-November 14th of 1312

Dolly stuffs her face with snacks while Delilah picks out a gown and Holly curls Lena’s hair, which refuses to curl despite her best efforts. The most Holly can get out of Lena’s hair is waves, which is exactly what she is aiming for. Lena is certain it’s just Holly refusing to give up, but she not about to protest her actions. Last time Lena did, Holly gave her the cold shoulder for weeks.

Lena thinks back to three days’ time at her sudden appointment to that of Princess. What still surprises her is just how easily the council agreed. Although many of the noble families have mixed feelings, none are openly protesting as of yet.

Although, if there had been, the most vehemently protestor would have been her mother. She was practically in tears once she was informed of the news. To her father’s dismay she even threatened to divorce him and return to her house.

After many soft words and coaxing, we finally convinced her mother that her father wasn’t selling his daughter off. (Although technically speaking, he and her royal father were planning too.)

They finally consoled her pregnant mother with the fact, that the Bartholomew household would still be her family and that Lena would only reside at the palace when required to do so. At that final prompt, her mother finally relented, but not first with having Lena promise to always visit her when in the capital first before going to the royal palace.

Nevertheless, wherever Lena goes she is followed by rumors. One of the most rampant ones is that Lena slept my way to the top. Which is false and rather sickening, considering that Lena was formally adopted as His Majesty as his daughter. However, it is not as though Lena did not understand their fascination and curiosity at the strange situation. She would have easily joined in if the situation had been reversed.

Though true, that Lena had ample war merits, they are not enough to gain her such a prestigious position. However, her fathers are cunning men that used the war and her current popularity to manipulate the council into agreeing, while the other half of the council they played on their worst fears. As such, the council found itself for one reason or another in unanimous agreement.

After some careful consideration, in trying to understand the reasoning behind her father’s decision Lena concluded that the decision in part was due to her suitable lineage. Even though Lena may have a somewhat questionable reputation, Lena is the daughter of a duke, who happens to be the current prime minster.

Not only was Lena capable of conducting herself at social functions, but was aware of proper protocol. If they were to have chosen another maiden from another household, she would have to be properly trained unlike herself. Yet, Lena was not the only maiden with such training.

After all, Lena was not the only duke’s daughter in existence, who has such ample social training. And even then, that should not have been enough considering though there are more than suitable maidens that would willing to be adopted in the royal family should such a situation arise. Not to mention there are cousins or extended family branches of the royal family, that can still be more easily adopted. With all those factors against her, Lena still shouldn’t have been chosen.

But after much pondering the truth finally appeared before her eyes, all because of children blushing shyly at her appearance in the capital’s square. Not to mention Lena subtly confirmed via Dolly.

The most important favor or should Lena say the petty reasoning that swung the decision in her favor was her looks. Not a single member of the council could disagree, that Lena was pleasing to behold. Even if Lena wasn’t engaged to a crown prince, many second sons would not be opposed to marrying her for her body. If Lena held her tongue, she was perfectly suitable.

And though there are just as many lovely or more beautiful maidens than Lena, none came close to rivaling her figure. As such, taking all said above factors Lena was chosen. It’s said to say, but sometimes looks do count for better or for worse.

Lena’s gaze wanders to Delilah as she smiles happily while trying to choose a dress. Dolly has already readily accepted Delilah, but Holly was still holding out against her. Holly hadn’t forgiven Delilah quite yet.

The instant Delilah became Lena’s subordinate, she subtlety pulled up her interface and was shocked by what she saw. Upon accepting Delilah as her subordinate, the interface evolved. Most of the functions remained the same, but with the bonus of three new functions. Lena could see the skills of her subordinates, something called Field Vision, and Auto-Buff.

The new Field Vision function allowed Lena to view the present actions of her subordinates who were within range. An added feature of Field Vision, was that she could see any of her subordinates past actions for the last 24 hours. Len felt that Field Vision was more like a DVR, where one records a bunch of shows and then fast forwards thorough only stopping at the important bits.

While the Auto-Buff, automatically gave all of her subordinates a bonus, such as more mana or less mana consumption per minute or so forth. Apparently as they grew, the buff could evolve.

Delilah’s status held the title of heroine, which was an A rank title.

Charm Bondage: ability to enchant all those you meet, Rank B.

Light Magical Forte: ability to use light magic or spells, Rank A.

Divine Blessing of the Goddess of Life: ensures one’s survival and prosperity, Rank S.

Now Delilah’s skills weren’t necessarily all mighty but her last skill truly was. Lena now understood how a simple baron’s daughter won over a crown prince. Charm wouldn’t be enough, but a divine blessing would be.

Upon meeting Delilah, again, just by watching her stand Lena finally understood that Delilah hated herself. She carried herself the same way some of her students did as the look of despair filled their eyes wishing they could escape from their living hell as summoned heroes.

It wasn’t hard to gain Delilah’s trust since she was so desperate for a friend. After hearing her tale, Lena wanted to curse who ever set her up as the heroine. Rather enjoying her role or falling in love in the process, Delilah was truly terrified the entire time. If anything else, she was in desperate need of protection.

If the gods were going to choose a heroine at least choose someone who is wanton or would enjoy that type of attention. Are you telling her that there is a lack of narcissistic individuals in any of the created worlds? Surely the gods can easily summon such an individual to fit their needs!

However, as Lena continued to study Delilah status, she noticed the unique heart with chains buff next to her name. Lena clicked on the buff for more information as her brow instantly furrowed. The buff was called, “Constraint,” and did the following: lowers charm and blessing to acceptable levels rather than being locked at world changing event level.

For one Lena, almost coughed blood at what those words meant as she felt cold sweat on her back. Suddenly Delilah’s abilities didn’t seem to be blessings at all, but more like a curse. If anything, Delilah was more dangerous than a Demon King could ever be. Because a demon king can be defeated, but how do you defeat a destined heroine?

Lena gave praised the subordinate interface for its greatness. The interface instinctively did it’s best to restrict Delilah, while still allowing her to be herself. But what worries Lena, is if Delilah is the evolve type? And if so, what will Lena do when that happens?

Lena flinches as she come too shaking off such worries for now. When and if that time comes, Lena will find a way to deal with it. And if she can do nothing else, then Lena shall be the one to fulfill her villainess role and take Delilah’s life.

Holly steps back with a soft satisfied smile on her face as Delilah gently places a lavish, red rose gown on the chair across from Lena. Holly frowns and opens her mouth to protest as Lena hold her hand up to silence her.

Lena studies the dress and smiles wolfishly. After all, what better color for a warrior to wear than red. And after all, red is what most nightwalkers wear when they roam the streets in search of their daily living. And wasn’t Lena technically selling herself for the sake of her country? Besides Lena was already known as the scarlet princess.

Lena gratefully say, “No, it’s perfect. What better color than for me to wear on stage? Thank you, Delilah.”

Delilah smiles widely at the praise as she glows with delight. Holly on the other hand purses her lips in sullen silence as she frowns in quiet silence. Lena sighs and pats Holly on her head as Holly snorts and turns her back on Lena striding away to select some jewelry for Lena to wear alongside the dress.

Lena removes her outer robe and with the aid of Delilah climbs into her gown. Lena breathes a bit harder but nothing that she can’t manage. A soft knock is heard as Dolly nosily chewing on some food moves to open the door. Lena hears a loud chocking sound as she hastily turns around.

A petite woman wears a gold embroidered silk lilac ball gown and some lovely, but large jewelry. She has almond shaped hazel eyes, creamy colored skin and luscious black hair pulled into an elegant bob.

They all gaze with astonishment and in Lena’s case suspicion at the regal woman. They all curtsy as Lena quietly says, “Greeting’s royal mother to what do I owe the honor?”

Queen Florence smiles softly and says, “You look lovely my dear. But I largely came because of this.”

Queen Florence gestures to the maid following her to open a box, that holds a diamond encrusted tiara fit for a princess. The queen signals for Lena to sit as the Queen carefully takes the tiara from the box.

“It is custom for the Queen Mother to place the tiara on her daughter on her formal presentation. I never thought I would have to do it again, but to my surprise I do so with pleasure,” Queen Florence said as she carefully placed the tiara on Lena’s head to not disturb her hair.

Satisfied with her work, Queen Florence takes a step back and smiles.

The tiara feels impossibly heavy on Lena’s head as a soft throbbing begins in her head. Lena slowly rises to her feet and glance at herself in mirror. Lena didn’t see much of a difference in her appearance. Though well-crafted it did not suit Lena’s taste.

Lena politely thanks the Queen, “Thank you, royal mother.”

A soft, charming smiles blooms on Queen Florence face as Lena suddenly gains insight how the King fell for the second daughter of an Earl from the Kingdom of Apone. Still Lena didn’t feel reassured in the slightest by that gentle smile.

Even though the Queen has been quite helpful and has shown no ill will towards her, Lena did not feel at ease in her presence. Perhaps, it is merely because she was on unfamiliar with terms her. But Lena did not feel that way about Princess Gwyneth or the Crown Prince, Prince Julian.

On the contrary, they got along splendidly. Lena remembered their formal introduction as siblings two days ago, when Lena had crossing through the palace. Suddenly the figure of a petite beauty with raven hair, a miniature copy of her graceful mother except for the eyes, the excitable Princess Gwyneth happily barreled into Lena.

Squealing Princess Gwyneth hugged Lena and exclaimed, “Oh, finally, a sister! You have no idea how long I have begged and pleaded for one.”

Before Lena could regain her bearings, she found herself dragged away to an impromptu tea party. Lena quietly drank the tea and murmured in all the right places as Princess Gwyneth gaily chatted to her. Despite herself, Lena smiled warily to herself as she remembered that this was the Princesses true character after all.

A short while later a solemn but exasperated boy arrived at the tea party. With golden locks and hazel eyes, he very much resembled his brother, Prince Alexander. But unlike Prince’s Alexander whimsical looks, Prince Julian’s features were much dignified and solemn.

Out of the two, Lena would state that Prince Julian was more suited to her tastes. Too bad, he wasn’t the elder, but the much younger brother. Alas it would seem fate, had it against Lena. Because Lena is certain that Prince Julian will make a splendid middle aged man. Not to mention, that he is now her younger brother.

Prince Julian though out of breath glares at his sister, but offers me a soft smile. Prince Julian bows and says, “Greetings to our new elder sister,” before seating himself.

“I don’t know if you remember, but elder sister Lena, I owe my life. When I was young and foolish I decided to climb the highest tower at a whim. Not only was I embarrassingly trapped, but no one was nearby to aid me. Not only did you climb up the tower to save me, but never did ye utter a word about the incident.

I wish to formally thank you and sincerely say, that it is a pleasure to have thee as my elder sister. Unlike the one I already have, I like you much better,” Prince Julian sincerely said as he reached for some tea and snacks.

Prince Gwyneth huffs indignantly at her younger brother and says, “Well, the feelings are mutual. I like elder sister, Lena much more than you!”

Lena smiles to herself as the two to squabble like siblings in front of her without decorum. If they can bicker like they usually do, then they must feel accept Lena as their sister.

Holly gently pats Lena on the back as Lena comes to her senses. “Thank you, Royal Mother for thine kindness,” Lena murmured.

Queen Florence smiles warmly, before silently excusing herself as Dolly shuts the door behind her. Delilah seems unusually subdued as Holly studies Lena with some consternation as Dolly walks over to them.

Lena pats Delilah on the head and says, “It’s alright Delilah. You’re not that person anymore.”

Delilah gratefully says, “I know, but for a moment, I fearfully thought I was.”

Lena smiles at her, before making her way to the door and suddenly halting. Lena over her shoulder asks, “Delilah, have you ever been uneasy with the Queen Mother?”

Delilah pales and hastily stammers, “Milady, I would never!”

“I know, but still answer my question, “Lena firmly said.

Delilah becomes silent for a moment and careful says, “The Queen has never been unkind to me, but there were times where I felt her gaze to be a trifle heavy.”

It would seem Lena wasn’t imagining it after all. Lena resumes her pace and heads towards to the ball room. Outside of the ballroom, Lena finds the crown prince, Prince Julian looking rather pale.

Lena eyes twinkle as she places a gentle kiss on his check. Prince Julian blushes as he pulls away and stares at her with wild eyes.

Lena teasingly flicks his nose and say, “There now you have some color in your cheeks.”

Prince Julian gives her a grateful embarrassed smile as he says, “Yes, but there are other ways to do so.”

With a mischievous twinkle in her eyes Lena retorts, “Yes, but then I would have missed a once in a life opportunity to make the crown prince blush so sweetly.”

Prince Julian snorts as he shakes his head with mirth as the doors swing open and a loud voice proclaims, “Presenting his eminence the crown prince, Prince Julian and her royal majesty, Princess Lena.”

Prince Julian composes his face and firmly offers Lena the crook of his arm. Lena wraps her arm around his as he leads her out into the open and down the winding staircase. The ball room is filled with polite applause as they make their way to the front to where his royal majesty stands.

Her royal father smiles at the crowd and says, “I thank and welcome all who are here. Behold I proudly present the crown prince, Prince Julian and my newest daughter, Princess Lena.”

The ballroom is filled with soft cheers and clapping as the two bow and the crowd in turns does the same. Extending his hand, her royal father takes Lena by the hand to lead the first dance, while Prince Julian takes the Queen’s hand.

As they dance her royal father whispers, “You look beautiful, my child.”

Lena’s head has been pounding for some time now, but she managed to reply, “Thank you, royal father. And if I may say, you are still quite a handsome man for a father.”

A small croak of laughter escapes his throat and with mirth in his voice he says, “You tease. It is a wonder to me that you are still single and unattached. But I suppose we shall have to remedy that shortly.”

Lena politely accepts the flattery as the dance comes to a halt and they bow each other in thanks. With a sigh, Lena plasters a bright smile on her face as the ravenous hordes descend. The nobles greet her with dazzling smiles of congratulations.

While there are some true smiles, those are more of a leering, hungry fashion as they rake their gazes over her. It becomes a problem as Lena’s admirers try to press closer as Lena beseeches aid from the Prince Julian with pleading eyes.

Prince Julian most politely extracts her from the multitude as he requests the next dance. As they dance Lena softly says, “Thank you, little brother. I thought I was about to be eaten alive.”

With teasing eyes Prince Julian says, “Truthfully, I’m surprised, you weren’t the one eating them.”

Lena snorts as he bats his eyelashes at her. As soon as the dance is over, the hordes return to find Lena in the company of her younger sister, Princess Gwyneth. The rest of the tedious evening slowly passes by before Lena is finally able excuse her tired self from the wretched ball.

With a relief, Lena returns to her chambers and tosses the wretched tiara from her head. Almost immediately the pounding in her head ceases as Lena coldly eyes the tiara. The pounding in Lena’ head was most familiar to her. While fighting the Demon King and his minions, Lena would have terrible headaches from suppressing mind influence attacks.

But why would the Queen give Lena such an item? Trust? But one usually sends spies to observe and follow. And if not, then what?

The door opens as Holly, Delilah, and Dolly arrive. With some coldness, Lena says, “Dolly, have your father modify the tiara for me.”

Dolly raises an eyebrow at Lena’s words but doesn’t comment on them. She warily takes the tiara and returns it to the box. Holly and Delilah eye the tiara as Lena smoothly lies, “It’s just I thought that Gadrin, could embellish the tiara a bit more. After all, he is an excellent dwarf craftsman.”

Delilah nods in understanding while Holly snorts in disbelief. Dolly swiftly departs while, Holly and Delilah aide Lena with the tedious task of undressing. Lena would bluntly admit, she hated dressing and undressing from balls.