The Fake Princess

9. Tea with the blessed Princess

I was completely healed after a week. Once the doctor checked me one morning, I was immediately sent to continue my studies. It wasn't too bad, especially since I had a private talk with the Duke. He seemed to think that the Prince liked me, or was interested in me romantically. He praised me for being the only girl he kept in contact with.

Because I did something good with the Duke and I was doing good in my studies, especially for a child who was illiterate only a couple of months ago, he allowed me to visit the city where I could see Azriel. I quickly wrote a letter to Azriel and sent it to Laxor, remembering Azriel's instructions on how to reach him.

I did not know where he was. He was off training, but I did not know where or for how long. I had written to him to let me know when I would be granted a free day and if he could possibly meet me in the town square for my real birthday in the late spring.

I was sitting in the palace as I remembered Azriel's face in the forest. I smiled to myself, remembering the secret I held close to my heart. A set of heels woke me from my trance, shoes I was not accustomed to hearing in the palace when visiting Cassian. I looked up and saw a girl a few years older than me, with hair the color of the sky and a dress that looked like a pink cloud.

"Princess Lilia," I stood up and curtsied, surprised to see her. She stopped in front of me and I stood up and offered a posed smile Lady Sarabia taught me how to do.

"Lady Kalido, I was pleased to receive your acceptance to tea. I know you came for Cassian, but he's currently busy with his swords master and I would love to talk with you." Her voice was pleasant to listen to. Looking at her, she was the very definition of a Princess, a lady I want to try to be.

"It would be wonderful!" I chirped and she smiled. She turned away and I followed behind her.

We didn't speak on the way, all I could do was watch her float in front of me. The air around her exuded royalty, just like it did around Cassian. Her hair was beautifully styled up with beautiful pins and her dress fell perfectly around her while mine rumpled around me.

I quickly fixed my appearance. I smoothed out my dress, fixed strands I knew were wild due to my curly hair, stood up straighter and I tried to copy her walk. I don't know if I looked as foolish as I felt, but I paid it no mind.

We entered the indoor garden, it was still cold to be outside. She lead me away from the pond and to another section I hadn't explored yet. There I saw there was a table with two chairs and a tea pot and snacks were already assembled. A maid stood by the table, waiting to be of use.

I sat down across from the Princess, watching her direct the maid to pouring us tea. I exchanged in polite conversation about the beauty of the garden and instructed the maid how I preferred my tea. Lilia casted out the maid so we were alone.

"Lady Kalido, how do you enjoy my palace?" She asked me. "I'm sorry your previous visit resulted in sickness." She placed a hand over her heart and I waved her off.

"It's lovely, and you do not have to worry over me. I'm completely fine now." I smiled widely and she smiled back.

"May I ask how old you are?"

"I'm 10, turning 11 this autumn." I lied easily, something I will always do.

"I'll be turning 14 in two months. Will you be attending my ball?" She asked before taking a sip of her tea.

"Yes, I would love to attend her highness' party." I said confidently, but I was unsure if I was even invited to it. Surely my parents would be and thus, I would be too.

"I would love to see you there. I know many girls would be excited to see you for the first time. It's been many years- oh please eat. I do not like to eat alone." She gestured to one of the many pastries. She reached for a cookie and I reached for a tart.