The Princess Who Saw the Fall of Her Homeland Strives to Change Fate by Becoming the Cold Prince's Bride! - Chapter 8

Because Elze had been in danger, her guards were increased. After that, she safely entered the royal capital of Ernstahl without any major trouble.

As they passed through the city streets, the grand sight of the Ernstahl royal palace came into view.

“Wow…!”

Gazing out the carriage window, Elze’s eyes sparkled.

A massive lake stretched before her, vast enough to be mistaken for the sea. At its center stood a towering palace on an island.

The entire island was part of the palace grounds.

Recalling the lessons she had learned before leaving her homeland—so she wouldn’t embarrass herself—Elze finally felt the reality of reaching her destination and straightened her posture.

Soon, the bride selection would begin.

(First, I have to make Richard fall in love with me and become his official wife! There’s no way he would burn down the homeland of the woman he loves…)

But she had no real plan. She didn’t know who the other candidates were or how to capture the heart of the cold, ruthless Richard.

(For now… whenever I get a chance to meet Richard, I have to make a strong impression. If I stay quiet, I’ll just end up as another number in the selection.)

Ernstahl was the most powerful nation among its neighboring countries.

According to Ulrika, the past empresses and consorts were often princesses from wealthier, more prosperous kingdoms than Maglier, or daughters of noble families from Ernstahl itself.

Considering that, Elze’s chances of becoming Richard’s wife were slim.

But she had no intention of giving up.

She would do everything in her power to win the selection and earn Richard’s love.

(I have no choice—I have to do this…!)

The carriage finally approached the massive bridge leading to the island.

(I can do this. I know I can.)

Telling herself this, Elze braced herself.

The grand palace was nothing like her homeland. Feeling overwhelmed, Elze was nonetheless welcomed as an official bride candidate.

“Thank you for traveling such a great distance. During the bride selection, you will be staying at this palace. We appreciate your cooperation.”

The woman who greeted Elze was a lady-in-waiting from Ernstahl.

Her hair was neatly tied up, and her glasses glinted sharply.

She had a strict air about her, her demeanor giving off an almost intimidating presence.

“Thank you for welcoming me. I am—”

“I am aware. Princess Elze of Maglier. I will now guide you to your room. Please follow me.”

The woman cut Elze off mid-introduction and continued speaking.

(…Huh?)

Elze was momentarily stunned.

But she quickly realized what was happening.

(She’s looking down on me, isn’t she?)

Interrupting someone while they were speaking was rude, no matter their status.

There was no way a noblewoman of Ernstahl wouldn’t know that.

And yet, she deliberately ignored Elze’s words.

(It’s because I’m a princess from a tiny, insignificant country… she thinks I don’t matter.)

Elze sighed inwardly.

She had expected some level of disrespect because she was from a small kingdom.

But to be treated like this the moment she arrived—it was going to be harsher than she anticipated.

(Well, that’s fine. People show their true strength in adversity.)

Without showing any anger or displeasure, Elze smiled.

For a brief moment, the lady-in-waiting seemed startled.

But she quickly adjusted her expression and started walking.

Elze followed behind her.