Rosie's Games

Rosalind said nothing, her mind absorbed in the delicate aroma of the freshly brewed tea. She had known for quite some time about the curse that plagued the first prince of Aster, but she had consciously chosen not to involve herself in matters that did not concern her. At that time, her main priority was escaping from this place, and so she had focused all her attention on that goal, avoiding any unnecessary attention from the Royal Family.

To Rosalind, attracting the attention of the Royal Family was like walking a tightrope, a dangerous game with potential consequences.

"Those claims can be perilous, Princess Isabel," Rosalind finally spoke, breaking the silence. "This matter..."

"I saw it," Princess Isabel interrupted, her voice filled with certainty. "I was in his palace when it happened. I witnessed his agony, and I know firsthand what it feels like, for I too have experienced it myself." Her words hung in the air, resonating with a sense of truth. "I fear that he will inform the Emperor, and he might take action against my father."

Rosalind arched an eyebrow, intrigue flickering in her eyes. Did this mean that the Princess was unaware of her father's secret plans to seize the throne?

"What do you mean?" Rosalind inquired, her curiosity piqued.

"I believe the Emperor is plotting to send me away," Princess Isabel revealed. "To another Empire."

"Were you not expecting to remain here, in this Empire, for the rest of your life?" Rosalind couldn't help but ask, a hint of sympathy in her tone. After all, Princess Isabel was born into royalty, destined to be married off to someone, sooner or later.

"Well, this is certainly a different perspective," the Princess remarked softly. "But I wanted to marry someone you genuinely like, rather than being treated as a mere commodity to be traded off to a foreign land."

"What of your father?" Rosalind asked.

"I want to protect my father from the truth," she admitted, her tone tinged with sadness. "He has enough burdens to bear, and the revelation of the Prince's curse could only lead to further turmoil. I just... I don't know what to do."

Rosalind's brow furrowed. The delicate porcelain teacup in Rosalind's hand felt cool against her fingertips, a contrast to the brewing storm of emotions within the room.

"I apologize but did you just come here to inform me about this matter?" Rosalind asked. "I do not understand how am I supposed to help you, your highness."

"Please understand, Your Highness," Rosalind continued. "I did not mean to dismiss your concerns. It's just that the intricacies of the Royal Family's affairs and the nature of the Prince's curse make it difficult for me to grasp how I can be of assistance."

The princess's frown deepened her expression a reflection of her inner turmoil. Rosalind on the other hand, said nothing as she continued observing the woman.

"I— I just... Do you think the Prince may have been living with the curse, hidden from everyone's watchful eyes?" Princess Isabel questioned, her eyes wide with curiosity. "And... do you think I might be losing my sanity?"

"Your Highness, rest assured that you have not lost your sanity," Rosalind said. "The existence of the curse itself is proof that there are forces at play beyond our comprehension. As for the Prince's current state, I cannot provide a definitive answer without knowing the details of his situation."

"Then will you— " Princess Isabel was about to speak again, but Rosalind swiftly interjected.

"No," Rosalind said. "I apologize but I do not want to involve myself in the business of the Royal Family." Again, Rosalind is already occupied with the events of the north. She had no time to delve into this matter.

Desperation flickered in Princess Isabel's eyes. "Please, you must help me seek the truth. I must uncover the reality of the Prince's condition. I must— " she implored.

"You must what?" Rosalind's expression remained resolute as she interrupted the princess once more. "I understand your concerns, but revealing the Prince's suffering could have dire consequences. The politics in Aster have shifted, with the second Prince now holding significant influence. If you were to report the situation, it would only draw attention to your father and make the Minister and the public petty the first prince who had been secretly suffering."

Princess Isabel frowned as she realized the possible repercussions of her plans.

"Then what do you want me to do?" Princess Isabel questioned, her voice filled with a mix of frustration and resignation. "What options are left for me?"

"Your Highness, what you can do is confide in your father," Rosalind suggested gently. "He will protect you. Together, you can devise a plan that safeguards your interests without jeopardizing the delicate balance within the court."

"Then I want to thank Miss Lin for the wisdom." A flicker of understanding illuminated Princess Isabel's eyes as she grasped the gravity of the situation. She turned to her maid and swiftly gestured for her to retrieve the ornate box containing the promised gold. Rosalind accepted the box with a gracious nod, her mind acknowledging the importance of securing her livelihood in a world that demanded payment for her services.

"Very well…" Rosalind responded. With a smile, Rosalind rose from her seat, acknowledging Princess Isabel with a respectful nod. "I shall bid the Princess goodbye," she said warmly. "Please enjoy your tea.

As Rosalind stepped outside, her eyes fell upon Mathies, who stood patiently in the hallway. A smile played at the corners of his lips, his demeanor reflecting a mix of amusement and curiosity.

"Mathies," Rosalind greeted him. "Is there something you need?"

Mathies returned her smile. "Miss Lin," he replied. "I believe we should go to a more secluded room where we can discuss matters with greater privacy."

Intrigued by his suggestion, Rosalind nodded and followed Mathies as they made their way to a small chamber tucked away from prying eyes. The room was dimly lit, with the scent of tea and aged books permeating the air.

Once inside, Mathies hesitated for a moment, as if contemplating how to broach the subject." Miss Lin," he began, his gaze meeting hers. "Do you believe in the existence of Demons?"