Chapter 0: Prologue

“Next!”

Inside the audience chamber of the Elven Kingdom’s royal palace, located at the foot of the World Tree.

A single elf maiden wearing a veil knelt before the king.

She bowed deeply, lowering her head in a formal salute.

Then, as if to release her tension, she let out a light breath and snapped her fingers.

Pachin.

The veil vanished, revealing beautiful silver hair and blue eyes.

The spectators involuntarily gasped.

“T-That is…… Princess Lydia!”

“Wasn’t she supposed to be imprisoned……?”

A murmur spread through the hall.

The second princess Veronica, Lydia’s younger sister, her former fiancé Gilbard, and the chancellor all turned deathly pale.

Amidst it all, Lydia slowly raised her face and looked at the king with her gentle blue eyes.

“It has been a long time, Father.”

“……Ah.”

The king’s eyes glistened for a brief moment.

However, he quickly regained his dignity and asked quietly.

“……Lydia, why did you come here while hiding your identity?”

“I have come to convey the truth.”

Lydia met the king’s gaze with firm eyes.

Then, drawing in a breath, she declared loudly and clearly.

“Ten years ago, I did not put any poison into Father’s medicine! That was all a complete fabrication!”