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The emperor was trying to inspect them. If he judged them to be insignificant, he would continue to threaten them with constant oppression. It was natural for him to be wary of all the royal families.

“There was a prince my age, wasn’t there?’

The Grand Duke and Grand Duchess lived in seclusion, hiding their only son in the Grand Duchy. There was a rumor that he had a weak constitution.

“He must be one or two years younger. I heard he is coming as well.”

“He’s likely working hard to not catch people’s attention.”

Apollonia suddenly thought they were in quite similar situations. Of course, they wouldn’t join forces because it would invite conflict.

They heard a servant’s voice outside the door. “Your Highness, you have a visitor.”

“Her Highness is resting.” Adrian frowned, but that person ignored her and opened the door.

The emperor’s messenger. It meant that a maid like Adrian wasn’t even worth his glance.

Morton Pryor stood with an arrogant look.

Apollonia greeted him with a rehearsed smile. “Morton! Long time no see. I was worried because I didn’t see you at the emperor’s palace just now.”

But he, who looked like a bad-tempered goat, didn’t return her greeting. “I don’t always stay in the palace because I have a lot of work to do.”

“What brings you here?” Apollonia asked gently, just like a niece toward her uncle.

“I’m here to deliver His Majesty’s order to send a new maid to your palace.”

Next to him stood a dark blonde woman with her head down. Adrian frowned a little. It was impolite to suddenly bring people in without asking for approval first, even if it was the emperor’s order.

“Why so suddenly?”

Apollonia continued to act innocent, but she already had a hunch.

‘Petra is trying to keep me under surveillance so that I don’t do anything unexpected before marriage.’

The brief escape from her surveillance in Lishan seemed to have alerted her keen senses. Apollonia wasn’t surprised since it’s not the first time this has happened. Although the star palace is insignificant, the emperor and Petra liked to plant spies here and there.

“This is a gift from His Majesty because you will need a competent maid for your upcoming engagement.” After delivering his message, he didn’t even wait for an answer and turned back, which made Adrian frown at his retreating figure.

“Which household are you from?” Apollonia looked at the woman carefully and noticed that she was wearing a very luxurious outfit. She appeared to have learned her posture, positioning, and court manners.

“I’m Bianca, Count Keaton’s eldest daughter.”

Apollonia raised one eyebrow.

Count Keaton? They were from a well-known family.

“You’re the daughter of the infamous warrior family. Count Keaton is my father’s comrade.”

“It would be my father’s honor if you’d consider it so.”

The woman raised her head slightly and answered in a calm but clear voice. It was a dignified attitude, but there was a slight arrogance in that gaze.

Although she was similar in height, she looked more mature with her brown eyes and perfect bearing.

Her aunt just wanted to monitor her.

Apollonia was a little relieved. Count Keaton was acquainted with the emperor, but he was not inferior enough to be called his henchman. He was a man of his own principles and interests.

His daughter would report to Petra Liefer, but that meant there was no intention to violate the Imperial laws or to harm the princess…

Count Keaton probably asked Petra to make his daughter the princess’ maid not just for their alliance, but for the future, including his daughter’s marriage.

At least Apollonia didn’t have to worry about poisoning.

“Great! I’ve always been lonely because I don’t have many friends my age.”

Apollonia smiled broadly and held Bianca’s hand. Her eyes widened, perhaps surprised by her unperturbed attitude. Her slightly trembling hand had calluses, which were rare in aristocracy.

“Your hands are a little rough.”

“Because I am the daughter of a warrior and have been training with my brother since I was young. It’s my father’s teaching that any nobleman of the empire should have the power to protect their own body.”

Bianca proudly spread her palms to show her calluses, even though other young ladies would have been ashamed.