Norma

- How could this happen - his majesty's anger was notorious, Archer who was in charge of the princess had reported the disappearance of the little girl - bring Mary - Archer upon hearing his majesty's order remained silent - Bring her!!!! - his majesty shouted euphorically to the knight in front of him.

- Your majesty, with all due respect, Miss Mary is in no condition to have an audience with your majesty, our priority is to find the princess.

His majesty snapped his teeth in annoyance as he sat on the throne - I will not tolerate this, have the entire guard deployed in the kingdom, everyone will be searched, let no one be overlooked! - Archer along with the knights in the throne room nodded at his majesty's words as they withdrew.

"The mages, could it be them?" - His majesty dismissed that possibility immediately, the mages even if they questioned Stella's title would not be able to act directly and openly for the kingdom and their majesties - impossible... - to his mind came a possible candidate, who could act quietly in the palace just like him - Angus... - a man in dark robes that covered most of his face and body appeared upon hearing that name before his majesty - do you know where Stella is? - the man nodded at her majesty's words - I knew it... - her majesty's gaze was cold as she confirmed her suspicions.

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- This way... - Stella had silently followed the maid who had stayed by her side while Mary went with her father, her fear and anguish were noticeable, even so those words of that woman were enough for Stella to follow her, after following her through some corridors and paths Stella was completely disoriented of where they were going. During the time of Stella's growth her majesties limited the places around her for safety, Stella was surprised to see a building something like her palace in front of her eyes, the empress dowager realizing Stella's presence approached her, the servant who had taken her quickly knelt down and remained silent.

I, Greetings to the empress dowager... - Stella felt intimidated by the presence of the empress dowager, after introducing herself she remained silent without raising her eyes - "It seems that at least you know etiquette.

It seems at least you know etiquette, although your manners are not quite suitable for royalty - walking in front of her she gave a slight smile while looking at her servant - good job - that servant nodded as she withdrew.

Empress Dowager what she told me is true? -Seeing that Stella had taken the initiative to talk to her pleased the empress dowager who nodded her head slightly - then... I will...

I'll be straight with you, you are not fit to be monarch of this kingdom, I don't even understand how you exist - hearing those words Stella simply lowered her gaze, she knew about it, even if her parents tried to hide everything from her, the empress dowager's treatment at that moment confirmed her suspicions.

- Even so, even if you don't look like it, the blood of the monarchs of Nakahud is still flowing inside you, although the possibility of your presence is minimal it is not impossible - the empress dowager smiled while Stella slightly raised her eyes - as I said I can help you not to be the prey but the hunter Stella, with that you can be a worthy heir to the throne, no one will question you or will be against you, of course that also means that your mother will be safe. - It was clear that the empress dowager knew about the queen's condition, Stella who loved her mother very much when she heard about her condition from that servant would not hesitate to go to the empress dowager, Stella's wishes were pure towards her mother, but did the empress dowager think the same?

- Mother... - Stella was barely five years old to decide her future, the empress dowager took advantage of it, if Stella accepted now, in the future nobody could question her, because Stella had promised.

The empress dowager seeing that Stella nodded to her words smiled satisfied - then, come with me, time is short - The empress dowager took Stella to the side of her palace, the steps of the empress dowager were very hurried, Stella did her best to catch up with her or at least she noticed that it was difficult to follow her, the empress dowager did not look at her all the way, the empress stopped her way when she reached a garden that was surrounded by crimson roses, seeing that garden was new for Stella.

- Empress... dowager... - Stella felt discomfort when entering that garden and it was justified when she realized that there were more people gathered, to feel the looks of those strangers displeased her completely, one of the reasons why Stella was not present in meetings with their majesties was due to it, her parents and Mary were aware of it, on the other hand, the empress dowager did not know anything about Stella.

- Grandmother... I want to go back... - those words were said without realizing it by Stella to get the empress dowager's attention, a cold look was felt from the empress dowager towards Stella, her body could not move and her voice did not come out as she wanted- I....

- Don't you ever dare to call me that way, remember I am the empress dowager, do you understand! - the empress dowager's annoyance was notorious towards Stella who bowed her head by inertia.

- I'm sorry... - Stella's voice was cracking as she had barely managed to say those words, her body was trembling, the little girl could barely hold back tears.

- Didn't you hear my words before! - shouted the empress dowager in annoyance - Don't lower your eyes, don't cry, don't tarnish our family name, do you understand? - Stella nodded slightly to the empress' words - you only cause problems... you... - the empress dowager was about to continue complaining to Stella, when she heard someone calling her, the empress' face changed when she saw the nobles present, a smile was drawn on her face while she greeted the guests, seeing that change of attitude disconcerted Stella while she silently stood next to the empress dowager.

- I must thank the empress dowager for such a pleasant invitation to this splendid meeting - an older man had approached the empress dowager who upon seeing his presence began to thank him for his attendance, everyone looked at that man with respect and referred to him as a duke who flattered the empress dowager at all times, as if she was the monarch of the whole kingdom, while he was talking to the empress dowager that duke noticed the presence of Stella who hid behind the empress dowager - wow. ... is this Princess Stella? - Everyone present when they heard the duke name the princess stared at her, since the empress dowager had been present in the place everyone had been wondering who the girl was, the duke had confirmed her words.

- Yes, she is... - said the empress dowager calmly while all eyes were on her and Stella - It must be the first time you see her, isn't it? Then, let me introduce her - the empress dowager seeing that everyone was paying attention to Stella took advantage of that moment and with a smile she spoke - she is my granddaughter, the first princess of the kingdom Stella Romanius...", she said proudly while she pushed lightly the empress dowager. - she said proudly while she slightly pushed Stella in front of her, the little one when she saw that all eyes were on her felt imprisoned, her body was static - introduce yourself... - said in a cold way the empress dowager, Stella with her hands trembling made a small bow to those present, hearing how some of them laughed.

- Empress... it seems that the princess is a very shy one... - said one of the nobles, while the empress nodded - but... I don't understand, certainly the resemblance with their majesties is amazing, but, why that hair color - The empress dowager frowned slightly at that comment - well... maybe one of her ancestors was like that... - she said in a mocking tone - by the way, empress I haven't seen their majesties since the ritual, are you both well? -

- His majesty has been very busy with the affairs of the kingdom and the queen well could not attend, I apologize on your behalf and I am sorry for the inconvenience - Stella at that moment looked at the empress fixedly, those words did not seem in a way that were said with concern or attachment, because she was talking about her mother, Stella realized that apparently her mother and the dowager empress did not get along - that's why I came with the little -

His majesty must be happy to know that his mother takes good care of the princess - The empress thanked the duke for that compliment while he approached Stella - it must be very boring for you this meeting - Stella just looked at him - apparently it is part of destiny that they met today, I will introduce you to my grandson - the duke called a boy with orange hair and green eyes, that boy stood in front of Stella - he is my grandson, he is ten years old, he can keep you company in this meeting -

It seems that the duke's family is getting bigger and bigger, I am happy for you - the duke when hearing those words from the empress nodded - this could be a good beginning for a prosperous future - with a smile he looked at Stella - go ahead Stella - said the empress dowager while she separated from both children, Stella felt uncomfortable with the presence of that child.

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Asher had returned to his majesty's chambers, after having made a thorough investigation in the palace he had discarded most of the palace staff, two maids were in front of his majesty.

-Speak - said his majesty annoyed to those maidservants who were scared to death - if you won't say anything then, guards!

-It was the dowager empress! - shouted one of the maidservants, his majesty stared at her while she was on her knees with her head on the ground - I beg your pardon! - His Majesty looked at Asher and nodded, Asher gave the order for the knights to take the woman to the dungeons immediately while she begged for her life to be spared without being heard.

-I will move the knights to the empress dowager's palace right now," Asher was ready to burst into the empress dowager's palace.

-No, I'll go myself... - he said seriously as he looked at him -Where is Mary? - Asher frowned slightly as he remembered that the last time he saw her she was full of panic - answer!

- Miss Mary hasn't fully recovered yet, your majesty -

- I understand, let's go - walking out of the throne room, Asher followed her majesty silently to the dowager empress.

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Garden of the Empress Dowager

My name is Norma ... -said that child as he crossed his arms - You, are you really the princess? - Norma looked with a little displeasure at Stella, who remained silent observing everything around her - hey, are you listening? - Stella looked at him without answering - what's so special about you? I don't get it, this is a waste of time -

- So, just leave me alone - Stella replied without looking at him - I don't like you either - Norma was surprised that Stella had responded that way.

- What a cheeky princess, you don't know about etiquette? You don't realize that you are rude! - She said with annoyance while he looked at her.

- Why should I be courteous to you? I just want to leave this place and be with my parents! Go ... - even though a few seconds ago she had been afraid of the Empress Dowager, Stella was willing to leave that place at any rate, even if the Empress Dowager got angry, some glances fell on her and Norma.

- Tsk ... really - Norma took Stella by the hand and smiled, that act surprised Stella who tried to loosen her grip, Norma held her hand tighter - calm down ... - she said seriously while Stella saw him only frowned her frowning, Norma when she saw that the nobles' gazes were no longer on them, she let go of her hand - that's why ... I hate babies, I don't understand why my father respects royalty so much and even my grandfather approves of it, they are not different from us, just because of that silly ritual - she sighed with annoyance while looking at Stella - hey, show it to me - Stella looked confused at Norma as he followed - the magic of light ... show it to me ... you're the princess right? Do it, you owe me -

- What do I owe you? And why should it? - Stella when hearing it she felt a bit upset, that did not seem like a request rather it was an order - leave me alone - Norma frowned at her as she looked at her.

- Perhaps ... the precious princess of the kingdom, can't she? - Somehow Norma wanted Stella to show her magic, even if it meant annoying her - if so, the rumors that are heard about you are true and the magicians should certainly exile you or simply ... - Norma realized that her words were a little cruel towards Stella who had remained silent without claiming anything - hey ... -

"It's true…" Stella squeezed her hands tightly as she looked up from her - I know! I know!! Even though mom and dad don't tell me, I know! - Norma was surprised that Stella had accepted the words he had said without thinking, Norma did not think that she would react in that way.

- Princess, you know what my family is, right? At least that you should know - Stella denied while Norma looked upset at it - I'm sorry if my words were too rude for the princess, I apologize ... - Stella was surprised that Norma apologized - the princess is still small after all - Stella observed As Norma looked at her, that look was sad - now I understand why Grandpa insisted that I attend this meeting today -

What are you talking about? - Stella asked, Norma's attitude suddenly changed towards Stella, that hostile attitude had disappeared, that's what Stella felt now.

Political union - Norma said while looking at her - at least you know what that is, true, the empress dowager brought you here to find a partner for you - those words puzzled Stella, although she did not fully understand, she clearly knew what the word couple meant , Stella denied that idea - grandfather ... what did you think ... she's still a girl ... - she sighed as she looked at Stella - hey ...

I do not want that! - Shouted with all the strength of her Stella, surprising Norma-I don't want to!

Princess ... - Norma understood that Stella had never been told about it, that puzzled him the empress dowager had planned this - Then what will you do? - Norma stared at her - you are a complete failure as a princess, other aristocrats at your age already know manners, etiquette, dance among other things, what do you know? - Stella could not answer Norma, unlike the other aristocrats Stella was proposed to take a tutor when she was seven years old, her mother said that childhood was lived only once and that is why she wanted Stella not to have responsibilities at that age - For this reason your parents are in a sorry position - Stella squeezed her hands, annoyed to hear Norma's words towards her - I bet you don't even know that my family can also use magic - Stella was surprised by that statement, Norma sighed while a flame of fire appeared in the palm of her hand, that had fascinated Stella - I'll tell you once ... the surname of my family's dukedom is Tyson, remember -

I will remember ... Norma Tyson - Norma nodded slightly as she looked at her -

At least you won't be so stupid now that you know - Norma stared at her - listen, my family's dukedom is one of the four most powerful in the entire continent, never forget - Stella looked a little confused at Norma, her way of talking to her was no longer so cutting

May I ask you something? - Norma stared at her - you, did you always have your magic? - Stella asked, while Norma played with that flame.

Magic is hereditary, so since we are born we have it, your family and mine are similar in it, magic passes to their descendants - Norma watched as Stella lowered her gaze - Although the awakening of magic varies according to the user. You should prepare for it, in some users their magic is very difficult to awaken - although Norma said those words Stella did not change her mood - only a magic test would confirm it, calm down you haven't done it yet, right? - When saying these words Norma watched as Stella squeezed her hands - impossible, perhaps, you ... - Norma squeezed Stella's arm suddenly surprising her, without realizing that the fire magic was still active, Stella complained of pain when she saw that That flame hurt her arm, Norma, realizing it, quickly separated from her - ah ... I'm sorry ... I didn't realize it - I look at Stella who was trying to endure the pain from the burn - let me help you ... - Stella He moved away from Norma when he saw that he tried to get closer, putting himself in defensive mode. Stella spoke.

Get away… -Stella said as she left.

Waiting! - Norma tried to chase her but she could not reach her, Stella hid behind one of the pillars while she looked at her wound on her arm, some small tears came from her eyes, she felt pain and also fear, she wanted leave that place.

How pathetic ... - Stella looked up from her, hearing the voice of the empress dowager - that woman apparently she did not even know how to educate you -

No ... Don't talk about my mother like that! - I reply against the empress dowager - my mother takes care of me a lot ... that's why ... don't talk about my mother like that! - Hearing Stella claim him upset the Empress Dowager.

You! - The Empress Dowager raised her hand against Stella, who closed her eyes upon seeing the act of the Empress Dowager.

The proclamation of the arrival of her majesty stopped the dowager empress who went to greet her majesty - her majesty - just as she all saluted her majesty - her majesty to be must visit from her?

I think you know very well why mother - she said curtly towards the empress dowager who did not answer, the look of her majesty was fixed towards those present - then where is my daughter?

The princess came to my palace, it was certainly a surprise to see her after such a long time - she said quietly as she raised her gaze - just, I wanted to spend time with her, you shouldn't bother your majesty please go back to the palace there must still be a lot of work, I'll take back to Stella -

Stella came to visit her? - The Empress Dowager nodded while her majesty frowns at her - so ... why did the Empress Dowager bring her to this place? Doesn't she know that the princess has not yet been introduced to the nobility? -

I ... - the empress dowager was in trouble, her majesty would not seem to overlook the fact that she had taken Stella from her palace - I just wanted her to start to see what society is like, do not be angry your majesty, just I saw the future of you and the kingdom - your majesty did not flinch at the words of the empress dowager - ah ... Stella Come ... - she said a little nervous while waiting for Stella to appear - Stella !! - I scream nervously looking around her not hearing a response from her - ah ... I will immediately bring her majesty ... -

-It is not necessary - her majesty step aside from the empress dowager and look at the place - Stella !! I came to see you!! - His majesty when he saw that Stella did not go out at the call of his mother, he decided to do it himself, waiting for Stella to hear his voice come out and so it was, Stella's small silhouette slowly came out behind the column without being able to believe that her Majesty was in front of her - Stella ... - the girl ran into her father's arms, who sighed relieved - did they hurt you? - Stella silently denied while his majesty took her in his arms - let's go ... - I look at the guards who accompanied him - all of them leave ... - the guards nodded at his words - Empress Dowager ... - He stared at his mother - this is not I can let it pass so, I hope he does not leave his palace until I allow it ... - without further saying he left the palace with Stella in his arms.

Why? You didn't blame me… ”Norma said as she watched as Stella retired with her majesty.