Chapter 30
Lucina
I descend 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 eye 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 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 twinkle with mischief.
Despite my annoyance, a giggle escapes me at his antics.
I reach the bottom of the stairs.
Stacy waits for me.
"Hello, Stacy."
My greeting is curt. Annoyance laces my tone.
"You know I didn't want to interrupt, Your Highness. I just had to, unfortunately."
Her expression is apologetic.
I wave off her apology impatiently. "Yes, yes. So what was so important?"
"Here."
She hands me a scroll sealed with the royal seal.
I take it and break the seal. I unfurl the parchment and read its contents.
A heavy sigh escapes my lips.
Trouble is never far away.
"Thank you, Stacy. I'll expect your services tomorrow."
I dismiss her with a nod.
As she leaves, a headache begins to form. 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 challenges follow me wherever I go.
Frustration simmering beneath the surface, I turn and begin to ascend the stairs.
Nikolai trails behind me.
*
Dawn breaks, casting gentle light into my chamber.
I am engulfed in a tempest of rage.
Kai responds promptly to my urgent summons from the previous night. He arrives just before the first light of morning.
I sit before the vanity, surrounded by a flurry of activity. Kai and his team meticulously tend to my hair and makeup.
The atmosphere charges with tension. None dare speak. 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 is a masterpiece of gold and orange hues, embellished with intricate embroidery that catches the light in mesmerizing patterns.
By midday, I am ready to depart for the Emperor's palace.
Stacy accompanies me. The boys accompany me,their presence also requested.
Despite the meticulous efforts of Kai to enhance their appearance, my mind preoccupies itself with thoughts of the impending confrontation.
We traverse the opulent corridors and majestic pillars of the palace.
I maintain a dignified posture. I steel myself for what lies ahead.
We arrive at the imposing doors of the throne room.
I draw a deep breath, summoning every ounce of resolve.
The doors swing open.
"Announcing the third princess of the Salona Empire, Princess Lucina Solana."
A booming voice declares from within the throne room.
I stride into the hall with my head held high.
I take in the majestic grandeur of the throne room.
No wonder they call it the Hall of Stars.
The opulent space is adorned with elegance and splendor. Every detail exudes regal magnificence.
A deep blue carpet stretches across the floor, leading my gaze toward the center of the room. The magnificent throne stands atop a platform—its crystalline structure glimmering in the ambient light.
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 befits their status.
Atop the throne sits the Emperor—a figure of authority and power. The Empress flanks him at his side.
The marble floor gleams underfoot. Its smooth surface reflects the shimmering light dancing from the crystals adorning the walls.
With each step, the room sparkles like a night sky. Casting an ethereal glow that adds to the atmosphere of reverence.
I approach the foot of the stairs leading to the throne.
I pause.
I bow deeply,a sign of respect I don't feel for the Emperor's presence.
"I greet His Majesty the Emperor."
My voice carries confidence and respect.
"At ease."
His reply is simple yet commanding. His voice resonates with authority.
I lift my gaze.
I meet his eyes unflinchingly.