Chapter 155: Confrontation in the Corridor
"Are you comfortable, your highness?" the knight asked, his voice hushed.
"As comfortable as one can be under watch," the princess replied, her gaze unwavering. "But I suppose that’s the price of seeking truth, even for a princess."
The knight shifted uncomfortably. "But your highness, you’ve only just returned to us. You deserve to be pampered, not confined."
"Did the Duchess not deserve the same?" she countered, her voice sharp as a newly-honed blade. "Her status was no less than mine, yet she was subjected to interrogation without a word of protest from you."
The knight’s silence filled the room, a testament to her words. The princess allowed a small, knowing smile to grace her lips.
"I appreciate your concern, Sir Knight. But I assure you, I am quite capable of enduring whatever is necessary to uphold justice."
With a curt bow, the knight excused himself, promising to send a maid and female guards. Once alone, the princess allowed her composure to falter, her hands clenching into fists.
"Hypocrites, all of them," she whispered, her voice trembling with both anger and sorrow. "I won’t stand idly by while they mistreat those I hold dear. The Duchess treated me with kindness and respect, and I’ll do no less for her."
A soft knock interrupted her thoughts, and a maid entered, her head bowed. "Your highness, we are here to assist you."
Drawing upon her reserves of strength, the princess mustered a smile. "Thank you. Your service is appreciated."
The maid led her to an adjoining chamber, where a magnificent milk bath awaited, its surface adorned with fragrant rose petals. The princess paused, her brow furrowed.
"What is the meaning of this?" she inquired, her curiosity piqued.