CH 40

The empire was desperate to reduce the influence of the Divine Temple on the continent. However, suddenly and unexpectedly, the prince, who could be considered the leader of the opposition, had appeared in enemy territory. The courtiers, who were still in a state of shock, seemed unable to turn away from the prince’s gaze. Ignoring their gazes, he leisurely ordered more wine and continued to enjoy the meal.

“I sincerely apologize for not informing you in advance. Originally, I thought I wouldn’t be able to attend the prayer meeting due to empire matters, but things concluded sooner than expected, allowing me to join later,” he smoothly lied without batting an eye.

“Such nonsense. How could someone who came in such a hurry be prepared to disguise himself?” I thought.

As I glared at him, he still met my gaze with a smile, as if saying, “So what if it’s a lie?” He requested wine once again, but now it seemed he had lost interest in the meal. He lowered his fork, no longer focused on eating, and asked me a question.

“However, it is a great pity.”

“What are you saying?”

Tightly strung, I responded to his words. I could feel the crown prince’s scrutinizing gaze. What is he trying to say?

“It reminds me of the offerings made in the name of the Empire’s princess. Knowing Your Highness’s discerning eye, we carefully selected and brought the finest craftsmanship of the Empire, but… it seems our sincerity may still be lacking.”

“……”

An uncomfortable silence lingered. Among the attending courtiers, I noticed faces frozen in discomfort. The prince’s words could be interpreted as, “You didn’t do as I asked, even though I specifically mentioned things you like.” He sarcastically commented that as a princess, I should offer sacrifices that resemble extravagant jewellery and trinkets, satisfying personal desires.

“Treating me like a woman engaged in an exchange of gifts with the princess.”

It is not befitting for the princess to question why I did not use the items I gave.

In response, I looked at the crown prince. Regardless of the reactions around him, he wore a smile as if he knew nothing. Yet, his gaze continued to scrutinize me, waiting to see how I would react.

‘What should I do?’

I caught sight of the fork I had set down on the table. If it were Evelina, she might have picked it up and thrown it at the crown prince’s forehead. I remember she became furious to the point of forbidding the mention of his name again when he mentioned Evelina, terrifyingly venting her anger.

If she were treated this way by her counterpart, she would likely immediately issue an order to capture and detain the crown prince, without considering the aftermath, of course.

“How should I proceed?”

The crown prince seemed somehow like a child who had just received a new toy. He was filled with excitement, not knowing what to do, wanting to touch or try something more.

For now, I wanted to end it here for today. Merely contemplating Evelina’s conditions for me is exhausting enough. I’ve done enough for this audience, and it’s probably time to leave. With that in mind, I smiled at the crown prince.

“I apologize for not having had the opportunity to examine the offerings sent from the Empire. I am grateful for the wheat and wine sent for those gathered here. May the gods always be with you.”

For the first time, Leon’s expression stiffened at my words. Seeing his face brought some satisfaction. Well, after sending such a substantial amount without even looking at it, it must have wounded his pride to hear that. Just then, Latvan, who stood behind him, spoke up.

“Your Highness, it is time for you to prepare for the next engagement.”

“Yes, I suppose it’s time to rise.”

I replied and looked at Latvan. His expression was as blank as usual.

“I thought the crown prince was the only one skilled at lying.”

I should reconsider Latvan as well. In truth, I have no further engagements after this audience. Yet, Latvan must have bid farewell with those parting words, hoping for the gods’ presence during our farewell.

“Then, I shall take my leave now. I regret that I cannot join you for dessert, Crown Prince Leon. May peace accompany you on your journey to the Empire….”

It was then that Crown Prince Leon interrupted my words.

“I plan to stay at the temple for a while.”

“Pardon?”

“I have committed many unavoidable sins while working for the Empire. Since I happened to come to the temple, I intend to offer extended prayers until those sins are forgiven.”

The crown prince looked at me with a rather sincere expression.

“So, next time, I would like to enjoy what we couldn’t do today, together, Your Highness.”

Somehow, his words sounded different.