Chapter V-I:

Second Prince of H'arkin

Eilane Erst recalled a fond memory from long ago where she had finally realized just how much she loved having her self-autonomy and independence.

But if I’m remembering correctly, That prince was definitely traumatized. So then why…?

Burning cardinal hair and ruby eyes looked up at her proudly. A young gentleman wearing the traditional garb of H’arkin royalty, was kneeling down in front of Eilane. A luxurious red cape was pinned onto the prince with a gold lapel.

Why is his younger brother here!?

The Queen sat atop her grand throne in a gilded hall lined end-to-end with suitors.

Their instructions were to step forward and introduce themself in given order, proposing to her on why they believe they should be chosen. Whoever leaves a favorable impression would be granted a one-on-one date. If or when one person should be acceptable to her, they were told she would marry that man.

Essentially, it was a battle royale - Each of the hundred men competing against one another to prove that they were above the rest.

This event was on the scale of a first-rate spectacle, anyone who was anyone had their eyes on the suitors, thinking one of them would be their next king. Thus, many were gathered on the sidelines, breathlessly watching.

Second Prince Joaquin of H’arkin bowed and scraped in reverence, however his eyes shone with anything but subservience. Flames danced within his irises as they seemed to playfully challenge her.

The mischievous impression he made was even more effective due to his devilishly pretty face which was daintier than most women in her court.

Both the women and men who were lucky enough to be admitted into the event seemed absolutely taken by the prince’s charms.

“Your Highness, I have often heard the gallant stories of you from my elder brother.”

Eilane raised an eyebrow at this for she seriously doubted the validity of his words. Still, she remained silent.

“After hearing such tales, I knew that I had to meet you for myself.” His eyes locked onto her own without wavering, “I am not disappointed, accounts of your beauty don’t do justice to the dignified and powerful goddess before me. I will have all of H’arkin at your heels if you so asked this of me.”

How arrogant. It is not Joaquin’s birthright to rule H’arkin, but Rafael’s. Everyone knows this, so why say such haughty words?

Although she was a tad curious and itched to ask, she had already decided to stay silent throughout this whole ordeal. For all one hundred men.

Well, ninety-nine men, she snorted.

Joaquin was about to excuse himself from her presence when the door swung open with a bang. The spectators gasped and even Eilane blinked in surprise at the person who showed themself in.