Chapter 231
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Third Person’s POV
Priscilla gazed at the painting for a while, resting her chin on her hand, when suddenly she became anxious. Though she knew little about art, she understood these oil paintings were invaluable.
If she sent them to Madison as demanded, they’d likely never return.
Yet refusing might provoke who–knows–what schemes from Madison and her daughter.
Before long, a messenger arrived and said, “A message from Alpha Adelaide: if the ladies wish to continue viewing the paintings, they’re invited to the Frostfang Pack. She and Mr. Neil await them graciously.
“I’m in!”
Doug’s granddaughter Abigail blurted out without a second thought, decorum forgotten.
The chance to meet Mr. Neil–what did propriety matter?
Lycan Erasmus was also there, and many genuinely wished to meet Mr. Neil. They all agreed to go.
An omega asked Priscilla, “Shall I prepare the carriage?”
Priscilla was torn. As the host, she’d lost the focus of the event to the Frostfang Pack.
Now Lycan Erasmus and the Royal Council members were there. If she didn’t go, she’d seem petty.
“Prepare the carriage,” she gritted out.
As she climbed in, she suddenly realized–had she walked into Adelaide’s trap?
Today was her banquet, yet the spotlight had shifted to the Frostfang Pack.
A few paintings had turned the tide, which enraged her further.
But there was no turning back. She had to go. If Adelaide dared to offend Lycan Erasmus and the officials, Priscilla would make her pay.
To her surprise, Adelaide greeted her personally at the Packhouse door.
As Priscilla exited the carriage, Adelaide offered her arm, smiling warmly: “Watch your step. I you in.”
Priscilla had braced for a cold reception but was caught off–guard by this warmth.
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She quickly reminded herself of her seniority–it was only proper to be treated this way – and accepted the assistance , entering in her plum–red velvet gown and fox–fur cloak.
In the conference hall, Lycan Erasmus, the Royal Council President, numerous government officials , and even her son Lance, were present. Lance was conversing with a handsome man in blue
Everyone rose to greet Priscilla , including Erasmus.
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Her spirits lifted–while she often mingled with nobility, interactions with political figures were rare
Their respect swelled her pride, and she promptly dismissed her earlier annoyance, returning their courtesies and taking her seat of honor.
Never before had she received such joint acclaim from government officials and the legendary painter Mr. Neil.
This distinction warmed her to Adelaide, though she’d never admit it beyond a grudging fraction.
After the Frostfang Pack’s omega served England–style tea and retreated, Craig approached Adelaide and murmured, “Excessive flattery can be the surest way to undermine someone.
Adelaide suppressed a laugh–who said Craig was oblivious to social nuances?
“You’ll coexist with her in the same pack eventually. She’s the mother of your future mate. Confrontation won’t serve you,” he cautioned.
Craig continued in a low voice, “As for the royalty here, you’ll interact with them often. Today’s exhibition . paves the way for you. I hope you don’t disappoint my intentions. Try not to resort to force in future dealings.”
Adelaide felt a mix of gratitude and helplessness–did Craig really see her as so combative?
Since returning from the Shadow Peaks, she’d diligently studied etiquette.
During her year in the Bloodmoon Pack, she’d mastered capital–city diplomacy.
It wasn’t fear of offending others, but concern for Cedric, that made her restrain her sharp edges. Even Priscilla now seemed somewhat more palatable.
Lycan Erasmus was wholly absorbed in the paintings, his gaze locked on each oil painting as if in a trance. He glared at anyone attempting to comment.
“Comment? Who’s qualified to critique Mr. Neil’s work?”
Even President Cyrus was driven away. “Admire something else. I wish to savor these alone. So many gathered here for a single piece?”
Cyrus retreated, having merely wanted to revisit the snow – scene painting.
He turned to the plum–blossom oil painting, acknowledging Neil’s mastery with strokes so delicate they seemed lifelike.
More intriguing were the border town–themed works: two plainly dressed yet tidy we wooden buckets to a well, a newly dug village well in a border town. Ordinary life dep underscored the peace’s value to common wolves.
After a long gaze, Cyrus asked Craig, “Mr. Neil, might I purchase one of your paintings ? ”
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All eyes turned to Craig, even Erasmus showing eager
tion.
As Lycan Erasmus, he could ask for a gift, but in his role as Council President, he sought to buy .
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45 Free Coins
Craig smiled. “Cyrus, I can’t decide that. These paintings are gifted to Adelaide. If she’s willing to sell, I have no objections.”
The crowd’s attention shifted to Adelaide, their eyes pleading.
One after another approached her, each requesting just one painting, unable to afford more.
Adelaide understood this was Craig boosting her prestige.