Walking with a bright smile by the beautiful sun lit halls of the princess's mansion is a tall man wearing a black coat white undershirt with a black cravat tie.
He halted a bit when some strands of his soft gray wavy hair, which was sticking out, poked his chocolate eyes as he continues on to bring his little princess her new cool drink she taught him to make, orange juice, which he never expected he'd enjoy making as it reminded him the time he was crushing deadly monsters at a mission he did once back before he retired as a monster mercenary and assassin.
As he gently knocked and asked permission to enter to which a loud "okay" was heard from the door. As he did he saw his little princess wearing a loose shirt and loose boy trousers, whom was busy doing sit ups rather too fast as he heard her pace.
This made the butler feel conflicted to both stop her and tell her to rest or help her because he noticed her posture is off and her bandage by her leg is slightly making the blood visible.
Joie noticed this sighed "Is there something you wanted to say? You're looking at me weird mister butler" his little mistress asked as she sat up and wipe off the sweat on her head
He just smiled "Its sir David, your highness. Well what would you like to hear me say your highness?" He thoughtlessly asked as he put down her cool orange drink suddenly realizing that he was talking to royalty and not some child apprentice.
Though as nervous as he is the princess didn't really mind but instead she paused a bit as she held her chin and closed her eyes as she thought hard.
She eventually smiled cheekily and requested with a wide grin "Well...could I ask for a praise"
The butler blinked a bit as he was caught off guard by the sudden request of the princess towards him but he quickly come back from that shock when she called his name again "O-of course your highness. You are doing well with your training "he said with a smile as he did a small bow
That made her smile brightly "Really!? Are you sure I'm doing well? Because I feel awesome, does it look like I'm improving?" she asked again as her eyes were lit with excitement since Joie is a fan of his outside the story.
He paused a bit when he noticed his little mistress squinting slightly at him so focused for his answer as her glassy amethyst eyes are shining and her body shaking a bit in anticipation as if she actually wants a genuine critique of her training from a mere butler like him. Though, this made the butler chuckle as it had been a long time since someone asked for his opinion about training matters this genuinely.
"Well if you wish. In all due respect your highness, I would humbly say that your posture and form is---off. I advice you do that training in a lower count but in a slower pace. I suggest when doing your training with your situation, its best that you refrain from anything that pulls your muscles; your body is still young and developing, taking a slower pace would also help you gradually adjust to pain as it helps your body adapt to it better.
However, I would kindly advice to stop training. Your wound is still healing and the continuous tear of the wound will lead your wound to scar at best but an incapacitated leg with immense pain at its worst" He explained as he pat the princess on her head while she was pouting from the criticism she got knowing as a former athlete was indeed something she should keep in mind.
"Fine, I guess I'll be fixing those. Thank you for telling me straight" she said avoiding the butler's gaze while her ear is red which made the butler chuckle
"it is alright. I'm just glad I could be of help your highness" he replied with a gentle smile
She smiled back but her lips grew thin and firm as she sighed helping her relax a bit "I-I'm really sorry. I was just worried anxious so I did training to help me ease up. Say Sir David am I in big trouble, if so are you going to be punished because of me" she asked softly as he noticed her voice was thick and unsteadily squeaky like she's holding in her tears.
This sadden the butler as he saw her break down from the happy façade that quickly...which is quite painful to watch so he pat her back gently while he hummed a soft tune in hopes to help her calm down " Don't worry your highness, I don't think I or anyone here would be punished because his highness gave his word about omitting you from what happened since it's an incident outside this mansion and the as I've heard from the people involved during the trial they didn't mention you in any of the court proceeding as evidence" he explained
"I see...that sound good and bad, I think I'm getting a lot of people in trouble because I'm weak and it's frustrating; should I become stronger? Any words of wisdom would be nice mister David" she blurted while looking down at the floor
The butler's shoulder slumped down a bit as he looked at his little princess with empathy and concern all the while he sat besides her, gently patting her back again.
"Well your highness in my opinion, yes you should get stronger, you're a royal after all. However, for a royal young lady, you are already doing a great job. You have been eating more food than before, waking up earlier to training hard and reading books, which I positively commend the efforts as astonishing for a young noble lady to put importance. However, it is also equally important to mind that rest and reflection is a balancer for passion and be a stronger and better royal and a person"
The little looked at him with her beautiful amethyst eyes sparking almost tearing up which surprised the butler "Thank you so much sir David, I feel better now"
"I'm glad I could help your highness" he said as he pats her head again
The young princess jump up standing as she puts her hand on her waist and stood firm with fiery determination on her eyes and loudly said "Alright! The day is still awesome! Let's keep on going!"
This briefly startled the big butler but he chuckled for his little princess's enthusiastic proclamation though with that a small lingering thought crept up in mind which he accidentally blurted "Why are you insisting in becoming strong?"
This was heard by the princess and slowly turned to him and shyly replied" Well...uh...you see it's because I want to properly use and hold in...mana in my body longer for magic"
This made the butler's eyebrow rise as he processed what she said" Why would you need to train hard in order to hold in mana your highness? Mana is something that is constant energy from mana stones, that's released by flowing to the body directly at some cases. So wouldn't containing it cause Fuad Muerte" he argued to which he immediately regretted as he thinks he was undermining a royal's superiority which could lead him getting imprisoned
However Joie didn't mind him and just tilted her head cringing, confused of what her butler implied .
She read from her previous life about the lore of this world and knows Mana is not whatever her butler said but rather something more natural and spread out so she smiled rather flatly and explained "Eh…? No sir David; I read in a book that mana is a natural flow of energy not from mana stones but from the magis energy the gods enchanted on to this world as the time of its creation. Mana stones are just rocks where mana is absorbed like as a mirror thus reflecting mana, that circulates to every living thing here in our world…like the sun. It provides heat to everything and does not choose a single path for it to flow. Same goes for mana but when it comes to us people, we can directly take in mana and turn it into magic because of the energy flow that comes from it like breathing air. However if the body of the person taking in the mana is weak physically the mana spill would harm the user as the over flow of mana tends to implode inside the user sucking his magis and then his soul which causes the common but fatal mana disease Fuad Muerte or "Death soul"; However, this rarely happen because we subconsciously let the flow of mana out of our body reducing excess energy. But I think that having a strong body and magic sense that harnesses more mana will definitely show great potential with minimum effort of relying too much on the environment with enough control and training"
The butler was speechless for a while due to the princess unexpected intelligence and choice of words .far advance for her age and the fact that she came up with a theory based on books is quite a treat to know that she isn't wasting her time like before. He then chuckled and sighed when he suddenly remembered a little argument with the Archmagis of the south Aerois, the wind empire of Airolas capital, on a mission he did before retiring with said mage, about a thought that mana is not from mana stones but everywhere to which recalled he and that mage were left with agreeing they both weren't sure if that could even be true.
"I see that was unexpectedly insightful your highness thank you for that. However it still does not answer my question as to why are you insistent of getting strong?" he remarked
The young princess turn to her butler flustered as she stuttered at first but stops as she thinks of a way to convince the butler and not get caught on her plans which may potential cause a useless big misunderstanding in the future.
After a few more minutes she took a deep breath ,smiled and calmly answered" Well Sir David, as you are aware I was involved with unexpected assassination attempt of enemies of not just the delegates but also our people. Reflecting on it now I realize I was recklessly protecting people without considering my own state which is why I agree on what my meanie of a big brother nagged me about being careless. I also happen to read on books that our royal family has one of the strongest magic attributes in the empire, which if I train enough I may potentially be able at least use one of the two affinities ,which I also read was use as they fought a big war. So I thought that if I were strong like them I'll be able to also be amazing just like them and...be like a real member of the family too"
This made him think and sigh of what happened last week and how he never expected that incident even happened to her.
On that day ,he witnessed the young prince's rage as the moment he saw his sister lying helplessly on the soft grass at night panting on as she hold on for dear life.
Cairo, with the help of the guest whom was named Silva and his son Diego barely managed to calm him down and explain the situation.
As they finished their statements Nathaniel sighed that they at least survived the incident and proceeded to use his magic to heal his sister.
But the butler didn't seem to firmly believe on some parts of the statement, especially on the part where the princess got caught up with a Hemovlad which caused her leg injury.
It did made sense theoretically but for some reason he couldn't put a finger on why he feels like they're hiding something.
After healing her the princess manages to regain her consciousness but as she did her big brother hugged her then he tightly held her shoulder as he basically screamed in both frustration and worry "YOU ANNOYING BRAT! WHY THE HELL DID YOU GET HURT?! YOU ALMOST DIED! DON'T HELP PEOPLE WHEN YOU CAN'T AVOID DYING DOING SO!!"
The girl instantly cried and apologized relentlessly because of this his brother sighed while hugging her to calm down as he also burst into tears while as he commented that Joie is ugly when she cries to which she answered you too.
Cairo and the children were welcomed in as guests and after a week of staying are now all energized and healthy.
The butler shook his head as he was recalling everything that day to which Joie look at him with confusion.
"How is my brother?" She asked
"His Highness is doing well though he's been
up a lot because of the trial" he answered
"I see. I hope he sleeps well after and I do hope they solve that. What happened that day was very scary. It's sad I can't help with what's happening, especially with the stakes at hand" Joie solemnly said as she stared at the orange juice she was gonna drink
The butler saw the helplessness of his little princess and would understandably feel the same but he also understood the heavy punishment for everyone if the word breaks out that it was this little princess got injured the way she had, it would had caused immense backlash and punishment for them the staff.
"I believe that his Highness the Emperor would make a fair and just decision on the trial. He's a man that is known to listen believe it or not your highness "David re-assured her to which she gave him a smile while she finishes off her drink
David smiled then instructed his little mistress to sit on the bed to change the bandage on her leg.
{{NATHANIEL}}
This is taking longer than I expected.
I yawned a bit as I looked around this large court with such intricate design based out of the tale of our founding country, the tale of Sola and Nuor which are gods that went down on this world and recreated life in their image. Men and Women whom who also inherited the ability to use mana and create magis out of the elements.
It's rather annoying that I happen to see this key design on a trial about a murder and assassination attempt case.
While I understand that a trial is a serious thing, though honestly I wish they would let in more light...It could be of help with this annoying witness right now whom just can't get a grip on his claim and statements with all this hypocrites looking at him.
I glanced at my sword master and grand earth magis as he is explaining his claim about the night of the death of two high ranking mages and an assassin.
In my opinion his claims have solid grounds for the claim. Upon hearing the testimonies of my master, people at the time of the incident, and evidence provide by the son of one of the dead magis masters, I have to say he will win this even my brothers and father , upon the week of discussion on this trial, seems to suggest too.
That is....if they do not notice any holes on the given statements.
The thing is that this would easily fall badly regardless of the claim if my father ever finds out that my little sister got involved and is a key witness. If this were to happen, master Cairo will win but let's just hope he only gets suspension and my sister's identity will be exposed. Stakes like this without a doubt if this were to happen my master probably would be stripped from his title and probably get a life sentence in prison for endangering a royal family.
But as master, my sister, and I talked about it and about the gravity of the case and its consequences. She expressed that it wouldn't bring anyone in her position any benefit because everyone involved especially the staff and me would get punished severely as what the law that my master stated so she requested master Cairo to tell her everything excluding her. I didn't understand what she meant by that but from the nod that my master responded he knows what it is.
I am glad things still end up like this but I am feeling quite bitter about certain things about father's choices however the thought of it keeps coming in my head since it would be especially worse if he found out I've been there on the day of the incident because I may had not yet informed father yet. Though to be honest I still unsure as to how Nicolas was able to get father to approve of him to go but I was not...but that isn't going to stop me from finding it out.
As the the final witness was finished giving his version of what he saw upon the day of the incident, His highness and my father, Elior Albus Selova II , called the royal transcriber and requested him all the testimonial from the witnesses and from both sides. He read it all and sighed as he stood up with a stoic look "I Elior Albus Selova the second would like to inform that this day of the trial ends the witness and evidential presentation of both parties. By tomorrow rest assure any query and confusion from today will be further discussed along with the verdict " He ended as he sat down
Everyone bowed and thanked my father but father is a busy man so after today he'd be back to work later in his office with his aid and the five Archdukes along with the Seven Archmagis and the Reverent Archmagis with the verdict and punishment for breaking the law of treaties
I'm not sure if my brothers noticed anything but for some reason I felt that this assassination attempt case is a lot bigger that my father wants us to believe because for the Reverent Archmagis magis to come for the last verdict of a case like this sounds such a waste of time.
.
As we walked out the court room , we went our way to the silent halls of the main palace garden to meet with my mother and sisters.
While walking I took a glance by my right and smiled as the gentle sun rays touches me along with the breeze from the calm sea by the port, indeed a sight like this is a delight after a trial like that to recollect one's thought...maybe I should take her here to see this...though it its a pity that I cannot for that might get my beloved sister severely punished.
My beloved dear sister...
Why is such an unfair treatment given for a lovely being.
But...I can't help but feel slightly envious of how free and content she is as if she's happy about it and doesn't resent our parents for that....Would I ever have that look too if I was put in her state?
I want to breath too, even though I am not a bad candidate, I am still far and behind my ever so perfect genius older twin, my logical but fair brother Cyrus, and my intimidating and strong eldest brother Euros...If anything I don't know if my father see me as a worthy candidate at all he just sent back letters I did well but it just feels like he's just obligated to do so. I'm not like them...I can't even protect my sister who nearly died because of a damn coincidence that we the royal family should had dealt with.
I'm not ...any good...will they nag me again for such weakness..
As my useless thoughts flood my mind with the immense guilt i'm feeling, I was not liking the echoes of our steps and the small sounds of my family's voices.
It's making me feel nauseous again...my hands started to began to feel cold, I also felt my breath is slowly shortening as if the harder I breath in the more shorter it get...my body...its slowly trembling with each step I take...What is this?!
I don't understand why am I feeling this immense dread and fear and now of all time's at that.
I slowed my pace as desperately covered my mouth to avoid making a sound...I would rather die on the spot than to be looked at cold eyes full of disappointment and I refuse to do so.
But it seems fate is not kind with me today because my damn twin noticed me and stoped making father, my older brothers, and their escort stop as well...as my brother walk towards me all I see is cold calculating eyes looking at me...like a prey being spotted by hungry beasts.
"Why are you doing walking so slowly? At this rate we won't reach the garden in time! Don't be so difficult today please" He nagged as if I did a dreadful mistake.
Normally I would answer back but right now I can't, not so recklessly.
I took a deep breath and was about to respond to my brother when I felt a hand on my head. I noticed father , Cyrus , and Nicolas gave a courtesy bow...which mean he's a person with a high rank. I slowly look up and as I did , my eyes nearly popped out when it was the butler from my sister's mansion however he's wearing a formal ducal uniform...hold on does that mean he's a person of high rank?!
Really?!
"Sir David? Why are you here" I confusedly asked rather casually
I saw the surprise and panic of my brothers as Cyrus immediately stepped forward to sir David and bowed " I would humbly apologize for my little brother's rude greeting your grace" He said as he glared at me
This oddly made the Duke sigh and rustled my hair " I accept the effort to correct your brother however I will not take any apology for something trivial as this. If anything you were quite rude yourself" He said rather blunt and unamused
My brother paused with shock and looked at father who just crossed his arms and sighed .Sir David just rolled his eyes and then he kneeled infront of me and looked me with with a friendly smile " Its best to tell your father truthfully that you're not feeling well. He won't get upset"
I blinked a few times to process what he said then I looked at my father which is now looking back at me with his brow raising in confusion and ...concern "Nathaniel...could you calmly elaborate what the Duke is pertaining?" He calmly asked
I looked at the Duke then t my father and took a deep breath...I have no option iohnt niw" I want to rest...I am not feeling..w..w..wwell" I answered closing my eyes as my body trembled
After that I quickly closed my eyes as I noticed my father walked towards me... hoping I won't get slapped; but to my surprise he gently put his hand on my neck then to my forehead and my trembling body is trying it's best to remain composed
Then I noticed my father took my clenched hand and spread it open and pressed hard the middle part by my thumb and pointing finger which made me flinch and Yelp in pain.
"I-I'm sor-sorry...I promise I'll be more polite father please stop" I shakily apologize while he kept pressing it
" You need to stop shaking in fear my boy and calm down. I'm not punishing you. What I'm doing is lessening the stress you're feeling" He calmly replied as he pressed my hand again which made me yank my hand. When I did though my nausea is not as worse and my eyesight isn't blurry anymore
"How are you now?" My father asked
"I-I'm not fe-feeling bad now" I answered as my voice trembles...this is utterly embarrassing...and infront of these two and father non - the - less
I heard my father sighed and put his hand on my head and ... rustle my hair...what is happening?!
"I see that's nice to know however you still look pale young one. You should go with the Duke to escort you to the physician. David, please make sure he gets properly treated and report everything to me" he commanded sir David to which he agreed while still rubbing my hair
He removed his hand and went ahead with his aide on their way to the garden. This prompted my two brothers to follow him but I can tell they were as confused as I am as to what happened.
When they were gone I looked at sir David but oddly enough he looked at the direction to where my father went with...worry.
"Sir David, is there something wrong?" I casually asked
This snapped him back and gave me a smile"Oh it's nothing kid. I'm just overthinking things that's all" he said
I didn't ask anything for now and followed him. As we were walking I saw that troublesome ice prince and his aide walking our way. He bowed and smiled at us as he gave his polite greetings.
"What brings you here your highness?" Sir David asked this problem kid
"I am just on my way to actually pick his Highness as per "your " request " He said as he pointed at me
The Duke , whom still surprised me, nodded and held my shoulder and whispered something in my ear...the next thing I know I'm with this meddling kid and his aide...Wait what just happened? How come I am here at my sister's garden?
Did he transferred me with a teleportation spell? He's a mage?! And what's with that Duke title? Since when and why wasn't this informed to me?
Silva's aide pated his shoulder and informed them that my sister is in the garden house and wants to see me... hold on what is going on here?
We walked our way to a beautiful but small white garden house and went inside. Which was decored with a weird but minimal design ...what is this place.
I saw my sister happily sitting drinking tea on a white L-shape like chair...a long bouncy soft chair.
"We're back Lady Joie" The aide happily informed my sister
"Thank you Hugo you may take a seat with his highness. There's something I want to discuss with you with your utmost importance... especially with you dear brother " She said with an all knowing smile
This made me and this annoying prince look at each other in utter confusion.
"Well we're all ears dear sister. What's this about?" I asked directly
"Well before we get started. I just want to let you know that I am the villainess " she said with a smug on her face
"What?" I asked dumbfounded with her nonsense while Silva rose a brow
What the heck is this girl up to?
-To be continued-