𝐂𝐈𝐂𝐀𝐓𝐑𝐈𝐙𝐄 ＃ YOUR THRONE. [✓]

CHAPTER 16: SALON

THE NEWS OF THE PRINCESS returning again, was spread across the empire. Since Asteria was an exceptional scholar during her time in Azareah, it reached the empire's ears as well.

In the Rosaria Palace, various ornate decorations were displayed and a feast was being prepared to celebrate their lovely princess' return.

They only had little time before Asteria arrives, so they were moving around at a swift pace. Of course this celebration was prepared by none other than Eros, her younger brother.

The sun was high up in the skies, it's torrents of light touching the earth's soil, and providing warmth for the citizens. The faint sound of the horses hooves pitter-patter against the gravel paths reached the princess's ears as she stared out the carriage's window in a disinterested manner.

She had a lot of work to do once she returns, and it surely wouldn't be easy. Asteria was to say, grew quite used to the bustling and thriving atmosphere in the Azareah Kingdom. And now she needs to adjust yet again.

The sound of that bored her mind, as she listlessly sighed. Soon, the carriage came to a halt, snapping the princess out of her momentary trance. "We've arrived, Your Highness."

Asteria raised her head, glancing through the window. She saw the tall buildings of the palaces, and the gardens nearby. The princess dusted herself off swiftly, as the chauffer opened the carriage door.

The chauffer extended his hand towards the princess, guiding her down briefly. "Would you like to visit the Crown Prince's palace first?"

"I suppose not. I will be heading straight for the Rosaria palace," Asteria quipped, rubbing her nape momentarily. The chauffer simply nodded, and went to the stables.

Without a second thought, Asteria walked towards the Rosaria palace. Hoping that it was well maintained in her absence, Eva was waiting right by the entrance which startled Asteria.

"Eva?" Asteria called confusedly, as the said female turned towards her. "Your Highness, Welcome back." Eva showed a small, sweet smile.

"Were you waiting long?" Asteria questioned, as Eva shook her head in-denial. "No, I've recently arrived too." Eva responded, seemingly telling the truth.

"How was your stay in Azareah?" Eva inquired, the princess humming lowly in response. "As always, it was nice."

The pair entered the palace without another word, Eva gesturing for Asteria to visit the dining halls first. The princess was curious as to why since she wanted to head to her study already.

Though she supposed she can do that later. A delicious aroma slipped away from the Dining Halls, as they neared it. Asteria inhaled, as she arched a brow.

"Welcome back, Your Highness!" They greeted enthusiastically, almost beaming. Asteria surveyed the dining halls, before exhaling quietly. "You didn't have to do this," Asteria smiled gratefully.

"This is nothing Your Highness! In-fact His Highness, The Crown Prince proposed we hold a small celebration for your return." Someone chimed amongst the staff gathered. A male walked forward holding a letter, gesturing it was for the princess.

"This is a letter from the Crown Prince." He states, Asteria retracted the letter from his grasp and opened it. Her amber hues gaze skimmed through the letter, before folding it and shoving it into her pockets.

"Please send my thanks to my younger brother." Asteria chimes with faux delight. "Since you have prepared quite a lot, why don't we all eat altogether?"

The princess suggested, the staff brightened up momentarily, breaking into a fit of murmurs. "I don't mind."
Asteria added.

The staff soon agreed, as they eat altogether due to the princess's request. They didn't really mind though, who were they to object?