14

After days of travel, when Aurora and Prince Rohan arrived in the capital of the Southern Kingdom, they were greeted with a magnificent ceremony. The city's golden walls were dazzling even from afar. As they approached the city, the excitement of the crowd and the sounds of music grew louder.

In front of the royal palace, a large crowd consisting of the entire palace staff, nobles, and commoners had gathered. When Aurora stepped out of the carriage, she was utterly enchanted by the sight before her. The palace's magnificent architecture, colorful flags, flower-adorned roads, and the cheers of the people... everything was like a fairy tale.

Prince Rohan presented Aurora to the crowd. "Behold, Lady Aurora Vancroft!" he exclaimed. The crowd applauded even more enthusiastically. Aurora greeted them with a gentle smile.

The royal family stood in the front ranks to welcome Aurora. Queen Layla, with her grace and authority, drew attention. She wore a navy blue dress with gold embroidery, and a small tiara adorned with pearls sparkled on her head. Princess Stella stood beside her mother. Her beauty and elegance were captivating. Her long, wavy hair cascaded down her shoulders, and she wore a flowing pink dress.

The royal family warmly welcomed Aurora. Queen Layla extended her hand with a kind smile. "Welcome, Lady Aurora. Welcome to the South," she said. Princess Stella was equally gracious. "It's lovely to meet you, Lady Aurora."

The welcoming ceremony continued in the palace's grand hall. Here, a special feast had been arranged for Aurora. Long tables were laden with delicious food and drinks. Musicians played cheerful songs, and dancers presented colorful performances.

Throughout the feast, Prince Rohan stayed by Aurora's side. He showed her around the palace, introduced her to other nobles, and explained the traditions of the South. Aurora was both happy and embarrassed by the Prince's attention. The admiration in the Prince's eyes made her heart beat faster.

However, this did not escape Queen Layla's notice. The Queen observed Prince Rohan's interest in Aurora and was not at all pleased. The Queen had her own plans. She intended for Prince Rohan to marry the daughter of one of her supporters. This marriage would further increase the Queen's power and influence.

Later in the feast, Queen Layla called Aurora to her side. "Lady Aurora," the Queen said, her voice gentle but with an underlying warning, "welcome to the South. I hope you enjoy your time in our palace."

Aurora bowed respectfully to the Queen. "Thank you, Your Majesty. I am very happy to be here."

Queen Layla scrutinized Aurora from head to toe. "Prince Rohan is being very kind to you. I hope this situation does not lead to misunderstandings."

Aurora understood what the Queen meant. Her cheeks flushed slightly. "Your Majesty, Prince Rohan is merely showing hospitality."

Queen Layla smiled mockingly. "Of course, Lady Aurora. But remember, Prince Rohan has responsibilities. The future of the South depends on his marriage."

Aurora was uncomfortable with the Queen's words. But without saying anything, she merely nodded.

At the end of the feast, Aurora retired to the room prepared for her. The room was one of the most beautiful in the palace. Spacious and airy, it was furnished with a large bed adorned with silken curtains, elegant furniture, and beautiful paintings on the wall. The room was a reflection of luxury and elegance.

Aurora sat on the edge of the bed and thought about the events of the day. The welcoming ceremony, the feast, Prince Rohan's attention, and Queen Layla's warnings... everything was so intense.

Being alone in her new room gave Aurora a chance to breathe for a moment. To shake off her fatigue, she took off her dress and put on her silk nightgown. When she stood in front of the mirror, she noticed that her hair was tangled from the journey and her face was dusty. She brushed her hair and washed her face.

Examining the room more closely, she saw a desk, a bookshelf, and a comfortable armchair. Large windows offered a wonderful view of the palace gardens and the city. As Aurora gazed out the window, she began to feel even more curious about this new world.

The next day, she tried to adapt to life in the palace. After breakfast, palace officials showed her around the palace. She saw grand halls, libraries, gardens, and many other impressive places. Everywhere reflected the rich history and culture of the South.

At lunch, she ate with the royal family. Throughout the meal, Prince Rohan stayed by Aurora's side. He asked her various questions, tried to make her laugh, and sought to engage her interest. Queen Layla, on the other hand, rolled her eyes at this situation.

After lunch, Prince Rohan invited Aurora to the palace gardens. The garden was adorned with beautiful flowers, trees, and sculptures. As they walked together in the garden, Prince Rohan told Aurora about the flora and fauna of the South.

Aurora enjoyed spending time with Prince Rohan. The Prince was an intelligent, witty, and kind man. When she talked to him, she didn't realize how time was passing.

However, Aurora also realized that life in the palace was not just about entertainment. Queen Layla's behavior, the whispers and secret glances of the other nobles in the palace, indicated that there were intrigues and rivalries within the palace walls.

Aurora knew she had to be careful in this new world. She had to both hide her own power and stay away from the dangers in the palace.

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