Chapter 19
The following weeks, some noble families kept their silence and waited for the Prince to sit on the throne to have his final verdict as the new Emperor. On the other hand, some families are against the crowning ceremony. They tried their best to stop it. There are numerous attempt of murder for the Prince and there are many thieves that has been imprisoned and killed. None of these attempts are successful. The arrested thieves are being confronted and when they speak the name of those who hired them, they get killed as well as the person behind the act. They were convicted of treason.
That man created a dangerous atmosphere around him that’s why people are afraid of how this country will survive. It wasn’t that long since the Emperor died but a lot of things happened already.
Today is the date where He will ascend to the throne. I’m currently getting ready in my room with Maia, Rose and Amber. They are as cheerful as ever. Their voices are ringing in my head that helps me focus on what’s happening right now instead of thinking things that are inappropriate.
“Should we put a brighter lipstick?”
“I think it will be better if we don’t tie my lady’s hair.”
“I agree. What about her accessories?”
“We will be using the one that is gifted to her by his highness, right?”
I sighed. When will this end?
“Hang in there my lady, we still have a lot of preparations to do.” Maia said and I sighed once again.
“Don’t put too much effort since there’s a lot of people that will go there I will be hardly noticed. “ I said and Maia shook her head.
“It’s impossible that my lady would not be noticed. That is why we are doing our best to make you look like the most beautiful lady present in the party.” Maia said.
“We agree, my lady. Please stay still.” Rose and I just let them be. I don’t want to kill the mood. They are putting in so much effort so I just need to cooperate.
They continued dressing me up and I just waited until they finished. The truth is there is something that is bothering me right now. It is the fact that the new Emperor gave me a gift. I don’t even know him or his face. It’s troubling me to the point that I wasn’t able to sleep last night. I have my suspicions as well but it’s too early to judge things. I just have questions in my head. How did the new Emperor know me? Why did he send me gifts and expect me to attend? Is he someone I know and what if he is? It’s annoying to think of these things.
“We are done, my lady!” Maia said and I was shaken from my thoughts.
I stood up and looked at myself in the mirror, “My lady you look so amazing!” Rose commented. Who knows what red suits me? I’m wearing a red gown with rubies and shards around the neckline. I’m also wearing an expensive necklace made from gold and shoes that look expensive but comfortable to wear. The whole outfit was amazing. I love it. I wonder why the measurements fit so well.
“You are so beautiful, my lady!” Amber said and I smiled.
“Thank you for your hard work everyone, I love it.” I said and smiled.
“Oh my lady!” They squealed and finished the finishing touches happily. I’m glad everyone is feeling hopeful.
My father and Raquel were waiting in the carriage so I went ahead and joined him. He’s in his usual serious mood and I can tell that Raquel was not pleased to go with me. I can’t believe we have to go as a family. The carriage ride was totally awkward for the three of us. It’s a good thing that we are not that far from the Palace.
We were welcomed by the butler and our family was announced upon entering the hall. I was shocked to see so many people gathered here. It feels a little embarrassing to move around. Also the atmosphere wasn’t that welcoming.
“Celeste, I have something I need to attend. I will be back later, enjoy yourself.” He said and I nodded. He was heading to the other side of the gentlemen and he was welcomed to the conversation. They must be his colleagues. Raquel also left and went to the table where some of the ladies were chatting. At this point I was left alone so I went to the food table to grab something to eat.
“My lady, you look beautiful tonight.” I was greeted by Sir Philip. He was wearing his usual uniform; I guess he was guarding the Palace too.
“Thank you Sir Philip. You look dazzling as well.” I said and smiled.
“You are alone? Where did the Viscount go?” he asked.
“He was with his colleague. I am doing fine by myself anyway.” I said I drank some wine. That wine tasted so good! “When will the ceremony start?” I asked.
“The ceremony was done earlier today, my lady. It was done with the headmasters and the respected judges of the Empire. Right now we will be welcoming the new Emperor and hearing some words from him. This is the celebration proper.” He explained and I have no clue that the ceremony was done.
“I see.” I said and took a sip on my wine.
I thought it would be held now. Well, that’s the safest way possible since there are a lot of people who are against the coronation. The important part is the new Emperor would still gaze at us and deliver his speech. That’s also the reason why I attended. I need to clarify things for my peace of mind.
“Here he comes.” Sir Philip said with a grin. Who?
“The Sun of the Empire is entering, Emperor Asher Yves Oberon.” The name of the new Emperor was announced, Asher?
I turned around and saw the Emperor enter with two knights on his side. I remember it, his deep blue eyes and dark colored hair. His great figure and great presence, there is no doubt about it. That really is Asher! He’s the new Emperor.
It’s all coming down to me. The reason why he has deep royal blue eyes, his knowledge with books and why he has enormous gifts that are endless is because he is a member of the Imperial family! It all adds up now. I can’t believe that I acted so recklessly when he came to our Cabin and we spent the night together! It can’t be. This is so embarrassing!
Asher continued to walk in the middle of the crowd to deliver his speech but his deep voice clouded my ears and I was lost. I did not understand a thing from what he said. I was too focused on his eyes and lips that I haven’t seen in a long time. I clenched my hands in my chest. What is this feeling? I feel relieved and tense at the same time. What will I tell him?
After delivering his speech the crown cheered his name and they clapped their hands. I noticed something different, he’s not smiling. He was so serious and he was emitting this dangerous look on him. Has he changed? He was a little different to that person who clings to me all the time. He no longer has that hopeful look on his eyes. Everyone raised a toast and I was stuck on staring at him. Finally our eyes met. He was looking back at me and he grinned. What was that for?
I am sure that he saw me but he just grinned and decided to go. He just greeted some guests and decided to go. I was hoping that he would at least talk to me but it did not happen.
“Shall we go now, my lady?” The chauffeur asked and I nodded my head.
This night did not turn the way I expected it to be but it answered all the questions in my mind.