Episode 3

A week later, an invitation arrived for Katerina. It was from the empress, requesting her presence for tea and an introduction. Upon hearing this, the marchioness was overjoyed and wasted no time in procuring the most elegant dress, though, in Katerina's eyes, it was hideous and overly ornamented. Katerina, for her part, chose a simple dress, much to the displeasure of the marchioness, who had picked out a dreadful gown for her. Despite the marchioness's insistence, the marquis intervened, allowing Katerina to wear what she pleased.

Upon arriving at the palace, they were greeted by the empress's maids, who escorted them to the Palace of Roses, the empress's residence. The marquis accompanied them, as the invitation was for the entire family. In the drawing-room, a table laden with desserts awaited them. The empress sat in her seat, and the three bowed before her, offering their respective greetings. The empress, however, fixed her gaze intently upon young Katerina.

"Come, have a seat. Lady Katerina, you look beautiful. My son is indeed fortunate to have you as his fiancee."

"Thank you, Your Majesty," replied Katerina curtly.

The empress frowned, noticing the curt tone.

"My daughter is a little nervous, but she, too, feels fortunate to be promised to the prince," excused the marchioness.

Katerina glanced at her father, who seemed bothered by the marchioness's response. It appeared she was overly eager to impress the empress. As they spoke, the crown prince arrived, and all three stood to greet him with a bow.

"It's an honor to be graced with your presence, Your Highness," remarked the marchioness.

"Think nothing of it. I took the liberty of inviting him; it will be a pleasant gathering for both families, though the emperor, unfortunately, could not attend," the empress excused.

"That is understandable, Your Majesty. He has many duties," replied the marquis.

"And His Highness, the second prince, couldn't attend either? For a family gathering, I'm surprised not to see him. I had hoped to greet him personally. The crown prince has spoken highly of him, and I admire the second prince's valor," she expressed, making her admiration clear.

She wanted her greater interest in the second prince, rather than the crown prince, to be evident, and it seemed to work, as the empress did not look pleased. It was obvious she hadn't extended an invitation, as she had no interest in the second prince.

"L-Lady Katerina seems rather taken with the second prince; however, expressing such interest could be misconstrued," replied the empress.

"Why? Is it wrong to express admiration, Father?" asked Katerina, looking at the marquis sadly.

"Not at all, Your Majesty. My daughter admires bravery in a knight, so she's naturally excited to learn that the second prince trains diligently to become strong and protect our nation," stated the marquis.

"Oh! Of course, it is his duty. Though, these are not interests a lady should concern herself with. I trust you'll take that into consideration, Lady Katerina," replied the empress.

"I understand, Your Majesty. However, I'm free to admire whomever I deem worthy of admiration, am I not? Everyone has the right to their own interests; otherwise, what kind of world would it be if everyone strived for the same ideals?" challenged Katerina.

The empress appeared irked by Katerina's words but saying anything further would only reveal how much they affected her. The prince, too, seemed bothered by the young blonde's words.

"Katerina, your words are unbecoming! Please excuse her behavior, Your Majesty. I'll ensure her education is stricter from now on," apologized the marchioness.

"My dear, Katerina merely expressed her thoughts. It's nothing to be upset about, Your Majesty, is it?" intervened the marquis.

"Indeed, it's perfectly alright. It's good that she thinks for herself," replied the empress.

The conversation continued, though it was mostly the empress and the prince speaking with the marchioness. Katerina whispered something to her father, who nodded in response.

"If you'll excuse me, Your Majesty, I have an appointment with Minister Smith regarding an urgent matter. Would you care to join me, Katerina? You mentioned wanting to greet him and thank him for his gift in honor of your appointment," said the marquis.

"How can you leave? We're with the empress!" hissed the marchioness, glaring at Katerina.

The young girl stood up, curtseying. "If you'll excuse me, I'll be accompanying my father."

"But my mother invited you to tea. It's rude to leave," interjected the prince.

"It would be equally rude to neglect Minister Smith, who was kind enough to think of me and who will be a great ally in the future, considering my position as the future crown princess," added Katerina, before turning to leave with her father.

The marchioness fumed at how Katerina chose to leave with the marquis. However, contrary to what he'd said, only the marquis went in search of the minister, while Katerina, accompanied by her escort, a young woman who kept a respectful distance, strolled through the palace grounds.

After walking through the gardens, they arrived at the military training grounds. Men were engaged in exercises, running drills, or sparring. Katerina observed the area. Somewhere on these grounds was the person she sought, the ally she needed to achieve her goal. After all, the crown prince's claim to the throne was not absolute, and he was not the only one who could inherit it.

After scanning the area, an officer approached and inquired if she was lost. The blonde merely asked for the second prince, wanting to pay her respects.

"Tell him the daughter of Marquis Rosesky wishes to see him."

"Rosesky? Y-You are the Saint, aren't you? What an honor it is to be in your presence." The man bowed deeply and rushed off to find the second prince.

Meanwhile, Katerina was surrounded by other knights, who greeted her warmly. As the newly appointed Saint, she held a significant title, one that signified good fortune for the empire. The officer soon returned and, with another bow, gestured for her to follow him. As they walked, Katerina took in her surroundings.

Past the training grounds was a large stable. The officer explained that this was where they kept and cared for the horses used by the troops and the palace, including the princes' mounts. However, for long distances, there was another creature, a species called a griffin, known for its resilience and loyalty – perfect for traveling long distances.

Upon seeing them, Katerina was mesmerized. They were magnificent creatures. Perhaps she would ask her father for one; such a pet would certainly prove useful.

After a long walk, they arrived at what appeared to be a greenhouse. Just beyond it was a table where the young man she sought awaited her. He was a handsome youth with dark hair and striking red eyes.

Katerina smiled and bowed. This was it, the perfect ally for her plans, because she would have the throne.

...

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