ILTV - Steam Punk Loop

Chapter 17 - ...to Get a Move On

*** Based on the original I'm in Love With the Villainess novel

*** Some content is similar to the original so can be considered as SPOILERS

*** This is purely FANFICTION. I do not own any rights to I'm in Love With the Villainess

*** Play music for ambience

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**Claire POV

"You look unwell, Lady Claire. Do you want to have a rest?"

"I am alright, Your Highness. I am probably feeling unsteady from riding on the airship for so long."

Were I not so fatigued, I would remove a mark from my notebook tally against Steam. However, I lack the energy to make the effort.

"Indeed. The procession took longer than anticipated. It gives a bad impression to our guests."

After we disembarked, we were immediately taken to the castle to continue with the festivities. We were not given time to rest and had to be present as important guests had arrived. There was a set schedule for us to follow. I tried my best to appear delighted in front of the guests, however it was a difficult task to keep up with the facade. It has only been days since I separated from the Bumpkin, yet it felt like an eternity. My mind kept repeating the pain in her expression when I confessed to her my engagement. It has haunted my sleep since that day.

"Speaking of guests, I have not seen the guests from the other countries yet. I have so much to discuss with my sister."

"Are you referring to Princess Manaria?"

"Indeed. It has been awhile since I have last spoken to her. I have been quite fond of her since I was young."

Sister Manaria is the Crowned Princess of the Kingdom of Sousse and my cousin through my mother's sister. When we were younger, we frequently visited each other and played together. I admired her greatly and looked up to her. However, she is quite mischievous and enjoys playing pranks on people. Despite her troublesome personality, she is beloved by her subjects. Moreover, she is exceptionally beautiful. From what I have heard, many suitors from distant lands have come to seek her hand in marriage, yet she has rejected each one. I remain unsure of her reasons, but I will have to ask her eventually.

"I see. We should meet with them shortly. They are still in a meeting regarding business matters with the King and the other Heads of the kingdom. They did not let us join in in order to entertain the other guests that are within the vicinity."

Prince Thane's replies are always monotonous. Ever since we started discussing wedding plans, he's been unusually stoic and somber. He offers no input and lets others dictate the details of the ceremony. It just goes to show that we have something else in common, neither of us is looking forward to this wedding.

"That was truly a grand celebration, though it still couldn't top Catherine's and my engagement announcement. So, how are the two little lovebirds doing?"

As we waited for the next part of the program, someone called out to us, cheerfully referring to us as 'lovebirds.' A faint wave of disgust washed over me at his words. The label felt wrong and forced, like a poorly placed costume. I didn't like it at all.

"Brother, please mind your words, we have guests present. Also, you should have asked one of the servants to assist Lady Catherine. As the Crown Prince, you must conduct yourself properly."