“Welcome back, Duke Roxton,” Brück bowed to Wilhelmina. “Her Majesty is waiting for you in the Hall of Heroes.”
“Thank you, sir,” Wilhelmina smiled. “Please lead the way.”
The white pearl hall of the Pantheon opened. This hall, used for grand ceremonies, was clean, bright, and exquisite. Kings were crowned here and queens married. Annabel was crowned queen here.
Now, at the end of her reign, she chose to conclude it in this place.
The visitor’s footsteps on the smooth granite floor echoed in the spacious hall, growing louder.
She remembered her coronation day, with the hall cheering and shouting “Long live the Queen!” She was the first queen of the Osenberg family and believed she would surpass all previous monarchs.
The applause came like a tide and receded.
Annabel came to her senses, casting her gaze at the young girl standing at the bottom of the steps.
Wilhelmina wore a steady apricot-yellow suit, her hair pulled back, looking more mature. She had finally arrived to reclaim her royal power, leaving Odin for barely two months.
Annabel sat on the throne, slightly moved, pursing her lips in silence. Wilhelmina remained patient and calm, focusing on Annabel, allowing her a moment to reflect on what she was about to lose.
Annabel was dressed in the pearl-white gown from her coronation, adorned with sashes and badges, and wore the imperial crown. Her loose, light golden hair seemed to have lost its luster, and despite her elaborate makeup, her gaunt face and bloodshot eyes betrayed her. She wore several cherished jewels in a bid to maintain dignity.
As Wilhelmina waited, Annabel’s gaze shifted past her to Albert behind. Her expression turned resentful, and she raised her chin, letting out a cold snort. “I didn’t expect you to bring so many people, Willy. What are you afraid of? Afraid I’ll harm you?”
“Yes,” Wilhelmina answered calmly, catching Annabel off guard.
“Of course I’m afraid you might harm me, because that’s something you’re capable of. I need to protect my safety, not just for myself, but for those responsible for my safety. Reckless bravery is not a quality a leader should have.”
Annabel clenched her teeth, her lips pressed into a thin line.
“I know why you’re here, Wilhelmina. You want my crown.”
