The Bewilderment of the Sacrificial Second Princess

Chapter 97: Bianca and Claire

As I fervently prayed for the first time in my life, I heard the approach of multiple footsteps.

Despite the room’s acoustics, the sounds of armor and shoes echoed loudly. The steps were in unison, even the sound of high heels.

It was clear that they were not coming to offer assistance.

I cast a dissatisfied look towards the source of the noise, towards where the Pope had gone.

“Claire, I wonder how comfortable the cushions are in this country?” asked Queen Bianca with a smirk.

“…Queen Bianca. I implore you to release me from here. This is a matter of international concern.”

Though I knew she was speaking with intent, I had no choice but to respond in this manner.

Showing any emotion in front of Queen Bianca would not be wise. The soldiers that are accompanying her probably think that she is replaceable if she were to kill her. If the Pope were to raise a fuss about the ceremony not being performed, she is even willing to kill the Pope himself.

The other moderate footsteps belonged to Millie. She was dressed in a black riding suit and a hooded cloak, acting as Queen Bianca’s personal guard.

Her countenance remained unreadable, concealing her inner thoughts. Despite the fact that I had ruined her life, I still couldn’t bring myself to allow Millie to end mine.

“Is there a problem? That’s a matter between the Wegrain and Baratonia kingdoms, right? The Faithnum Empire will invade the Baratonia with the excuse of the death of the princess, the former princess, ‘once and for all.’, and I intend to stir up the Wegrain Kingdom in defense of my homeland. Baratonia might not only cease to be a subordinate nation, but also lose its name altogether.”

“… “

The fact that she was speaking to me in this manner indicated her intention to eliminate me at all costs.

Maybe the search for me had already begun. That was why Bianca had come here. If necessary, they could have the soldiers they brought with them eliminate me. Bianca, being of the legitimate lineage of the goddess, may feel confident in manipulating the ceremony a little, given that she had ordered it.

I realized I needed to find a way to buy some time. 

The mere fact that Bianca is here implies that she may compromise my chances of rescue if she’s not cautious. Given that she has already pledged her nuptials to the church, any harm inflicted upon her would result in an international crisis as well.

Both the Wegrain Kingdom and the Faithnum Empire would take action. In other words, neither I nor Bianca can afford to be killed or hurt.

Recognizing this, she came to keep an eye on me. To ensure that I cannot be taken away, even if help arrives.

This is a difficult situation for me, and I find myself in a bind. There is no one as formidable as Bianca, the epitome of a “perfect lady.”

I struggled to come up with a plan. To buy time, to call for assistance, and to wait for rescue.

As I was pondering, Bianca scowled in annoyance.

“That expression… it’s so annoying. One of the teachings is that a lady must never forget to smile, but you can’t even follow that simple rule, instead showing off your intellect.”

I raised my head in surprise at the loss of composure in her voice.

“What are you so… your failures in the Faithnum Empire are a matter of record and cannot be altered.”

“But in the Baratonia Kingdom, I am being recognized and celebrated for my accomplishments, and that is what’s grating on you.”

This has been the case for as long as I can remember. Bianca has always held a disdain for me and viewed me with disdain for some inexplicable reason.

Suddenly, I realized the significance of the moment and frantically searched for the words that would buy me some time. Now, I don’t have the luxury of smiling.