I Rejected My Mate, The Prince

Chapter 9

**Clarissa’s POV**

With unwavering determination, I leave my apartment and swiftly make my way to the servants' quarters. It doesn't take long for Athena to respond to my request, and she emerges from her quarters, ready to assist.

"My Lady," Athena greets with a respectful nod.

I feel a newfound sense of authority and decide to assert myself. "Athena, we need to hurry. Take me to the execution site. Now," I demand.

"Of course, My Lady," Athena responds, leading the way as we navigate through the palace.

Before long, we reach the gates of the West prison. However, the two guards stationed there refuse to grant me entry. I attempt to intimidate them by raising my chin and adopting a regal posture, but they only exchange a perplexed look before stifling their laughter.

I abandon my theatrical approach and inquire, "Why am I not allowed to go in?"

The guard who had initially stopped me explains, "It's dangerous for royalty to be here at this hour, My Lady. We must adhere to the Prince's orders."

I furrow my brow in frustration. "I demand to see the prison inspector."

This time, the guard complies, and he quickly goes inside to fetch the prison inspector. Within moments, the man appears.

"My Lady," he greets, his eyes filled with concern. "I'm grateful you've come."

"We need to talk," I say, shifting my gaze between the two guards and the prison inspector. "In private."

With the prison inspector's assistance, we enter the West prison. He has connections and knows which guards can be swayed, allowing us to gain access.

The prison inspector informs us that the Queen has ordered a halt to the execution to reevaluate the prisoners' cases. However, the Prince is adamant about proceeding with the execution as planned.

He seems conflicted, unsure of which orders to follow.

"Follow the Queen's orders," I urge him. "It's a valid reason to delay your brother's execution by complying with her directive."

"Actually, My Lady," he admits hesitantly, "I have no say in the final decision. It depends on whose orders the Minister of Justice chooses to follow. Unfortunately, I fear the executioner is already en route to the palace."

Athena interjects, her voice thoughtful. "If the executioner is on the way, it likely means the Minister of Justice is siding with the Prince's order."

I can't accept this. "I must request an audience with the King. Only the King can prevent this tragedy. Let's go, Athena."

"But My Lady," Athena reminds me, "the King is at his residence. His official duties don't begin until 8:00 a.m."

I glance at the prison inspector, seeking an alternative. "Tell me if there's another way to stop this."

"Unfortunately, My Lady, there is no other way," he replies, his voice heavy with defeat. "Only the King's intervention can save Matthias and the others."

I sigh, the weight of the situation pressing upon me. Emotions swirl within, and I feel on the verge of a nervous breakdown.

"I have to try," I insist firmly. "Athena, lead the way. If the guards at the King's residence refuse to admit me, I'll explore other options." I offer a reassuring look to the prison inspector, letting him know that I'm not ready to give up.

He must be terrified for his brother's life, yet he remains resilient. Still, I can sense his desperation.

"Yes, My Lady," Athena responds before leading the way.

As we approach the King's residence, I take the opportunity to observe my surroundings, ensuring I can recognize the locations on my own. The North Palace, built from stone, stands in stark contrast to the other parts of the palace constructed with modern bricks. I learn that King Teagan's father, the previous King William, had been a traditionalist who maintained the old traditions, explaining the North Palace's antiquated appearance.

Even in recent times, the royal family still adheres to the traditions of their ancestors, preferring to move around on horseback and in carriages within the palace as a mark of respect for their cultural heritage. The carriages have been updated for comfort, almost as comfortable as the cars, so the traditions endure.

"We're here, My Lady," Athena announces, casting a glance around the area. "But the guards..." She trails off, concern etched on her face. "I don't think they'll allow you in."

"We'll see," I reply with determination, consciously adopting the graceful stride of royalty. I may feel like an imposter, but I have to project confidence.

With every ounce of my self-assuredness, I raise my head high and gaze into the eyes of the guards as I approach. "Announce my presence to the King," I command, unwavering.

The guard on the left appears momentarily perplexed, while the one on the right quickly bows his head. "We have orders not to allow anyone into the King's residence during unconventional hours."

What's their issue? Why can't I intimidate them? Could it be because I'm shorter and younger?

"Please return to your quarters, Princess," the guard says firmly.

"But this is an emergency!" I exclaim in frustration, my voice accidentally ringing louder than intended. "Step aside! I'm ordering you as the princess! Will you take responsibility if anything bad happens because you stopped me from reporting an urgent matter to the King?" I resort to a threat, hoping it will work.

"Guards, let her in," a deep voice commands, causing me to hold my breath.

"Of course, Your Highness," the guard replies, bowing without a specific direction. He then opens the door and steps aside. "Please go in."

I scan my surroundings, but there's no one in sight. Did the King himself hear my commotion?

Confused, I turn to Athena, silently seeking an explanation. She mouths something to me with her hand covering her mouth. If I interpret it correctly, she says it was the Crown Prince.

But I don't see him anywhere. Why would Crown Prince Corrigan decide to help me enter the King's residence?

Regardless, I shouldn't waste this opportunity. Athena remains behind as I proceed to enter the King's residence alone. A part of me hopes for a favorable outcome, while another part whispers that this is a terrible idea.

•••

A/N: Wrote another chapter so you can have a double update today because of a certain reader; Caz, who has been actively commenting. Once I successfully sign this book, I will consider doing a daily update for one month. So please comment as much as you can to boost engagement and to hasten the signing process. Thank you guys!