That Prince Is A Girl: The Vicious King’s Slave Mate Novel

Chapter 385: The minister flushed, clearing his throat. "V-Very correct, Your Majesty."

"And Emeriel has returned to the soldiers, training and hunting. She is exceptional at that, having taken down more men in battle than most of our warriors. Many of you have witnessed her skills firsthand, haven't you, Minister of Military Affairs?"

Minister Jacques shifted uncomfortably, unable to meet the king's eyes. He gave a stiff nod.

King Orestus clucked his tongue. "Just because they do not part their thighs for men and breed children doesn't mean they do not serve this kingdom. Do you hear me?" "But they are of marriageable age," another one protested. "Well past it, actually. If they will not serve in the traditional ways, then they should at least marry. They could bring happiness to some of our males-"

"I will not condone this discussion in my court again," the king hissed, his patience visibly thinning. "I am the king, and I make these decisions. Until I devise a solution, no one-no one-is to bring up this conversation about the princesses ever again. Do I make myself clear?"

They straightened immediately, bowing deeply. "Yes, Your Highness."

Voices rose in unison.

Aekeira released a slow breath. It would be brought up again, she knew. If not tomorrow, then in another six months, yet again. Because the truth was, everyone truly was talking about it.

Since returning to Navia, Aekeira had once again been reminded of the curse that plagued humans: the scarcity of females.

The way these vultures eyed them, hungry for the prospect of more women in their midst, was a constant reminder of how much they wanted her and Emeriel either in the brothels or breeding houses. And yet, she couldn't quite believe how safe they had been since their return, thanks to King Orestus.

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The same king who had once pawned them off to the highest bidder now stood as their biggest protector. Ironic, really.

He had provided them with bodyguards who took their roles seriously, making sure no harm came to them. Aekeira's heart alternated between grateful and suspicious. There had to be a catch. A motive.

Men like King Orestus did not change overnight.

The problem was, she had no idea what his motive could be.

Her greatest worry upon their return had been Emeriel's punishment for her years of deceit. Yet, two years along the path, King Orestus never once brought it up. Not in public, not in private.

He treated them both as if a change of that magnitude hadn't occurred. As though Emeriel hadn't suddenly transformed from a boy into a girl. The kingdom, however, was a different matter. The court was in tumult, the city in uproar. And for two years, King Orestus turned a blind eye.

Even his son, the crowned prince, had taken notice, developing a strong interest in Emeriel's gender revelation.

Not only had he confessed his feelings for her, but he had also been relentless in his pursuit. Using charm to mask an iron-willed determination to have Emeriel that, at times, unsettled Aekeira. Was this why King Orestus protected them so fiercely? Aekeira had once asked herself. Did he want Emeriel for his golden prince? But that theory quickly fell apart when the king discovered his son's courting.

He had not only erupted in a fit of rage, but also forbidden Prince Daviel from getting close to not just Emeriel but also Aekeira.

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