Princess Claire (sixth princess of Aither)

The maids run helter scatter as they search the whole palace almost tearing it down with the sound of their footsteps they were all thrown into chaos as they search the whole palace for the princess it was an important day in the palace and the sixth princess who was supposed to take the speech was nowhere to be found as the king's favorite she has been honored with the task of representing the royal family at the royal initiation ceremony in which every other important royal families will be present but just few minutes to the event the princess was missing and no one has any idea where she i

s, the royal family gathered in the big room waiting for news of the princess the king looked very worried something might have happened to his beloved daughter he was blessed with seven daughters from his seven wives but he has loved his fourth concubine the most since she was the only one who bear him a son so this love was transferred to her two children but the king has always love the sixth princess most because of her outspoken behavior and has chosen her instead of the first princess to take the initiation ceremony of the prince, few hours back she was in her room preparing but then her maids came to inform them that the princess was missing although the palace was big enough the princess couldn't have lose her way in the palace she lives in

"Am sure this is just a drama of hers to gain attention from father again" one of the princesses whispered with a sneer

"The sixth princess has always been mischievous and an attention seeker I wonder what scheme she's planning this time" another whispered to the first

"What if something has actually happened to her?" Emma asked concerned about the situation she's the seventh princess

"Huff, nothing could have possibly happen she's just want to ruin things for her younger brother" another princess said aloud for everyone in the room to hear the king gave her a glare and all kept quiet

"Boston, any news yet?" the king asked the head of his guards

"Am sorry my king we are trying our best to find her" he apologized

"The ceremony is about to begin what should we do?" the queen asked the king and he sighed without no choice he asked the third princess to take over the task and she accepted with a big smile on her face

"yes father I won't disappoint you" she spoke for the first time since all the chaos about the princess started she smile satisfactory to herself, thanks to her fast thinking her desire has been achieved.

Down in a secluded place, Claire lay on the floor with her hands and legs bonded together she slowly open her eyes and scan the place she was in, minutes ago she was in her room practicing her speech and then one of her maid brought her something to drink she drank it and...

She wanted to get up from the floor but it was a bit difficult since she was tied down like an animal waiting to be slaughtered "hello! Anyone here?" she shouted but got no answer

She struggle with the rope but it won't budge she look around for anything that would help her seeing nothing she started to roll herself on the ground to the place where she saw a dim of light after so much struggling she got to an entrance she breath in and out to catch her breath she start another round of rolling till she got out of the place to an open area she look around and saw that she was still somewhere in the palace she heard the sound of music from afar, the ceremony must have started she thought she look around again for someone or something to help but there was none she resign feeling exhausted from all the rolling she has been doing, she can't give up now she encourage herself and made a roll again then she felt something on the ground she turn to see what it was "shoes?"

She look up to see to see a man in a dashingly suit with his hands in his pocket she didn't have a chance to see the face clearly she wonder who it could be

"Can you untie me please?"

The stranger waited a second before bending down to her level he stare at her trying to figure out who she was he had this babyish look that Claire thought he would at least be in his early twenties he looks younger than her and isn't wearing a royal robe maybe he's one of the entourages who came for the ceremony

"Hello mister can you please untie me?" she asked again a little louder

Michael stare at the woman in front of him he wondered why she's being tied down like this studying her dress she doesn't look like a commoner or a maid, even with the dirt all over her body, her beauty was obvious he hesitated in helping her not sure if she's a criminal trying to escape from the palace, seeing the look on his face Claire knew at once was he was thinking "am not a criminal okay am a princess am just in this state because someone played a trick on me just help and my father will reward you" she explained and watch him

He brought out a small pocket knife from his pocket and cut the rope with it he held out his hand to help her up after she got up her smile at him feeling grateful

"Thank you stranger if you can tell me your name I will have my father reward you"

"Who are you and why were you tied up?" he asked ignoring her question

"You look so cute and handsome just my type of man" she said admiring the man in front of her

Michael was a bit taken but quickly snap out of it he felt amused by the lady on front of him "shouldn't you be a bit restrain as a princess? Complimenting a man like that isn't what a princess do, am I wrong?"

"Because am special?" she said making a cute smiling face at him, he gave a small laugh and Claire also laugh with him

"So you here for the ceremony?" she asked dusting the dust off her clothes

"Yes and you still haven't told me why a whole princess is being tied up?"

"Why are you here then?" she asked ignoring the last part of his words

"To save you?"

"Well thanks for saving me then" she said and gave a funny bow "I hate to leave but I must, see you another time handsome savior" she said and walk away, she turn back to him again this time her smile was gone "why not come watch a little drama?" she suggested and walk away from the place

Michael gaze followed her as she walk away although he wasn't sure if she was telling the truth about her identity he felt good talking to her though he prefers restrained woman but she wasn't bad and he love her sense of humor, he wonder what she meant by drama, he resume his walk with a thought of the lady in his mind.

A ballet music played in the background and the people let their body flow to the rhyme of the music, the royal families sat at the high table and smile at the guests in the hall, Princess Zoey's smile was the brightest she has always wanted to do this standing in front of the people both royals and commoners to show them what she's got and now it's happening although Claire planned the whole event she will be the one to take all the glory now and after that she will be recognize by the king for her outstanding duty as a princess

Although King Josh was smiling and keeping a cool face he was worried internally there's still no news of the princess whereabouts the chief guard came over and whispered that the princess has been found, seeing the king's face lightened up with relief in it the members of the royal family knew the sixth princess has been found, Zoey quickly call one of her maid to find out the situation of things it almost time for the princess's speech and she can't let Claire spoil things for her just as her maid was about to leave the room the door fling wide open the people in the hall turned their attention to the entrance curious to see what was going on "everyone please welcome her highness, princess Claire the sixth princess of Aither" everyone eyes became fixed on the door as they wait eagerly to see the sixth princess not that everyone love her that much but she has quite the reputation she was the most favored and beautiful of all the seven princess in the kingdom.

In a royal purple dress mixed with a trail of pink colour, the dress look like one of a kind as it sleeps it way down to her waist showing off the elegant posture of her waist she has the preeminent appearance, with a beautiful crown on her head Claire walk graciously inside the room her eyes fixed she kept a stony face which made her look more appealing to the people her beauty was sure rarest in the whole kingdom her golden brown hair fall down to her waist as she swing them graceful with her as she walk in in a magnificent style with a maid helping her with her dress behind her she stopped in front of her father and bowed to him, king Josh had a big smile on his face as he expected she has left everyone speechless with her beauty which outshines all, the audience start talking among themselves marvel at the beauty in front of them she has really proved the rumors about her being the most beautiful lady to be true, the other princesses look unhappy at the attention she was having to herself some of them show their displeased on their face as they watch as everyone in the hall praise the sixth princess.

Claire after greeting the important royal family in the hall she made her way to her seat near the other princesses she stood in front of Zoey who was sitting on the seat presently and gave a little smile in respect "Zoey you can leave my seat now am back" she said calmly

Zoey look at her with scorn she wasn't ready to move a muscle from there she look like she was ready to have a fist with her the other princesses divert their attention to the two "do you want to leave or should I force you to?" she asked the smile no longer there

"Father already told me to take this position and you have no right to ask me to leave" she bluntly refuse

"I was thinking of asking you to leave my seat only but it looks like I will also ask you to leave the hall as well"

"Who do you think you are to ask me to leave here? You are nothing but a concubine's daughter who seduce the king shamelessly..."

Without allowing her finish her words Claire raise her hand up and slap her across the face causing everyone at the hall a great shock the press start to take pictures of them flashing their lights on them the whole room turn to them shocked at the scene the princesses were also shock so is the king, Zoey held her face as she felt the slap she just received she look back at her furious and with a killer gaze "why? Are you scared to slap me back? You were running your mouth a little moment ago"

Zoey look around her and saw the people watching her if she was to retaliate now everyone would think bad of her action and this may leave her with a bad reputation after the ceremony but doing nothing also will make her look like a weakling and a fool who gets easily bullied by her sister, she calm down herself and change her countenance to a remorseful look

"Sister you could have just told me to leave your seat for you, I was only keeping it since you ran away from the ceremony and didn't show up I was only trying to help sister"

Claire scoff at the act she knew Zoey has always been a drama queen always trying to spoil her before the people and has always envy her status in the palace and besides no one else except her would have benefited from her disappearance right before the ceremony

"Is that why you kidnapped me right before the initiation ceremony, just to help me or to take my place?" she asked her raising her voice for the audience to hear

"You have no evidence to prove I did that, and besides why would I hurt my sister?" she replied still appealing to self-pity

"Because you are jealous of me and want my position to yourself and why would you ask me for a proof when you are innocence and know nothing"

The people watch the drama with murmuring amongst their selves it looks like a big tiff between both princesses the press did not hesitate to take pictures of the happening

King Josh after seeing what this could be all about went over to stop the fight along with his queen "please ladies can we leave this till after the party?" he said his voice lower than ever

"Not until she leaves the hall" she insisted her raising her voice

King Josh look at Zoey who stare back at him not believing what was happening, she was actually being sent out of the hall because of Claire, with fury she gave her a last glare and left the room with her maids trailing after her Claire walk to her seat with the aid of a maid as she sat gracefully with pride obvious in her eyes.

Amused than ever Michael watch the drama in the hall, it was a good thing to have come back to the hall he had left because he wasn't interested in royal ceremony like this being a prince wasn't something he admires and that is why he has chosen the business world which seems more appealing to him, he never had a like for things or event like this but today he was forced to come here because of his father, it's the initiation of the crown prince and Aither being a powerful kingdom than Silverbell he has to be his present at the ceremony

Seeing her now in her royal wears she look really attractive and irresistible and just like he expected her beauty outshines although she has a gentle and innocent look she seems to be rough lady without no restraint and the pride she possesses as the most favored princess is so evident in her actions it would be a hard thing taming her to succumb although this was a task given to him by his father which he really never had interest in but seeing the lady he seems interested in this mission if he had known back then that she was the princess he came here for he would have made his move back then but it is never too late for him he just need to plan carefully and ensure his marriage to her before the ceremony ends.

When it was time to give her speech, Claire make sure there was no mistake and impress the audience with a best speech everyone applauded her and she gave a big smile to appreciate the audience, next the main ceremony which was the initiation took place, Prince Caleb was crowned the crown prince of Aither kingdom everyone hailed and wish the crown prince a long life after the prince gave his speech it was time for merriment as the people enjoy meet together and enjoy the rest of the evening.

Claire excused herself from the room and walk out with her two maids following after her "which one of you drugged my drink?" she asked and stop moving, turning to face the two behind her

They both look down not giving a response, Claire got angry at this and yell at them "are you both deaf?"

"You are both going to spend a long time in the prison" she promised them

"Isn't that too harsh? You are not even sure they are the culprit yet"

Michael walk up to her with his hands in his side pocket seeing him now he doesn't really look that babyish but he's still kind of cute and handsome "am sorry to intervene I just felt it's too harsh on the young ladies" he saw her leaving the hall and has followed after her

"We see each other again handsome savior" she said delighted her expression change from an angry face to a cheery expression

"Yes I guess it is fate" he said more cheerful

"I don't believe in fate" she told him bluntly

He gave a small laugh amused again by her other princess will have readily agree with him "can we hang out together just the two of us?" he requested

She nodded with a smile and turn to face the two maiden still standing "make sure you inform my father am with..." she turn to him for a help with that

"Michael, Prince Michael"

"Prince Michael" she told them and ask them to leave

"So you are a Prince?"

"Why don't I look like one?"

"No, just didn't realize it the first time we met" she explained and he nodded at her, they got to one the rooms in the palace and both decide to stay there to have sometimes together they ask for a bottle of wine to be brought and drink as they talk about different things after a while the two begin to feel drowsy at first they thought it was because of the wine they took but after sometimes they realize something was actually wrong with them after struggling for a while Claire gave in to sleep as she lay on the bed in the room

Michael went over and cover her up he stare at her admiring the beautiful lady in front of him suddenly he felt a desire but quickly push it off, apart from the fact that she's a princess and needs to be respected Michael doesn't feel like hurting the beauty resting in front of him even though the desire he was feeling now is against that thought, he lie down next to her and watch her sleep after few minutes he also fall asleep beside her putting his hand across her body as they both enjoy the night sleep.

Michael was the first to realize they had company with them in the room he opened his eyes abruptly as he hear sound of foots in the room he stood up his eyes look to the door he pull back perplexed not sure of what the situation was he gazed at them not sure what was happening he felt a hand touch his on the bed he flinch a little and turn to see what it was "the princess" he look back at the people in the room standing few feet away from them, he look back again to the princess and suddenly realization dawn on him, he had spent the night together with the princess on the same bed and got cau

ght by the royal family

Claire opened her eyes slowly, oblivious of what has happened she stretched her body nosily as she tried to remain fully awake she look beside her and saw him sitting with a troubled look seeing his gaze on a particular area of the room she followed his gaze and look in front of her she stare at her father and the others as they stare back at her "father?" she asked wondering what they were all doing in her room, her mother appear in front of her "mother why are you all in my room?"

"You sick child, how could you do this?" her mother said and hit her continuously

"She must have lost her mind, spending the night with an unknown man in the palace" Ashley said giving her a disgust look

"she sure is shameless, mating with a man before marriage even if you can't hold yourself anymore you should have ask father for permission to get married instead of disgracing the royal family like this" Mitchel one of the princesses replied with contempt

Still confused about what was going on, Claire look to her mother for help, her mother eyes fell on her chest which was opened wide almost revealing her dress she quickly cover up with her hands Queen Madison brought a veil to cover her up

"I think you have some explanation to do young lady and you" the king said and pointed to Michael who was still in a daze "am sure you know the consequence of your action" he gave a stare at the two and left the room in anger

Claire tried to remember what happened yesterday and how she ended up in her room they were not in her room last night and their clothes seems to be tampered with, her dress was opened and Michael's clothes were also tampered with and everyone came to her room early in the morning it's seems like someone set her a set up to her, the others left the room except her mother who wasn't done scolding her "did you have any idea what you gotten yourself into?" she scold again

Claire got up from the bed and turn her mother to the door "please leave I need time alone" she push her to the door and see her out, bolting the door after her with a heavy sigh she went back to the bed beside him

"What happened last night?"

"I have no idea" Michael answered looking totally confused

"Why are you in my room on my bed?" she asked again her voice a little high

"I really don't know, I have no idea how we got here"

Claire sigh again she ruffled her hair in frustration she pull them back again moving her neck swiftly

"So sexy"

Claire look at him not sure what he was talking about "what?"

"You look so sexy right now" he said again his eyes fixed on her giving her vibes

"This is no joke we might be in deep trouble" she informed

"Okay, what do you think?" he asked becoming serious

"I think you should get out of my room and find your way back to wherever you came from" she said

Prince Michael smiled at her change of mood and got up from the bed, adjusting his clothes he walk towards the door and look back at her

"Thanks for last night, it was fun" he said and gave a smirk before he finally exit the room

"Fun? What was fun?" she asked herself trying to remember yesterday event but the memory refuse to come

"Fallon! Sarah!" she yelled out her maids name and they come running into the room looking petrified

"Yes princess Claire" they both responded

"What happened yesterday? How did I end up in my room?" she rushed looking from one person to another for a quick answer

"My princess we have no idea..."

"Guards!" she yell again cutting them shut

"Send these two out and flog them till they are ready to say the truth" she ordered the guards we just came in, they immediately carry out her order and drag the two resisting maids out of her sight.

The princesses sat under the pavilion just few steps away from the main building having a chat, they have snacks and drinks served by each of their maids who stood feet away from them under the sun and watch they have a good time discussing about no one else but the sixth princess

"Father wouldn't let this go would he?" Mitchel asked the rest dropping her glass on the table

"of course he wouldn't, father has no choice than to marry her off this time she has escaped marriage for a long time now and finally she's caught in a trap she can never escape from" Ashley replied looking pleased as the situation

"But don't you think it's too harsh sending her off to marry an unknown man in a strange kingdom?" Emma asked looking sad among the princesses she seems to be the only one who likes Claire although the latter doesn't like her

"Who cares about that? Claire is a torn in everyone's flesh and the best thing is her leaving so we can have some peace and freedom" Zoey replied

Roseline look to her side to see Jewel's reaction but there is none, she's the first princess and the first child of the throne and by birth she should be in charge but Claire has been place over her in everything which should make her angry and jealous but she never does rather she doesn't care at all

"Talking about marriage, aren't you three supposed to be married before her?" Jewel spoke for the first time changing the main course of discussion

"None of you have suitors yet and you are worried about your younger sister who might get married soon to a rich prince, shouldn't you get yourself suitors instead of gossiping around?"

The three stare at her upset at her words although they never liked her, she's the first princess after all and being the first she has her power and besides her mother is the first Queen and also have her maternal family connection and power

"I already have a suitor" Mitchel said in defense of herself

"Sister Jewel, we are just being considerate of our sixth sister that's all, we really mean no harm and besides the fact that Claire is now regarded as the first and most beautiful among us which has made you lose your place as the first born of the royal family..."

Jewel slam her glass of juice on the table in anger, she looked furious as she stare dagger at Zoey who just made the comment, not wanting to fight she stood up from her seat and walk out of the place with Roseline after her trail.

Lost in thought Jewel almost collide with Claire who is also oblivious of her presence the two stopped together with Roseline who is behind before they made a clash

"Oh, didn't see you there sister" she said trying to start a conversation

"Yeah didn't see you either" Claire replied and made to walk away but Jewel hold her back

"Can we talk?" she requested

"There's nothing for us to talk about" she replied rudely and walk away with her injured maids running to meet up with her pace

"That rude bas..." Roseline wanted to curse but got stopped by Jewel who glare at Claire disappearing figure

What happened earlier this morning flash to her memory, she has walk pass the room where the two were staying and saw them together on the bed, wanting to help she ordered her maids to help them to her room but then she had slip the information of her sleeping with a man to her mother who took action immediately by letting everyone know about it.

She wanted to talk to her so she could explain and apologize but seeing her attitude to her just now, Princess Jewel felt she deserve whatever is coming to her.

In a dash, Princess Claire entered into the throne room walking past the guards who are standing guard at the door, the door opened widely to receive her entrance as everyone in the magnificent room stood up to receive her except the King who has a straight look on his face

"Greeting Father" she greeted and made her way to her seat just beside the king

"You will not seat Princess Claire" she heard the king say and stop her action

"Why wouldn't I?

"Because you are here to be reprimand, so you have to stand in front of the king to receive your punishment" Queen Giana informed already feeling irate at the attitude of the princess

"Am sure my punishment isn't standing up so I don't have to stand" she replied nonchalantly and take her seat earning everyone's disapproval

"So what's the meeting about?" she asked with condescension

"An incident happened early this morning which could bring disgrace and dishonor to the royal family if care is not taken" King Josh started looking straight at her

"If this is about me sleeping with a strange guy, it's nothing and besides we didn't have anything together it was just a harmless sleepover" she commented nonchalantly

"you are a princess and there are rules guiding you, one of those rules is that you should maintain your dignity as a woman and be a good example to the ladies of the kingdom not a bad role model" Queen Amanda said angrily

"Dignity? Bad role model? Rules?" Claire asked and chuckle facing Queen Amanda

"Your daughter has been nothing but a shameless slut who was caught in an affair with a mere guard yet you talk to me about dignity shouldn't that be for your daughter?" she asked scornfully

"You insolent child!" Queen Amanda shrieks in rage

"insolent why do I think that also is for princess Ashley not me, talking about the issue the stranger I was with is a respectable prince not some guard so why all the headache?' she throw staring from one royal member to another

"But..." the King made to protest

"no but father, can't you see this is a trap set for me by one of the royal families and besides how did everyone find out about this if not that some rats has slipped intentionally?" she asked again looking for each of the Queens suspiciously

"Do not frame anyone for your mistake Claire, you have done a wrong thing this time and should face the consequences" Queen Luciana said firmly and being the first Queen and the head of the inner court Claire decided to keep quiet and listen

"king Edward will be coming over to discuss concerning this situation and whatever is concluded will be pass on to you, as for the punishment you are grounded in your room for the whole day, you are not allowed to leave your room until I say so" the King said and excuse her from the room.

*****

The King of Silverbell pace around the room waiting for his third son who he has sent for ages ago after waiting for more than thirty minutes he call on to his guards to know why the prince isn't coming

"Where is Prince Michael?" he asked impatiently

"Am sorry your highness he should be here any minute" one of the guards answered

"You said the same thing minutes ago" he growled

"I will send someone to check on him again my lord" Eris said and signal to the guards to go find him

"Am here your highness" the door fling open right before the guards get to it and Prince Michael entered the room in a causal wear

The king frown at his presence and send a glare his way before going to his seat, Eris followed after standing behind him and helping him to a massage to calm him down, Michael look towards her and look away before their gaze meet

"You fool, I ask you to go find some secrets for me but you went and cause trouble for the royal family now the king of Aither has summoned me" he said fuming

"Why am I being blame here? You are the one who ordered me to get her somehow" he defended but this got King Edward even angrier as he threw his scepter at him, Prince Michael manage to escape the attack and look angrily at his father

"You are going with me to the Palace and anything they agree on you shall obey" he stated

Eris suddenly stop what she's doing and came in front of the king with a bow paying respect to him, King Edward stretch his hand at her instead of the scepter, with a smile she stood up and went to pick the scepter lying feet away

"My lord..." she begin handling the scepter back to him

"Speak Eris"

"I have a suggestion which I think might favor us in this situation"

"Can you stay out of this?" Michael resorted and earn another glare

"If my King permit me, we can turn this whole situation to our advantage..." she look intensively at the king who immediately understand her body language

"Excuse us" he said with a wave of hand, Michael hesitate for a second before making a move

"Hypocrite" he mumbled before walking out of the throne hall.

****

Inside the massive room, the two kings sat down with few members of the royal family to discuss the situation on ground, after deliberating for a while they decided on a solution and summon the two concerned persons to the room and ask them to stand right in front of the kings

Princess Claire has been informed about the outcome of the meeting beforehand and her expression doesn't look good at all even when the Queen of Silverbell smiled at her she ignore it and look away to her father

"Let me guess the conclusion of your meeting Father, you are asking me to marry him" she said and look towards Prince Michael with an unpleased look

"Claire behave yourself" her mother warned silently

"your highness, the issue on ground is more than you pictured it to be, someone link the information to the press and everyone in both kingdoms are curious and demanding an explanation from us, the only way to settle this to favor both kingdom and also maintain our dignity as the royal families is to tell the public you are engaged to each other" King Edward explain warmly

"So your solution is lying to the people you rule over?" she asked sarcastically surprising the King at her audacity in speaking to him that way

"Claire!" King Josh yelled her name to silent her

"Even I think this is the best way to resolve this matter, it will bring harmony and alliance between the two kingdom" he expatiated

"well I don't think that way at all, what I think is that Silverbell Kingdom deliberately scheme this up so they could gain strong connection to Aither kingdom" Claire blunt out again

"I beg your pardon young lady" King Edward said not able to keep his temper at check

"Pardon not granted" Claire replied stunning everyone in the room except her father who stare at her resignedly

"You can't talk to my lord that way, according to the rumor you are the one who drugged the Prince" Eris who is triggered by the princess words and action spoke up glaring angrily at her

"Who are you?" she asked her voice softened a little

"Eris, personal maid to his Royal Highness King Edward" she introduced

Princess Claire give her a quick look and move forward to her, without a warning she raise her hand high and send her two slap on both cheek dumbfounding everyone, Prince Michael who was enjoying the show moment ago stare in total disbelief at the Princess

"You are just a low life maid and yet you dare to raise your voice at me" she yelled in rage ignoring completely the shock on everyone's face

"Your Highness" she continued turning to face the furious looking King Edward staring digger at her

"I believe your maid here isn't taught well enough and it is an honor unto her to receive lessons from me, shouldn't she appreciate my kindness?" she asked with a smirk

King Edward hesitate and fight his emotions not to explode from the anger raising inside of him, after a while he reluctantly ask Eris to thank the princess for her lesson, although that is the least she want to do right now, Eris has no option than to obey the King

"Thank you Your Highness" she said swallowing her anger and pride, with a sneer Claire walk out of the room.

Just before she walk far from the place, she heard someone call unto her and stop Prince Michael caught up with her and seize her hand before she could react

"What are you doing?"

"I thought you are a good lady and friendly one when I met you yesterday but seeing your attitude now I don't think you possess all those qualities" he lash at her

Claire wriggled her hand from his grip and move a bit away from him "I have business to attend to" she said dismissively

"You are not going anywhere Princess, not until you go back there and apologize" he said gripping her hand again

"Listen here handsome savior, I am Princess Claire of Aither Kingdom I will never apologize to anyone" she affirm and walk away leaving him stupefied.

A figure watch the two from a close corner and smile at their conversation, looks like things are going her way she just need to sit back and watch how the drama unfolds.

The news of Princess Claire caught in bed with a man spread through the kingdom like wildfire, it became uncontrollable talk among the people of the kingdom not only that it became a source of discussion for young ladies and women but also criticism to the royal family and ridicule for the princess who according to the tradition couldn't hold herself before marriage.

Among all the royal families the sixth princess has been seen as a virtue for all women but due to the spread-out rumor that she intentionally drugged the other victim as put by the people, there are many people wishing for her dethronement and asking for another princess to be put in place of her.

Due to the happening, the councils of the kingdom came together in an urgent meeting trying to find solution to the problem on ground, Aither kingdom is known to be the most respected and powerful of all the four kingdoms and the issue on ground is sullying the dignity of the royal family. Several times meetings were called but a final solution was not gotten as Princess Claire refuse to marry into Silverbell kingdom who is lesser than her kingdom, rather than Silverbell she would choose Mana kingdom which could be regard as the second of all the four kingdoms.

King Josh is thrown into dilemma, he never wanted his favorite daughter to leave to a lesser kingdom that doesn't have enough protection or power for his princess besides Princess Claire is of big help to him here in Aither, she takes care of the economics and welfare of the people although he {the king} takes the credit for the good work but Claire was a brainy who does the real work behind the curtain and sending her off to get married is a source of worry to him. Unlike King Josh and Queen Madison everyone else seems to be excited about the fact that the sixth princess might get married faraway, being a proud and domineering princess she cares about nobody feelings and will always have things done her own way earning more hatred from the other members of the royal household.

Left with no option than to protect the image of the royal family King Josh went to meet Princess Claire in her private abode to convince and plead with her into accepting the only solution available

"My princess" he called looking at her with all seriousness, Claire turn her face away already aware of the reason for his visit, she has been hearing the rumors and angry comments from the councils and even the people, and she was also called to the council meetings but got angry at their discussion and stopped honoring their invite and calls

"We have no other option than to do what is right, the royal family is being criticized a lot and we are being mocked by other kingdoms for having an undignified princess, this is to save your reputation too my princess"

"Why are we being blamed and the Silverbell kingdom is seen as the victim?"

"Because..." the King wanted to explain but she cut him off

"Because they planned all this father, it's clear that he approaches me first and also drinks with me but then news was released that I drugged him and force him into sleeping with me, who else could have done that?" she asked angrily and the King stare at her a bit confused

"What are you trying to say my princess?"

"think father, if I really drugged prince Michael, they are ought to be angry and worried about their prince who got drugged in another kingdom but instead they asked for an engagement between the two kingdom, this could only mean that they had the whole thing planned beforehand" she explained more calmly

King Josh thought about what she said and it begin to make some sense to him, guessing that the Silverbell kingdom might have plan the whole thing out makes a lot of sense to him and besides they are the one benefiting from the whole situation, while their kingdom get ridiculed theirs got the public pity and also if the engagement between the two kingdoms happens they will benefit much more and have a connection and relationship with Aither kingdom

"I know what to do, King Edward will regret playing with me" the King resorted but Claire stop him again before he could make a move

"Whatever you are thinking to do won't help much, we might end up being seen as a tyrant"

King Josh look at his daughter confused again "what exactly should we do then?"

"Go along with their plan, but then we trap them in their plan" she said and made a smugly face, King Josh nodded satisfied with her words

"A marriage between two kingdoms means an alliance that will grant partnership between the kingdoms but then that agreement and benefit we won't let them have it" she explained further

King Josh nodded again and grant her the permission to do whatever she deems fit regarding the issue so far it's going to solve the problem at hand

"And one more thing" she said halting his steps "I want to punish all royal members who has a hand in this" she added, the king nodded and left her abode.

An official meeting was called for both Kingdoms and King Edward again has to come to Aither but this time he was accompanied by two of his ministers, the meeting started and like King Josh anticipated the Silverbell kingdom agreed to the engagement and was quick to make their demands.

Aither kingdom is the wealthiest and has the most power which gives it connection internationally, this is not the case with Silverbell who can't stand to them but having an alliance with Aither kingdom brings the two together economically and automatically rate them as the second rather the third kingdom

"This is not an alliance" King Josh blurted out alarming the court of officials

"What do you mean your majesty? I thought we already have an agreement" King Edward asked, he was super happy when he heard about the princess acceptance to marry his son and had come prepared but hearing this now he couldn't help but panic

"Recently I found out the rumor spreading was leaked from your kingdom"

"What rumor your majesty?" one of the ministers ask

"Someone from your palace rumored that my princess drugged your son and forced him to bed her" the King said, his countenance changing to an unfriendly look

The Silverbell people looked from one person to another not sure what to say, replying careless might cause a disaster for them and their kingdom

"We are not sure of that, but if truly it is from our kingdom whoever is involve will be punish"

"I investigated what happened that night and it seems to be a harmless encounter between the two royals which means that their relationship is based on love, my princess has confessed that she likes prince Michael and he also showed interest in her, so this will not be an alliance but a marriage based on love" the King affirmed and the rest looked at each other again, not able to argue they all bow to him and accept his words, King Edward rage inside of him as he gaze at King Josh in front of him, he has just futile his plans and there seems to be nothing he could do about it

"If it is an alliance, Aither will have to give something in return but if we claim it to be based on mutual love then Aither bear less responsibility towards Silverbell kingdom" King Josh remembered Princess Claire words and smile to himself.

Inside princess Claire abode there were decorations of all sort as they prepare the place for the engagement which is set to take place in four days, Princess Claire sat down in front of her mirror while the maids attend to her make-up and dressing, the last four days she's going to live as a princess of her kingdom before she pledging her loyalty to Silverbell shouldn't be wasted, she should atleast give her sisters some gift before leaving

The troll of dresses brought in front of her all seems unfit for today's show and she glare angrily at the maids in charge of her clothing

"Don't you have anything presentable for me to wear?" she asked looking at the dresses with disdain

"You told us to bring clothes that will make you stand out, aren't they to your taste?" the head maid ask looking glancing at the dress careful not to take her gaze off her

"Of course they are not to my taste, bring me another set of clothing and throw away this trash......or better still send it to my sisters they would love it" she said and gave a corky smile.

All five of them bowed and left the room leaving three maids behind helping with her makeup, after rejecting another troll of clothes she finally settled for a short deep blue gown with crystal stones at the top of the dress giving it a beautiful look she was helped into her heels and then a mirror was put in front of her, satisfied with her look Claire smile and ask the other maids out except her two personal maids

"Did you get me what I ask you?" she asked sitting down on her king sized bed, Sarah move closer to her and handed over what she asked for

"But my princess don't you think this is too extreme?" she asked

"I still haven't punish her for what she did during initiation ceremony and now that I will be leaving soon she should receive a last gift from me" Sarah nodded and step back a bit, there's nothing she could say to change her mind her lady is always like that and trying to convince her will attract severe punishment, the last beating she got is still hurting

"Let's go" she said and made for the door, Fallon quickly rush to open the door for her and wait for her to step out

Claire stop in her steps and turn to her "you can go back, Sarah only would go with me" she said and walk out with Sarah brimming happily. Fallon closed the door as gently as she could and gave a low hiss.

She never wanted to go with her anyway or else how will she inform her mistress beforehand about what is coming to her, walking back into the room she quickly brought out her cell phone even though they aren't allow to own one in the palace and sent a message to her mistress.

Princess Zoey received the anonymous message and quickly hasten to meet her mother to seek for help, it was a great news the sixth princess is leaving but she should have known better that she would never leave without retaliating, Princess Claire is known to keep long grudges it's a known fact to all members of the royal family even the king wasn't left out in her resentments princess Claire is someone who would go to any length to make sure things goes the way she want them to

"Mother! Mother!" Zoey yelled for Queen Giana

Queen Giana asked the maids doing her manicure to stop and help her up to meet her daughter but before she stand up to meet her Zoey already got to her

"Mother troubles looms, Claire is at it again" she said and her mother eyed her to keep shut, she suddenly realize the maids in the room

"All of you out" Queen Giana ordered and waited till they all leave the room, she pull her daughter to sit and sat down beside her

"I've warned you never to yell like that in the palace, a princess must be well composed in every situation any little mistake might cause you to lose places with your father the king" she cautioned

"Am sorry mother, I was in a panic just now" she apologize calmly with a little bow

"What caused your panic?"

"Princess Claire is out like a raving dog and is planning to bite every single princess in the palace, I got a message that am her first target mother" she said looking agitated again

"Then we should tackle her before she makes her move" Queen Giana resorted and exit the room with Zoey behind her, they both hurried to the throne room where the king is sure to be.

On getting there, they find out Princess Claire already beat them to it, Claire sat down with a big smirk on her face and turn to the two new presence in the room, they bow to greet the king and also took their seat looking anxiously they look across their seat and sight Queen Amanda with her daughter Ashley looking bitter and pitiful, they seems to be begging the king's mercy

"What's going on here?" Queen Giana asked looking from the king to her co-wife

"Please your highness plead to the king on my behalf I don't want my daughter to marry such a lowlife man" Queen said and crawl on her knees to meet her

Queen Giana stare at her a bit taken back, Amanda was her immediate rival and they've never gotten along since she arrive to the palace but seeing her almost in tears now pleading on her knees in front of her, Giana couldn't help the shock on her face she turn slowly to the king confused

"Your majesty..."

"I only set a marriage for her daughter and she's making it a big deal" King Josh replied not sparing Queen Amanda and a daughter a glance

"Marriage?" Giana wondered, according to the rank her daughter should be the next to get engaged since the first two princess are already engaged, but then it's a good thing for Ashley so why is Queen Amanda begging her "is she trying to show-off and mock her daughter for not having a suitor yet" she thought and narrowed her face at Queen Amanda who is still kneeling in front of her

"Father, you arranged a marriage for Ashley before me?" Zoey asked angrily

"oh, sister Ashley already have a suitor and you don't so I thought she could marry before you since am also getting engaged before you do" Claire spoke for the first time since they came in, Zoey glare at her with hatred she has no doubt insulted her in front of the king

"I didn't know you care about Princess Ashley so much" Queen Giana said and put on a fake smile

"Of course Ashley is my older sister and since it's improper to get married before her, I asked Father to get her married to her suitor Derek" she said with obvious sarcasm

"Derek?" never heard of the name before which household is he from?" Zoey asked curious

"oh, it's the same guard she committed adultery with months ago and if I remember clearly she also battered his whole family because the truth got out, I wish you well in your marriage Sister Ashley" she said and stood up with an air of pride making her way out of the hall

"and one more thing" she stopped walking and turn back to face Ashley who is holding a furious look "the wedding is taking place tomorrow afternoon" she gave nasty smile before finally walking out.

Ashley who couldn't contain her anger run after her in rage, Zoey also followed after her in a haste, she grab harshly unto Claire before she gets to the foyer

"You maniac!" she scream at her in rage

Claire push her off roughly and adjust her dress, Zoey rush to grab Ashley before she could fall but blinded with anger Ashley push Zoey off and rush to Claire again

"I will kill you myself, your lowlife birth" she yell again attracting the guards in the vicinity

"I think the lowlife birth is known by both of us, only a lowlife will sleep with a mere guard" she hit her back

"Whosoever I slept with is none of your business, so why the hell did you poke your nasty nose into my business"

"Because you poke yours into my business" Claire affirm and move daring at her, the look of mischievousness replaced with an aversion

The two princess move back from her scared, Claire could be scary sometimes and they could end up hurting theirselves, Zoey pull Ashley to her side and comfort her to calm down

"don't think you are safe Sister Zoey, it will soon be your turn" Claire stated her face in a grin again

"Am not afraid of you and besides you have nothing on me" Zoey replied confidently, she has always been careful in whatever she does

"my plan is to make sure all the older princesses get married before me but like you said you have no scandal with any man" Zoey smirked at her feeling triumphant

"Am going to make sure you get married at the age thirty five" Claire reveal and watch the look on her face disappear

"How are you going to make that happen? You are leaving soon to your fiancé's kingdom anyway" she asked doubtfully

"Watch me sister Zoey and by the time you are thirty five only old men will be suitable to marry you"

"I dare you Claire" Zoey pointed a finger in a rising rage

"You pretend to be a great princess yet you also stoop yourself low to sleep with a man before marriage" Ashley said trying to get back at her

Claire chuckle before responding to her "I didn't choose a guard to sleep with, I chose royalty" she fired back and walk away leaving them fuming at her back

"You will regret this Princess Claire"

A familiar figure watch the three from a far distance, she couldn't have heard their conversation if not for the loud voice of Princess Ashley, looks like she was a step late but then the hatred in the heart of the two princess will be used to her advantage later on, it also looks like she isn't safe like others but thanks to planning ahead she will successively escape this time again. A devilish grin appear on her face and disappear immediately they appeared.