The Former Prince Who Lost Everything Becomes a Masked Strategist, Dominates from the Shadows, and Vows Revenge - Chapter 3.1

After the tense confrontation, I returned to where Alphonse, Lilliette, and Aria were waiting.

All three of them were seething with anger over Gaston’s behavior.

“That man is absolutely despicable! How dare he point a sword at you, Brother! You are the first in line for the throne! He must be out of his mind!” Aria fumed.

“For once, I agree with the overprotective little sister,” Lilliette added with a scowl. “Honestly, why does His Majesty even allow a brute like him to roam free? At the very least, he should be locked up in a cell.”

“I… I feel the same,” Alphonse murmured. “He should apologize to you, Grace.”

Seeing how they were all upset on my behalf, I smiled.

“Thank you. But I don’t believe they’re inherently evil. With war looming on the horizon, my father is trying to mend relations with the cadet branch of the royal family. His decision to avoid internal conflict is a wise one.”

“You’re too soft, Grace,” Lilliette scoffed. “Besides, you could have easily dodged Gaston’s sword. Why did you just stand there and let him—”

“Pardon the interruption.”

A knight approached us just as the banquet reached its climax.

Judging by his timing, it was likely that the moment had arrived—the official announcement of my engagement to Lilliette.

Nodding at the knight, I turned to Lilliette and extended my hand.

“Let’s go, Lilliette. It’s time.”

She eyed my hand before looking up at me, a mischievous smirk curling her lips.

“Are you actually trying to escort me, Grace? How bold of you.”

“I imagine you’re not thrilled that I’m the one escorting you, but we’re in the presence of royalty and nobility. Would you permit me to act as your escort, just for tonight?”

“I-I never said I hated the idea… Hmph! Just try to make me look even more dazzling. Though, honestly, standing next to you is like comparing the moon to a mere pebble.”

Despite her words, she placed her hand in mine.

Together, we walked toward my father, the King of Lambert, seated upon his throne.

“Ughhhhhh! That girl’s attitude is unacceptable! How dare she act so nonchalant when she’s being escorted by my brother?! She is unworthy of him! Brother! It’s not too late—please, marry me instead—mmmph!”

“A-Aria! You can’t interrupt!”

“Unhand me, Alphonse! I refuse to let that woman steal my brother away!”

Their loud bickering echoed behind us, but I decided to ignore it.

“Ah, Grace, Lilliette. Are you enjoying the banquet?”

As we approached, my father greeted us warmly from his throne.

Bowing slightly, I responded.

“Yes, Father. I am honored to be part of such a splendid evening.”

At that moment, Lilliette released my hand and stepped forward.

Grasping the hem of her gown, she performed a perfect curtsy.

“Your Majesty, thank you for inviting the House of Blanchett to this evening’s banquet.”

“Hahaha! You are as graceful as ever, Lady Lilliette! Truly fitting for the daughter of the noble House of Blanchett, which has loyally served the royal family for generations!”

Even as she bowed, Lilliette shot me a sly smirk.

I knew better—she wasn’t the refined noblewoman she pretended to be. She was a mischievous and outspoken girl who only dropped the act around us, her childhood friends.

Straightening up, both of us faced my father. He nodded approvingly before speaking again.

“This may come as a surprise, but the reason I summoned you two here is quite important. You see—”

“Your Majesty, we are already aware,” Lilliette interrupted. “You are about to announce my engagement to Prince Grace, correct?”

“Oh! You are well-informed, Lady Lilliette! Grace, were you aware as well?”

“Yes, Father. Lilliette informed me earlier.”

“I see. I regret not consulting you both beforehand, but as the future king, Grace must choose a suitable queen. I wished to select a trustworthy family, and in the end, the Blanchett household was the most fitting. Since you two are childhood friends, I assumed you would get along well. However, if either of you has any objections, you may speak now.”

I turned to Lilliette.

“I have no objections. However, what matters most is—”

“I don’t either.”

Lilliette cut me off before I could even finish.

My father beamed, pleased with our response.

“Wonderful! Then, let us inform our guests immediately!”

His voice rang out through the banquet hall.

“Ladies and gentlemen—noble families of Lambert and esteemed guests from foreign lands! I have an important announcement!”

The hall fell silent as all eyes turned toward us.

With a proud smile, my father placed his hands on our shoulders.

“Tonight, I am pleased to announce the engagement of my son, Prince Grace, and Lady Lilliette of House Blanchett! Together, they will guide Lambert into a prosperous future. Please, give them your blessings!”

A wave of applause and cheers erupted across the hall.

Turning slightly away from me, Lilliette muttered under her breath.

“Seriously… me, marrying Grace? Unbelievable.”

“I’m sorry, Lilliette. Just for tonight, let’s bear with it.” I glanced at her, noticing her ears turning red. “Lilliette? Your ears are bright red. Are you feeling unwell?”

“…Sh-shut up, idiot!!”

Without warning, she stomped on my foot.

Did she really despise the idea of our engagement that much? I felt a bit guilty.

But, deep down, I—

“But, I… even if you’re unhappy about it, I’m glad you’re my fiancée, Lilliette. You have a sharp tongue, but you’re kind at heart. With you by my side, I believe we can shape this kingdom into something great.”

Lilliette turned her flustered face toward me, her lips parting as if to say something.

“I… I also… G-Grace, I…”

Her voice trembled, her cheeks burning a deep crimson.

But just as she was about to finish her sentence—

A new figure stepped forward before us.

《Gaston’s Perspective》

As the heir to House Agrante, I, Gaston, sat greedily stuffing my mouth with sweets, holding an entire plate in my arms.

Honestly, the nerve of that foolish woman who dared to call me a pig. These royal and noble buffoons underestimate House Agrante far too much.

Idiots, all of them.

We are of royal bl00d! Anyone who dares insult us should be executed on the spot.

And the king—what a weakling. A banquet is no excuse. If he truly wanted to showcase the royal family’s power, he should have ordered the immediate execution of anyone who dared to defy House Agrante. That would have sent a message to the foreign dignitaries.