Basils mouth fell to the floor, eyes flooded with shock. My Lord! My God, you remember all that?!

Rihannan giggled lightly, one hand covering her mouth. Yes. I remember. I hid it secretly and ate it away from my mothers eyes. She never gave me treats. Thought my teeth would rot if I did.

You were young. I thought you wouldnt remember at all, Your Majesty.

Basil, I was only ten-years-old at the time. Of course Id remember a lot of things. Hehe

No, no. Few people have clear memories of their youth. Youre smart

How long will you stand there?

Igors voice rang from behind. Rihannan and Basil stiffened at his sudden appearance. They had come to the door of the drawing-room and did not enter, merely talking casually to themselves.

Basil coughed and bowed politely. Ill be taking my leave, My Queen.

As Basils figure faded in the background, the laughter on Rihannans face quickly drained away as she said nervously, I was talking to Basil. I had disrespected you. Im sorry.

Rihnannan bowed. Igor opened his lips and raised his hand, but he quickly put it down and looked away.

Come on in.

Entering the drawing-room, she noticed many changes. In particular, the interior decorations that could not be seen from the outside were particularly noticeable. Rather than simple paintings that hung on the wall, tapestries, mosaics, and other decorums hinted more of a Crichton characteristic vibe than that of Arundell.

It was as if she had been transported back to her room in Crichton.

Igor looked at her, his eyes soft. Rihannan I thought the environment youre familiar with would suit you better and so youre able to adapt.

Rihannan nodded at his words. Youve really prepared for the princess. Ive no doubt that Princess Helena would be deeply impressed with your devotion.

Igor bit his lip and sighed. He pulled the table chair back and called her name. Come. Sit down.

Rihannan nodded and sat opposite of him.

They did not wait long.

The servants served the dishes on the table efficiently and their quiet meal began. The silence was somewhat familiar to Rihannan. Igor had never spoken to her in the past.

You dont look too good. Is there something wrong? Igor said out of nowhere.

Rihannan touched her face. The Duchess and Basil had never mentioned her pale complexion. She thought shelookedfine but seems like this was not the case.

I guess it might have to do with having trouble sleeping well last night. The environment has changed, she said.

Yes. That was true. In a familiar environment, she felt secure, but dining here or having breakfast it would not be surprising to fool herself that she returned to the past.

I understand. Dont worry. Itll get better over time. Igor said softly.

Rihannan quickly nodded. She thought Igor misunderstood her as finding the palace uncomfortable.

Igor looked at her. He cut a slice of meat and put on her plate.

She stared at him wide-eyed.

Dont just eat vegetables. Have some meat also, Igor said.

Igor surprised Rihannan, surprised to see his behavior different from what she knew. Things he would never do he did.

Rihannan looked down at her plate. She enjoyed fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, and bread more so than meat.

Oh I dont really like meat.

Youll end up having a weak body, Igor replied.

Rihannan shut her mouth before retorting, Are you saying that Im a picky eater?

Thats not it

I dont know why I have to hear things from you that my uncle and cousin never pestered me about, Rihannan said coolly.

I was just making sure youre eating well, Igor looked down and said softly, his voice too soft for Rihannan to hear.

Rihannan said nothing more and stared at Igor flatly.

Igor looked as if he was thinking of something, his countenance somewhat red. He took back the meat on her plate thereafter.

I Im not forcing you to eat just that I would like for you to have a balanced diet. If you are unable to eat it, its fine also.