Destined Across Time | LadaEarn

Chapter 11 [M]

"That is highly inappropriate," she stated coldly, her voice firm. "Earn serves the palace with great dedication, and her worth should never be reduced to mere conquest."

Ryu shrugged, clearly unfazed by Fahlada's ire. "Come now, Your Royal Highness. I was merely expressing admiration. Surely, you can understand." His tone was condescending, as if Fahlada's feelings were inconsequential.

Earn glanced at Fahlada, seeking reassurance. The princess's expression was one of fierce protectiveness, though she masked her feelings beneath a layer of regal composure.

Fahlada stood abruptly, her chair scraping against the floor. "If you wish to speak of admiration, then I must insist we change the subject. Earn is not an object for your amusement." Her gaze swept over both men, her resolve unwavering. "I will not have her subjected to this trivial discourse."

The tension in the room thickened, and Earn felt the weight of Fahlada's protective presence, even as she stood in the midst of unwarranted attention. She silently prayed that Mean and Ryu would recognize the seriousness of their words, while Fahlada's fierce loyalty radiated, shielding her from the unwanted advances.

Mean, sensing the weight of her fury, tried to muster a charming smile, though it faltered under her withering gaze. "Your Royal Highness, we didn't mean to offend..." he began, his tone less certain, his usual confidence shaken.

Fahlada tilted her head, her eyes narrowing as she took a step closer, her voice softer but no less menacing. "Be careful," she murmured, her words like velvet draped over steel. "My patience wears thin, and I do not take kindly to anyone who disrespects those under my protection." She spared a glance at Ryu, her gaze freezing him in place. "This is the last time I will tolerate such insolence."

The room grew silent, the weight of Fahlada's words settling heavily upon them. Even the air felt thick with her displeasure, a palpable tension that warned of the consequences should they continue. Earn stood quietly, her heart pounding as she felt the strength of Fahlada's protectiveness radiate through the room, her loyalty wrapping around her like an invisible shield.

For a moment, Earn felt emboldened, inspired by Fahlada's fierce loyalty. With a deep breath, she lifted her chin, meeting Ryu's gaze with a quiet defiance that surprised even herself. She was more than a mere servant, more than the passing fancy they had carelessly reduced her to, and Fahlada had reminded her of that with every word she spoke.

Ryu, sensing the shift, attempted a nonchalant smile, though it was strained. "Of course, Your Highness," he said, bowing his head slightly in a gesture of begrudging respect. "We meant no harm."

As the group finished their refreshments, Mean glanced at Fahlada with a charming smile. "Your Royal Highness, might I have the pleasure of accompanying you for a walk in the palace gardens?"

Before Fahlada could politely decline, Ryu chimed in with a grin. "And perhaps, Earn could join us? I simply wish to make friends," he added, his eyes flicking briefly to Earn with a pointed interest. "I assure you, no intentions beyond innocent camaraderie, and P'Eclair can accompany us if that would ease any worries."

Fahlada's jaw tightened, and she didn't know she could roll her eyes as she did now, holding back a snort of derision. She could barely conceal her irritation, but she managed a curt nod, her inner fury simmering as she gestured to Eclair to ensure everything remained strictly formal.

Fahlada felt a rush of irritation, surprised at how deeply it stirred. "Very well," she replied curtly, though she struggled to keep her expression neutral. She glanced at Ryu, who seemed to be pushing his luck, then at Earn, who stood beside Eclair, looking slightly uncomfortable.