Chapter 13: Another Showdown

The carriage ride to the royal palace was silent, with only the sound of wheels on cobblestone breaking the stillness. Selina stole quick glances at Troye, his expression calm and unreadable.

When they arrived, Selina took in the palace's grandeur, towering marble pillars, golden lanterns, and rows of gleaming-armored guards. She maintained her composure as Troye extended his arm, and together they ascended the steps into the grand hall.

Inside, the banquet hall radiated opulence. Crystal chandeliers cast golden light across polished marble floors. Tables were laden with roasted meats, exotic fruits, and intricately shaped pastries. Vibrant floral centerpieces added splashes of color to the gold-and-ivory decor.

Nobles in dazzling attire turned to watch them enter, their whispers filling the air. Selina held her head high, masking her nerves with practiced grace.

"Now entering, Duke Amister and Lady Amelia!" A loud voice declares seemingly out of nowhere. 

All eyes were placed on them, Troye remains as composed as ever and Selina does her best to follow. A few nobles walk up to Troye to converse, ignoring Selina. This didn't bother her as she politely excused herself and headed over to the wine section. 

"Her Majesty the Queen And His Majesty the King have arrived!" The same voice announces once more out of nowhere. The rest of the royal family comes along as well, the first prince, the second prince, the first princess–Wait, Jessica?! (refer to chapter 7). "And last but not least, the future Emperor, Noah Starkirt!" Thanks, random voice. Noah flashes a bright smile, both girls and boys clutch their hearts. 

The crowd silenced as the king stepped forward, his presence commanding. He was a man of formidable stature, his graying hair and neatly trimmed beard lending an air of wisdom and authority. His robes, deep crimson trimmed with gold, spoke of his status without excess, while a golden crown adorned with rubies gleamed atop his head.

"My loyal subjects," he began, his deep voice resonating throughout the hall, "tonight, we gather not only to celebrate the strength and unity of our empire but also to honor the progress and achievements of those who stand among us. Your dedication to our kingdom does not go unnoticed, and your efforts drive us forward into a brighter future."

Loud applause rippled through the crowd. Selina took a sip of wine, watching the scene with mild interest. She caught Noah's gaze briefly; his smile broadened when he noticed her. Just great.

The king continued, "Let this evening be a reminder that we, as a people, thrive not as individuals, but together. Enjoy the festivities, and may the light of the stars guide you all." With that, he raised his goblet, signaling the official start of the banquet.

Selina takes this time to reflect, long blonde hair, a pair of amber eyes that now looking back it, resembles the queen exactly. Don't blame her! Selina doesn't recall Jessica being mentioned at all; the game made by ###### was still in development. Ugh, her lazy brother is still screwing her over even beyond the grave.

Selina takes a glance at Troye and notices that he's still being hounded by random nobles, good for her and bad for him. Selina decides to just blend in the background for today and taste the luxury, unfortunately, her plan had come to a halt in remarkable speed. A group of girls, led by Jessica, are coming straight her way. 

"Amy!" Jessica exclaims in excitement at the sight of Selina. She grabs ahold of her arm, hugging it tightly.

"A pleasure to meet you again, Jessica." Selina replies back with a polite smile. She could sense the malice aimed towards her by the other noble gals with a glance. 

Jessica's grip on Selina's arm tightened as she smiled brightly, oblivious or perhaps deliberately ignoring the daggers being sent Selina's way by the other noblewomen in her entourage. 

"Amelia." A familiar voice sneers. It's uh, what's her name? Oh right, Beatrice. A new memory quickly races through Selina's mind. 

In a glorious garden lays a table full of delicious pastries that have barely been touched and a group of girls.

In the memory, Amelia sat stiffly at a garden table, her fingers brushing a porcelain teacup. Beatrice had been relentless that day, taking every chance to mock her.

"That shade of pink, Lady Amelia," Beatrice had said sweetly, though her words cut deep. "It's so… bold. Quite unusual for someone of your standing."

The girls around the table had laughed, but Amelia had smiled faintly, countering, "I suppose boldness is required to make an impression. But I wouldn't expect you to know that, Lady Beatrice."

Beatrice's smile faltered but quickly recovered, steering the conversation back to herself.

The voices and clatter get louder and louder, but the words seem to be blocked from entering her ears. Amelia stares out the garden, her heart beating faster and louder, but her face cold. "When will this end? When can I go home…"

A sneer breaks Selin out of her trance, no one seems to have noticed her momentary daze, weird.

"Lady Beatrice," Selina greeted lightly, "it's been too long. I trust you've been well?"

Beatrice's brow arched, her smile sharp. "Indeed, though I barely recognized you tonight. Such a transformation, it's almost… unbelievable."

Selina offered a soft, graceful smile. "You're too kind, Lady Beatrice. With so many beautiful women gracing the hall tonight, I'm merely one among the crowd."

Her tone was sweet and humble, but the subtle elegance in her words carried a poise that left little room for further condescension.

The other ladies chuckle amongst each other. The only reason Beatrice was able to act as recklessly as she could even towards Amelia was probably due to the fact that she had the protection of the first princess. Now that Selina had appeared once more, with Jessica clearly favoring her, the group of hyenas jumped ship, eager to see Beatrice fall. Selina glances at one who seemed particularly glad in seeing Beatrice's flustered face. 

"Lady Amelia, a pleasure to meet your acquaintance." An extremely pretty woman graces Selina's eyes (obviously not as powerful as Selina's kingdom topping S-rank charm.) Long curly black hair and a bright set of baby blue eyes.