Today is the Royal Banquet, and Zi Yan is attending to the necessary tasks that must be completed. She has finished preparing my dress, hair, and accessories.
"Your Highness, if the accessories are heavy, just tell me, and I'll replace them with lighter ones."
I wonder why she asks that—her hair accessories are as light as a feather. But I think this is her way of showing how much she cares for me, and it makes me smile.
"It's fine, Zi Yan; it's as light as a feather."
Even though I said that, she kept asking me if the dress was uncomfortable or if the shoes didn't fit. In the end, I was reassured because her preparations were truly perfect, especially the dress—it fit me perfectly. That is why I think my skinny figure is noticeable.
"Your Highness, if you become the emperor's wife, you must regain the weight you have lost over the years. I know that your fuller figure is very lovely."
It feels quite awkward to think of myself as plump, but I will try to gain weight, just not enough to become plump.
"Your Highness, it is time for the royal banquet."
Suddenly brought me out of my trance. I still felt nervous because it was the first time I would see so many people gathered in one place.
"Your Highness, everything is going to be alright."
I am very thankful for her presence because, without her, I would definitely be like a child who doesn't know what to do.
I took a deep breath and prepared to step outside my courtyard.
On the way to the banquet, we walked through the castle grounds. I enjoyed looking at the gardens we passed, which I had never seen before. The flowers were incredibly beautiful.
The banquet will be held at Xingfu Palace, the venue for most royal events. The most luxurious palace here is Bùxiǔ Palace. I now understand why the emperor chose Xingfu Palace on this occasion.
When we arrived, I could hear the noise inside, especially the chattering of the women, which made me nervous. What if the Empress's children were inside, particularly those who harbored a deep dislike for me because of my birth?
When the guard opened the large gate, the attention of the people inside immediately turned to me, and murmurs began to spread.
I immediately lower my head because I do not want to see their faces, especially their expressions of condemnation and disgust.
When I finally decided to go directly to my seat, someone called me.
"Ninth Princess, come over here and pay your respects."
The Empress, I knew that if she had seen me, I would have no more reason to avoid drawing the attention of the people here.
I slowly walked to the front of the emperor and empress. As I got closer, I saw the prince and princess, whom I had never had the chance to meet, and I immediately froze in place.
À Suivre...