The Princess of Two Worlds

chapter nineteen

Evaline's heart thudded loudly as they stepped onto her homeland. Her beautiful Alestia. While she hated the people, she still loved her country. It's bordering grassy mountains, calm rivers that flowed through, and hanging willows, she cared for it all from her memory. The King made use of the nature, making the kingdom flourish while still only taking the essentials and not more than what was needed to survive.

A hand touched her shoulder, "Don't worry, Your Highness." It was Jasper, "We will be by your side to make sure you don't go up there again."

Smiling, she nodded, "Thank you. Reuben must be anxious for our arrival." Not. "Let us go to greet him. Oh, and Sovanna, welcome to Alestia."

The girl whistled lowly, "And they need help finding another land? Look at this place, it's phenomenal."

Ev barely listened to her as they stepped into the inner courts. Her eyes widened when she heard the multitude of people gathered there. 'Son of a-' she had completely forgotten that it was Reuben's birthday. Therefore all the nobles would be there to celebrate. The ones who sneered at her in disdain.

"Announcing General Leonard, from the Wymarc House! Knight Jasper from the Keller House! Knight Arlo from the Francis House!" The Herald glanced at her but looked straight ahead. 'Of course, do not acknowledge me. But you'll pay for that.'

All heads turned to look at them and it felt as if their eyes were boring into her very soul. She could feel their gaze. Swallowing the lump in her throat, she followed everyone as they walked up to the throne and bowed. Sovanna and her did not do the same.

The General looked up at the King, "Your Majesty, we have arrived."

Reuben put his cheek on his hand, "I can tell. I trust your travels were safe?"

"Indeed they were, thanks to Your Majesty's kindness and abundance."

Her brother was tired. Very, very, tired. His mahogany eyes had dark circles underneath them and Evaline realized his stature was not the same prideful self as it usually was. Did he have a few more gray hairs as well?

The King looked at Sovanna, "And I see you bought a new person along. Your eyes are magnificent I must say. Are you like my sister?"

Before she could open her mouth, the Princess spoke up, "Yes, and she's the one to guide you to your wonderful land. Now, will you grant me my freedom? Or will you break your deal?"

Whispers filled the hall but she stood her ground. He chuckled, stood up, and walked to a dining table. Grabbing a plate, he placed an item on it and handed it to her. Two raspberry macarons. He still remembered. "From now on, henceforth, Princess Evaline will be released from the North Tower, her past forgotten," Reuben commanded.

Silence filled the hall then a young brave noble, stepped out amongst the crowd. Clearly, he had been forcibly volunteered to go against the quick proclamation. "Y-your Majesty, we all remember the sins she has committed. They forever will be ingrained in our minds."

Her brother crossed his arms, "Oh really? Then please, un-grain it at once. Duke Andrews was it?"

A grin lit up on his innocent face, "You remember! Yes your Majesty, I sincerely congratulate you on the day of your birth. But though it is supposed to be a day of joy, we must have the memory of the blood that Evaline has stained on this holy kingdom."

Pink covered her face and all she could see was red. She didn't know this noble for he was too new for her. He wasn't even there! The knights stood in front of her, swords drawn, "Watch your words, Duke. That is the Princess you are referring to." The General said.