Ryanna’s words harbored no ulterior motive—she had merely voiced an unvarnished truth. Despite her royal title, her existence resembled that of a precious bird confined to an ornate cage. Every aspect of her conduct was governed by stringent protocols. She had to do things according to what a princess was expected to do. As a result, the simple freedoms Katelyn enjoyed remained perpetually beyond her reach.
Ryanna’s unexpected sincerity caused Katelyn to pause momentarily. Then, Katelyn smiled and said, “After all, things that are not in line with your status cannot be done here. There’s no way around it.” Unless Ryanna were to quit her royal duties entirely… But given Ryanna’s circumstances, such a possibility remained purely theoretical.
Ryanna nodded, the luminous smile gradually fading from her lips as she exhaled a delicate sigh. “Yes. Everyone has aspects of their existence beyond their control.”
She regarded Katelyn with thinly veiled longing. “I hope someday to attain your freedom—to chart my own course through life.”
Katelyn received these words with measured skepticism. She observed the wistful smile that still lingered on Ryanna’s refined features. She found herself unable to formulate an appropriate response. Any comment might inadvertently diminish Ryanna’s royal standing, so Katelyn chose to maintain a respectful silence.
Ryanna, perceiving Katelyn’s diplomatic restraint, gracefully pivoted to more innocuous subjects, steering their conversation toward mundane matters.
Just as the two were talking, Ashlyn emerged from the palace. Spotting Katelyn, she approached with purposeful strides. “Katelyn, I need to remain here for several days. The King wishes to commission a custom crown, which requires my careful study and consideration.”
Generally, the custom crown for royalty was made of raw gemstones. Creating a monarch’s emblem from such precious materials demanded extensive study and artistic vision—a process that couldn’t be rushed when the result would represent royal authority for generations to come.
Katelyn had never practiced this craft, but she understood its fundamental principles and meticulous nature.
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She responded with an assured nod. “Okay. When it’s over, let me know and I’ll pick you up.”
Ashlyn, whose expression had been clouded with subtle worry, visibly relaxed at Katelyn’s supportive words. “Okay.”
Ryanna observed the effortless rapport between Katelyn and Ashlyn, noting the stark difference from the cautious formality that defined her own exchanges with Katelyn.
“Katelyn, allow me to escort her back then. As long as I remain in proximity, no one would dare affront her within these palace walls,” Ryanna offered.
Katelyn and Ashlyn exchanged meaningful glances, their lips curving into subtle smiles. Katelyn inclined her head toward Ryanna. “Very well, then. My gratitude, Princess Ryanna.”
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