gardens, was adorned with banners of royal blue and deep crimson, each embroidered with the crest of the Cheinzs lineage. The air carried the crisp scent of fresh roses and lilacs, woven into elaborate floral arrangements that lined the stone pathways. At the heart of the courtyard, the grand water fountain gleamed, its cascading streams catching the sunlight like shattered diamonds. Sculpted from pure ivory stone, the fountain depicted four majestic sea creatures intertwined—symbols of prosperity and power. As the water danced in endless ripples, servants hurried about, ensuring every last detail of the decorations was flawless. Inside the banquet halls, chandeliers of gilded gold dripped with shimmering crystal, casting a celestial glow upon the polished marble floors. Long tables, dressed in the finest silk tablecloths, were adorned with golden candelabras and silver trays carrying the finest delicacies from across the kingdom. The scent of honeyed pastries, spiced meats, and rich wine lingered in the air, teasing the appetites of those passing by. The preparations were nearly complete, the grand event set to unfold at noon. Excitement pulsed through the halls, laced with the subtle hum of nervous anticipation. In their chambers, nobles dressed in their finest attire, silks and velvets of vibrant hues cascading over them as jeweled accessories glistened at their throats and wrists. A delicate tension threaded through the air—each noblewoman carefully selecting the perfect gown, each nobleman adjusting their collar, all sharing a singular desire—to capture the attention of the heir to the great Archduke Eridrius Cheinzs. Among them, noble daughters whispered in giddy excitement, their voices soft yet brimming with expectation. They dreamed of a moment beneath the grand chandeliers, swaying to the rhythm of an enchanting melody, their hands clasped in those of the Archduke’s grandsons. Their laughter flitted like birdsong, light and full of hope. Yet, far from the idle fantasies, deeper worries stirred within the great estates of Sletcheinzs, Sheencheinzs, Sancheinzs, and Shaincheinzs. Each family carried a burden heavier than the embroidered silks they wore—their young masters, the heirs of their noble names, concealed their unease behind carefully composed expressions. Though their hands did not tremble, nor did their words falter, within their chests, an undeniable weight pressed against their ribs.

  The past was not so easily forgotten.

  And the future was a tide, restless and uncertain.

  After all the preparation were completed, the servants, maids and the staff of the grand manor made their final touches, ensuring that every task had been properly executed. Meanwhile, the higher-ranking butler members made sure that every esteemed guest had received invitations. Before the grand birthday celebration of Archduke Eridrius began, the magnificent gates of his manor swung open wide, and four carriages entered the front and big courtyard. These four carriages carried the four Archduchess, wives of Archduke Eridrius Cheinzs. Archduchess Camellia, the first wife and mother of Randoldf, Archduchess Amberleen, the second wife, mother of Vaycheslav, Archduchess Melusine, the third wife and mother of Dyimitry, and Archduchess Maristella, the fourth wife and mother of Vadim. As the four Archduchesses gracefully stepped out of their carriages, they radiated an air of elegance and authority. Each of them had chosen to reside in their respective family estates, overseeing both family affairs and business matters. Their arrival left the gathered servants and maids in awe, for the presence of these noble ladies in the grand manor was a rare and magnificent sight. With great delight, Archduke Eridrius welcomed his wives, who despite their advancing age, still possessed remarkable beauty. The four Archduchesses smiled warmly at their husband aging yet still handsome face and bowed slightly in respect. Archduke Eridrius then invited them inside, where the grand doors of the manor stood wide open in welcome. As they stepped through the entrance, the sound of their high-heeled shoes echoed through the luxurious halls, each step resonating with grace and power. As they walked along the grand manor's corridor, where all the preparations were nearly complete, the four wives of Archduke Eridrius exchanged pleasantries. Archduchess Maristella, with a gentle and elegant voice, greeted them warmly, "How are you, ladies?" accompanied by a warm smile. The other three Archduchesses responded, saying they were doing well and in good health. Archduchess Camellia then turned to Maristella and asked, "Stella, how are you? Are you well?" Maristella smiled warmly, nodded, and replied that she was doing just fine and in good health. As they walked, they shared stories about their family businesses and laughed together, enjoying each other's company. However, their lighthearted conversation came to a halt when Archduke Eridrius spoke in a low and serious tone. "Camellia, Amberleen, Melusine, and Maristella, there is something I need to tell you." Upon hearing his words, all four of his wives fell silent, following him into an office where the Archduke handled all matters concerning the estates. Once inside, the four Archduchesses took their seats on a long sofa that comfortably accommodated them, while Archduke Eridrius sat on a single sofa, his gaze shifting to each of them before he let out a heavy sigh. Archduchess Camellia exchanged glances with her fellow sister-wives before breaking the silence, asking gently, "My dear, what is it? Is there something troubling your mind?".

  Archduke Eridrius looked at each of them once more before speaking in a weighty tone, "My dear wives, one of the reasons for holding my birthday celebration in such grandeur is to formally introduce our granddaughters to the public. There have been unpleasant rumors circulating about the daughters of Randoldf, Vaycheslav, Dyimitry, and Vadim, and these whispers have even reached the ears of His Majesty, King Luceryn Vaelstorm." A heavy silence filled the room as his wives absorbed his words, their expressions serious. Archduke Eridrius understood their silence all too well. After a moment, Amberleen spoke in a soft tone, "If the rumors have already spread this far, then there is nothing more we can do to keep the secret hidden." Melusine nodded in agreement, and Maristella added, "Our granddaughters will be turning eighteen next year." Camellia supported Maristella’s statement, saying, "Stella is right, my dear. Our four granddaughters have lived their lives away from the Water Kingdom, never revealing their identities as members of the Cheinzs family." Archduke Eridrius nodded in agreement before stating firmly, "I will introduce them at my birthday celebration." The four Archduchesses exchanged knowing glances before nodding in acceptance of his decision. At that moment, a gentle knock came at the door. Eridrius granted permission for the visitor to enter. The four Archduchesses turned their heads toward the door as the head steward stepped in, his expression composed as he delivered his report. "Your Grace, all preparations have been completed." Archduke Eridrius nodded in acknowledgment, and the head steward quietly exited the grand office. With a deep breath, Archduke Eridrius turned back to his wives and exhaled slowly before saying, "It is time to prepare for the event. The celebration will begin at noon. Our sons, daughters-in-law, and grandsons have already arrived and are gathered in the banquet hall, sharing stories.". His wives nodded and stood to getting ready for the celebration. As noon approached, the golden sun hung high in the sky, yet its warmth was gentle, caressed by a cool breeze that whispered through the towering trees. Wispa of soft clouds drifted lazily, veiling the heavens in a delicate dance of light and shadow. The air carried a crisp freshness, neither too hot nor too cold, as if nature itself had conspire to bless the day with perfect harmony. The grand gates of the Cheinzs family manor we opened wide to welcome the arriving guests for Archduke Eridrius's birthday celebration. The knights stationed around the estate kept a watchful eye on every corner, ensuring that no unforeseen incidents would disrupt the event. Each noble family and their representatives arrived in carriages adorned with their respective family crests, each carrying a unique motif, Archduke Eridrius and his wives observed the incoming guests as they passed through the grand gates. His four wives exchanged uneasy glances, sensing their husband's concerns. Archduchess Camellia, the first wife, gently spoke, "Let's hope everything will go well," her soft voice carried reassurance, and Eridrius only nodded after exhaling deeply. At one of the mansion's windows four young men, Chains, Raynard, Lodriand, and Antrandhi, the eldest among them, watched the arriving guests. With a calm and composed tone, Chains asked his three cousins what they thought of the nobles attending the event. Raynard, in a steady voice, responded, "It is difficult to determine who comes with goodwill and who harbors ill intentions toward our family." Antrandhi nodded in agreement, while Lodriand suddenly pointed out something that caught their attention. A luxurious carriage had just entered the estate grounds, Lodriand's eyes narrowed as he studied its crest, a symbol he felt seen before, Chains recognizing it, spoke the name of the noble family it belonged to. Meanwhile, behind the four young men, their younger siblings were engaged in casual conversation with their parents, having already finished preparing for the celebration. A few minutes later, a knock echoed on the door of the lounge where the sons of Archduke Eridrius were conversing. Upon receiving permission from the four Dukes, the highest-ranking servant of Archduke Eridrius entered with a composed expression and announced, "My lords, my lady, the grand master has ordered your presence in the grand hall to welcome the esteemed guest—King Luceryn Vaelstorm, who will be arriving shortly. The young masters are also required to make their way to the hall." The Dukes exchanged glances with their wives before nodding in acknowledgment. Rising to their feet, one of them turned to the servant and said, "Thank you. We shall proceed there at once." Everyone in the lounge stood up, dusting off their garments as they prepared to make their way towards the hall, following their parents with dignified composure. After a few minutes, they arrived at the grand hall, where Archduke Eridrius and his four wives stood with an air of tranquility and regal poise. The grandchildren of Archduke Eridrius respectfully greeted them with slight bows and warm smiles, to which the four noble ladies responded with affectionate gazes. The sons of the Archduke could sense the tension in their parents, aware of the importance of this meeting. Together, the vast Cheinzs family proceeded towards the luxurious main entrance of the grand estate. Their presence alone commanded attention—the nobility gathered in the hall turned their eyes towards them, whispering among themselves. The noble daughters, in particular, found themselves unable to look away, utterly mesmerized by the striking appearances, commanding presence, and sheer aura of the Cheinzs sons. Some gaped in admiration, their cheeks tinged with pink, while others averted their gazes shyly, stealing glances from beneath their lashes. A few noble families bowed their heads in deep respect towards the grand master of the estate, Archduke Eridrius, while others watched with thinly veiled envy at the grandeur and unity of the Cheinzs lineage. A soft afternoon breeze swept through the estate as the triumphant blare of trumpets rang from the grand gates—signaling the arrival of the kingdom’s ruler, King Luceryn Vaelstorm. The magnificent gates, heavy and ornate, swung open to reveal the royal carriage adorned with the sigil of the Erelthain royal family. As it passed through the grand courtyard, it rolled past a circular fountain, its waters cascading in silver waves over intricately carved sculptures of swirling tides. At the sound of the approaching monarch, the assembled nobles, household servants, and estate guards knelt in reverence, their heads bowed in deep respect. However, the Cheinzs family, as per their noble stature, performed a more refined gesture—offering graceful bows of their heads. The noble wives of the Archduke and the Dukes elegantly curtsied, their movements fluid and poised, embodying the height of courtly grace. As the gilded carriage door opened, King Luceryn stepped out with effortless majesty. His posture was relaxed, yet the undeniable aura of a ruler surrounded him. He swept a glance over the gathered nobility before speaking with a warm yet commanding voice, "Rise. I am here today not as your king, but as a friend to Eridrius." His words, spoken with ease and familiarity, were met with a knowing smile from Archduke Eridrius, who inclined his head respectfully. "It is an honor for the Cheinzs family to receive you as our most esteemed guest, Your Majesty." The king merely chuckled, waving off the formality with a small smile as his sharp gaze swept over the Cheinzs family and their extended kin. His attention lingered for a moment on the grandsons of Eridrius, who stood in perfect formation. In unison, the young men placed their right hands over their hearts, lowering their heads in a salute befitting a warrior’s oath. "Your Majesty, it is our greatest honor to welcome you here." King Luceryn let out a hearty laugh, nodding approvingly at the display of discipline and respect. With a gesture of his hand, Eridrius motioned towards the hall, his voice calm yet authoritative. "Please, Your Majesty, this way." As they began their procession into the estate, the grand noble assembly trailing behind them, King Luceryn lowered his head slightly and murmured under his breath to Eridrius, "Erid, this gathering seems far more extravagant than before. Does this occasion have a deeper purpose?" Eridrius, walking in measured steps beside his oldest friend, kept his expression steady. He responded in a hushed tone, "Indeed, Your Majesty. The true purpose of this gathering is ‘that.’ You know what I mean." At those words, King Luceryn turned his head slightly, his eyes widening with realization. "Are you jesting?!" His whispered exclamation carried a note of incredulity, though he maintained his composure. Eridrius merely shook his head, his jaw tightening in frustration. His voice, low and edged with restrained ire, carried the weight of duty. "This is all we can do, given the rumors about ‘them’ that have already begun to spread. I would have preferred to keep ‘them’ hidden, but it is too late." The king exhaled heavily, his gaze darkening in understanding. He knew well what Eridrius referred to. A secret organization had begun to rise—an unseen force that posed a threat to both the kingdom of water and the Cheinzs family. With this shared knowledge between them, they continued their hushed conversation as they entered the grand hall, where the awaiting nobles stood in eager anticipation. As the formalities began, the murmurs among the guests persisted, their curiosity piqued by the underlying mystery surrounding this opulent gathering.

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  LATE UPDATE FOR THE NEXT CHAPTERS, I AM SORRY :(