This much is certain: the gardener is in love with my older sister. However, is it possible that she's merely being her coquettish self? Oh dear God, I hope so. Because if her words and actions mean something else, the implications will be catastrophic.
Indeed, the gardener is handsome, unbelievably so. Even without a coat and hat, he could easily attract a wealthier woman and seduce her into giving him a house and a respectable fortune. But my older sister should be a different story...
Am I right?
I do not understand what they could have in common. Furthermore, I do not see the gardener aiding my older sister's rule. He knows how to grow and arrange the healthiest and prettiest plants, but as he mentioned, he cannot even read and write more complex material. How can he strategize for the empire in the long run? Will he know what to say and how to respond to the royals and nobles he will interact with?
If word spreads about their late-night meetings, the scandal would shake the palace. It would upset the peace and harmony we've fought so hard to preserve. The trust in the royal family would be compromised.
Yes, the gardener seems like a kind man, but he most likely does not know the kind of demons royals and nobles are. Even I, raised among them, sometimes feel like I'm barely surviving. How could he? Involving himself with any of us would surely break his being.
"The two viscounts are still squabbling over my hand?" My older sister chuckled incredulously, her eyes skimming the contents of the letter. "And now they're seeking my counsel to settle it?"
"Yes, Your Imperial Majesty," I replied, though my thoughts were still preoccupied with what I had seen the other night.
"How sweet." She flicked the letter onto the table with a faint sneer. "But surely, I can't be that lovely to remain the object of their affections for so long. Very well, I shall offer them my advice."
Unfortunately, she truly is that lovely. The empire adores her and her bold, trendsetting gowns, but even without them, her face alone is captivating, is perfectly symmetrical. There is much to be said about her hair and eyes in particular.
Yet more than that, she must be utterly exasperated. This isn't the first time this has happened - far from it. In fact, it's become almost routine, as if her allure is both her blessing and her burden.
"Since the viscounts are such renowned marksmen," she said lightly, "tell them to meet for a pistol duel this month, three paces apart. Whoever wins shall challenge me. If he prevails, he may have me."
"Three paces?" I echoed, though I already knew the absurdity was deliberate.
I knew it, she is irritated. To resolve such extreme situations, my sister always proposes the most outrageous conditions - ones that ensure none of her suitors succeed. Does the idea of marriage repulse her this much?
"You don't seem to appreciate my brilliant plan, Princess," she remarked, her azure eyes narrowing slightly.
"My apologies, Your Imperial Majesty." I bowed slightly, avoiding her gaze.
I am not required to avert my eyes in her presence, but I prefer to. There is something unsettling about her stare. It makes me squirm, though I cannot pinpoint why.
"Hmmm. Is something on your mind?" she asked, her voice rich with curiosity. She poured tea and milk into my cup before sliding it toward me. I sipped, grateful for the momentary distraction.
The tea is delicious. My sister always prepares the best drinks.
"Princess," she pressed gently, "why are you not answering? Look at me."
YOU ARE READING
Classified (UNDER CONSTRUCTION)
RomansaShe is undoubtedly one of the most memorable historical figures in her empire. During her time, she had the loveliest face, possessed the most impressive prowess in battle, donned the finest dresses, wore the most jewelry, garnered the most friends...
