Nicholas was ushered in a grand office, with floor-to-ceiling windows that looked out over the sprawling city ahead of the island. Nicholas father, dressed in a tailored suit, sat behind a large desk. He stood up when he saw his son and bowed to honour him. "Welcome home, Lord Niklaus."Nicholas sat down in the executive chair of the grand office and relaxed comfortably. "Rise, father," Nicholas said. His father rose to his feet and returned back to his seat. "Surely, you'd want us to change you out of that shabby suit, my Lord."Nicholas shook his head. "This suit is a gift from my wife!""Forgive my words, my Lord," his father said. "Is my wife taken to the waiting room?" Nicholas asked Edgar whom was bowing with a knee before him. Edgar nodded. "Yes my Lord. She's being well attended to as you ordered.""Good," Nicholas turned to his father. "I'm sure you're waiting for me to explain my plans, father.""Yes," his father admitted. "Your behavior is strange. I'm baffled by the
Kimberly didn't know what to expect of Lord Niklaus but she never expected him to be a woman. This woman had long silver hair, flawless snow white skin, and wore a gold mask that concealed her face. Kimberly bowed. "Lord Niklaus. It's an honour to be in your presence."Silence. The woman walked confidently to the other side of the desk and sat down. "You may rise."Kimberly stood up, in awe of such power before her. She had initially thought the New lord of the Phoenix family would be a man but he turns out surprisingly to be a woman. "You've got sixty seconds," the woman said, checking her wrist watch "I'll listen to you for sixty seconds. Your time starts now."Kimberly took a deep breath and began to speak, explaining her proposal to the Lord as quickly and clearer as she can. As she spoke, she couldn't help but wonder what kind of expression this woman made behind that golden mask. She wondered if she would be interested in aiding her family or not. When she finished, the
Kimberly stepped out of the sauna, her skin glistening with sweat. She was dressed in a white robe, her hair wrapped in a towel. She took a deep breath and made her way to the banquet room.As she entered Sir Harold's banquet room, she was greeted by a stunning display of elegance. The room was beautifully decorated, with gold-plated chandeliers hanging from the ceiling and elegant table settings.There were twenty people seated around the table, all dressed in their finest attire. The table was set with sparkling silverware and fine china, and the food was presented beautifully on platters. There was a roasted pig in the center of the table, surrounded by bowls of steaming vegetables, bread, and fruits.Kimberly felt a sense of importance as she was ushered to the seat next to Sir Harold. She looked around the room, taking in the beauty of the banquet and feeling proud to be a part of it.As the feast began, Nicholas, was the one serving the meals and clearing plates. Despite h
Nicholas smirked then ordered, "Jean, bow and kiss my feet!"Silence. No one said a word but marveled at Nicholas audacity. Jean growled. "You filth. Why the hell would I ever bow to you?""Remember when you said I could never raise twenty million dollars?" Nicholas reminded him. Jean's eyes widened. "Huh? What did you say?""We made a bet between ourselves," Nicholas continued. "If I succeed, you will bow and kiss my feet."Jean was quiet. He didn't know if he was coming or going. Of course he remembered the bet. Nicholas grinned broadly. "You're awfully quiet, Jean. Where was all that spirit, huh?"Jean bite his lips. If he bowed to Nicholas and kiss his feet, he would lose his face in front of his family. Also if he didn't fulfil his part of the bet, his family would consider him untrustworthy and unfit to be a leader. He must find a way to escape such humiliation. "What are you waiting for Jean?" Nicholas said, his eyes growing darker. "Bow and kiss my feet. Then apologize t
Nicholas felt anger and embarrassment boil inside of him after being slapped by the jewelry attendant. He was used to being treated this way but never by a stranger. Being treated so disrespectfully in public was a blow to his ego.As he tried to compose himself, Nicholas' phone rang. He took it out of his pocket and saw that the caller ID was from his advisor, Julia. He answered the call, eager to hear what she had to say."Lord Niklaus," Julia began explaining. "The jewelry store you're in buys its jewelry from Liberty state."Nicholas eyes widened. How does she knows he was buying jewelries? Was he being watched?"Is that so?" Nicholas asked, feigning surprise. Julia sounded embittered with what's just transpired between him and the attendant. "Yes my Lord," she continued. "Seventy percent of the jewelries were bought on credit with loans from our bank."Nicholas felt a sense of glee and satisfaction as he heard this information. It was the break he needed to turn the situat
Nicholas was caught off guard as Kimberly, caught him stepping out of the car of a woman. He tried to act nonchalant, but his heart was racing as he wondered how he was going to explain this to her. Kimberly walked up towards Nicholas with a look of disbelief on her face. She was curious and angry, feeling betrayed by her husband's actions."My beloved, what're you doing out here?" Nicholas asked, trying to keep his voice steady. "I should be asking you the same question," Kimberly said, her eyes darkened. Nicholas quickly hide the diamond ring in his pocket just in time before she was closer. "What were you doing with her?" Kimberly asked, pointing at Julia in the car. "Are you cheating on me with another woman?"Nicholas immediately saw the danger in that. Of course it's the only logical conclusion to jump into since she had caught him with another woman. If she gets too suspicious, she might file for a divorce. That would be bad for Nicholas cover because he needed his ba
Later that night, Nicholas walked up the stairs to Kimberly's room to deliver the coffee she ordered. Kimberly was seated before her mirror, titivating herself. She looked so beautiful, Nicholas thought, smiling to himself. Tomorrow was their wedding anniversary. He still felt the diamond ring burning a hole in his pocket. What a surprise it'd be when he gets down on one knees and slip the ring in her finger. Their marriage wasn't yet consummated. He planned to propose to her tomorrow and have a real wedding done. As he dropped her coffee on the bedside table, Kimberly suddenly stopped him. "Hold on, Nicholas. I want to talk to you."Nicholas waited, unsure of what she was going to say. She had her back turned to him but he could see her expression through her mirror reflection. "Yes my beloved?" Nicholas said. "Do you know why you're still in this family?" Nicholas asked. "Yes," he answered. "It's because I'm married to you."She grimaced, then turned around slowly to fac
Sir Harold and the Goldstein family purchased a ten floor towering skyscraper in North Hills City, and they were determined to turn it into a profitable bank. The skyscraper costs about $20 million per floor but they saw the potential for growth in the area.Kimberly was tasked with overseeing the renovation of the building. She walked through the construction site, checking on the progress of the workers and reminding them of the tight deadline they faced. The workers were hard at work, despite the noise and dust, but Kimberly was determined to ensure the project was completed on time.As Kimberly was inspecting the site, she received an urgent call from Sir Harold. He asked her to come to the top office of the skyscraper as soon as possible. She quickly made her way to the elevator, which was in good condition and took her smoothly to the top floor.The top office of the future bank was undergoing renovations, but it was still possible to see the potential of the space. The wa
The TV crew diligently attended to the needs of King Nicholas. It was Nicholas's first appearance on an international live television, and the world-renowned News Broadcasting Corporation had secured the exclusive interview.The corporation, renowned for its unparalleled reach and influence, had managed what others could not. Every major news channel, including BBC, CNN, and Al Jazeera, had vied tirelessly to secure an interview with the esteemed King Dominik Niklaus, but their efforts had been in vain. It was a testament to the magnitude of this moment that the world's most influential news broadcaster had succeeded where others had failed.The TV crew, well-versed in the art of capturing history in the making, orchestrated their preparations with precision. Cameras were positioned strategically, lights were adjusted to perfection, and microphones were meticulously tested.The crew members moved with a quiet efficiency.As the crew carried out their duties, Nicholas stood before
The grand doors of the throne room swung open with a resounding creak, drawing the attention of all who were gathered inside. The courtiers, advisers, and members of the phoenix family turned their heads towards the entrance, anticipation evident in their eyes. The room was filled with an air of both tension and hope, for this was the day when King Nicholas would make his return home. Nicholas, adorned in regal attire, stepped into the room with measured grace. Every eye was fixed upon him, their gazes filled with a mix of reverence and relief. His recovery from the treacherous poison that had nearly claimed his life had been nothing short of miraculous. He had defied all odds and emerged triumphant from the clutches of death, earning the unwavering loyalty and respect of his subjects.The king was dressed in a flowing royal blue velvet robe, intricately embroidered with golden thread that glinted in the light. A golden crown adorned his head, gleaming with precious gemstones,
As Nicholas lay unconscious at the base of the well, his mind engulfed in darkness, a faint voice called out to him. "Your highness. Your highness, wake up." The voice was familiar, like a distant echo penetrating his subconscious.Slowly, the sound seeped into Nicholas's unconscious state, stirring him from his slumber. His body felt heavy and his mind foggy, but the urgency in the voice compelled him to respond.With great effort, Nicholas opened his eyes, only to find himself surrounded by the cold, stone walls of a well. Confusion washed over him as he tried to piece together his fragmented memories.And then, like a beacon cutting through the darkness, he saw Julia's face.Her eyes were filled with tears, her expression a mix of relief and anguish."Julia?" Nicholas muttered, his voice hoarse and weak. "What... what's happening?"Tears dripped from Julia's eyes, falling softly onto Nicholas's face as she held him in her arms. "My lord, we found you. You're safe now," she whisp
After Nicholas had been thrown into the well, Rose ordered her men to close the opening, sealing him inside. The heavy stone slab slid into place, shutting off any glimmer of light from the outside world.Satisfied with her sinister act, Rose ascended the stairs, leaving the chamber behind.Returning to the upper floors of the castle, Rose made her way to a vantage point that overlooked the vast expanse of the sea. As she gazed into the distance, her thoughts swirled with a mixture of anticipation and a hint of trepidation.A wry smile curled on Rose's lips as she imagined Julia and her relentless pursuit.She knew the Phoenix family would be on her trail, to rescue Nicholas. But Rose was prepared. Even if they came with an army, she was unyielding and unafraid.In her mind, she played out various scenarios, envisioning the forces that could be marshaled against her.She reveled in the prospect of a battle, relishing the challenge that awaited. Rose was a woman consumed by her thi
Nicholas's mind raced with thoughts of escape with each steps he took. The air in the narrow tunnel was stale, suffocating, and the sound of their footsteps echoed ominously. It seemed like a desperate race against time.As they ventured deeper into the tunnel, they stumbled upon an unexpected sight. The passage suddenly widened, revealing a hidden opening that led to the vast expanse of the sea. Moonlight spilled through the opening, casting an ethereal glow on the churning waves below.Nicholas's heart skipped a beat at the sight. A motor boat, small yet sturdy, bobbed gently in the water, its engine idling. Rose's voice cut through the air, filled with sinister delight. "Oh, how touching. A family reunion at the precipice of doom. Nicholas, my dear, you get on board. Yumi and William will be staying behind."Nicholas turned to face Rose, his eyes burning with anger. "No, Rose! They have nothing to do with this. Let them go. It's me you want, isn't it?"Rose sneered, her grip t
A thick silence fell between Nicholas and William. Nicholas could sense his father grappling with the weight of this revelation. "You believe your mother is alive? How come? She couldn't have survived that Poison all these years."Just as Nicholas was about to speak, the door swung open, and Yumi emerged, her hands raised in surrender. A look of panic flashed across her face, mirrored by Nicholas and William's shocked expressions.Before anyone could react, Mariam stepped out from the shadows, holding her rifle with a steady hand, her eyes filled with determination. "Nobody move, or else I'll shoot!" she declared with a mix of desperation and resolve.Nicholas's voice quivered with confusion as he asked, "Mariam, what's the meaning of this? Why are you doing this?"As if on cue, another figure emerged from the darkness, accompanied by three imposing men. The shock reverberated through Nicholas and William as they recognized the figure leading the group – it was Rose, Nicholas's mo
Seated at the dining table, Nicholas, Yumi, and Mariam enjoyed a cup of freshly brewed coffee, its aroma filling the air with warmth and comfort. The atmosphere had transformed from initial tension to a sense of collaboration and shared purpose.Yumi, with a warm smile, introduced Nicholas to Mariam. "Mariam, may I present to you Nicholas, the King of The United Republic of Niklauria."Mariam bowed slightly, a mix of respect and curiosity evident in her expression. "Your Majesty, I have heard a great deal about you and have seen you on television. It's an honor to finally meet you in person."Nicholas returned the gesture with a nod, acknowledging her words. "The pleasure is mine, Mariam. I have come here in search of answers and a possible cure. I was poisoned by the viper's veil, and Mrs. Abigail offered to create an antidote for me."Mariam's eyes glistened with a mix of nostalgia and sadness. "My mother-in-law told me about your visit and your request, Your Majesty. She believed
Coughing and wheezing amidst the swirling dust and rumbling aftermath of the explosion, Nicholas and Yumi struggled to regain their composure.Nicholas, wiping away the dirt from his face, turned to Yumi. "What in the world just happened? Who could have done this?"Yumi coughed and replied, her voice hoarse. "Could it be... Mrs. Abigail's killer?"Nicholas nodded, his expression determined. "It's a possibility. Someone must have gotten to Hans, overpowered him, and orchestrated this explosion to seal us inside."Realizing the gravity of their situation as the dust gradually cleared, they surveyed their surroundings and discovered that they were indeed trapped within the secret chamber.Nicholas remained composed and calm. "We cannot afford to panic, Yumi. We need to find a way out of here."Yumi's eyes widened in concern. "But how? We're surrounded by collapsed walls. There's no visible exit."Nicholas's voice carried a note of reassurance. "There must be another way, a hidden passage
Fear gripped Hans's face as he stared at the gun pointed directly at him. Beads of sweat formed on his forehead, his heart raced uncontrollably, and his trembling hands betrayed his intense unease. The shadowy figure emerged further, revealing the person behind the weapon.Hans's shock only deepened as he found himself looking directly into the eyes of Rose. Her gaze was hardened, and she appeared like a fugitive on the run. His lips quivered as he called out her name, barely able to believe what he was seeing. "Rose... you're alive?"With the gun still trained on him, Rose responded with a cold, unwavering voice. "Yes, Hans. I survived, thanks to Nicholas's foolishness. He thought a small dose of poison would slowly end my life."Hans was trembling. "How... how did you manage to survive? After taking that poison, I thought..."Rose gaze hardened as she interrupted him. "I returned to Mrs. Abigail, who concocted a cure for me. From that moment on, I started planning my revenge ag