I slipped out of the drawing room, heartbeat drumming in my ears, palms clammy with sweat, but the anger I felt was way beyond my anxiety.
My eyes darted around the hallway, making sure I met no one as I slipped back to the guesthouse and into my room as discreetly as possible. I had no intention of talking to anyone before dinner, I need to think.
With the Naib being around I had to be more careful with my actions, and even though I knew of his presence beforehand, I did not expect him to get this involved. With him being The Emperor's messenger and word, I was obliged to be at my best all times wherever his ears reach, including my interactions with the duke, which I was planning to keep at almost-civil and not-so-hostile, but that doesn't seem to be sufficient now that the Naib thinks we're romantically involved.
Would a diplomatic relationship be that beneficial to us afterall? If my father deems it suitable I have no objections, he is my emperor and my father above all. However if it is perceived as a bad influence on our mission then I am destined for doom. My dreams of pursuing this as a life-long work would be turned to nothing. Being the head of the Weaponry Research Division in the Taneryan Troops was not an easy win, I had to work for years, competing with both seniors and people of my age so I could guarantee I come on top, so my father would know for sure I am fit for this job. He tends to be more stern with us, he says he refuses to let his grow up to be spoiled royals who get things by tyranny and ego, hence all of us, me and my older 6 brothers, grew up into our own individuals. Me, Amo and Nasir being in the Army, the twins were into politics, while Abdu and Nidhal were Scholars.
I realized I needed to write to my father as soon as possible, before Nasir and the Naib write to him with the latest updates, but not before I talk to Nasir and Amo away from everyone else.
Should I tell them the truth? If not how could I get away with lying to them? I need to know first about the affect "we" would have on the noble society here, and our mission more importantly, and since I am no diplomacy-savy then it's best to turn to Nasir for advice.
A knock sounded at the door, before I heard a maid asking to come in:"Your highness, I am here to assess your highness in dressing for tonight's dinner." I sat up on my bed, not bothering to fix my hair or attire before I let her in.
I changed into a light-brown dress, beaded with clear crystals in thin lignes criss-crossing all over it, drawing diamonds of reflections once the dress is presented under light. The dress had no arms, only strings of crystals falling off my shoulders on top of a clear mesh. It wasn't the most modest dress I owned, and I know I need to buy a few more attires to befit this kingdom's fashion, but it was far too beautiful to be kept in my closet any longer.
holding my dark locks away from my face, I decided to tame it and gather it with a golden pin, twirling the hair in a neat mess as a few strands tattered on my skin.
Deciding to keep my jewelry to minimum, I wore six golden bracelets, three on each arm, letters of my favorite poem embedded onto them in a beautiful calligraphy. No rings, no necklace, my ears decorated with small golden hoops, I decided to let my dress speak for itself, and for me as well.
I am assuming news of today's events would be heard on tonight's dinner, and it is no different than any other battle I've prepared for.
Only this once, I know not of this war's rules and schemes.
I headed out of the room to meet Nasir in the common lounge, he looked himself, composed, confident, and the best moral-support one could ask for.
seeing my brother stand so tall and proud I was reminded once again of my duties. I am a princess of the strongest empire to stand in this modern day, and that gives me leverage, despite everything Hebron might bring to counter-attack my claim. I am The one and only princess of Tanery, and I should act like it.
grabbing into his arm, we walked in silence towards our meal. Both agreeing that what needs to be discussed requires time and secrecy, something we are not provided with today.
" His highness Prince Nasir of tanery, Her higheness princess El-Huaria of Tanery", called the man holding the doors, loud enough to be heard from across the sea.
Eyes and ears on us, we walked into the dinning hall.