Island of enchantments

Prologue (M)

The air smelt of roses and petunias. It was a sweet smell. The trees and garden hedges proudly loom over the garden. I smile as I walk through the garden. I suppose I'll have to think the gardeners for their hard work later.

The roses were blooming around this time of year. And especially lovelier.

"Is right here, okay, Princess Monique?" My personal maid ask as she places down crinketts* and my favorite tea, chamomile on the table. I've had previously ask one of the butlers to set up a small table in the garden for me. My mother and I always used to spend so much time out here. She loved the garden dearly. Now, it's a place for me to get escape from my troubles. Originally, my father wanted to destroy it as with everything else that belonged to mother but I convinced him otherwise.

"Yes, thank you."

"Oh, and the King wishes to see you in his throne room."

I held back a sigh. What does he want with me now?

"Thank you for informing me, tell him I will be there soon."

"Of course, Your Highness." She curtsies before leaving.

I no longer felt hungry but I rather not face him on an empty stomach. God knows I need it.

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"Father," I begin. He sat alone in his throne with a knight to his left, guarding him. I've only seen the guard around once or twice, he never left my father's side. "You wished to see me?"

"Yes, I think it's time for you to be engaged."

I froze. All the words stuck in my throat.

"Pardon?"

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*Crinketts: A large dish that is normally served during breakfast. Only the richest can have it.