The sun shone brightly as the birds flew around singing the songs of merry. The busy streets of the small town of Grasscall were buzzing as the town folks roamed around the markets and shops. Little girls were braiding each other's hair while sitting near the water fountain. People were in a state of joy as spring was approaching.
Guards patrolled near the markets while people observed them. Rich Young maidens dressed in beautiful Clothes made from expensive materials laughed and played while their suitors waited for them. The whole town of Grasscall was a place filled with golden dust of laughs and smiles.
Soon a little boy dressed in an adorable shade of light blue clothes ran towards his mother. He huffed while his mother chuckled at the tired child.
" Arnold why are you running around like this in a hurry" she smiled at the little one and brushed his dusty shoulders.
" Mother...the royal carri-"
before he could finish the galloping sound of the horses approached. The people who were busy with their things turned as they heard the commotion.
"Her royal highness, the fourth Princess"
people gave way for the carriage as they split and moved towards the sides of the street.
people were eager to see their princess who returned to the kingdom after ten years. Unfortunately, the carriage didn't stop until it reached the castle. The carriage rattled through the towering gates of the castle, its wheels echoing against the cobbled path. The disappointed citizens returned to their homes. but some of the curious ones stayed.
"The princess surely will be a beauty"
"She must be beautiful like Lady Diane"
The people chatted about the Princess's appearance while they waited for the princess to get off the carriage. The door of the carriage opened and a pale girl wearing a white dress with a golden embroidery came out. She was as pale as the snow. Her golden locks of hair fluttered in the wind. she looked fragile like a porcelain doll. The crowd was in awe until her face was revealed. A silver metal mask covered half of her face. The crowd went silent. Some of them had an ugly scowl on their face.
" Who would've thought the princess we waited for was an ugly, scarred girl."
" I closed my shop just to see the pretty princess but this is such a disappointment."
Curiosity killed the cat and the curious people left. The news of the arrival of the scarred princess spread like wildfire. In a few hours, it became the talk of the town.
The Princess who heard and saw all of this remained nonchalant as she paid no heed to the murmurs. The commander of the knights arrived at the palace gate to welcome the princess. His flawless smile and husky body were something the maidens of the town would fawn upon. He greeted the princess with a bow and smiled at her.
"Your Highness, it's been a decade too long. Welcome back to your kingdom. Your return brings a radiant light to our land once more"
He spoke with his charming smile dancing on his lips.
"Commander, the time has indeed passed. Let us not dwell on it. My presence here is merely a matter of duty." Meliara walked past the commander while she held her head high. The commander was shocked by the attitude of the princess.
The king wanted her presence in the royal court.
She was escorted to the royal court by the countess kiff.
The tall and massive doors of the royal court opened viewing the spacious court. Ministers, generals and all the esteemed individuals were seated. The king and queen dominated the court with their powerful presence while the young concubines stayed seated in their respective seats. Among the concubines was Diane, the mother of the fourth princess Meliara who smiled at the arrival of her dear daughter.
"Esteemed guests and loyal subjects, after a decade of absence, we are privileged to welcome back Her Royal Highness, Princess Meliara, the fourth of her name. Let her return mark a new chapter in our kingdom's history"
Meliara walked slowly towards the centre of the court while murmurs arise. Just like the town folks, the high nobles were also surprised.
The king rose from his throne and spoke.
"Princess Meliara. you've returned. Let us hope your presence proves more beneficial this time."
His cold gaze met her unwavering eyes. The courtiers exchanged uncomfortable glances and the court was again filled with murmurs. "Meliara so much has changed since you left," The King
finally said, his gaze shifting to the horizon.
Meliara's response was equally chilly. "Change can be inevitable, Father."
Lady Diane, who had been watching the exchange, felt her heart sink at her daughter's icy response. Her eyes, usually warm and filled with motherly affection, now held a glimmer of sadness. She discreetly clasped her hands together, her knuckles turning white with tension.
Soon the queen spoke. Her lips curled into a smile as she spoke.
"Meliara my dear, we've all missed you greatly. Let us put aside our grievances and start anew, as a united family."
The queen pretended to be a good mother in front of the courtiers so that they had a good impression of her. Her devious plans always had a part where she can increase her favour among people.
" You must be tired after the long journey. I have arranged everything for you. Countess Kiff, please lead the princess to her chamber."
"Thank you, your royal Highness," Meliara said in a tone that was neither warm nor cold. With that, she turned and began to make her way into the castle, leaving behind the unresolved tension that still lingered in the air. The queen shared a last glance with the countess before she left with the princess.
Meliara spoke nothing while the countess blabbered about the castle and the glory of the queen. She paid no attention to the woman's words while she walked, glancing at the paintings.
Ten years had passed and nothing changed. People still gave her a cold glance. Even if she wears golden robes and precious rubies the people and the maids would look at her with disgust in their eyes. In front of them, the scarred princess was the same as the raggedy doll.