Chapter 150: The Siren’s Song
"Duke?" Princess Vixara called out, her voice laced with uncertainty.
The Duke, surprised, turned to her. "What troubles you, Princess? Are you in need of anything, or perhaps feeling unsettled?"
Vixara sighed, her grip tightening on the silken fabric of her dress. "It’s just... strange, isn’t it? Yesterday, I was a simple lady-in-waiting, and today, I’m a princess. Everyone calls me by that title, the Duchess treats me with reverence... It all feels so awkward. And then there’s this revelation – a family, a brother, and even a mother who wants me dead, though I have no proof to speak of."
The Duke’s brow furrowed. "Princess, you must accept your reality. You are the heir to this empire, and with that comes responsibility. You cannot afford to be naive. Even those closest to you, even us, could pose a threat. This is a dangerous game, and you must tread carefully."
Vixara’s eyes welled up. "But Duke, how can I live like this? Whom can I trust if I can’t even trust the people around me?"
The Duke placed a gentle hand on her shoulder. "You have the entire empire at your disposal, Princess. You will rise above them all, a queen in your own right. Perhaps even find a prince who will cherish you and elevate you further."
Vixara shook her head, a flicker of defiance in her eyes. "No, that’s not what I want."
"What do you mean, Princess?" The Duke’s voice softened, his concern evident.
Vixara turned away, her gaze falling on the vast gardens beyond the window. "You wouldn’t understand."
She retreated to her room, the heavy oak door thudding shut behind her. Tears streamed down her face as she sank onto the plush bed, her reflection staring back at her from the ornate mirror.