The Princess' Harem
Chapter 49: Crowning Glory

Chapter 49: Crowning Glory

The camp buzzed with a mix of excitement and tension as the royal messenger’s voice faded, leaving the crowd to grapple with the announcement.

Viana stood at the center of the gathering, her heart pounding as all eyes turned to her. The weight of the title, Queen of the Royal Hunting Event, settled over her like a heavy cloack. She hadn’t anticipated winning, let alone becoming the focal point of such controversy.

The royal messnger raised his hand, signaling for silence. "The coronation ceremony for Princess Viana will now commence," he declared, his voice cutting through the murmurs.

A small platform had been hastily prepared near the main tent, adorned with crimson banners and a single ornate chair carved with intricate hunting motifs. Viana’s breath caught as she was guided forward by two guards, their armor clinking softly.

Joel and Reyes flanked her, their expressions a mix of pride and wariness, while Prince Rayne and Arden lingered at the edge of the crowd, watching closely.

As Viana ascended the platform, the messenger unrolled a ceremonial scroll. "By the authority of the Royal Hunting Council, Princess Viana of Elysia is hereby crowned Queen of the Royal Hunting Event for her unparalleled bravery in confronting a magical wolf and securing its capture." He paused, glancing at the crowd, daring anyone to interrupt.

A young attendant approached, carrying a delicate silver circlet adorned with emerald leaves, a symbol of the hunt’s triumph. Viana lowered her head slightly, and the attendant placed the circlet on her brow.

The cool metal felt foreign against her skin, but the crowd’s reaction grounded her. Some clapped enthusiastically, while others whispered skeptically, their doubts about the magical wolf’s presence still lingering.

Viana straightened her body, meeting the crowd’s gaze with a steady expression. "I accept this honor," she said with clear voice despite the knot in her stomach. "And as a Crown Princess, I vow to ensure the saftey of our lands, so no creature like the magical wolf threatens us again."

The applause grew louder, drowning out the dissenters. Joel gave her a subtle nod, while Reyes’s lips twitched into a rare smile. Prince Rayne, leaning against a nearby pole, raised an eyebrow, his smirk suggesting amusement rather than approval.

The messenger concluded the ceremony with a flourish, announcing, "Let us celebrate the Queen of the Hunt!"

The crowd dispersed, some heading to their tents to prepare for the journey back to the palace, while others lingered, discussing the day’s events.

Viana stepped down from the platform, with the circlet glinting in the firelight. And she was immediately surrounded by well-wishers, and a few skeptical nobles.

Count Lazarus approached with a thin smile. "Congratulations, Your Highness. A... fortunate victory," he said with a tone that was dripping with implication.

Viana forced a polite smile. "Thank you, Count. I hope your hunts were rewarding as well."

He inclined his head and walked away, leaving her with a faint unease. Before she could dwell on it, Prince Rayne sauntered over, his casual stride drawing eyes. "Not bad, Princess," he said with a low voice and teasing. "Queen of the Hunt. Suits you."

She rolled her eyes, though a smile tugged at her lips. "Don’t start, Your Majesty."

He chuckled, then leaned closer, his voice dropping. "Save me a dance at the banquet, Your Majesty. I’d hate to miss out on celebrating with the queen."

Viana’s cheeks warmed, but she held his gaze. "We’ll see if you’re lucky enough."

With a final wink, Rayne left Viana to gather her thoughts. The camp was already being dismantled, and soon, the royal party would return to the palance.

She glanced at the spot where Eryndor had vanished, her mind drifting to his promise to visit. Something told her their paths would cross again.

***

Two days later, the palace of Elysia glittered under the glow of chandeliers and torchlight. The grand banquet hall was alive with music, laughter, and the clink of goblets as nobles, royals, and dignitaries celebrated the Royal Hunting Event’s conclusion.

Viana, now dressed in a flowing gown of deep green with silver embroidery, stood near the throne dais, the silver circlet still adorning her head. The King and Queen stopped by briefly to congratulate her, then left the party again.

The banquet was in full swing, with long tables laden with roasted meats, fruits, dan delicate pastries. Musicians played lively tunes, and couples swirled across the polished marble floor in intricate dances.

Viana had already endured a dozen congratulations, half of them laced with veiled jealously. Joel and Reyes hovered nearby, ever watchful, while Arden was deep in conversation with a group of influential politicians and financial leaders, likely discussing the economic and diplomatic implications of the magical wolf.

Prince Rayne, true to his word, had arrived with the visiting delegation from his empire. He cut a striking figure in a tailored black coat with gold accents, his blond hair swept back, and his easy confidence drawing attention.

Viana caught his eye across the room, and he raised his goblet in a mock toast, his lips curling into a familiar smirk.

As the music shifted to a slower, more elegant waltz, Rayne approached, bowing slightly. "Your Majesty," he said, his tone playful. "I believe you owe me a dance."

Viana arched an eyebrow, but her lips betrayed a smile. "I don’t recall promising anything, Prince."

He extended his hand, undeterred. "Come on, Your Majesty. Don’t make me beg in front of all these nobles. My reputation’s fragile."

She laughed softly, placing her hand in his. "Fine. One dance."

They moved to the dance floor, joining the other couples. Prince Rayne’s hand rested lightly on her waist, his grip firm but not overbearing, and he guided her effortlessly through the steps.

The music enveloped them, and for a moment, the weight of the court’s expectations faded. Rayne was a skilled dancer, his movements smooth and confident, and Viana found herself matching his rhythm with ease.

"You’re not bad at this," Rayne said, his voice low as they spun. His eyes glinting with mischief.