Episode 9
Eiryn was anxious and carefully went through the stairs, checking the information gathered from the servants to be sure about that moment.
Even while hiding in the dark, she couldn’t help but hope things would go smoothly.
“…Was that building safe?”
No one answered.
She had to press her hand against the cold wall to stay balanced, but she didn’t stop moving forward.
Lord Illiard quietly followed her with a serious expression.
Maybe Porti’s actions had already been reported to Eiryn.
“Please keep it a secret.”
A person’s heart is so fragile.
The moment something is labeled “secret,” people become even more curious.
Although Porti’s behavior wasn’t explained in detail to Eiryn, it wasn’t completely hidden either.
Because if they told her even a little, it would only make her more suspicious.
“Yes, Your Highness. We have arrived at the Western Palace.”
Lord Illiard replied, stepping aside and bowing slightly.
Halli gently pulled open the heavy wooden door of the Western Palace for Eiryn to enter.
Inside, there wasn’t much—just a simple greeting. However, the atmosphere was strange, and time felt like it slowed down.
Though he didn’t say it, the silence and tension around them were clearly unnatural.
Eiryn’s steps slowed. She looked at Lord Illiard.
He kept holding the door open with his hand until she walked all the way through.
Though only a few seconds passed, the heavy silence filled with nervous energy made it feel much longer.
She had promised to meet Lord Illiard here again today.
He had firmly grabbed her hand not long ago to protect her.
She had been asking the maids to help her look her best until now.
They said it wasn’t to impress the Emperor of Taguk, but to present her appearance properly.
Still, seeing Eiryn’s nervous face, the maids seemed to realize her feelings.
They carefully adjusted her dress one last time.
Her mind was full of thoughts and imaginations.
Is she really okay now?
Was she not being ignored?
Was there still something she didn’t know?
Did time just move forward like this without her noticing?
Eiryn took a deep breath and looked around the room.
“Eiryn, Her Highness the Princess has arrived.”
With the maid’s announcement, the golden silk curtain was pulled back.
The light pouring through the skylight shimmered over the white marble floor and the bright stars scattered above.
A tall figure wearing a gold cloak stood in front of her.
Eiryn instinctively realized who he was.
Even though they hadn’t met face-to-face in a few years, she knew immediately—this was Prince Eosha.
“Did you wait long? I’m sorry, I was delayed by the meeting…”
He smiled warmly and approached her.
The maids who had been standing quietly quickly bowed deeply to Eiryn.
That was the symbol of respect they showed toward someone they recognized as the princess.
Even the maid’s neat greeting looked very formal.
Her dress was carefully tailored to match her position.
Looking at all this, Eiryn’s heart began to race slightly.
She couldn’t help but feel tense in front of everyone.
She realized this wasn’t a dream—it was real.
