After her conversation with Eveline and Lucien, Selena sat on the edge of the bed in the guest room prepared for her by the palace maids.
Standing in front of her were Astrid and Vine, patiently awaiting her words. Meanwhile, Seraphina sat beside Selena.
Selena had summoned the three of them to inform them about her earlier conversation with Princess Eveline.
"So, Princess Eveline went as far as to request such a thing. What is your decision, my lady?"
Astrid asked as she rested her hand on her chin, gazing calmly at Selena.
"Of course I refused... for now. We'll see how things go,"
Selena replied casually, closing her eyes. She had already anticipated why Eveline had summoned her to the capital, and it turned out she had been right all along.
Upon hearing this, Seraphina flinched and quickly spoke up.
"Please wait, my lady. Are you truly considering getting involved in this political conflict? What about the long-standing traditions of House Everthore?"
"Mah, mah, mah. That was merely a passing thought. I have no intention of agreeing to Princess Eveline's request just yet."
"But what about the traditions of our ancest—"
Before Seraphina could finish her sentence, Selena raised her hand and gently interrupted.
"Seraphina, who is your master?"
"Y-you are, my lady."
"That's right. And as your master, I ask you—do you not trust me enough to make the right decision?"
"N-no, that's not it! I trust you completely, from the bottom of my heart! I just... I just don't want you to be caught up in unnecessary political matters, my lady..."
Seraphina lowered her head, her voice heavy with sadness. Seeing this, Selena chuckled softly. She gently cupped Seraphina's cheeks and lifted her head, guiding her to meet her gaze.
"I know, and I've never once doubted you, my Seraphina. I trust you—always."
Selena smiled gently, her words soft yet unwavering. Seraphina, caught in her lady's radiant gaze, appeared dazed and captivated.
(Ah... my lady... she's so beautiful... like a goddess...)
Seraphina thought to herself, eyes wide in silent awe.
"Of course, the same goes for you two as well, Astrid and Vine. I trust both of you, always."
Selena turned her eyes to the other two, not forgetting their loyalty either.
"Thank you, my lady. As your sword and shield, we shall serve you until death takes us."
Astrid replied with firm resolve, echoed by nods from Seraphina and Vine.
"Good."
Selena nodded with satisfaction.
"Alright then. Since it's already night, I'd like to rest and return home as soon as possible. I don't want to stay here too long."
"In that case, we shall take our leave for now, my lady. Please call for us if you need anything."
With Astrid's words, the three bowed respectfully and departed.
"Okay~ good night~"
Selena waved at them playfully. Once they were gone, she jumped onto the bed and went straight to sleep.
---
Selena remained at the capital for three days. On the fourth day, she finally prepared to return home—to the noble lands of House Everthore.
But before her departure...
"Well, well. It's been a while, Selena. How have you been?"
The one who greeted her was a man in his late fifties, wearing a crown adorned with gold and jewels, and a luxurious robe befitting his status. Seated upon an ornate throne, he looked at Selena with a warm and fatherly smile.
He was none other than the King of Velmoria—King Carlius Velmoria.
"I have been well, Your Majesty. And it seems you are in good health too. I'm glad to see that."
Selena gave a courteous bow. Since this was not an official audience, she wasn't required to kneel.
"Hahaha, yes indeed. I heard you came at my daughter Eveline's request. Did the two of you settle your matters?"
"That's correct, Your Majesty. Our discussion concluded yesterday."
Their talks about the succession had actually finished on the second day. The result was Eveline finally solidifying her resolve to claim the throne.
And Selena? She had chosen to support Eveline—at least in spirit.
"I see. That's good to hear."
"Since I have the opportunity to speak with you directly, I would like to report about my territory, Your Majesty."
"Your territory? Ah yes, the Eastern lands. What's the matter?"
The Kingdom of Velmoria was divided into four major regions, each governed by one of the Four Great Noble Houses:
House Everthore ruled the East.
House Caden Hawke ruled the West.
House Alistar Draven ruled the North.
House Edmund Blackwood ruled the South.
"It concerns the recent surge of Demonic Beasts, Your Majesty."
"Demonic Beasts, huh? I received similar reports from Duke Caden Hawke in the West as well."
"Yes, but this time... the beasts have been attacking in organized groups, Your Majesty."
"Groups, you say?"
"Indeed."
King Carlius stroked his long beard, deep in thought. After a moment, he finally responded.
"That is quite troubling... Very well. I shall send reinforcements to aid your territory—along with Captain Drullkill."
"That won't be necessary, Your Majesty."
Carlius raised a brow in curiosity.
"And why is that?"
"My subordinates have already been deployed to eliminate the Demonic Beasts. For now, I believe there will be no further attacks in my territory."
"I see. If that's what you wish, very well. But Selena, know that if you ever need my help, you only need to ask. After all, I see you as one of my own daughters."
He smiled affectionately, like a father proud of his child. Indeed, having grown up frequently visiting the palace and playing with Eveline, Selena had become like family to him.
"I am deeply grateful for your kindness and understanding, Your Majesty."
Selena bowed again with grace.
"So, you're returning to your lands today?"
"Yes, Your Majesty. I believe it's time I return. I worry about any issues that may arise during my absence."
Her tone carried a sense of composure and confidence—clear evidence of her experience as a noble.
"You've become quite reliable. I remember when you were just a timid little girl."
"Y-Your Majesty, please don't bring that up."
Their relationship felt more like that of a father and daughter than a ruler and noble.
"Very well then. I shall not keep you any longer."
"Then I shall take my leave, Your Majesty."
As Selena turned to leave the throne room, King Carlius's voice called out once more.
"Selena. I'm sure you've grown to be as strong as your mother."
She stopped in her tracks, pausing for a moment before turning around. With a determined smile and resolute eyes, she replied.
"Not yet, Your Majesty. I'm still not there... But one day, I will surpass her—of that, I'm certain. Now then, if you'll excuse me."
(Dooong...)
The throne room door closed behind her, and Carlius gazed at it for a while. Then, leaning back into the throne, he whispered quietly to himself.
"Confidence, huh... You're just like her."
A vision of a woman—nearly identical to Selena, save for her more mature and elegant presence—appeared in his mind. If the two stood side by side, anyone would think they were sisters.
Carlius let out a soft chuckle and rested his head against the back of the throne.
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