Fake Princess
CHAPTER 124
“ King is dead,” Melani said in a dagger-sharp voice. “ He died one day after I went out of town.”
If I stood up, I would stagger. While sitting, I clutched my stomach. “ No.” I shook my head. “ You lied.”
“ I'm not lying,” Melani says relax. “ Coronation will be done in four days. I managed to convince the queen before leaving. After all, her daughter might have survived the prophecy given on the day of her birth, but who knows anyone who once failed to do so will be trying to do so again now, when she is fragile and yet to be crowned. No one can see him, not until he's crowned—no you, no Devan, no one but his mother and the most trusted counselors.”
Melani smiled again. “ After that, he can rule the entire army, and all the nobles will swear allegiance to him. He will be blessed and blessed by a priest of the God Without a Name. She will be the queen of— the embodiment of Thorvaldor.”
Melani tilted her head, her eyes twinkling at me. “ Do you know how difficult it is to overthrow a powerful monarchy than an ordinary princess—Your precious Luisance proved it a hundred years ago. Once Riana becomes queen, your words will mean nothing, even if you can find someone who will listen. Then, I can find your Bell casually, and send it to a place that no one will ever find again.”
“ I managed to find it,” I said, “ even with all the planning you made.”
Melani nodded grimly. “ True. I wonder how that could happen.”
“ Your own mantra.” But the challenge felt empty. I feel empty. Melani has laid out her plan very well. Devan won't be able to take Bella to see the queen, and any story she tells could be considered a rotten plan. Smart, that's what Paula would say, very smart. “ When I was near her, I was drawn to her. Same with Riana. You didn't take out all of his soul from inside my body while taking off the spell.”
“ But you were a little slow to stop me,” I said. “ I'm here, right? I found it.”
Melani's eyes looked increasingly cold. “ I must make sure the king's illness has worsened before chasing you. However, it was quite helpful as well, so that I wouldn't need to be in the city when he died. That way my connection is smaller. I have to thank you for all that.”
“ We will stop you.” I said riled. “ Somehow.”
Melani was already facing the door, but she turned around again when she heard my words. His voice lost its velvet touch, now it sounded as stiff as a bowstring. “ You've lost. Don't you understand, Amelia? You're nothing, you're nobody. Fake, destined to be replaced by the original.”
Melani exhaled a sharp breath, then deliberately tidied up her dress, brushing off the imaginary dust from its surface. “ I won't see you again,” he said more calmly. “ I'm back in town today.” Melani laughed, and her voice sounded like bells. “ You know, there is a coronation ceremony.”
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