The Debt Of Fate
Chapter 62: Making friends

Chapter 62: Making friends

"make way for His Majesty, King George of Nexie, and Her Grace, Queen Mary! Long live the King and Queen!"

A hush fell as King George entered, his presence commanding, his deep crimson cloak flowing behind him. His golden crown caught the candlelight, casting a soft glow upon his sharp features. At his side, Queen Mary moved with effortless grace, her sapphire gown trailing behind her, its jeweled embroidery glinting like stars against the midnight sky. A delicate tiara rested atop her chestnut curls, its gems catching the flickering light.

Behind them, knights in polished armor marched in measured steps, their tabards bearing the royal crest, the silver lion of Nexie. Their hands rested lightly on the pommels of their swords, a silent yet unmistakable sign of their king’s authority.

As the royal couple ascended the dais, the assembled nobility bowed and curtsied in unison.

"Long live the King!"

The only sounds were the soft rustling of fabric and the quiet murmur of reverence that followed.

Then, King George raised a gloved hand. His voice, steady and rich, carried across the hall.

"Tonight, we gather in celebration of unity, of honor, and of the enduring strength of Nexie. Let the festivities begin."

At his command, the musicians struck the first notes, and as the melody swelled, the great hall erupted into applause. The royal ball had begun.

Queen Mary assisted King George as he took his seat. It had taken all his strength to appear strong and healthy during his entrance. The seer walked over and discreetly handed him a small vial of medicine. After all, he could not afford to show weakness on such an occasion.

Queen Mary gazed down at the dancers below, relieved to see Prince Edward stepping onto the stage with Anastasia for the first dance.

After the opening dance, other guests joined in. Seizing the opportunity, Prince Edward quietly separated from Anastasia. She did not mind; she hated being the center of attention. She walked to the side of the hall, seeking a quiet corner away from the curious gazes.

"Lady Anastasia," a voice suddenly called out just as she thought she had found a moment of solitude.

Anastasia turned in the direction of the voice. "Lady Rosalind," she recognized the young noblewoman instantly. Rosalind had tried to befriend her at Miss Augusta’s party.

"I’m glad you still remember me," Rosalind said, visibly pleased. She had taken a liking to Anastasia ever since witnessing her musical talent at the party.

"Lady Rosalind has such a beautiful face; it would be difficult to forget," Anastasia replied with a smile.

Everyone liked to be praised, and Rosalind was no exception. She beamed at Anastasia’s words.

"Many thanks for the compliment, but I must say I fall behind in beauty when compared to you, Lady Anastasia," Rosalind responded with a gracious smile.

Anastasia smiled again. Aside from Rosa and her late mother, no one had ever complimented her appearance before. Although a few of Prince Edward’s friends had said flattering words when she stood beside him earlier, she felt they were only being courteous.

"Thank you," she replied.

"I would love to invite you to my estate so we could play music together, but with your wedding to the prince approaching, I doubt you will have the time," Rosalind said after a brief pause.

Anastasia was surprised. She had never had any friends before, and this was the first time she had been invited anywhere. Though her wedding was drawing near, she was not particularly busy, her only responsibility was accompanying the Queen. The lady-in-waiting handled all the preparations.

"When were you thinking? Perhaps I could make time," Anastasia said. Making friends seemed like a good idea, and she found Rosalind’s personality agreeable.

"How about three days from now?" Rosalind suggested, delighted that Anastasia seemed interested. She, too, had very few friends. Most noble daughters only pretended to be close while secretly competing against one another. Anastasia, however, seemed to dislike the spotlight, just like herself.

"Then I will send a greeting card the day before if I am available," Anastasia said.

Rosalind was pleased by her response. The two of them began chatting about their shared interests, unaware of the jealous stares from other noble daughters.

"I thought Rosalind always acted high and mighty because she’s the daughter of the head Chancellor . I never expected her to know how to flatter others," one noble lady whispered.

"Of course. Now that Lady Anastasia will be the future Crown Princess in a few days, making friends with her is no loss," her companion replied.

Though they mocked Rosalind openly, they were secretly envious. They, too, wanted to befriend Anastasia but did not know how to approach her. Seeing how easily Rosalind had done it, they regretted their hesitation. Pretending not to care was the only way they could soothe their wounded pride.

Meanwhile, Anastasia and Rosalind remained oblivious to the murmurs around them.

A maid arrived, carrying two cups of wine. She served them gracefully before stepping away.

Anastasia accepted the cup but had no intention of drinking. Although the wine served to noble ladies at such events was not particularly strong, she was unsure of her alcohol tolerance.

Just then, Rosalind caught sight of her aunt. "I will go greet my aunt," she said, excusing herself.

Anastasia nodded. She glanced at the wine in her hand, debating whether or not to taste it.

Truthfully, she was a little curious about its flavor. Distracted by her thoughts, she turned abruptly, intending to find a quieter corner before taking a sip.

She did not expect to bump into someone.

The entire cup of wine spilled onto him, while only a few drops stained her dress.

"I am so sorry," Anastasia apologized, feeling deeply embarrassed.

The young man smiled. "It’s okay. I was walking too close just now."

Anastasia was relieved that he was so understanding. Even though she still felt flustered, she decided to look at him properly.

Her mouth almost fell open.

He was so handsome like he had fell out of a painting. Anastasia had thought that the prince was the most handsome man within the royal city; She had never imagined she would meet a man who surpassed Prince Edward in appearance.