The Merchant Princess's Magical Online Emporium

CHAPTER 6

Yxellra's POV

The announcement echoed through the grand hall, resonating with the names of esteemed guests. 

"Presenting the important figures and guests for this celebration. One of the founders of the Estovia Kingdom, the sword of our realm, Duke Niuan Adenca, and Duchess Acxella Adenca." The words lingered in the air, creating a hushed anticipation.

As we entered, all eyes turned towards us, their gazes penetrating through the layers of my confusion. Whispers rippled through the crowd, questions about the young girl accompanying the Adenca couple, and the contentious label of being the Adenca family's outcast. 

Judgmental stares clashed with those expressing admiration for the Adenca couple, but most were fixated on me, a spectacle of the family's hidden secrets.

Undeterred by the gossip, the Adenca couple proceeded with regal composure. 

The duchess maintained a pleasant smile, while the duke remained an enigma, his expressions concealed from prying eyes.

As we approached the front, a maelstrom of emotions churned within me. Anxiety, uncertainty, and a dash of curiosity blended together. 

Why had the Adenca couple brought me to such a significant event? The answers eluded me.

Upon reaching the center, they greeted King Csaesar Estovia, the ruler of the Estovia Kingdom. 

While the trio engaged in conversation, I stood silently, observing the opulence of the hall. Golden structures, marble floors, and nobles adorned in extravagant attire created a visual feast. In one corner, a delectable array of dishes and desserts tempted the senses.

The duchess, with a radiant smile, gestured towards me, introducing me to the king. 

His Majesty acknowledged me with a nod, "It is a pleasure to meet one of Axcella's children." 

Politeness compelled me to reply, "The pleasure is mine, your Majesty," accompanied by a respectful bow.

Seated at the designated area, the king expressed gratitude to the attendees, emphasizing the significance of the celebration. 

"I extend my thanks to all who graced this occasion, especially the presence of the four families, pillars of the Estovia Kingdom: the Samion family, Pectadren family, Seigfred family, and the Adenca family, from which hails the fiancée of the third prince, Cristoff Estovia."

King Csaesar's speech continued, weaving a tapestry of appreciation and acknowledgment. 

The revelation caught me off guard—engaged to a prince? 

The duchess instructed me to approach the king, who summoned Prince Cristoff. The prince, a handsome boy of ten, stood beside me with a charming smile, blonde hair, green eyes, and an overall regal demeanor.

Amidst the murmurs of surprise and applause, I struggled to comprehend the magnitude of the announcement. 

As the nobles chattered animatedly, the Adenca couple withdrew, engaging with other acquaintances.

Left alone, the scrutinizing gazes of the nobles intensified. Some pondered why I, an illegitimate child, had been chosen. 

Frustration bubbled within me as I navigated the sea of judgmental eyes. Rising from my seat, I excused myself and found solace outside the hall.

Passing a colossal mirror, my reflection adorned in a charming blue dress captivated my attention. 

The intricate floral designs, the pearl earrings, and necklace that matched the hue of my eyes seemed incongruent with the disdain directed at me. 

Confused and burdened, I sought refuge on a nearby bench, gazing at the palace garden's entrance.

The night sky unveiled a spectacle of stars, offering a semblance of peace. 

Lost in contemplation, I wondered why the blame was cast upon me, when, in reality, the duchess bore the weight of her extramarital affairs. 

A sigh escaped me as I sat alone, embraced by the cool breeze, pondering the intricate web of noble politics and familial secrets.

Suddenly, a presence beside me disrupted my solitude, and I turned to find someone unexpected.

*****