As the envoy exchanges pleasantries with my father, I can't shake the feeling that something crucial is about to unfold. The atmosphere is thick with anticipation, and I can see the curiosity etched on the faces of the guests.
Just as I begin to wonder if the envoy's visit is merely a formality, he clears his throat, drawing the attention of everyone in the room.
"Your Majesty," he begins, his voice smooth yet commanding, "I come bearing a proposal that is beneficial for our kingdoms. The esteemed Crown Prince, Robert Bruno of Aetheria, has expressed a keen interest in your daughter, Princess Alexandra." He pauses, allowing his words to settle in our minds.
A ripple of surprise courses through the crowd, and I feel my heart skip a beat. The Crown Prince of Aetheria? My mind races as I try to process the implications of such a proposal.
The envoy continues, his tone filled with pride. "Prince Robert is not only the eldest son of King Alaric Bruno, our justified Crown Prince, but also a powerful mage. At just 25 years old, he has already attained the initial stage of four-star level in his magical abilities, making him one of the most formidable mages in the realm. He is skilled in the elements of Wind, Light, Thunder, and Fire. He is also a powerful warrior, specialized in the use of the sword, spear, arrow, and dagger. A genius in warfare, politics, philosophy, literature, and the arts—including calligraphy, chess, and poetry—he possesses a remarkable breadth of knowledge and talent in all aspects. Tall, handsome, and charismatic, he stands out in any crowd. Despite being the eldest prince, he is a kind and honest individual, embodying every quality one could hope for in a man."
As he speaks, I can't help but picture the prince in my mind: a powerful mage, tall, handsome, and now, it seems, interested in me. The envoy's words paint a picture of a man who commands respect and admiration.
"Since the age of 20, Crown Prince Robert has received numerous proposals from the other central kingdoms and beyond, but he has remained uninterested—until now. He has heard tales of Princess Alexandra's grace and abilities, and it has sparked a desire in him to seek her hand in marriage."
The room buzzes with murmurs. I can feel everyone's gazes upon me, a mixture of admiration and expectation.
I contemplate silently. What is it about me that interests Crown Prince Robert to the extent that he would send a marriage proposal directly?
My face is always concealed behind a mask or veil, and no outsider knows of my beauty. Furthermore, I am the strategist of our army; this fact is also hidden from the outside world.
Every soldier in our ranks has sworn to keep this information secret. Of course, we can't silence everyone forever; this information could slip out.
Perhaps he has sent a spy into our kingdom, drawn by its various outstanding feats over the years. Who knows?
The idea of marrying a prince from Aetheria, a kingdom renowned for its power and authority, is both enticing and daunting.
Although I can't shake the feeling that it might be that demon. I don't actually know how his power works. I felt the resistance of the worlds—Earth and even a magical world like Miloria—whenever I tried to use my true power. I'm uncertain about his situation.
Demons are beings that always use trickery to obtain what they want; they are madly passionate about their desires. He was obsessed with me on Earth.
I don't know if he has come into this world or if he really has come—exactly where he is now. This uncertainty makes me feel even more helpless. I can't doubt every person who shows interest in me, can I?
So I push this thought to the back of my mind. Forget it for now, Merry.
The envoy speaks again, his voice steady and persuasive. "This marriage would create a powerful alliance between our kingdoms. Crown Prince Robert is eager to meet Princess Alexandra to understand the woman who has captured his interest profoundly. He believes that together, they could forge a future that benefits both our kingdoms."
As I stand there, absorbing the gravity of the situation, I glance at my father. His expression is one of contemplation, weighing the potential of such a marriage against the traditions of our own kingdom. I sense the excitement in the air, but also the weight of responsibility that accompanies such a proposal.
"Your Majesty," the envoy adds, his gaze on my father, "I assure you, Crown Prince Robert is a man of honor and integrity. He seeks not only a wife but a partner in every sense of the word. He wishes to build a life filled with mutual respect and love."
The room falls silent as my father considers the envoy's words. I can feel the tension in the air, the anticipation of what this proposal could mean for our future.
My mind races with thoughts of what it would be like to be married to a powerful prince from the most influential kingdom in the realm, to live in Aetheria, and to embrace a life filled with uncertainty.
I also wonder about the weight of such a decision and the responsibilities that come with being a Princess Consort of a powerful kingdom. But if I can ascertain his identity as that demon, I won't care about anything; I will just directly refuse this proposal.
As the envoy finishes his speech, I realize that this moment could change everything. The laughter and music of the party seem distant now, overshadowed by the enormity of the proposal laid before us. I take a deep breath, preparing myself for the conversation that will follow.
The stretching silence in the room feels charged with possibility. I can see the flicker of excitement in my father's eyes, a glimmer of hope for a future that could bring prosperity and strength to our kingdom.
The envoy's words hang in the air like a promise, and I can't help but feel somewhat helpless. If my father anticipates a bright future for our kingdom due to this marriage, how could I refuse?
Besides, we are a small kingdom. If I reject this proposal and the Aetherian royal family finds it disrespectful, we would be powerless to counter their displeasure. However, if Crown Prince Robert turns out to be that demon, I'll use every ounce of my power to retaliate against them.
"Crown Prince Robert," my father finally speaks, his voice steady and authoritative, "is indeed a remarkable young man. A union with Aetheria could bring great benefits to our people." He turns to me, his gaze softening. "Alexandra, what are your thoughts on this proposal?"
I take a moment to gather my thoughts, feeling the weight of the moment. "Father," I begin, my voice steady, neither haughty nor subservient, "I am honored that Crown Prince Robert has shown interest in me. From what I've heard, he is not only powerful but also a man of integrity. I believe that a marriage built on mutual respect and love could lead to a strong alliance between our kingdoms."
The envoy nods, a satisfied smile spreading across his face. "Indeed, Your Highness. Crown Prince Robert is eager to meet you to understand your heart and mind. He believes that true strength lies in unity, and he has heard about your kindred spirit."
As I speak, I can feel the sense of helplessness creeping up within me more and more. The thought of meeting Crown Prince Robert, along with his uncertain identity, character, and the shackles of this marriage, fills me with dread.
"Perhaps we could arrange a meeting," my father suggests, his tone thoughtful. "A chance for you to get to know one another before any decisions are made. It is important that both of you feel comfortable with this marriage."
The envoy's eyes light up at the suggestion. "That would be an excellent idea, Your Majesty! A meeting could take place at the upcoming festival in Aetheria, where we both kingdoms, along with others, will be represented. It would provide a perfect opportunity for Princess Alexandra and Crown Prince Robert to connect in a setting filled with celebration and joy."
I can feel the excitement in the room grow, with the guests whispering among themselves.
The prospect of attending a festival in Aetheria, of experiencing its culture and magic firsthand, sends a wave of innocent interest through me. I can already envision the vibrant and enchanting displays of magic that will fill the air.
"Father, I would prefer that," I say, my voice calm. My father nods, a smile breaking across his face. "Then it's settled. This could be a turning point for our kingdoms, and I want you to have the chance to explore this opportunity fully."
As the envoy beams with approval, I feel a sense of conflict within me. I glance around the room, catching the eyes of my friends and family, who seem quite thrilled by the prospect of this marriage.
As the evening unfolds, I find myself lost in thoughts of what the future may hold. The prospect of this partnership dances in my mind. With each passing moment, I grow more anxious about the uncertain future…