order

Descending the stairs in a robe Nikolai conjured up with a flick of his wrist, I shoot him a skeptical glance. "You did that on purpose, didn't you?" I accuse, eyeing the mischievous purple-haired man with suspicion as we make our way down.

"You wound me, your highness," he protests, feigning offense with a hand placed dramatically over his heart. I can't help but roll my eyes at his theatrics.

"I'm serious! I just came to relay a message. How would I have known you were being intimate with Haroun!?" Nikolai defends himself with exaggerated indignation, his violet eyes twinkling with mischief. Despite my annoyance, a giggle escapes me at his antics.

Reaching the bottom of the stairs, I find Stacy waiting for me. "Hello, Stacy," I greet curtly, a hint of annoyance in my tone.

"You know I didn't want to interrupt, your highness. I just had to, unfortunately," Stacy apologizes, her expression apologetic.

I wave off her apology impatiently. "Yes, yes, so what was so important?" I ask, eager to get to the heart of the matter.

"Here," Stacy says, handing me a scroll sealed with the royal seal. I take it from her and break the seal, unfurling the parchment to read its contents. As I scan through the message, a heavy sigh escapes my lips. It seems that trouble is never far away.

"Thank you, Stacy. I'll expect your services tomorrow," I say, dismissing her with a nod. As she leaves, I feel a headache beginning to form, and I pinch the bridge of my nose in frustration.

Can't I have just a week to enjoy my time with the boys? I long for the simplicity of my life back at the temple with Gramps, where troubles seemed distant and easily managed. But now, it appears that challenges follow me wherever I go.

Frustration simmering beneath the surface, I turn and begin to ascend the stairs, with Nikolai trailing behind me.

*

As dawn breaks, casting its gentle light into my chamber, I find myself engulfed in a tempest of rage. Kai, responding promptly to my urgent summons from the previous night, arrives just before the first light of morning.

Seated before the vanity, I am surrounded by a flurry of activity as Kai and his team meticulously tend to my hair and makeup. The atmosphere is charged with tension, none daring to speak as they sense the storm brewing beneath my composed exterior. It's a rare sight for them, witnessing me in the grip of such fury.

Finally, I am adorned in a stunning gown, a testament to my designer's unparalleled skill. The garment, a masterpiece of gold and orange hues, is embellished with intricate embroidery that catches the light in mesmerizing patterns.

By midday, I am ready to depart for the Emperor's palace, accompanied by Stacy and the boys, whose presence has also been requested. Despite the meticulous efforts of Kai to enhance their appearance, my mind is preoccupied with thoughts of the impending confrontation.

As we traverse the opulent corridors and majestic pillars of the palace, I maintain a dignified posture, steeling myself for what lies ahead. Arriving at the imposing doors of the throne room, I draw a deep breath, summoning every ounce of resolve as they swing open to announce my entrance.

"Announcing the third princess of Salona Empire, Princess Lucina Solana," a booming voice declares from within the throne room as the magnificent doors swing open.

I stride into the hall with my head held high, taking in the majestic grandeur of the throne room. It's no wonder they call it the hall of stars. The opulent space is adorned with elegance and splendor, every detail exuding regal magnificence.

A deep blue carpet stretches across the floor, leading my gaze toward the center of the room where the magnificent throne stands atop a platform, its crystalline structure glimmering in the ambient light. It's the focal point of the room, commanding attention and respect.

To either side of the throne, groups of noble men stand with dignified poise, their attire befitting their status. Atop the throne itself sits the emperor, a figure of authority and power, flanked by the empress at his side.

The marble floor gleams underfoot, its smooth surface reflecting the shimmering light that dances from the crystals adorning the walls. With each step, the room seems to sparkle like a night sky, casting an ethereal glow that adds to the atmosphere of reverence.

Approaching the foot of the stairs leading to the throne, I pause and bow deeply, a sign of respect for the emperor's presence.

"I greet his majesty the emperor," I announce formally, my voice carrying with confidence and respect.

"At ease," he replies with a simple yet commanding tone, his voice resonating with authority.

Lifting my gaze, I meet his eyes unflinchingly.