The queen asked the princess and the maid to leave the small drawing room first. She left Gray behind, as if she had something to say, but was silent for a moment.
In Green's eyes, Queen Elenoa is the most beautiful and noble woman in Apodoli. If the queen had any difficulties or made any request to him, he would immediately agree without a moment's hesitation.
After a while, the queen asked softly: "Are you still used to being in the Guards?"
"Yes, Your Majesty the Queen. Thank you for your inquiry, but I will say goodbye to this habit soon." The Queen was taken aback, and the faint sadness and nostalgia in her eyes made him feel very uncomfortable.
The idea of leaving the Guards was not an impulse. He originally agreed to join only for Trinville. Although life in the Guards was fulfilling and exciting for him, he was deeply loved and respected by his soldiers. However, he had already decided to leave the Guards on the day he joined.
He was just always looking for the right opportunity. Although, even he wasn't sure now was the best time to leave. He also made a decision in his heart when he saw Alsia's haggard face. Now he didn't want to hide it from the queen, so he was the first to tell her.
The Queen took his hands and said softly: "I really didn't expect it. This is so unexpected, Grain. How long has it been since you came home? Think about your poor mother. She waited so hard for you to come back, Do you have the heart to leave her again? Her heart will be broken."
Glenn did not dare to look directly at the true feelings in the Queen's eyes. He lowered his head and said softly: "I'm sorry, Your Majesty. But I have to leave. It's not that I was unhappy in the Guards. On the contrary, There I found happiness and everything to be proud of.”
"Then why do you have to leave?"
"Maybe I'm just leaving temporarily. When I first joined the Guards Corps, I already got His Majesty the King's approval, that is, I can leave at any time. I am entrusted by others, and I will not be anywhere until I complete it. Stayed too long.”
The queen nodded and sighed: "The men in Apodoli are the ones who keep their promises. If you promise others, you must do it no matter what. Then go ahead and fulfill your manly promise. However, you You'll come back, right? This is your home."
Glenn nodded.
"At least it won't be now, right?" Although the queen received Glenn's assurance, she still felt a little sad in her heart. "It was only when you came back to us that I felt that I had someone solid and reliable to rely on. And , I feel that the king still has many things for you to do."
"No matter where I am, I will do whatever my Majesty the King and Queen entrust me to do with all my heart."
"Okay, Glenn. If even you can't believe it, then who else can share the burden for me." The queen's beautiful face finally showed a hint of joy again. She said, "Actually, there is something that people all over the country will know soon. Before that, I just want to tell you one person."
"Your Majesty the Queen, please give me your orders."
"Prince Doranhel of the Black Forest, he received an invitation to attend the grand event. I believe you know."
"Yes, Your Majesty."
"Many countries have been invited to this grand event. Those guests from distant countries set out from their own countries a long time ago and came to our royal city after a difficult journey. They were all treated with high courtesy. . And the country of the Black Forest is our special friend Apodoli. The friendly relations between the two countries can be traced back to a long time ago. They have been friendly and living in harmony for generations." Grein nodded.
The queen continued: "Actually, Prince Doranhel was ordered by his father, King Jussehel, to come to the Harvest Festival on his behalf. He also had another purpose for his trip - he asked the king to marry him. Princess Imaya is my wife.”
Glenn wasn't too surprised when he heard this. Although Princess Imaya has barely reached adulthood, it is normal for Prince Doranhel to propose to her.
"The king and I have accepted the proposal of the Black Forest. We have no reason to refuse. The country of the Black Forest has always been the eastern barrier of the kingdom. The friendly relations between the two countries have lasted for hundreds of years and have always maintained peace and friendship. Besides, Dolanhe Although Prince Er’s country is not as powerful as ours, their territory even exceeds that of Apodoli. Moreover, Prince Doranhel is mature, courageous, polite, an educated prince, and very handsome. He should be able to match You deserve my Imaya.”
Glenn said sincerely: "The marriage between the two countries can bring long-term benefits to the people of the two countries. This is good news."
Suddenly, a trace of imperceptible worry crawled across the queen's forehead, which was keenly captured by Grein. "As a mother, it's not a big deal to worry about her daughter," Grein thought.
"You know," the queen continued, "the princess is still young, and she is so favored among us that I am very worried that she has not received stricter education. If she marries to the country of the Black Forest like this, she will do something harmful to the country. It’s too late to worry about my identity and Apodoli’s reputation. Of course, I know that my worries are unnecessary. Although Princess Imaya is naughty and playful, you know how kind and understanding she is. Satisfactory.
But I am her mother, and I know every lovely thing about her and her shortcomings. I have already proposed to the prince of the Black Forest to marry the princess after next year's harvest festival. During this year, Princess Imaya will always be with me. I believe she could be better educated. She will get rid of her willful and restless shortcomings and look more like a gentle and virtuous princess. "
Glenn thought about the cuteness and naughtiness of the princess, and said with a smile: "Your Majesty the Queen, you are very thoughtful. But I think you may be a little too worried. Although Princess Imaya is naughty, she is very sensible. She is very kind. Sensible, if she is personally taught by Her Majesty the Queen, she will definitely become a qualified queen."
There was a gratified smile on the queen's face, "She is my life, my everything. Every time I see her, I feel very happy in my heart. I don't want to leave my daughter for a day." The queen's smile dimmed, "But , but the king does not agree to marry Imaya next year. He insists that the sooner the better. I really can’t understand. However, he is the king and the father of the princess. I can only obey what he decides. "
Glenn was quite surprised to hear the queen mention such an important matter to him, especially the small dissatisfaction between her and the king. His Majesty the King was so eager to get Princess Imaya married, which was beyond his expectation. According to what the queen said, Prince Doranhel proposed to the princess of the kingdom. It only happened in the past few days. Why was the king so anxious?
"So, I can only agree with the king's decision. Maybe the announcement of the marriage between the two countries will be announced to the whole country soon." The queen looked at Grenn expectantly. "I hope that after telling the world, you can escort the princess to the country of the Black Forest. It is very suitable for you to take this position. You have lived by my side since childhood, and you can be regarded as the brother of Princess Imaya. With your escort, we will be safe all the way. I will feel relieved taking care of her."
After hearing the queen's request, what else could Grenn say. Seeing the queen's expectant eyes, he agreed immediately. The queen seemed to be in a better mood.
The two of them talked about many things, and happily recalled some interesting things about Glenn's childhood. As he said that, the worried look on the queen's face was seen by Green again. Even if it was just a fleeting moment.
The queen said leisurely: "The kingdom has not experienced such a happy event for many years. In fact, I really don't want Princess Imaya to get married so early. The king is buried in national affairs every day. Only I can see how lonely he is. But he just hides it deeply in his heart and doesn’t want people to know. It might be better if there is a princess by his side. The country is getting richer and stronger, but the pain in his heart has not been alleviated much. Do you know why? "
The queen's words made Green feel quite embarrassed. He didn't know how to answer the queen's question. And in his heart, the Queen's unobstructed conversation with him was both an immense trust and a heavy responsibility. However, he had already sworn in his heart that he would never deceive the queen whom he deeply loved and respected at any time.
The queen seemed not to have foreseen that she would embarrass Gray and was still waiting for his answer. Glenn said: "After all, I have just returned to Apodoli, and I haven't had time to think about many things. As for the country governed by the king, everyone has seen it. The kingdom is prosperous and the people are happy and peaceful. There is nothing comparable on the continent. Go to our country. As for the anguish in the king's heart," Green hesitated, and finally said, "No one mentioned it to me, as if it didn't happen."
The queen looked at him, shook her head, and said quietly, "You are an honest and good boy, but you have not learned to lie yet. The king is diligent in political affairs and generous and loves his people. Who can understand his troubles? They will only tell secretly. , because he was missing his younger brother who left the kingdom seventeen years ago. You must have heard that Prince Qadir also disappeared for no apparent reason after you left. The king never gave up, he is still here Searching. But after so many years, there is no news at all. It’s just that it’s been so long, and he should have let go in his heart.” Glenn remained silent.
This matter was related to the reputation of the royal family. He had only heard Trinville say a few words before, but he had stopped him immediately. But on the streets and in the fields, there were still people talking secretly. Of course, they, like Trinville, no one knows any better.
Seeing Gray's silence, the queen added: "There are many things I can't say to anyone, not even to Prince Charles. But I really want to find someone to talk to. I don't want you to bear a heavy burden, but , I only trust you now."
Glenn's heart skipped a beat, and he replied with a little hesitation: "I am honored to be favored by the queen, and I also ask myself that I will never betray your trust. However, I am not sure that the queen's trust will be kept a secret."
The queen smiled, "This further confirms my opinion of you. You are indeed a person who can be trusted." She fell silent. Glenn stood there silently.
After a long time, the queen said again: "Although you have not returned to Apodoli for a long time, with your eyes trained by traveling for more than ten years, can you see what is hidden behind the prosperity and stability of the kingdom? What if? You saw it, and I want you to be honest with me about it.”
After hearing the queen's words, Grayn secretly admired her. From the first day he stepped into the royal city, Apodoli has been expanding his army. The kingdom's soldiers and horses are already the most capable troops on the continent, and no one will raise any doubts about this. Now the kingdom's army has expanded to eight legions, which are well-equipped, well-trained, and well-supplied. This army of 50,000 people has caused a stir in the continent. Even in the wild places no matter how far away, the powerful aura emanating from the kingdom can be felt.
This unusual expansion shows no signs of stopping. Inspired by the fierce folk customs and the country's praise of military merit, more and more people voluntarily left their land to join the army. Everyone is eager to achieve meritorious deeds, and this blind restlessness has been revealed even in the Guards Corps, which has many noble children. Glenn also secretly talked about his concerns to Trinville, but the big man Vika was quite disapproving of it at the time.
It wasn't that he didn't hesitate. However, facing the queen's trust and encouragement, he just wanted the queen to see it, and he would never hide anything from her. So, he expressed his doubts: "...So, Your Majesty the Queen, please forgive me for my bold words. Our country is strong enough, strong enough to support more troops than this. But I can't see how What is the purpose of this powerful army? If we just want other countries to see our strength, I think the king has achieved his goal. But..." He hesitated.
"Yes. Apodoli is so powerful that no one can turn a blind eye. Those who are friendly to us will only become more friendly, and those who are malicious to us will definitely think twice before doing anything they want to do." The queen stared at him. He opened his eyes and nodded thoughtfully, "The country of the Black Forest may not have proposed to the princess because of the strength and prosperity of our country."
Glenn nodded in agreement: "No matter who can marry the princess of Apodoli, he will get a strong support. And the kingdom will also get the most reliable ally. Looking at the world, other countries will only be more fearful."
"Afraid? Do you suspect that the king's development of such a powerful military force is not just about making people feel afraid?"
Glenn was silent. The queen sighed: "It seems that you do think so. But maybe your worries are unnecessary."
"Yes, Queen. I have no evidence to support my concerns. But with all due respect, my concerns may not be unfounded."
"But what can I do? The king seems to be a different person compared to him before. He can't listen to anyone's words."
For a moment, both of them were silent. The queen saw Gray's solemn expression and his brows furrowed. Today is the harvest festival. She smiled: "Grain, let's not cause trouble here. Who can see clearly what will happen in the future? Let's talk about the present. You know, after every harvest festival, the kingdom will hold a grand ceremony in the palace. dinner party.”
Glenn was also a little depressed by the topics the queen brought up with him. Speaking of the harvest state banquet, and because of the joy on the queen's face, he smiled: "Yes, queen. Even though I was very young back then, I still remember it clearly. Every time my mother was in the kitchen When I was busy, I didn't care about me. Sometimes I would sneak to the door of the hall and peek from there. I remember one time, Prince Mars discovered me and ran out to catch me. But, I ran opened."
The queen smiled: "How long ago was that? Mars will never do that again. Of course, there have been no children running around in the palace for a long, long time, which made Mrs. Lei Sirui angry. .”
Talking about the past, they all fell into warm and beautiful memories.
The queen asked: "Although you are a commoner, you grew up in the palace with Mrs. Les Rui. Then you should know that the lamb dish your mother made mixed with her heart and various secret methods was served at every banquet. The most popular dish.”
Glenn said: "In fact, I have tasted it before." The queen looked at him, "Of course, I tasted it secretly."
The queen smiled. "You have experienced the annual Harvest Festival feast more than once. Then have you never thought about participating in it in person?"
Glenn smiled and shook his head: "Everyone who can attend the banquet is highly respected and powerful. I am just a squadron leader of the Guards, and I have not had the honor to participate in the event."
"So," the queen asked with a smile, "if I formally invite you to participate in this harvest banquet, I wonder if you, the captain of the Guards, are willing to accept my hospitality?"
Glenn was deeply surprised. I have never heard of a commoner having the opportunity to show his face at the most grand harvest festival dinner in the kingdom. In the eyes of the Apodolites, the Harvest Banquet is just an informal banquet. In the ancient past, there was no distinction between seniority and inferiority in such banquets, and anyone could participate.
Of course, sometimes there are many small banquets held in more places. When there were more guests from various countries, royal families, and tribes in the far reaches of the mainland, the harvest feast that everyone was looking forward to gradually became overcrowded.
Yes, "crowded."
This is the Apodolian explanation for the Harvest Festival feast that has become inhumane. They were happy to accept this reason.
"There are already so many people, there really are no empty seats." That's what they all said.
Harvest Feast As time goes by, the country becomes stronger and richer, and further and further away from the common people, becoming more and more dispensable in their eyes. Although they have long forgotten what a real harvest festival feast is like.
Unlike them, Grain had seen it as a child. The noblest and wealthiest people in the kingdom would be present at the banquet. However, his mother only prepared delicious dishes so that the guests could receive the most delicious treat.
And he could only stay in the corner of the kitchen, quietly waiting for the banquet to end so that his mother could take him home. It was like this every time, which also made it hard for him to have a good impression of the Harvest Banquet.
So when the queen asked him, he didn't know how to answer.
Queen Elenoa didn't know what he was thinking, she just told him happily: "You don't really think that I recruited you just for you to find the princess of the kingdom and bring her back to the palace? No. That's it. That's what you should do - with your duties as a Guardsman, you should safeguard the safety and honor of the country and the royal family. I won't go out of my way to express my gratitude to you for something like that. So, I really I’m inviting you to this Harvest Festival banquet.”
Although Glenn was still not interested in the party. However, since it was proposed by the queen, he would never object.
What he has to do now is just to make himself look full of expectations for the banquet. And, I feel very satisfied and happy.
He bowed and bowed deeply to the beautiful Queen Apodoli, and said with a smile: "Of course. Having the opportunity to participate in the grand event is what I have always dreamed of. Therefore, I am very grateful to Her Majesty the Queen for giving me such an honor."
The king was indeed very happy. She said: "I'm glad to hear you say that. Of course, I have one more request. When you come in the evening, be sure to bring your good friend, your flag-bearer, Mr. Trinville with you."
After hearing the Queen's seemingly strange request, some of Grayne's previous guesses were confirmed, and his heart became clear. However, I was still a little surprised.
The queen obviously did not see through his mind. She smiled and said: "To tell you the truth. I had already planned to invite you to participate before the Harvest Festival. I was just thinking about how to make such a request look reasonable to others without being too abrupt. If you don't People say that you were invited only because of your close relationship with Queen Apodoli, and you would definitely not be happy in that case. Yes, I love you. But I also know how much you cherish your reputation. So, I have also hesitated, not wanting my love for you to become a burden to you."
The true feelings revealed in the queen's words moved Grayn deeply.
The queen was in a good mood and continued with a smile: "In this review, you and your squadron greatly demonstrated the wealth and prosperity of our country in front of the people and guests from afar, making them full of praise and respect. Your Majesty Very happy too. And the guests always mentioned to me the standard-bearer, the victor of the gladiatorial battle, your good friend, Mr. Trinville.
However, I really don't have much to tell them. So I thought, since they wanted to know Trinville so much, why not invite him to the banquet, which would satisfy those people's curiosity and I could get rid of those nagging questions. "
Glenn laughed. He asked: "So, you also proposed to His Majesty that Trinville should serve as the standard bearer of the Guards to participate in the Harvest Festival parade, just so that he can participate in the Harvest Festival feast today?"
Queen Elenoa pursed her lips and smiled reservedly. She didn't answer Grein's question, nor did she deny it. "Since the flag bearer can participate, as his commander, you are certainly more qualified to participate."
Glenn smiled again and said, "I never thought that I would have such an honor thanks to Trinville."
The Queen smiled and said: "Only by deciding on the candidate for the flag bearer early can we end the ridiculous nonsense of the Guards."
Both men laughed.
After laughing for a while, the queen continued: "You will see many people at this banquet. Of course, there are also guests and friends from all over the world who have been invited to attend the Harvest Festival. Do you understand?"
Glenn nodded, "Yes, Your Majesty the Queen. I understand."
The queen looked at him with relief, "Then you must have understood what I am thinking. Prince Doranhel looks calm and capable, with a handsome appearance. It's not that I don't believe in my own eyes and judgment, but when I think about my daughter maybe In the near future, she will be far away from her parents who love her and marry in his country, which feels very uncomfortable. I want you to take this opportunity to get close to him, get to know him, and be friends with him. After all, you are the one who has to accompany her. Princess Apodoli goes to the Kingdom of the Black Forest. It is necessary for you to do this to see if he is trustworthy."
Glenn solemnly replied: "I would have done that even without the Queen's permission. I have said that I will do my best to protect the person Her Majesty the Queen loves the most."
The queen nodded, and it was only now that she really felt some comfort in her heart. She smiled and said: "It won't be long before the banquet starts when night falls. You don't have to go back. Mrs. Les Rui must be busy in the kitchen already. You go and see her. By the way, we have to do it now. Someone has been sent to find Mr. Trinville. Otherwise, he may miss this event. Can you tell me where to find him?"
Glenn also smiled and said: "On the Harvest Festival, apart from the Blueberry Tavern, I really can't think of anywhere else he could be."
The queen couldn't help but sigh and said with a smile: "Oh. I'm still not sure whether I insisted on inviting Mr. Trinville right. Thinking that he dared to fight at the entrance of the palace, I felt uneasy and always worried. "
Glenn said sincerely: "I assure you, Your Majesty the Queen. Trinville is the most generous and kind-hearted warrior in Apodoli. He is not as rude and rude as some legends say. You will see that he is gentle and gentle. side. I promise you, you will never feel regret or embarrassment for inviting him here."
The queen looked at him and nodded: "Because I trust you, I think I can also trust your friend. If you can be there to greet him when he arrives, and tell him some etiquette that he should abide by, I think I can There’s nothing to worry about anymore.”
Glenn bowed and replied: "As you command, Your Majesty the Queen. I will definitely do that."
