"Nero," a familiar low voice called out to him. Nero was about to leave the office just like his brothers but their father made him halt from his intention. He looked back and saw how his mother gave him an encouraging smile as she continued her tracks to leave as well. The sound of the door shutting close, and it was just the two of them left in the room.
"I. . ." It was out of character for the duke to look so flustered and unsure. Nero made no movement and was patient as his father gathered his self. What seemed to be an eternity passed before a determined look came graced the other's expression. The duke parted his lips and was soft in his tone but it was loud enough for Nero to hear.
"I'm sorry."
Nero was unresponsive. Not because he was caught off guard but because he knew he had no say in these situations. There have been interventions made but not to this extent were the original Nero only has the right to. Forgiveness was something he can't give. It wasn't him whom the duke neglected.
Surprisingly, the duke was not that affected to Nero's silence. He simply let out a small smile and said, "You need no to forgive me now," he paused for a moment. "Or ever."
Nero mentally sighed. That was too much of a grovel. Besides, it's not like the original Nero was a saint. But even with these thoughts, Nero still did not accept the apology. He did nod, just to show that he listened and understood the other's words.
Thankfully, that was enough for the duke to change the course of the conversation.
"About His Majesty's summon, you have the choice to refuse."
The young lord blinked in shock at the option given to him. "Wouldn't that be detrimental?" Refusing would mean denying the King. Any contradictions are considered disrespect and would imply treason to the sovereign. Knowing their family's history with the Imperial Palace, a simple 'no' from Nero would be understood as waging war. Honestly, royalty and their dramatics.
Duke Veron felt the ends of his lips tugged upward slightly at his son's bluntness. "It is," he replied then took deliberate steps towards his desk. Nero followed suit and settled on the canapé as it looked like they were going to have a long discussion. Duke Veron paused, his right hand then trailing over small picture frames. "But we've all seen this coming."
He picked one up, stared at it for a second then put it back to its place. He then gave Nero a smirk. "Besides, my amusement watching the Monrell's false sense of arrogance has dwindled into nothing but irk."
Nero returned the smirk. Inevitable it was for an internal war in the empire. The Lanchasters have always sought the empire's safety but their patriotism did not mean no resistance to the Crown. If provoked, they would turn their swords towards their own rulers.
Nero huffed a small laugh at the situation. Well, look at this. The ever indifferent Nero was feeling entertained. He sat straight and met the wide eyes of his father. Duke Veron was dumbfounded at the bright expression that graced his youngest son. Nero ignored that, already getting used to being the subject of their surprises.
"It seems like I'll be prolonging your agony again, father."
Duke Veron widened his eyes. "You mean. . ."
Nero smiled. "I will meet the King."
---
The carriage ride was uncomfortable as Nero had imagined. Since the roads were either cobblestones and open ground, it was a bumpy ride even with the horses moving carefully. It was also painfully boring since he wasn't allowed to pull the curtains away, lest he wants to alarm the people by his presence. Even though he was ordered to put on a thick veil to hide his hair and eyes, his red eyes were far too intense to be fully concealed. And well, no one has red eyes aside from him.
Those with royal blood were bound to have golden eyes, a testament to their lineage. Others with renowned traits were the dukedoms. Monrells have a charming set of pastel purple eyes. It was theorized that their colorful eyes were because of the magic they hold. Lanchasters have eyes as green as emerald gemstones while Vermonts have an alluring color of teal grey. As for the people of the empire, they have various shades of brown eyes.
"We have reached the palace, My Lord." He heard the coachman as the carriage was put to a stop. Nero tightened the hold on his veil so it won't fall off. A bit of shuffling from outside and the door was pulled open. The coachman bowed down and offered his hand as Nero went down.
He had travelled alone, much to his mother's displeasure. It was the best choice, if not the only choice, since they don't want to risk offending the King if they kept showing how on-guard they were.
The coachman closed the door again and handed the carriage to one of the palace knights that were guarding a restricted zone. It was an area near to one of the King's manor. A path exclusive for confidential matters. This explains why the place was dense with trees.
Nero saw the shiver than run through the palace knights as they sneaked a peek. He find it almost laughable because they definitely have high ranks since they were positioned in such protected space yet they lose all composure with just a glance of him. Nero ignored their fear and curiosity as he took steps towards a tunnel that was said to lead to the King's garden.
Just as he was about to enter the tunnel, a loud voice was suddenly heard.
"Father would be displeased if he hears how indolent his trusted knights have become."
The knights in question were startled. They were about to draw their swords but once they took a good look on who intruded the space, the immediately bowed down to the person with blue hair and golden eyes.
"We greet Your Highness," they spoke in unison.
"Prince Caelum of Cruxire."