Althea's decision to return to the palace felt like swallowing bitter poison, but she knew it was her only choice. In the squalid outskirts of the city, the threat of being captured and bound in iron shackles was far more real and immediate than the distant threat of future execution that she could still fight against.
With Morfida's help, she once again disguised herself in her "ugly" form—the plump body, dark skin, and acne-ridden face. As they approached the grand palace gate, Althea's heart pounded furiously. This time, they didn't use the deserted back door, but the heavily guarded main entrance.
"Stop! Who are you?" one of the guards shouted, his spear raised.
With her head bowed, Althea stepped slightly forward. She deliberately made her voice weak and hoarse. "I... I am Lady Althea, the future Crown Princess."
