How to Survive as a Princess in a Reverse Harem Game - Chapter 195

The bridge was crowded with people—a scene reminiscent of when Evgenia summoned us to declare the Trial of Lublin.

I glanced at Meliana and her Guardians. Since no luggage was visible, they likely used Meliana’s dimensional pocket too. Unlike me, she could still use magic properly.

I tried to avert my gaze before meeting her eyes, but we locked eyes anyway.

Contrary to my expectation of her usual sharp glare, Meliana’s expression was serene—like a well-fed cat.

“……?”

Though not unusual, her relaxed demeanor felt oddly unfamiliar.

Evgenia descended the stairs with her ladies-in-waiting. Everyone bowed as she appeared.

“Hear me, both Princesses.”

Evgenia spoke.

“The Trial of Lublin is akin to a rite to select the next Evgenia who will lead this kingdom. Compete fairly, but do not hesitate to display your qualities.”

“Yes, Your Majesty.”

“As you command.”

After we responded, Evgenia nodded and turned to the nobles.

“Let us all bless the two Princesses.”

“May the light of Lublin be with you!”

A chorus of voices followed—remarkably synchronized, as if ingrained in their souls despite no prior rehearsal.

“Nephelli. Meliana.”

Evgenia gestured for us to approach. As Meliana and I stepped forward, she embraced our shoulders, then pressed her forehead to ours.

“May your path be smooth.”

A blessing, it seemed. Even after we thanked her, she held us a moment longer before exhaling softly and releasing us.

“Then, may Lublin’s light guide you.”

With Evgenia’s send-off, we turned toward the waiting carriages.

Though the Trial was a crucial test for the next ruler, it also appeared to be rare entertainment for commoners.

To meet their expectations, the Guardians rode ahead on horseback while Meliana and I traveled by carriage until we left the capital. After that, we’d switch to royal-provided horses and part ways.

We could use personally sponsored horses if preferred, but…….

‘The horses we rode for leisure in the palace won’t be the same as those for a long journey.’

For that reason, I decided to use the royal horses.

Still, I had concerns. While I’d ridden often for exercise and etiquette, those were short, leisurely rides. A long journey might be different.

Moments like these make me miss modern conveniences—cars, planes…….

“Nephelli, Sister!”

Just as I was about to board the carriage, a bright voice called from behind. Turning, I saw Cirilla running toward me.

“Sister!”

She threw her arms around me. Though her face was hidden, her voice trembled with tears. When she looked up, her eyes glistened.

“You have to be careful, okay? Promise?”

“Of course. Don’t worry.”

I patted her small head. To an outsider, it might seem like I was heading to my death—though technically, failing the Trial would mean death.

“I’ll miss you so much.”

“Me too.”

Cirilla clung tightly to my waist until Equus Cecil gently pried her away.

“Cirilla, let go. You’re making it difficult.”

“But…!”

“We must send her off properly.”

“…Okay.”

Reluctantly, Cirilla released me—only to make another request.

“Sister, can you bend down a little?”

“……?”

Puzzled, I lowered myself to her height. She cupped my cheeks and kissed my forehead.

“I wish you endless luck.”

Despite her tearful face, she beamed before hiding shyly behind Equus. Surprised by the sudden kiss, I smiled briefly and boarded the carriage.

Meliana was already inside the open-top carriage. As I sat beside her, she scoffed.

“How dramatic.”

“She’s just a child. And it’s nice to be cared for.”

“With that softness, do you really think you can beat me?”

“We’ll see, won’t we?”

At my calm retort, Meliana snorted and turned away.

The carriage set off. Under the clear, cloudless sky, the royal flags fluttered majestically over the palace.

As we passed through the gates, cheers erupted. The sheer volume made me flinch.

“They’ve come out!”

“The Princesses!”

The streets, cordoned off the day before, were packed. Shouts from all directions made it impossible to distinguish words—except for occasional cries of “Meliana!” and “Nephelli!”—and blessings for Lublin’s light.

“First Princess! Just one wave, please! It’s my wish!”

Without thinking, I waved.

Oops—that was automatic.

But it hardly mattered. A simple wave wouldn’t hurt.

“How frivolous.”

Meliana, however, disagreed. Sitting stiffly, she stared straight ahead like a regal swan, maintaining her composure until we passed the crowds and reached our destination.

* * *

“This is as far as we escort you. From here, you’re on your own.”

The royal guards saluted as they dropped us at an inn on the capital’s outskirts. We could rest and depart tomorrow or leave immediately.

“Also, here’s a map of elf settlements from twenty years ago. Use it as reference.”

“Twenty years ago……?”

Wouldn’t the locations have changed?

As I examined the map, Meliana asked flatly,

“Do you have maps for other races?”

“We can only provide the elves’ locations. The rest depends on the Princesses’ abilities.”

“Our abilities? What a convenient excuse. Then again, this trial was hastily arranged—no wonder it’s half-baked.”

Meliana’s jab was pointed, but I couldn’t argue.

While I’d fought hard for this chance, her criticism held truth. The Trial seemed impressive on the surface but was riddled with flaws.

‘Giving us a twenty-year-old map says it all…….’

Likely why so few Evgenias had attempted it.

‘But what choice do I have? Completing this is my only way home.’

Meliana seemed to accept this too, as she stopped complaining and entered the inn with her Guardians.

‘Staying tonight and leaving tomorrow?’

Not a bad plan. The procession had taken longer than expected, and dusk was approaching. Beyond the capital lay forests—traveling now would mean camping soon.

Perhaps we should rest tonight and depart early tomorrow?

As I debated, Reno asked at the perfect moment.

“Your Highness, what would you like to do?”

“I’m torn. What does everyone think?”