Chapter 8
Her Highness Queen Amleth has summoned me for an audience today. I am absolutely convinced that this is in response to the Lich incident; she likely wishes to check on my well-being after the battle. However, she has opted for the formal route of a royal summons, likely to appease the sycophants surrounding her. Even though they are aware of my favored status, she cannot openly declare it. Her position demands a certain decorum, and I respect that, ready to respond in kind.
I must ensure that everything is in perfect order. From my flowing long blonde hair to my vibrant red frilly dress and my blue shoes, every detail matters. I simply cannot bear the thought of wearing high heels, even though it's an unspoken rule for ladies meeting the royal family. They are well aware of my aversion and never challenge it, as it isn't explicitly mentioned in the dress code. It's merely a tradition that every noble and merchant lady adheres to, and thus, it has become an expectation for all women.
When encountering her and the two princesses, it is crucial to exhibit the utmost decorum, worthy of their royal lineage. A single misstep could spell disaster, seen as an affront to their dignity. Typically, facing royalty can be quite intimidating; however, that's not how I feel.
"I'm exhausted..." [Alfin]
"There you go again." [Kara]
"It's remarkable how swiftly your demeanor shifts when it's just us." [Mara]
"Playing the role is even more draining than exploring dungeons." [Alfin]
The Queen of Mas, the sovereign of this realm, Her Highness Queen Amleth, alongside her two daughters, Kara and Mara. Even though I no longer hold noble status, I cherish that our bond remains unchanged. In their lifetimes, my parents and Her Highness, along with the late king, enjoyed a friendship that transcended the typical royal-noble dynamic, stirring envy in many, including that insufferable prime minister.
I apologize for my tardiness. [Amleth]
"It's alright. I understand how hectic your schedules can be." [Alfin]
With my mother gone, Queen Amleth has taken it upon herself to care for me as if I were her own. If it weren't for the strict rule against Royalty adopting anyone, I have no doubt she would have welcomed me into her family. Instead, she has gone above and beyond to ensure my life is as comfortable as possible.
Initially, the three of them were hesitant about my desire to become an adventurer. However, after I aced their test during my early day of adventurer, their reservations began to fade. Still, moments like this, where I return injured, send their worries into a frenzy.
As we savored our tea break, I shared my thoughts on the lich's lair. They had received a similar report, but firsthand accounts hold far more weight. I did my best to convey everything I had experienced, and just as I was wrapping up,
"By the way, what was that item you discovered in the lich's lair?" [Kara]
"Your reaction suggested it was something very significant." [Mara]
"If you're willing, could you tell us about it?" [Amleth]
"Hmmm... I don't mind sharing, but... could I have Elise and the guild master with me? Just the six of us." [Alfin]