In a land torn apart by war, you return to a homeland you barely remember, the place where your father once ruled as Prime Minister before sending you to America for safety. Now a successful doctor, you're called back for reasons unknown, thrust int...
The main hall of the palace was now redecorated for the Grand Gala, an annual highlight of Tuleria's social gatherings, which was in full swing. Nobles, dignitaries, and influential figures from across the kingdom and beyond filled the ballroom. It was a brilliant opportunity for both the queen candidates to mingle with the nobles and earn their approval, making it very crucial.
The grand hall of the palace shimmered with elegant decorations. The air was filled with the soft hum of conversation and the clink of champagne glasses as nobles and dignitaries spoke under the glow of crystal chandeliers.
Kristine stood at the entrance, her heart racing as she scanned the crowd. The grandeur of the gala was overwhelming, and despite her preparation, the pressure to make a lasting impression felt almost suffocating.
Her purpose tonight was clear: to establish her presence among the nobles and showcase her genuine commitment to Tuleria's future by winning the hearts of the nobles as well as the common folk.
She was dressed in a deep blue formal dress, elegant but simple, a subtle nod to her connection with the common people. The gown's simplicity contrasted sharply with the extravagant outfits of many at the gala.
Oops! This image does not follow our content guidelines. To continue publishing, please remove it or upload a different image.
Penelope, meanwhile, walked through the crowd in a gown of shimmering gold that made every head turn in her direction. Her outfit was a masterpiece, designed to dazzle and command attention.
Oops! This image does not follow our content guidelines. To continue publishing, please remove it or upload a different image.
Penelope, in contrast, saw the gala as her stage for triumph. Her strategy was clear: to flaunt her achievements while undermining Kristine's reputation.
As Kristine made her way through the crowd of guests, she engaged in conversations with various influential nobles, sharing her vision for Tuleria's agricultural future. Her sincerity and passion for improving the lives of Tuleria's people were evident in every word. The guests she spoke with responded positively and showed support.
Oops! This image does not follow our content guidelines. To continue publishing, please remove it or upload a different image.
Penelope, in contrast, was busy undermining Kristine publicly. She walked through the crowd with practiced grace, whispering to nobles about Kristine's outsider status and her alleged ulterior motives. The rumors Penelope spread painted Kristine as a foreigner trying to manipulate Tuleria's affairs for her gain, rather than someone who truly cared about the kingdom's well-being.
The night took a dramatic turn when the king, standing on a raised platform, announced a surprise challenge: a debate on the future of Tuleria's agricultural surplus, with a focus on sweet potatoes. The announcement was met with a mixture of excitement and apprehension, as this would be a chance for both Kristine and Penelope to present their ideas to a larger audience.
Penelope seized the opportunity with confidence. Her argument was polished and strategic, emphasizing the efficiency of exporting surplus crops to neighboring countries. She presented data and projections, showcasing her ability to handle the issue with precision. The nobles were impressed by her logical approach, but Kristine noticed a growing murmur of unease among the common folk in attendance.
When Kristine took the stage, the atmosphere shifted. She was fully aware of Penelope's cold tactics and the hesitation of some nobles. Yet, she stood tall, speaking about her earlier interactions with the people. Her presentation was heartfelt and inspiring. She spoke of the emotional and cultural significance of sweet potatoes, emphasizing their role in bringing families together and supporting communities during harsh winter months.
The audience was captivated. Kristine's heartfelt approach struck a chord with many, contrasting with Penelope's calculated efficiency. The warmth of Kristine's words seemed to breathe life into the room, while Penelope's arguments felt distant and mechanical.
The debate took an unexpected turn when a well-respected noble, known for his neutrality, stood up and publicly announced Penelope's manipulative tactics. His revelation shocked the room and shifted the mood dramatically, casting a shadow over Penelope's carefully crafted image.
As the event drew to a close, Kristine felt a surge of confidence. The enthusiastic support from the common people and the positive feedback from some nobles signaled a significant victory for her.
Penelope, however, was left seething with anger. She watched as Claude and Lee congratulated Kristine and ignored her completely.
Penelope retreated to a shadowed corner, tears streaming down her face as the weight of defeat overwhelmed her. The pain of losing, along with the public humiliation, felt like a crushing blow.
Her father, Duke Gupta, approached her with a stern expression. 'Penelope,' he said firmly, 'you must remain sharp. Do not let your emotions cloud your judgment. There is always a way to regain control.' His voice was cold and calculating, as if already planning the next move.
IT'S TIME TO HURT KRISTINE WHERE IT WOULD HURT HER THE MOST, he said. "IT'S TIME TO BRING IN OUR WEAPON, HER FATHER, PRIME MINISTER SURYA!"
