Fatima: The Slave Princess-Chapter 87 - 86

With a slow, deliberate motion, the queen withdrew the blade from my shoulder, delighting in the spray of blood that followed. A mixture of contempt and excitement gleamed in her eyes as her tongue swirled around her lips, meticulously cleaning away the blood that clung to the sides of her mouth.

"Pray tell...what else have you been hiding from me these days?" she asked, her voice as calm as a whisper.

"I clearly remember ordering you to report any and every little detail regarding the crown prince of Alkaraz to me, no matter how minor. Were my instructions not clear enough...Raulin?"

"Yes...my queen." I responded with a groan, struggling to maintain my composure.

"Hmm? Does my loyal hound need further taming?" she mocked and snickered, circling around me like a prowling beast while fiddling with the bloody dagger.

"Have I failed to teach you your place all these years? Or perhaps my dearest dog is going through a rebellious phase. Is that not a bit beyond your years by now?"

"My...my apologies...my queen. I promise...this will never happen again. I have learned my lesson."

I've lost so much blood that my vision is blurring, and my breath is catching in my throat. At this rate, I might pass out soon. My constant attempts to apply pressure on the wound to staunch the flow of blood streaming down my garment is proving to be rather futile. I should continue to placate her until her anger eventually subsides or else she will certainly send me to my demise here and now.

"*sigh* Raulin...my darling Raulin." She moaned seductively, forcefully thrusting her lips into mine, biting me in the process.

"I didn't intend to hurt you, my valiant knight in shining armor. You must understand that I've been rather frustrated of late with the sudden news of my brother and everything else that trickled into it and...and...*sigh* You understand...don't you, my darling?"

When I first joined the queen's cause, my naïve younger self, brimming with idealism, would have been elated to hear those hollow words of regret. Her warm breath on my neck, her fingers weaving through my hair, would cause such an intense wave of longing and desire that I'd struggle to control and eventually gave in. There was a time when my heart ached for her. I fussed over her needs, longed for her embrace, and desperately tried to win her affection. Yet, any sympathy I'd felt was gone in an instant, like a puff of smoke, replaced by a sickening understanding of her horrifying cruelty. Although I can't change the past decisions I've made, and it is indeed too late to regret them now. But if there is even a slight chance to save our kingdom from ruin, I am willing to be among the first to fight for its survival, even if it means sacrificing my life in the attempt.

+++

"Congratulations, lady Florette."

"Indeed, my lady, congratulations on your relationship with his highness."

"I am so happy for you, my lady!"

Read latest chapters at freёweɓnovel.com Only.

The poor thing is beside herself with excitement, her face flushed, as hypocritical smiles and flatteries rain down on her like a torrent. *sigh* Just what was my brother thinking?

"My lady's allure has completely changed. You are glowing so radiantly these days, lady Florette!"

Ugh! Their forced laughter is a physical assault on my eardrums.

"I have an idea, my lady. Why not use this trip to..."

A hushed whisper completed her sentence, followed by a chorus of delighted squeals and uncontrollable blushing from the captivated group. Young maidens these days have zero respect for their elders. Why on earth would they discuss such things so openly?

"Thank you for the useful advice, lady Esther." Florette giggled in response; her crimson cheeks beamed in the sunlight.

"I will surely put it to good use during our time together in our travels."

Outwardly, they giggle alongside her, but the tight, almost painful-looking compression of their lips betrays their secret jealousy. There isn't a single one of these ladies who isn't enamored with Kazein. However, the duchess's looming presence over their families force them to hide their affections for him, fearing her wrath and the potential ruin of their households. I've spent a long time trying to find a way to release these people from her controlling influence, but so far, all my efforts have been in vain. While they are prepared to change allegiances, the potential for incurring her anger causes them to be reluctant to make the switch. I blame father for this.

"...which means my lady and her grace will become family in more ways than one."

I'm finding this tea party and the constant prattle of Florette and my brother incredibly annoying. It's clear that they are deliberately attempting to involve me in their meaningless conversations, even though I'd rather not be included. I should move away.

"Mama!"

Is that...Cadhiel? I warned the nanny to maintain constant vigilance over the children, specifically instructing her to never let them leave her direct supervision, and to report immediately any issues. This is not a suitable environment for a child, regardless of the fact that it is a quaint garden tea party taking place on our private grounds. Given the mature and sensitive topics discussed in these gatherings, it's highly unsuitable and inappropriate for a child of his age to be within earshot.

"Oh, my! How is he so adorable?"

"He is the spitting image of his father. Hoho!"

With everyone gathered so closely around him, it's hardly unexpected that he's crying. He's not yet fully healed from his head injury, his stitches are still visible, so why would the nanny risk-Wait a moment...

"Would you look at his beautiful red hair?"

"His little cheeks are so soft and..."

I approached them with caution, hoping to get a better feel for what was happening. Several ladies, their eyes twinkling with amusement, parted the chattering crowd, allowing me to slip through. My blood ran cold as I saw Duchess Gwendolynn standing at the center of the crowd, my son held tightly in her arms, as our eyes met. A furious, wordless rage consumed me, prompting me to snatch my sobbing son from her grip, my glare a testament to my intense anger.

"Oh, my little darling must be sleepy. Apologies for the fuss ladies, it is nearing his nap time, which explains his restlessness." I explained with a smile as I wiped the tears off his face.

Despite the tempestuous fury that is simmering inside me, I must maintain the facade of a tolerant daughter-in-law and fake a smile for the sake of appearances.

"My goodness! I was wondering why he was crying so desperately despite our efforts to calm him."

"My last child was the same. She would cry until I picked her up, then fell asleep right away."

"Same here, countess. I truly do not miss those days."

"Thank you, mother..." I said in a saccharine tone.

"...for bringing your grandson to meet our guests. I truly appreciate your efforts in improving our Cadhiel's social skills. Now, if you'll excuse me, I must put him to bed. He's grown so big that my arms are aching."

"Oh, of course, my dear daughter-in-law."

"How adorable!"

"Goodbye for now, duchess Emilia."

The impulse to backhand her smug face is rather overwhelming; my hands are trembling.

+++

Ever since that day, Nathan and I have barely spoken to one another. Our conversations are kept short, and so do our interactions, even though we work closely together. Any open concern for him is now stifled; even a simple inquiry feels too risky. There's a palpable tension, a distinct line he keeps drawing, pushing me further and further away. It's not like I'd ever meddle in his private life, so his erratic behavior is baffling and unsettling.

"I will have lunch with lady Florette again today."

He repeats the same routine daily: rising from his chair with a groan of aged wood, crossing the room with purposeful strides, and then stopping before my desk to fix me with a chilling, wordless stare before leaving the study.

"I-Is there something...your highness wishes to tell me?"

The usual question escapes my lips, a simple query, yet my heart thunders in a chaotic rhythm against my ribs. His gruff "no" had always been his stock reply, but lately, even that had faded into silence, replaced by a hesitant pause. Perhaps next time, I'll try a different approach. I was fine with our distance before, but that was until I realized what those thumps in my heart meant. Now everything he does bothers me so much that it sometimes feels suffocating. Whenever he proudly announces his lunch dates with Lady Florette, a vise-like grip clenches my chest, nearly bringing tears in my eyes. Does loving someone in secret supposed to feel this bitter? Would it be better to tell him?

"*sigh* I should just focus on translating these contracts. There is no need to rush things unnecessarily."

"Apologies, your highness, Prince Paolo. The crown prince isn't here at the moment. Might I advise you to visit a little later, sir?"

"That's alright, I can always..."

"I'm afraid we cannot allow entry into...."

What is all this commotion behind the door? It sounds like someone is trying to come in. Should I step outside and inform them that the crown prince is not present?

"Prince Paolo, you can't just-"

A loud bang announced the man's forceful entrance into the study. His wavy auburn hair, catching the light, fluttered across his face as he strode in, his boots echoing slightly on the polished floor, and halted right before my work desk.

"My, oh my! I have never seen such a fancy study before. I must say, the design is uniquely exquisite, not to mention its vastness." He said with a chuckle, his gaze intently scanning the room.

Given their clothing and the manner in which he barged in, it's reasonable to assume they're not from here and that the man is a high-ranking official from another country. Each knight is adorned with an identical insignia; a letter "R" is displayed prominently within a golden barley wreath, which is itself encircled by a constellation of stars. While I found the Alkaraz red phoenix insignia quite impressive, I must admit that this particular one possesses a unique charm all on its own. I wonder which country they hail from. What does the letter R represent?

"Dios mio!" he gasped loudly upon noticing me.

"What a lovely little flower!"

With a peculiar look in his eyes, he approached me, leaving a trail of flustered knights behind him, their trudging steps suggesting their confusion. The way he ogled me and licked his lips sent a wave of fear through me, making me shiver with unease.

"What do they call you, hermosa?" he asked with a smirk.

He speaks Espa, a common tongue of the southeastern countries. It was one of the easiest languages to learn due to it having fewer intricacies in their dialects.

"My name is Lotticia Laurel, and I am his highness, crown prince Kazein's personal secretary. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, sir."

I curtsied politely, but something about him feels unsettling. While I am unacquainted with him, I find it inconceivable that a high-ranking official would engage in such vulgar and depraved conduct in the imperial palace. He's standing so close to me; I can feel his breath on my face. It smells like alcohol mixed with something else.

"Paolo Tez Del Ronaco, third prince of the Ronaco kingdom. The pleasure is all mine...hermosa Lotticia." he said, kissing the back of my hand, followed by a wink.

Urgh! Disgusting! I should hurry to the powder room, or else I might hurl right in front of him.

"A certain prince Paolo Tez Del Ronaco may try to approach you in the coming days. Try to stay as far away from him as possible. Do you understand, Secretary Lottie?"

Hold on a moment-Is he...?

"Apologies for my discourtesy, your highness. I have committed a grave sin." I said with a bow.

"No offense taken, preciosa."

"I am sincerely appreciative of your benevolence, your highness. Please take a seat. I shall fetch the refreshments right away."

"There is no need to trouble yourself, dear. One of my knights here will gladly take on the endeavor." He said, waving at his knights in the distance.

"Come sit and have a chat with me."

"As you wish, sire."

"You may drop the formalities and call me Tez. That would make me very happy."

There's something unnerving about his smile. When will Nathan return?

"Oh no, your highness. I could never..." I replied nervously, flailing my hands in disagreement.

~Meanwhile...Nextera Dining hall

"Chamberlain Leonardo..."

"Yes, your highness."

He sounds upset.

"Will you go to my study...and exterminate the filthy rat that found its way inside? It seems to be running amok and rummaging through my precious belongings." He said with a scowl, planting his knife into the steak in front of him.

"As you wish, sire."

The word 'rat' sent a visible shudder through Lady Florette, a perfectly understandable response from a young lady of her delicate upbringing. I'm surprised she hasn't climbed the table already. She seems poised yet on the brink of an outburst, as though she could explode at any moment.

"Are you alright, my lady?"

"Huh? Ah, y-yes, your highness. I'm quite alright. Haha!"

"I see...There is something I wish to discuss with you. How about a stroll after we're done here?"

"I gladly concur to your highness' idea."

*sigh* How much longer...must I endure this travesty? I've long lost my appetite.