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As the days sped past, Stella Luna could scarcely believe that the hour of departure had finally arrived. Her preparations were meticulous; every detail, from her attire to her equipment, was a reflection of her dedication and the gravity of the upcoming battle. This wasn't merely a journey into the unknown—it was a critical test of her abilities and resolve.
Sitting at her desk, she penned a heartfelt letter to her family. Each word was carefully chosen, filled with the hope of reassurance and strength. The ink flowed easily, her thoughts pouring onto the parchment as she expressed her determination to not be a burden in the looming conflict. The meeting with the various dignitaries had been intense, and despite her resolve, the weight of their doubts lingered. She was determined to prove herself, not just to them, but to her own heart.
Lilia, her ever-reliable lady-in-waiting, was busy overseeing the final packing of her belongings. Known for her exceptional skills in swordsmanship, Lilia had been an invaluable ally. She had been brought to the palace as a child by Queen Elara, who saw potential in her. Lilia's lilac hair and deep violet eyes were as distinctive as her unwavering loyalty. She was not just a servant; she was Stella's closest friend.
"The princess is really excited, isn't she?" Lilia observed, her eyes twinkling with understanding.
"Yes, I am very," Stella replied with a genuine smile. The prospect of facing the trials of war was daunting, but it also ignited a fierce eagerness within her to test her skills and prove her worth.
A knock at the door interrupted their conversation. Lilia answered, revealing Duke Luther standing in the threshold. His presence was commanding, and for a moment, Stella's heart skipped a beat.
"May I speak with the princess?" Duke Luther's voice was steady, yet there was an undercurrent of something she couldn't quite place.
"Of course, Duke," Stella said, gesturing for him to enter.
They seated themselves at the small table, Lilia preparing tea with practiced efficiency. As the aroma of the brew filled the air, Stella sensed the tension between them.
"My princess," Duke Luther began, his gaze steady. "You still have time to back out of the war."
Stella felt a pang of disappointment. Was this Duke's way of saying he didn't want her there? Did he believe she would be a hindrance? Her ego and confidence took a hit at his words.
"I'm sorry, Duke, but I won't be backing out," she replied firmly. "The king—my father—has entrusted me with this responsibility, and I am fully prepared to undertake it."
"But princess," Duke Luther's concern was evident, though he tried to mask it. "The Saint Eliza and the High Priest, along with myself, can handle this without you."
Stella's eyes narrowed slightly. "No, Duke. I believe the king's judgment is sound. I am capable, and I won't be a burden. If it's the Saint you wish to spend more time with, you are free to do so. But rest assured, I'll be fulfilling my role."
Duke Luther seemed at a loss for words, and after a moment of strained silence, he excused himself. Stella was left feeling a mixture of sadness and frustration. Lilia noticed her distress immediately.
"Princess, what's wrong?" Lilia asked softly.
"It's nothing, Lilia," Stella said, though her voice lacked conviction. "I just need some rest before we depart tomorrow."
The day of departure arrived with the crisp bite of early winter in the air. Stella donned her imperial war attire—a regal ensemble that combined the elegance of her status with the practicality required for battle. Her attire included a high-collared,emerald green cloak adorned with the crest of the Cene Empire emblazoned across her chest. Beneath the cloak, she wore a fitted tunic with reinforced padding, designed for both protection and agility. High, black leather combat boots completed the ensemble, allowing for swift movement on the battlefield. Her long golden hair was pulled into a tight ponytail, ensuring it wouldn't hinder her during combat.
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Reborn as the only princess of Cene Kingdom
ФанфикBook of Reborn: Stella Luna Mcgrainer the star and moon of Cene Kingdom Hannah lived and died miserably. But as her life ended, she realized that she was reborn as the fourth child of the emperor's first daughter. Hannah had lived as the school's lo...
