The Reborn Witch Princess

Encounters

When Rara entered the dining hall for breakfast, she was momentarily stunned by the scene before her. The hall, elegantly decorated with tapestries and grand chandeliers, was filled with the aroma of freshly baked bread and brewed coffee. At the center of this regal setting stood a tall, striking male figure beside the queen. The queen's warm, affectionate smile contrasted sharply with the king's cool, detached demeanor.

The figure beside the queen was dressed in a finely tailored outfit, a rich navy blue that complemented his stature. His hair, dark and meticulously styled, fell just so, accentuating his chiseled features. As the queen spoke, he responded with brief nods and succinct answers, his posture upright and formal.

Rara, lost in her observations, barely noticed Prince Ariel approaching until he spoke. "What are you standing there for?"

Startled from her daze, Rara turned to find Prince Ariel standing just behind her. His expression was one of mild impatience mixed with curiosity. Awkwardly, Rara stepped aside, allowing him to pass. She followed him into the hall, her mind racing with a flicker of anxiety. Over the past few days, she had grown accustomed to sitting beside the queen, almost forgetting her rightful place beside Prince Ariel.

The king's eyes flickered with interest when he saw Rara enter. For a brief moment, it seemed he wanted to engage her in conversation, his gaze warm and inviting. However, with the eldest prince now present, Rara would have to return to her place beside Prince Ariel, a position far removed from the king's side. The king's expression darkened slightly, a subtle sign of his displeasure.

The queen turned her attention to her son. "How did your hunting go?" she asked, her concern evident in her gentle tone.

"Not bad," Prince Xavier replied, his voice calm and measured.

The queen's eyes softened with worry as she took in his appearance. "I see you've lost some weight since your last visit. Did you eat properly? Are the servants treating you well?" Her gaze roamed over him with maternal concern.

Prince Xavier gave a reassuring smile. "Mom, I'm fine. Really." His tone was patient, but his eyes held a hint of exasperation.

Rara stifled a chuckle. To her, Prince Xavier looked remarkably healthy. His physique was robust and commanding, radiating strength and vitality. The idea of him being underfed seemed absurd. His well-defined muscles and confident posture spoke volumes about his rigorous training and discipline.

As Rara's gaze lingered on Prince Xavier, she was abruptly pulled back to reality. "...Hara...Hara!"

She turned to see Prince Ariel looking at her with a mixture of amusement and annoyance.

"Hm...?" she replied, her voice distracted.

"You're drooling," Prince Ariel whispered, leaning in close with a smirk.

Rara's hand shot up to her mouth in embarrassment. She quickly wiped away the drool, her cheeks flushing a deep crimson. Her eyes met Prince Ariel's, filled with mortification.

Turning back to face Prince Xavier, her embarrassment intensified as she noticed that everyone in the room was watching her. The realization that her staring had been noticed by everyone made her want to disappear. Prince Xavier's playful smirk only made her feel worse.

Feeling as though she might crumble under the weight of her embarrassment, Rara's face turned beet red, the flush extending down her neck and into her ears. She felt like she might faint from sheer mortification.

Prince Ariel, sensing her discomfort, handed her a glass of water with a sympathetic look. "Drink this to cool down..." he said gently, though he grimaced slightly as he felt a sharp pinch on his waist.