Whenever Eugene woke up, she had taken it upon herself to listen for news on what had happened the night before. This made her the Royal family’s commander. Thus all important information was reported to her.
There she learned more about the people in the castle. She learned the many systems based on gender, ranks, age. She also learned about the inventory, how long they have with the stored food, as well as the daily necessities.
She even learned there was an air raid bunker placed deep within the palace’s basement.
This shelter was explicitly made for the heir, or successor of the King and Queen. It also had enough provisions that could last for a year for a small handful of people.
“Many died yesterday,” she sighed, frustration taking over her as she looked over the reports Marianne had given her.
On the first day, with the yellow flare, there were only some who ended up injured, but there were no casualties. But as the fight went on, eventually the first casualty happened, and then the next, and the next.
One by one, bodies dropped dead.
And the people began to get exhausted by the constant fighting.
“Marianne,” Eugene softly called out as she buried her face in her hands before she straightened up to look at the Baroness. “You said this was the first time this many casualties ever occurred since His Highness ascended?”
“Yes, Your Majesty.”
“Is it because of me?” she worried, muttering to herself.
It was highly possible. Her presence could have had a negative effect on Mahar, the world where she didn’t belong. It could also be the reason why there were so many inconsistencies in the story she knew she created.
The setting for one, it was subtle, but it was different from what she remembered. Information and facts she didn’t create were even in the world. Her story was spiraling out of control.
All this was her fault, she distressed in her thoughts. She couldn’t help but feel responsible for the poor man who couldn’t go home because he was off to fight the war. She felt guilty for those who died.
Contrary to the turmoil happening outside, inside the palace walls, everyone went about their duties. But it was clear that despite the calmness they’re portraying, their eyes told her they were anything but calm.
Despite their faith that their king would make it, in the back of their minds, they were resigned to die at any given moment.
“You worry too much, Your Majesty,” Marianne reprimanded softly, “Come, let’s get you back to your room. You’re looking rather pale,” she pointed out, and Eugene sighed, rubbing her face and let out a deep breath.
She admitted she couldn’t find it in herself to sleep. Even if she was dead tired.
“It’s not like I can do much but sit here and worry.”
“You’re doing rather well, if I do say so myself.” Marianne says, “The fact that you are here, staying strong and waiting for a certain return is a great source of comfort for your people.”
As much as it was meant to comfort her, Eugene couldn’t help but regret she couldn’t even wish Kasser good luck when he went off jumping out the window a few days ago. She had been too complacent, she knows now.
She had thought everything would be over in just a few hours, and come evening, everything would return to normal. But it wasn’t so.
Suddenly a maid came into the throne room, and bowed her respects before speaking.
YOU ARE READING
(1) Living As the Villainess Queen
General Fiction'I want to travel to a place unknown to the many...' It was a passing wish to the weary and tired Eugene and she'd not think it'd ever come to pass... but it did. She opened her eyes and found she was sent to a novel-like world she wrote in passing...
