Oliver
Oliver keeps his eyes watchful and ears attentive while roaming through the roads of Everlane. Trying his best to spot anything amiss or hear a pleading cry for help. Unfortunately, the day has been rather dull so far not coming across a single person in distress.
"I know limited crimes happen around here but still..." he grumbles, letting out a deep sigh that isn't his first. Going on patrol is something the boy started up just a couple of weeks ago. Such heroic acts will win over the people's hearts by assisting them in times of trouble. Even if some days are a bust it must be greater than what that airheaded prince is doing for Calestra.
Typically, he would set his focus on places with high crime rates like Rainswood or even Aniex. Although the boy switches up a bit to areas he doesn't often visit but once every blue moon. Today the idea was to make his presence known in Everlane, however, the wealthy have tighter security and therefore fewer lawbreakers.
The broad village is filled with mansions, each home having a decent amount of property. Given that Everlane is toward the west, the fertile grounds are suitable for gardening vegetables similar to farmers. Barn animals on the other hand might be scarce but several residents do own horse stables. Nobles are also known for hiring a servant or two living the sweet dream one step under Chestlen.
Oliver reaches the end of another road almost certain to be going in circles. He's simply ready to throw in the towel when noticing something off. In the distance, a younger male who appears around his age is pulling on an elderly folk. The assaulter is shoving a heavy boot deep in the man's back and yanking his arms far in the opposite direction. Finally finding a victim, he wastes no time jumping right into action.
"What do you think you're doing? Release that fellow at once!"
"Huh? Who are you?"
"The name is Oliver Kensun!" He takes a battle stance to prove just how serious he is. "I'll be your opponent if you're determined to harass an old man in broad daylight."
The taller teen remains silent, seeming completely unfazed and if anything annoyed. Letting the man free, Oliver immediately helps him to his feet.
"Are you alright, Sir?"
"Yes, my back feels so much better. Can't believe that little walking threw it out again but you're a real miracle" --his wrinkled face drains deathly pale-- "worker... W-Wait a minute you aren't my grandson," The old man mumbles, slowly creating space between them. "In fact, I don't recognize you from around here at all. Help, somebody, help me! I'm being robbed by a peasant boy!"
"Ah, n-no wait you have it all wrong! I thought he was hurting you so that's why I intervened! I would never..."
Regardless of his denial, all of this yelling has drawn attention. The older teen doesn't make any effort to smooth over the situation by comforting his grandfather. Getting his legs to work, he dashes as far away from the gathered crowd as possible.
"That stuck-up jerk and old geezer! I shouldn't have ever wasted my time coming here. Guess patrol was an utter failure today." Oliver kicks at a pebble on the rocky trail in frustration. At this point, the best option is to head for home, though a high pitch scream causes him to stop dead in his tracks. It sounds awfully close but considering what just conspired, the boy hesitates if he should even get involved.
Don't be ridiculous! That girl could be in grave danger and no great hero could ignore such a thing. Hopefully, I can track her down fast enough...
Oliver quickly detours to the lesser-traveled roads where the noise came from. It doesn't take long before he spots two intoxicated men flirting with a fidgety teenage girl. With one glance at her petty frame and beautiful indigo hair, she certainly has matured quite a bit. Being in a similar situation again does bring back old memories of the past...
Five years ago in the rusty town of Magfoia, Quincey a child left the marketplace with heavy bags in hand. Oliver had just finished up running errands and was on his way home for supper. In a particularly good mood, he made sure to pace himself maneuvering down the busy streets. The fresh air was nice with the perfect breeze blowing to stay cool on an autumn day.
That was all until a certain commotion grabbed his attention. People continued about their day without an ounce of concern, but the aggressive voices sounded chilling and familiar. Curiosity got the best of him as he crept up to take a peek down the dark alleyway. The three boys Oliver assumed, including a face he never imagined to see, stood glaring daggers at one another.
"You cannot force me to leave! I'll go wherever I please!"
"Argh, why are you roaming around these parts anyway? You're just some pampered little princess without a clue. Just being near rich kids like you makes me sick," The ginger spat, as the taller boy nodded in agreement.
"We would be with those stupid scented baths they constantly take. Go run along home to whatever wealthy village you came from and don't come back! We're not warning you again."
"I came here to visit a friend s-so I'm not leaving unless I see him!" Blanche stomped her foot showing this decision wasn't gonna change despite their threats.
'She must've come for me but why? This is the first time Blanche has ever tried to stop by my house rather than me visiting her's. More importantly, she has rallied those guys up now... I really don't wanna deal with them today, but I can't leave a girl to fend for herself!'
Moving before his speck of determination died out he shakily took a step forward. This grabbed everyone's attention, clear shock written on their faces at the surprise guest. Oliver immediately pulled her behind him first and mustered the best glare his trembling body had allowed.
"L-Leave her alone! I w-won't let any of you lay a finger on Blanche!"
"So this noble girl is your friend? Guess a little weakling like you couldn't possibly befriend any boys," The chubby one replied with a snort.
"Right? He barely got those sentences out and is still shaking like a leaf. The rich girl has more guts than you!"
That comment from the ginger gave the trio a good laugh.
Honestly what they were saying was nothing but the harsh truth. Other boys didn't want to bother hanging out with an utter whim. The courage of a mouse, the strength of a toddler, and the height of a male dwarf though human. So many embarrassing faults Oliver truly wished he could change about himself.
"Well, we'll leave her be if you play dolly for us again." The taller boy walked over snatching a pink ribbon out from Blanche's hair. Ignoring her protest as the others had pinned him down to the ground and no amount of squirming could save him. He then put the ribbon in his own head but this routine was a typical one. "Ooh, look at the pretty girl. Nobody would be able to tell the difference."
"I say let's add some dirt makeup for a finishing touch." The ginger suggested, and the boys covered him in filth as he quickly shielded his eyes. Blanche begged them to stop but he demanded she keep silent with a forced grin. Just a little more taunting and they would get bored and go on their way like always did.
"Sissy boy, Oliver! Sissy boy, Oliver!"
Their usual chanting rang through his ears though he tried so hard to ignore it. After shaming him long enough, the bullies had their fun and ultimately left. The boy released a deep sigh of relief and practically snatched the ribbon from his hair.
"Oli, are you alright?! There's dirt all over you..." Blanche used her hanky to try and gently wipe some off his umber brown skin.
"...Why'd you come out here? You usually just ask my father to bring me along on his next workday. It isn't safe around this area for people like you."
"I only wanted to surprise you by traveling here for once. Plus, I was a tad curious what middle-class villages are like. But the directions my father gave had me confused and I ended up getting lost. That's when I ran into them..." she explained, regret in her amethyst eyes as the girl moved over to clean his right cheek. "I really should have given you notice though. Sorry for the trouble."
"No, I'm the one who needs to apologize. I couldn't even maintain my footing when attempting to protect you from those guys. Surely I looked like a pathetic weakling just now." He dropped his head in shame while her arm slowly lowered. Angry with himself to have allowed Blanche to witness such a humiliating sight. Though he still lacked the confidence to confront his bullies and made problems for her too.
"That's not true at all," she softly replied, lifting his chin which forced their eyes to meet. "If it wasn't for you stepping in when you did, who knows what could've happened. Despite their cruel taunts, you didn't run away and because of that, they let me go unharmed. This comes from someone very strong and brave."
"Blanche..."
The genuine words with her warm smile caused his heart to skip a beep, and he never would've dreamed to hear high praises about himself. She didn't focus on minor details but only that the meek boy managed to defend her in the end.
"Forgive me but I wasted so much time running around it's getting awfully late. I should be heading home now before my parents start to worry. Well, I'll see you when my father calls for another job. Until then take care!"
The girl ran off so fast he didn't get the chance to hand back the handkerchief she left behind. Ever since that day he gained the motivation to try and bring about a change in himself. Done constantly whining about the things he believed couldn't be fixed. As for those emotions that swelled up on a sunny evening, they continued to grow stronger...
Contrast to all of those years ago, the situation is much different now. He's shot up in height being as tall as the average male, unlike Wendell. Additionally, training at the academy has gained him a few combat skills, and he's more courageous--no longer some frightened kitten.
"I'll teach these sleaze bags a lesson, and thus redeem myself from the embarrassment back when we were kids."
However, before Oliver can move a muscle the next action causes his eyes to buck. One of them yanked by the arm gets suddenly flipped hard on his back. The other man attempts to grab her but she is quick to elbow him in the stomach. This swift strike has the drunkard fall right to his knees letting out a painful grunt.
"Didn't I just tell you two I'm already betrothed to someone else? Yet you both kept barking in pursuit like untrained dogs. Do either of you have no shame? It seems the wine has messed with your judgment."
The lecture over, she spins around on her heels and that's when their sights align. A moment of silence lingers between them before a small gasp escapes her lips. This reaction alone confirms that his childhood friend indeed recognizes him.
"Oliver, is that...really you?"
"Nice to see you again, Blanche."
"Oh my gosh, I can't believe it!" The noble girl dashes over to him as her arms fling around his waist. Her abrupt hug causes Oliver's cheeks to match the color of his scarlet eyes. "This is such a pleasant surprise! Jeez, how long has it been? Well past four years if I'm not mistaken."
"T-That sounds about right. I came to check around here because I heard a girl scream. Looks like there were no issues handling the problem as fast as you crippled those guys."
Blanche slowly pulls away glancing at her assaulters still suffering on the ground. She has certainly learned some useful tips for self-protection compared to back then. The noble girl took two grown men by herself in the flash of a second.
"Yes, well these mutts stayed persistent despite informing them I'm engaged. I memorized self-defense tactics and lured them to this alleyway so they wouldn't follow me home. I'd surely be in trouble if they were armed though..."
"How could anyone sneak weapons around here?" he questions, Everlane being fairly well guarded considering his failed patrol.
"N-Nevermind, I'm talking aloud to myself!" Blanche frantically waving her hands and the beautiful smile he remembers so well returns. "Why don't we go somewhere to chat and catch up?"
...
They take a seat at an available table for pairs at the popular eatery, Versace. Having their orders in mind, he decided on apple pie alongside some black coffee. Blanche settles with green tea not wanting any delectable sweets which continue to disappear off display. The fee is mostly his own though much as he assures to cover it, she refuses to accept a coin. This cafe is pricier than Opal Forten since almost every item parallels the cost of a grocery bag.
"Wow, we haven't conversed face-to-face like this in ages now. Being able to recall your features so vividly, I knew it was you with a single glance. Though I must say you've had quite the growth spurt! Did important business bring you to Everlane?" Blanche asks, taking a sip of her drink.
"Oh, I was on my usual patrol to search for those in need of assistance. This was my first time doing it here but I just fell short today. Including my desire to finally rescue you..." he mumbles, missing the golden opportunity for his redemption scene.
"Ah, my apologies about that. Going out of your way to help others is an honorable task. What inspired you to start this up?"
"It's a part of my master plan to rule this kingdom for myself. I must gain the favor of the people first and foremost."
This isn't his true objective but it will show how far better he is than that perfect prince. She doesn't seem all too shocked by his bold declaration. Instead, the girl actually stifles a laugh causing him to frown.
"Since when was world domination a goal of yours? To boast you'll steal this country from the prince almost had me. That humorous side remains intact, Oliver."
I might've been joking but she doesn't have to make it sound so unthinkable...
"Prior to being bothered by those flirts, I was on my way home from dress shopping. Well, dress searching I suppose because I didn't find one high enough standard for the pageant. I have in mind what I want, but none of the shops are quite up to par."
"So you're entering the beauty pageant, but isn't that not held until sometime next month? Why prepare so early?" The innocent question hardly leaves his mouth when her hands slam down on the table.
"This isn't early in the least! I can't even dream about consuming an ounce of sugar until I've lost a few pounds before time. Don't you know participants plan several months ahead for pageants? Between beauty treatments and practicing the performance I'm so overwhelmed!" Blanche dramatically falls backward releasing a long sigh while he is lost on the source of such distress. With apparent charm and talent, she can easily blow these possible contenders out of the water. The girl had achieved just that when entering her first contest in Quincy years ago.
"I'll get everything on track if I tackle the biggest concern and ensemble the perfect outfit... Oh, I've got it! I thought up an excellent way you can be of service to me. Given your disappointment, you weren't of any use earlier."
"You don't have to word it like that," Oliver mumbles, crossing his arms but aware he'll most likely cave to her demands. "What exactly do you want?"
"I desperately require you to ask your mother if she'll please make my pageant dress. I noticed some of her crafty work when exploring Opal Forten with a friend, and the dresses in the shop window were to die for! I'm aware she doesn't allow custom orders though it would be a one-time thing! Certainly, she'll agree if you put in a good word for me."
Blanche's amethyst eyes twinkle in excitement, and he loathes asking his mom for favors, yet can't reject her either.
"...I won't make any promises but I'll see what I can do."
His mother is an excellent tailor running her own boutique she co-owns with a partner. It's the very reason they moved to an entirely different kingdom and left Magfoia behind. Knowing Blanche is the requester, he presumes she will accept this odd job. Their family maintained a strong connection during the period his father worked as a loyal hired hand.
"Oh, thank you, Oliver! I'll pay her nicely and gather all the materials needed too. She is experienced with the wheel, so I'm confident it'll be absolutely stunning."
With this settled an awkward silence stretches between the teens. There is a certain topic he wishes to speak about but doesn't want to ruin the current mood. Contemplating whether or not to bring up the subject, Blanche interrupts his thought process as she clears her throat.
"Hey, um, I am glad I ran into you today. Initially, when you left we used to write all of the time but stuff happened and life got busy. Residing in a different kingdom the mail took forever to reach you..."
"I guess this has been weighing on both of our minds. We did end up drifting only a year after the move. I was relieved that you recognized me back there, and I'm sure Justus shared he saw me at the schoolhouse. I planned to come visit the minute the news spread that you were in Everlane though..." Oliver's voice trails off picking at his plate. Truthfully, he was afraid to stop by and find she had forgotten her number one playmate. Or far worse remembered him just fine but had no intention of restoring their old bond.
"I too held doubts that prevented me from gaining the courage to go see you. The final letter exchanged between us was yours...and I never replied. I thought perhaps you were still upset and wanted nothing to do with me," she admits, and learning their fears are mutual helps ease the tension.
"No, I'm not angry in the slightest. Whatever tiny paragraph I sent was hardly sufficient to even be labeled a letter. Nonetheless, that's all history so best to focus on the present rather than our previous mistakes. It had to mean something for the two of us to cross paths like this."
"Yes, I agree. Like fate, we're given a second chance to rekindle our friendship. I'm here to stay after the union with my prince charming is solidified. Therefore, we shouldn't be painfully separated like before."
She just had to ruin the moment by bringing him up.
"That's a date I couldn't dream to miss," he grumbles, not trying to hide the clear sarcasm in his tone. Thinking about them getting married soon makes his very blood boil. Never in a million years could Wendell score such a catch if this wasn't arranged.
"However, if circumstances lead to where we get split apart again... Let us work hard to sustain our bond next time around, okay?" she adds, with a tender grin having his earlier irritation melt away.
"Alright, we can even pinky swear on it." The dark-haired boy holds out his finger as she returns the gesture with a firm shake.
Oliver fails to prevent the upward curve which spreads across his lips. Despite the heavy air now cleared, a simple reunion just isn't enough. In the distant future, he'll become a man worthy of her love, and claim the betrothed girl fo
r himself.

A/N Hello readers! I know the updates are slow for now but still hope you can enjoy the story. How did you like this POV? Stay safe and will update soon.