"The theme is Finding Criminals. As the name states, the gift or the present they must offer to me are the people who are on the watchlist or wanted papers. And for those who are able to apprehend these crooks will undoubtedly be rewarded with a 100-million-gold prize. Commoners are welcome to join as well. The more people there are, the more thrilling it will be."
"They have the option of forming a group or remaining independent." Father nods and stares at me with an interesting expression on his face.
"Does it mean, you're killing two birds with one stone?" I'm impressed. He's not a complete moron after all. "I know that father has a lot of matters to handle lately, so I wanted to help you and I also want my birthday to be remarkable to other people. Don't you think my idea is unique?" He taps his chair as he started to speak.
"But don't you think that catching those crooks is a bit perilous for aristocrats and commoners?" That's the point of it! THE ENTERTAINMENT, THRILLS, and ACTIONS, that's my definition of FUN! JUST A NORMAL celebration is boring.
"Father, no one's going to die with that huge amount of money. Of course, people know what strategy and tactics means. All humans will do everything just to get a reward." If we're going to be honest. That's what we really need, MONEY. Especially those who wished to put an end to their misery.
"I'm not sure—"
"Your Highness, if you allow me to speak, crimes are increasing in the capital. Even the knights couldn't find their traces. Some of them are a tricksters and mischievous." Camilla said as she steps forward. This woman really has the guts to explain.
"Forgive me for what I'm about to say. But the truth is that, we are all a criminal. We turn a blind eye to those people who won't even benefit us in the future. We won't even give money to the beggars on the street, nor give children a home. Am I right? The reason why crimes are increasing, is that Your Highness pays attention to higher cases. Because illegal act such as thieving and smuggling are relatively minor offenses."
"And the Empire won't even benefit from those things. Therefore, Princess Helvetica wanted to at least decrease the crimes happening in the capital." Look at her, I can't see anything than pure facts. She also refers to us as criminals which makes sense. We are our own worst enemies, after all.
And so, if we commit such crimes, it means we just lose to ourself.
I never thought that she can talk this much regarding to this situation. On the other hand, I look at my father as he can't say anything. What can you say about it, when it's actually right?
"I'm just making sure that no one will be harmed. The celebration is also important." He said as he stands up. "I will make sure to spread the news inside and outside of the capital."
"Thank you for listening, Your Majesty."
"Appreciated, Father." We bow as we decided to leave the main hall.
I swiftly grip her waist as her knees seem to be weakened while we're walking down the corridor. "You're scared, yet you did again. You're incredible." I said in a jesting manor causing for her to glare at me.
She sighs as I guided her to stand up. "Your father is also right. However, I'm afraid the crimes will just keep on increasing as Ethereal's security towards their people are weak." I shut my eyes for a moment as I smile slightly.
"Thank you." I said as we continue to walk. She returns her gaze to me once again as she smiles. "Is that Helvetica Ethereal?" I chuckle.
"Don't you dare mock my nice gestures. Appreciate it while it last." Thinking about it, is this my first time of saying 'thank you' to other people?
Oh.. Am I getting nicer now?
..
No. I'm still a walking karma. Maybe, I'm just being nice for seconds and then I'll turn back into that kind-of-person again. For me, having a nice personality can lead to disappointment.
You care for your friends while they don't even give a damn about you. And you'll just find yourself one night, crying because you thought that no one appreciates you.
However, if they talked to you again, you'll simply forget that nothing ever happened. You'll trust them all over and that's on being a nice person. Sometimes, it's good to cut ties and be by yourself for a while just to find true happiness.
"We're here." I said as I open the library door. I remember that I also used to sleep in here whenever I'm in a bad mood. It feels pretty peaceful.
"Thank you." She said in exchange while she smiles. "I can't stay for too long. I also have to keep an eye on the knights. If you require assistance. There are a lot of bells in the area. You can summon Serina and the other maids all the time." She nods as she slowly closes the door.
I breathe deeply as I call the other maids, walking. "Can you prepare a warm tea? As well as parfaits. Serve it in this room. Lady Camilla is inside. Don't cause too much noise." They bow as they retreat.
And for me, I decided to visit the camp. It's been a while since I watch them. I truly want to see them, improving.
But as soon as I step into the knight's den, "Where's your GENERAL?" I asked while wearing my puzzled expression. They exchanged glances as one of the Knight Majors whispers in my ears.
"She's with Lady Lithia. In the garden, Your Majesty." Perhaps, I'll have to go see it for myself.
And the knight's not even lying. There she is, covering my sister with her cloak. Vien bows to Lithia as I decided to go back to the camp.
When did my sister starts to smile like that?
She also stated that she is uninterested in the General. But, as far as I can tell, she's becoming selfish in her own property. I tried not to chuckle as much as I wanted to. It will cause a rumor after all. I composed myself as I saw Vien entering.
Their break must be over.
"Your Majesty." Vien greeted while saluting. As if nothing happens. How can I tease her if I can't even see her smile? "You're taking care of my sister a lot these days." I said in a calm tone.
"I'm just obeying your orders back then, Your Majesty." Order, she says? Does it include the private time together? Well, if my sister beg for an audience, then it means she wanted Vien to escort her.
It's not my business to snoop around during their happy times, but "It's fine, General Vien. I just simply hope you don't lose sight of your responsibilities as a general."
"Absolutely not, Your Majesty." It may be too early for them to realize. But I can tell that my stupid sister has fallen for this knight.
Who wouldn't? Vien's a capable person after all. Does gender, even matter on falling for someone? What if we wish to be with the same sex? Is that considered as a sin?