Two Faced Princess
Chapter 32's
Petra would no longer try to kill him. When he became engaged to Pangera, his security became an important diplomatic issue of the Kingdom of Bjorn. Apollonia finds an unexpected shield.
The royal princess's wedding was like an exchange. Since this engagement had been decided so quickly, King Bjorn and Gaius would negotiate many matters. But if the two parties involved do not agree to the terms of trade, it is common for both kingdoms to cancel the engagement.
“You must be able to cultivate and perfect your quality as a substitute, that way you can bring glory to the Kingdom.” Gaius looked satisfied.
“Thank you for your concern, Dad. But I have a request.” Apollonia bowed gracefully.
“Please.”
“I want to visit Lishan Province that grandfather left behind. After I get married, I'm not allowed to go there anymore, so I want to fulfill my duty as the owner of the territory at least once.”
“But it's a dangerous province.”
“I'm afraid the province is getting messed up if I leave it any longer and it's the only territory Grandpa gave me that I still hold, I feel tied to that province. If Dad gives me permission, I promise I'll be back before the messenger from Bjorn comes.”
The King raised his eyebrows. Pascal III did leave much territory to Apollonia other than Lishan, but all present that day knew that the territory had been taken by the King himself.
If He tried to limit Apollonia's power to Lishan in front of everyone, then He would be labeled as a father who pretended to be blind to his son's property. And of course it's not a false accusation.
Gaius looked at his daughter with tenderness and affection.
“As your Father, I feel very sad You want to go to such a dangerous place, but I cannot forbid you. If you ask for an escort from the Knights of the Palace I will allow you.”
Unlike Petra who was rigid and built herself up, Gaius' acting got better with time. Apollonia bowed again and withdrew. He got what he wanted.
………..
The banquet of that day ended unhindered.
Apollonia put on her gentle gaze while dancing with the young nobles present, and in return she got many friendly greetings from everyone she met.
“Congratulations on your engagement Your Highness.”
Every Apollonia heard these words again, seventy-three times He only smiled in shame and finally He was able to get out of the banquet hall.
“Ah, forgive my impoliteness, Your Highness.”
It was his cousin Gareth Liefer, who patted him on the shoulder outside the banquet hall door.
Gareth has not treated Apollonia with manners according to his status, not since Gareth was 9. Gareth is Paris' only cousin and best friend so he kind of acts like a Prince. His golden eyes were a bit dull, just like his mother's. Gareth must have been drinking a lot of alcohol tonight.
“Where are you going, cousin?”
It was strange that Gareth would leave the palace if his banquet was still far from over. The crowd still filled the corridor where they stood.
“I want to get some fresh air. I heard your engagement has been decided?”
Gareth's eyes gleamed as he stared at Apollonia. They have known each other throughout their lives because since childhood Gareth always visited the palace, but Gareth's gaze has a different meaning from Petra's or the others.
“You've become so beautiful, Why did they send you away?”
Gareth extended his hand to caress Apollonia's face as she spoke. Gareth looked at Apollonia as if he were his prey. Of course Gareth did this to all the women he met, not just Apollonia.
“My engagement with Bjorn is none of your business. You're just drunk.”
Gareth's face turned tangled as Apollonia turned around and hurriedly left the palace. Apollonia turned to look at Gareth who was leaning on someone else and they both went back into the palace.
“Probable..”.
Apollonia sighed and headed for the Star Palace to fulfill her promise with Sid.
Waita minute…
Apollonia had not gone too far when suddenly He thought of something. The person who helped Gareth looked familiar.Her pale hair and smile reminded him of the servant he met at the palace gate some time ago.
Adrian Reese |
