The birthday of the Queen was always met with fanfare. Dozens of carriages lined the entrance of the palace from the eve of the first day, all proceeding quietly into the palace after a routine security check. The palace had been prepared to accommodate all the nobles and foreign dignitaries coming to greet the Queen on the occasion of her birthday. Sebastian refused to leave his sister’s side, knowing they would have to separate once they were inside the palace. She couldn’t remain with her parents for long so she let him hold on to him as long as he pleased. “This year’s celebration would be a bit interesting. Since the Saintess candidate would be present this time, I’m sure everyone would be trying to recruit her to her side” Sebastian commented, caressing his sister’s hand.

Alana’s return to the royal palace was silent. There was no one to welcome her, as sad as it was. At least when she went to the Duke’s mansion, she was welcomed by the Duchess, no matter how reluctant the other party was. Sebastian wasted no time to send her off with the excuse that he was busy and it wasn’t like she could extend her stay. It was for a brief moment but she wondered if she could ask her father to propose an engagement between them. It was a ridiculous idea but if it could happen, she wouldn’t mind it. Since everyone was preparing for the Queen’s birthday, no one paid attention to the forgotten and unfavored third princess. But there was no reason to lament as she already had clothes and jewelries to wear for the event. In the past, she didn’t want a stake in society. Now, she wanted to carve a place for herself, not take the place of another woman.&

“Presenting his grace, The Grand Duke Kristen and His wife Grand Duchess Kristen” the chamberlain announced and almost the entire grand hall turned to the two walking in. Natalia had her arm in the crook of her husband’s and an elegant smile on her face as opposed to the ugly expression her brother had escorting the third princess in the hall earlier. Because of the sheer distaste radiating from the man beside her, she couldn’t find it in her to laugh. “Oh my, it’s their first public appearance, is it not?”“Lady Natalia is as beautiful as ever. She is the only one who truly suits his grace. They’re the most eye-catching couple here

“Fredrich, it has been quite a while. How are you faring?”“I am well, your majesty. Congratulations to your majesty on the occasion of your birthday” he bowed. “Thank you. Today’s not the gift giving ceremony yet so I’m curious as to what you will get me”“I’m sure you’ll be pleased, your majesty”“I can only believe one person when she says that. Did you ask your wife for help?” the queen chuckled. The answer to that question could only reveal the sour relationship between the couple. The queen was a kinder person than her husband, someone who protected the ones she liked. If she of all people found out that Natalia was being tre

“Oh my, you thought you were the only one?” Adelie chuckled. “W-W-What do you mean?”“At first, I didn’t notice that I had come back. It was when I went to search for the fairy mother and I couldn’t contract her that I realized that something was off. If nothing had interfered, then I would be able to contract her easily. It took me a while but once the memories started flooding in, it was the most joyous feeling. I remember now, what I was supposed to do”“What is that?”“Kill the Anchor”“The…..anchor?”“Please stop acting dumb. It’s annoying. You already know the reason