Crown of Shadows

IX

Clara adjusted the hem of her navy-blue coat, making sure the fabric draped just right over her shoulders. The golden brooch bearing the crest of the Aurelia royal family pinned at her collar gleamed in the early winter sun. It was one of those bright, brisk mornings where the air felt sharp and clear, and though the temperature was freezing, Clara felt the warmth of excitement building in her chest.

Today, she was attending a community engagement in the heart of the capital, a charity event aimed at raising awareness and funds for environmental conservation—a cause close to her heart. It wasn't one of the grand, state dinners or balls filled with diplomats and foreign dignitaries. This event felt more personal. Local, even. It was just the kind of gathering where Clara felt most at ease—among regular people, where the title of "princess" seemed to weigh a little less heavy on her shoulders.

The small town square where the event was taking place had been transformed with stands and booths, each showcasing local initiatives and projects aimed at protecting Aurelia's natural landscapes. There were children running about, their faces flushed with excitement as they admired the displays. Families gathered, bundled up in scarves and gloves, huddling close as they moved from stall to stall.

Clara could already hear the excited murmurs of the crowd as her official car pulled up to the edge of the square. When she stepped out, she was greeted by cheers, the sound of camera shutters clicking rapidly.

"Your Highness!" voices called out, eager to get her attention.

With a gracious smile, Clara waved, her steps confident as she approached the gathered crowd. Despite the noise and attention, she felt a sense of purpose. Events like these were not just about appearances; they were an opportunity to connect, to listen, to gauge the mood of the people she would one day serve. She needed to know how they felt about her, especially now, after everything that had happened with Alec and the press storm that followed.

She was quickly met by the event organiser, a woman in her late forties with a warm smile and an aura of efficiency.

"Your Highness," the woman greeted, bowing her head slightly. "We're honoured to have you here. This event wouldn't have had half the impact without your support."

"It's a privilege to be here," Clara replied sincerely. "I've always been passionate about conservation, and seeing the community come together like this is inspiring."

The organiser beamed and began to lead Clara around the square, pointing out various stands and introducing her to key figures. As she made her way through the event, Clara took her time, stopping to speak with stallholders and visitors alike.

She bent down to talk with a group of schoolchildren who were excitedly explaining their project to reduce plastic waste in the local rivers. Their enthusiasm was infectious, and Clara found herself laughing with them as they eagerly shared their ideas.

"We're doing this for the future," one of the girls said earnestly. "We want the rivers to be clean for everyone, even the animals."

Clara's heart warmed. "You're all doing an incredible job. Keep going, because it's young people like you who will make the biggest difference."

As she stood and moved on, she noticed a group of older women huddled together, speaking in hushed tones but casting frequent glances her way. It wasn't uncommon for people to talk quietly when they saw her, but something in their expressions caught her attention. Clara excused herself from her current conversation and approached them with a friendly smile.

"Good morning," she greeted, and the women looked up, clearly surprised that she had noticed them. "How are you all enjoying the event?"

One of the women, her face lined with age but her eyes bright, smiled warmly. "It's wonderful, Your Highness. It's good to see these initiatives happening. We need to take care of our land for the next generations."