TPHRU 68

Chapter 68…

Evil Dances in the Palm of the Demon King.

As Felicia walked through the corridor toward the audience chamber, having come to the castle to show Céline that she was safe, she happened to glance toward the garden. There, she saw Alexis and Céline bump into each other.
Felicia fixed her gaze forward and took a deep breath, then deliberately slowed her pace so that Céline would have time to notice her presence.

“—Felicia…?”
Alexis, feigning that he had just noticed Felicia walking down the corridor, murmured in stunned disbelief and froze in place. Céline, too, caught sight of Felicia and her expression turned to shock.
Seeing that reaction out of the corner of his eye, Alexis discreetly signaled Johann—who was disguised as his attendant—so that Céline would not notice.
(Céline has confirmed that she’s seen Felicia.)

Johann caught Alexis’s signal and gave a small nod.
Then, in a voice only Felicia could hear as she walked ahead, he quietly reported that the plan had succeeded.
Felicia returned a slight nod and continued on into the audience chamber.

Inside, King Philip and Christoph were waiting. Soon after, Alexis joined them, having confirmed that Céline had left for home.

“Your Majesty, it has been a long time. Thank you sincerely for granting us your time today,” Felicia said politely.

After greetings from Felicia and Johann concluded, the King—who had been waiting for this moment—spoke up.
“Both of you, welcome. I have already heard the details from Christoph. So then, how did it go? Did everything proceed according to plan?”

Johann reported on the recent developments and explained the details of the next stage of their plan. The King nodded deeply.
“Johann, I have no worries leaving this to you. If there is anything I can do, I will not hesitate to lend my aid. Protect Felicia well.”
“As you command, Your Majesty. I am deeply grateful for your concern.”

Standing beside Johann, Felicia bowed deeply, expressing her heartfelt gratitude.
“Your Majesty, thank you for your kind consideration.”

Back when she had been Alexis’s fiancée, both the King and Queen had treated Felicia with great affection—and even now, they continued to care for her.
Feeling the warmth of their compassion again, Felicia’s heart filled with emotion