Chapter 202: Unexpected Assistance
"I only wish to be with my love, Your Majesty," Soleia said, turning her eyes back to King Recaldo.
It took every acting bone in her body to muster tears into her eyes. Her shoulders began to shake as she trembled, moving herself further into Rafael’s embrace, practically digging into his chest at this rate.
The closer she snuggled against Rafael, the worse Elinora’s expression became, and Soleia took great joy in that. It almost made everything worth it.
Almost.
"But I see your point," Soleia said, her shoulder slouched in defeat. As if highly unwilling, she slowly pulled herself away from Rafael’s arms, sitting upright once more. "I, too, am raised in a palace. I have seen my father speak with his ministers, and I understand that this odd position I am in will only cause trouble for Rafael in the long run."
With tears still in her red-rimmed eyes, she gazed at King Recaldo.
"W-What do you ask of me, Your Majesty?" she asked, her voice broken and weak, ever the desperate maiden in need of saving. "What must I do to receive Raxuvia’s protection?"
Across from where she sat, Ricard let out a low whistle. His eyes were glued onto Soleia the entire time, deeply engrossed in her skillful performance. He leaned closer to Raziel and, in a volume no one else could hear, said, "She gives Elinora Wynsler a run for her money."
Raziel said nothing, but his silence was all Ricard needed to hear to know he, too, agreed.