“That’s years away,” Allyssa said. She wasn’t supposed to ascend to the throne and become empress until she was thirty.
Rema’s blue eyes flashed, instantly looking hard and unyielding. “I pray that’s the case. However, sometimes life has a way of turning out quite different than we expect it to. I’ve learned it is better to be prepared.” Darmik gently placed his hands on either side of Rema’s face and kissed her nose.
Not knowing what else to say, Allyssa simply nodded and left, closing the door behind her. She couldn’t get that intimate image of her parents out of her head. It seemed as if they shared a secret—one so big that they couldn’t even reveal it to their daughter.
Taking a deep breath, Allyssa stood before the closed double doors, listening to the cheering crowd outside. Glancing behind her, Allyssa noticed Mayra and Madelin smile encouragingly. Of course, they had nothing to worry about—they weren’t the ones going out there. Alone. How could her parents do this to her? She’d never publicly spoken to the people before.
“Ready?” Marek asked, clutching the hilt of his sword, which was strapped to his waist. Since he was head of her personal guard, he’d be on the balcony with her, but only in the background as protection. He couldn’t help her if she stumbled over her words or forgot what to say.
Facing the doors once again, she wiped her sweaty hands on her dress. At least she looked the part, donned in a simple, yet elegant, red gown etched with gold embroidery. Squaring her shoulders and holding her head high, she refused to be intimidated. She would do this, and she would do it well. “I’m ready,” she announced.
Her ladies-in-waiting came up behind her, placing a heavy cape bearing the royal family’s crest upon her shoulders. Allyssa tried not to hunch forward from its weight. Marek flung open the doors, revealing an additional four heavily armored guards on the balcony.
The crowd roared as Allyssa strode out to greet everyone. The sun shone brightly overhead. She went to the railing and waved, smiling at the packed courtyard below. The crowd got even louder as they cheered for their crown princess. Her arm shook slightly, so she lowered it, not wanting anyone to see how nervous she really was.
The people quieted down, eager to hear the weekly address. Luckily, her father had told her exactly what to say.
“My dear people of Emperion,” she began. “Thank you for coming this afternoon. It is with great honor that I am speaking to you today. The empress and emperor wish you well. They requested I update you regarding a situation brewing in the north.” Allyssa paused here, just as Darmik had instructed. “Russek has invaded Melenia,” she said with a strong and determined voice. A murmur rippled through the courtyard. “The dukes from the five regions of Emperion—Romek, Elek, Sarek, Krosek, and Lanek—will arrive within the next couple of days in order to discuss the situation in Russek. As a precaution, we are sending additional troops to ensure our borders are secure.” Many of these people had family members in the army, and Darmik believed it was best for everyone to know the state of the continent at all times. “I assure you that Emperion is strong,” she bellowed. “Not only are we the largest kingdom, but we have the most proficient army. We will maintain peace. Of this, I am certain.”
The crowd burst into applause and cheers. She raised her hands, and they quieted down. “My people,” Allyssa said, her voice echoing in the courtyard. “Thank you for your loyalty to the crown. I serve you.” She bowed and strode off the balcony, the crowd roaring their approval behind her.
When the doors closed, she could finally breathe again.
“That went well,” Mayra said as she removed Allyssa’s heavy cape.
“Except that you forgot the entire part about Emperor’s City,” Madelin said with her hands on her hips.
“I know,” Allyssa admitted, upset with herself for having forgotten at least half of the speech.
“It doesn’t matter,” Mayra said, shaking her head. “You went out there and addressed them on your own.”
“Yes, I did,” Allyssa said, smiling. “It was invigorating to speak before so many people, all cheering for the crown and what it represents. I’m lucky to be part of this legacy.”
Allyssa entered the Great Hall where two long tables were set for supper. A third table, set slightly apart, was situated straight ahead for the royal family. She walked toward it, passing between the other two tables where nobles and courtiers sat watching her.
After taking her seat, she saw Neco and Ellie sitting nearby, their heads bent together in quiet conversation. Ellie kept glancing her way, and Allyssa knew they were talking about her. Perhaps they were discussing her speech today, or Prince Zek’s proposal.