The Scarred Queen's Rise (Athena) novel Chapter 765

**TITLE: Fake Girl 765**
**CONTENT: Chapter 765**

With an urgency that betrayed her excitement, she waved over to Athena. “Come over and savor this chicken soup! It’s made from the old hen that the elderly woman raised herself, and it has been simmering for three whole hours.” The warmth of her invitation was palpable, a blend of nostalgia and care.

As Athena reached for the bowl of steaming soup, a small hand tugged at the hem of her clothing. It was the peddler’s son, a little boy with a head resembling that of a tiger, his bright eyes shining with mischief. He held up a piece of maltose, his small face beaming with pride. “Princess Consort, you must try this! It’s sweeter than rock candy!” His enthusiasm was infectious, and it brought a smile to her face.

Just then, Xander appeared, his presence as comforting as a familiar melody. He slipped his arm around Athena’s waist from behind, his touch gentle and reassuring. His gaze fell to the bowl in her hands, concern etched on his features. “Drink slowly, love. Be careful; it’s still hot.” His voice was low and soothing, wrapping around her like a warm blanket.

He took a moment to observe the lively scene unfolding in the yard. Laughter and chatter filled the air as people mingled, the atmosphere vibrant with joy. His eyes landed on the delicate smile lines that danced around Alexandra’s eyes, a sight that made his heart swell with warmth. In that moment, he realized that this unexpected reunion felt far more significant than any grand celebration or banquet could ever be.

The midday sun filtered through the branches above, casting playful patches of light and shadow on the ground below. The long table was a feast for the senses, laden with an array of steaming dishes, each one more tantalizing than the last. The manor’s inhabitants and their guests sat together, sharing stories and laughter that echoed through the yard like music.

The old woman, with her weathered hands, served Athena a piece of roast mutton, her eyes twinkling with affection. Meanwhile, Xander busied himself peeling shrimp shells for Alexandra, a simple act that spoke volumes of his care for her.

Nearby, the peddler’s daughter was relentless in her pursuit of Natasha, begging her to teach her how to wield a gun. Her silvery laughter rang out, startling the sparrows perched on the branches above, sending them flitting away in surprise.

Nelson, holding a wine bowl, strolled toward the stone lion that had stood guard over the manor for decades. But as he glanced at the two goats tethered under the tree, a wave of emotion washed over him, and his eyes grew misty.

He had dedicated thirty years to protecting this place, witnessing both the heights of Xander Manor’s glory and the depths of its struggles. It was in that moment of reflection that he grasped a profound truth: home and country were defined not by grand structures or titles, but by the people who chose to guard their city and those who offered a simple bowl of hot soup in times of need.

*****

Fast forward half a month, and the atmosphere had shifted dramatically; Arthur’s condition had taken a turn for the worse.

Athena found herself moving back and forth between the palace and Xander Manor, her heart heavy with worry. The air in the Heaven Hall was thick with the unmistakable scent of medicine, a harsh reminder of Arthur’s deteriorating health. He lay on the bed, his breaths shallow and labored, a shadow of the strong figure he once was.

His silver hair, once meticulously styled, now clung to his cheeks in disarray, a testament to his weakened state. The sharp angles of his cheekbones made his once-majestic face appear particularly haggard, a sight that twisted Athena’s heart with sorrow.

After the imperial physician had concluded his examination, he shook his head repeatedly, a gesture that spoke volumes to Evander standing nearby. It was clear: Arthur was terminally ill, and time was slipping through their fingers like sand.

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