THE SHIELD THAT HURTS

CHAPTER.13

Morning had finally arrived, marking the day of the crown prince selection. The palace was abuzz with activity as maids scurried about, attending to their duties. After completing their tasks, they made their way to the palace grand hall to decorate and prepare for the grand event.

In each of the royal quarters, an air of festivity filled the air. In the king's quarters, Lady Nahum carefully selected a stunning royal robe for the king, ensuring he looked his absolute best. Similarly, in the other quarters, the princes' attendants chose exquisite attire for their masters.

In Prince Zoe's quarters, Naehi took great care in selecting a magnificent king's attire for her beloved prince. She dressed him with precision, combing his hair softly and applying a fragrant ointment that filled the air with its sweet scent. Naehi's hands moved deftly as she applied subtle, scented cosmetics to enhance Prince Zoe's natural beauty. Finally, she adorned him with exquisite beads and high robes, transforming him into the most handsome prince in the land.

As Naehi finished her task, she stepped back to admire her handiwork. "My love, you look more handsome than anyone else," she said, her voice filled with admiration. "You owe me a kiss for making you look so dashing. I'm thrilled that you'll soon become the king of this nation, and I'll become your queen, your wife, and your everything. I love you more with each passing day, my Zoe."

Prince Zoe's face lit up with a bright smile as he gazed at Naehi. "Thank you, my dear Naehi. I love you too. I'm eager to see you sit beside me as my queen in the days to come." He leaned in, his lips inviting Naehi's, and they shared a tender kiss.

Meanwhile, in Queen Khieyan's quarters, she prepared her son, Prince Zarah, for the grand event. As she finished dressing him, she smiled warmly and offered words of encouragement. "My son, you're the most precious child in the palace. Remember to be strong and happy, no matter what happens today. Don't lose hope, for no one knows the king's intentions. Whatever the outcome, hold your head high and wear your brightest smile, for that's what truly makes you royalty."

Prince Zarah smiled, his eyes shining with determination. "Alright, world's best mom. I love you forevermore." He hugged his mother tightly, and they made their way to the palace grand hall.

In Queen Ghoifaes' quarters, she and her attendants readied Prince Zeofei for the selection. As they finished, Queen Ghoifaes turned to her son and said, "Remember, my son, it's not over until it's over. This is just the beginning of the final chapter. Hold your head high and show them your strength."

With their preparations complete, the three princes, accompanied by their mothers and attendants, made their way to the palace grand hall. As they arrived, they were met with a surprise: the king, ministers, ambassadors, and other dignitaries were already seated, awaiting the start of the ceremony.

The three princes exchanged nervous glances before bowing in unison. "Greetings to the king!" they chorused. "Greetings to the Qing ambassadors! Greetings to the ministers! Greetings to the ambassadors! Greetings to everyone!"

As the three princes finished their greetings, the entire assembly rose to their feet, bowing in unison to the princes. The king and queens, however, remained seated. After the brief ceremony, everyone returned to their positions, leaving the three princes standing.

The king, seated on his throne, began his speech. "I have decided to take up the selection of the crown prince, who will succeed me as the king of this nation after my passing. The first trial, which has just concluded, has left everyone in awe."

The assembly gasped in surprise, their mouths agape. No one had expected the first trial to be so unconventional. The king continued, "My first trial award goes to Prince Zoe, who arrived first for the selection. His punctuality and respect for his people's time have earned him this recognition."

The assembly erupted into applause, congratulating Prince Zoe on his win. Naehi beamed with pride, thinking to herself, "Wow, what an amazing first test! I'm so happy for my dear Zoe."

The king resumed his speech, "As a king, one must always yield to the people's attention. Prince Zoe has demonstrated this quality, showing that he will prioritize his people's needs and devote his time to them."

The assembly applauded once more, acknowledging Prince Zoe's exemplary behavior. The king then announced the second trial, which had also concluded. "My dear Prince Zarah has won the second test."

The assembly applauded again, this time congratulating Prince Zarah on his win. The king explained, "The second test was designed to assess moderation. As a king, one must be moderate in all aspects, including dress and behavior. Prince Zarah's simple yet elegant attire has demonstrated his understanding of this quality."

Prince Zeofei, however, felt a pang of disappointment. The king's words echoed in his mind: "With a total score of 2 out of 3, only those who have passed the first two tests are eligible to become king. Unfortunately, Prince Zeofei, you have failed both tests, making it impossible for you to become king."

Prince Zeofei's face fell, and he walked away from the assembly, feeling defeated. However, he refused to give up hope, remembering his mother's words of encouragement.

The king continued, "Now, it's time for the final test. Please provide each of the two remaining princes with a sheet of paper and a writing instrument."

The princes received their materials and began writing in response to the king's question: "Why and when did you want to become the king of this nation?" Prince Zoe's thoughts drifted back to his romantic nights with Naehi, remembering the lessons she had taught him and the love they shared. He wrote from the heart, pouring out his feelings and experiences.

Prince Zarah, on the other hand, struggled to come up with a meaningful response. His limited experience and naivety made it challenging for him to articulate his reasons for wanting to become king.

After carefully reviewing their responses, the king announced his final decision. "Everyone, even before now, I had already made up my mind about who would be the next king. One of these princes has proven himself to be kind, loving, and just. He has shown that he will always fight against injustice and prioritize his people's needs. The person I have chosen to be the next king is my dear son, Prince Zoe."

The assembly erupted into cheers and applause, congratulating Prince Zoe on his well-deserved win. The king declared, "I hereby declare Prince Zoe the crown prince of this nation, who will succeed me as king after my passing. Congratulations, Crown Prince Zoe, our future king."

Naehi's face lit up with joy, and she smiled brightly. Queen Ghoifaes called the assembly to order, requesting permission to host a celebration party for the crown prince. Prince Zoe nodded his consent, and Queen Ghoifaes arranged for the preparation of seven different teas to be served to the guests.

As the celebration began, Naehi personally served Prince Zoe, while Maid Phei attended to Prince Zarah and Queen Khieyan. Maid Anne joined the other maids in serving tea to the rest of the assembly. Lady Nahum, meanwhile, served the king exclusively.

Just as the celebration was in full swing, Prince Zoe's thoughts turned to Naehi, and he felt an overwhelming urge to announce their marriage. However, before he could express his feelings, he suddenly vomited blood and collapsed, leaving the entire assembly in shock.