"What can you say, Commander Dash?" Queen Blyss asked, trying to take him in the conversation.
Dash gave a well-practiced fake smile, "whichever Lyssa fancy. I don't doubt her artistry."
He patted her back gently, but this action caused the young lady to freeze.
"Although there is still a lot of time before they can be wed, the engagement must be done at his highness' birthday next week."
"On Sunday, my grace?" Lord Vancouv asked to clarify.
"Why, we must let them know," King Rafael chuckled, "families who had their eyes set on Lyssa will flock at your doorstep when she turns fourteen this year."
"Of course," the Queen seconded, "and as the crown prince will turn eighteen, he will be of age where he would choose his bride."
She turned to Prince Rafael Bliss.
"Don't you, son?"
He who had been silent the whole time, spoke, "of course, mother."
The Meadow Kingdom's Prince Rafael Bliss Mac Aetos Trouv, also known as Prince Rafi, is the only son and heir to the throne. Both intelligent and athletic, Prince Rafael finds comfort in his alone time with his books and pens, and sword and bow. The Crown Prince isn't only good at those things, he is also well trained in martial arts by the Royal Knight's commander.
As the Kingdom's only pride, neighbouring countries were eyeing on the young Prince, sending him countless invites to extravagant balls. Their interest in making him part of their family for political purposes were made obvious, as the ambassadors usually openly bring up the proposal for the Crowned Prince, in which he would politely refuse.
But Prince Rafael Bliss already had a person in mind.
On his fourteenth birthday, the nobles and neighbouring royals were invited to one of the Prince's essential affairs that would only occur once in his lifetime, his coronation ceremony as the Crown Prince of the Meadow Kingdom and its Trouvian people.
The then fourteen year old prince took glance at the newly opened double door, announcing the arrival of the Vancouv family; Lord Keen Vancouv and his son's and their wives, George Mord Vancouv and Hera Crest-Vancouv, Kami Keen Vancouv and Zevira Asmyr-Vancouv, and his youngest son, Jean Rule Vancouv and Audrey Jane Midra-Vancouv. And his grandchildren, the eldest, Dash Claudio Midra Vancouv, son of Jean, the middle siblings, Cathan Kami Zivera Asmyr-Vancouv and his younger sister, Crystal Kami Zivera Asmyr-Vancouv, children of Kami Vancouv. Lastly, the youngest Vancouv, Lyssa Ariella Hera Crest-Vancouv, daughter of the eldest Vancouv brothers, George Vancouv.
This was Lyssa's very first ball; the required age for the nobles to attend the prestigious event was at twelve to slowly introduce them to the world of the elites and their responsibilities. This is also the time where the younger kin were taught on site of their privileges and how to properly use it. It is to avoid conflict and abuse of power.
Prince Rafi wanted to wear the expression he's been having ever since the party began, bored. But for his parents and to not tarnish the name of the royal family, he fought hard and maintained a smile. On the brink of letting out a yawn, the royal guard announced the arrival of the Vancouv family.
The familiar name, his trainer, part of the noble household of the Vancouv family. First in his class at the Royal Knights Academy, Cathan Vancouv was assigned to train his highness.
'Finally, a familiar face would perhaps cure my want to doze off.'
When the royal family's most trusted noble family entered, Prince Rafi immediately looked for his trainer's cool face but what fed his eyes with delight wasn't Cathan's but the youngest Vancouv's innocent beauty, Lyssa Vancouv.
His gaze fixated on the young lady so much so that when they did courtesy in front of the three highest positioned people in the kingdom, the prince and Lyssa locked eyes. From that moment, Prince Rafi took his studies and trainings with more seriousness. He thought if he can't make himself worthy of her, he would become a king without a queen nor an heir.
Prince Rafi immediately had his intention known to his parents when the ball ended, but because of her age, he was told to put his courtship on hold until she reach the age of fourteen, an ideal age for young ladies to accept suitors and get to know them, and never without a chaperone.
For two years, in every ball, he would make it his personal mission to strike a conversation with the reserved young lady. His efforts sprouted as Lady Lyssa accepted him as her suitor, but his fight did not end there. One of his rivals is also a Prince, his royal highness, Prince Calix Luciel Del Bellevue of the Kingdom of Eunioa, a person who very much admires Lyssa during her one time visit with Lord Vancouv.
Lady Lyssa isn't only popular within the noble gentlemen but also within the nobles wives community, her soft light brown curls, her bright doe deer brown eyes, and her plump cheeks, are something that must not be ripped off from one's gaze. It brings too much joy to the onlooker just to gaze upon her beauty, and it always leaves a good impression on the elders whenever she speaks.
Soft gentle voices dance with the winds every time she opens her mouth to talk, every person in the room would pay attention to her. Her genteel demeanor is something every parent, and every suitor would want to go after.
She's one of the kingdom's most valued people.
Prince Rafi cleared his throat, "might I have a moment with Lady Lyssa?"
Queen Blyss, who has been very supportive of the two permitted them, "of course."
The Queen turned to Lady Hera, "we can have her governesses and Sir Cathan chaperone them."
They all nodded their heads, not that they can argue with the Queen. After all, she's in charge of their son. She must know everything there is to know when it comes to the prince.
When the two left, King Rafael immediately sent everyone away except Keen and George with the reason of, 'there's something important that we must discuss.' And was left at Queen Blyss' care. But not Dash.
He excused himself and used work to escape the long and boring gossip that would come in the way, but the main reason he left was that he was not able to contain himself. The need to let out this anger boiling inside him grew with each plan they came up with for the engagement that will be done on the Prince's birthday ball.
"By and by I had planned your ruin, yet by and by fate always find a way for you to surpass me," he groaned, "I will make sure that this time, you will drop at the pits of the well, Lance."
The Vancouv manor remained silent after Lord Vancouv threw out his favourite grandson, Lance. It has never been the same.
The once cheerful and chaotic mansion with his constant running, and shouting whenever he's excited; his nonstop storytelling for his sister, Lyssa. And he taught her with the knowledge he knew, sharing them with her.
His love for his sister is obvious and everyone adores him for that until that incident.
Lyssa was found at the back portion of the manor where they had extended their mansion again in preparation for the next generation that would live with them. With the Vancouv children growing, the eldest, Dash, at twenty five, it will be a matter of time when Dash would propose his prospect to them.
During the family's supper, Cathan Vancouv arrived from the Royal Knights Academy with a letter at hand; the butler took his coat and hat as he settled his luggage on the floor.
"Lord Vancouv and the others are in the private dining hall, master Cathan." The butler informed.
"Is that so?" he tapped the man's shoulder and headed to where he said they were, "thanks, old chap."
Out of all the Vancouv children, Cathan is the most outgoing but when it comes to the academy and its education, he takes all of it very seriously. He is the only person who inherited Keen's trait when it comes to both serious and trivial matters. He always takes everything in consideration just to come up with a just and fitting solution to every situation.
"A pleasant evening, my family," he looked around and noticed one person missing, "where's Lance?"
Their ears perked, he had been away for the semester for his training and had not been informed of what happened within the house.
Lord Vancouv wiped his mouth with his napkin and cleared his throat before taking a sip of his wine, "you are not supposed to come home 'til next month."
Cathan shrugged.
"What brought you here, child?"
The nineteen year old Cathan showed the card and waved it, "I have come to personally deliver this to you, Lord Vancouv."
Keen squinted his eyes as Cathan walked up to him and handed him the letter with the academy seal.
"You were not expelled, are you?"
"I may not be Dash and Lance but I assure you, it bears good news."
With the second mention of his name, Keen hurried and opened the letter to pacify his second grandson and prevent him from asking any more details of Lance's whereabouts. He had already tasked Kami to let this be known to his own child.
'A letter of appointment for Sir Cathan Kami Zivera Asmyr-Vancouv,
Sir Cathan, who has been a student and has been training under the teachings of the Royal Knights Academy, was seen to have clear potentials in both physical and mental capabilities to lead a platoon. This appointment was discussed by his mentors and trainers with careful deliberation, and with the higher-up's approval, we hereby appoint Cathan Kami Zivera Asmyr-Vancouv to be the trainer of his royal highness, Prince Rafael Bliss Mac Aetos Trouv.
Once Sir Vancouv graduates from the academy, he will be given a month of time off before beginning his new duties within the Royal Palace.
His official appointment will commence at the Academy's Bestowal of Honors.
With high regards,
Royal Knights Academy'
"What does it say, father?" Kami couldn't help but get curious, it was news brought by his own son after all.
Keen returned the letter to the envelope and gave it to one of the servants to deliver it to Kami.
"You read it yourself."
His face did not break any emotion, no matter how used they are to the house's Lord's character, there are times they would expect something beyond the family's head. But as soon as Kami finished reading the letter, he dropped his head, completely understanding why his father had acted nonchalantly as he too, cannot comprehend what reaction he must show. All he knew was he can't be more proud.
Keen once again cleared his throat, "Cathan has honored our family by being recruited to work at the castle."
Everyone's excitement filled the room.
"He will be in charge of the Prince's military training, and will be tutoring him of his duties in that aspect."
Zivera stood and gave his son a hug, "that's wonderful, my son!"
"Thank you, mother."
"After dinner, let's all have a toast and plan out a small event to celebrate yet another Vancouv accomplishment."
Hearing Keen's announcement, Dash secretly gritted his teeth. He has been surpassed by a nineteen year old. He, a twenty five year old is still not a ranked official at the J.I, he must work hard.
Life for Dash has been harder ever since that day; Lyssa would not go near him, Cathan is making a name for himself, Crystal has been entertaining a noble suitor. In no time, she will be wed to a high ranking noble house, earning their grandfather's affection. All there is left for him is to surpass Lance, whether or not he is in the care of the Vancouv family.
He knew Keen will not let Lance off his sight, not now, not ever. He was his favourite and he will remain so until the incident is proven to be his doing. And for that to happen, he must come up with a plan.
For the next months, Dash has been trying to come up with stories that would help him push Lance to owning the crime he did. And as long as Lyssa would not tell a single soul of that tragic day, he is safe. Unbeknownst to him, Lyssa had already told her mother.
She boldly confesses what happened the day after her beloved brother was thrown out of the house, this resulted in Keen completely ignoring his eldest grandchild as Hera had told her husband what their daughter admitted. No matter what accomplishment he brings to the table, he would not celebrate it unlike his other kin.
Dash was completely unaware that the whole Vancouv family is aware of his violence towards the youngest family member, a tiny child getting beat up just to have another child get kicked out for personal gain is not tolerated within the household. But for punishment, they let Dash foolishly stay with them and treat him like nobody.
Au contraire, the Vancouv let Lance do his thing and watched him reach everything on his own. Keen deeming this as the best accomplishment the family could ever boast. Although they want to associate Lance's journey to them, Keen personally wanted Lance to have it as his own since he did do it without their help.
The twenty seven year old Dash became the Jade Rank's Investigating Unit, inheriting Jean's position. Some of the people under Jean begged him to recommend them to other units in just one month that Dash became their new commander. He did not only use his authority to force them to do things his way, he also demands ridiculous tasks to them; from doing his personal errands to making sure they barricade a certain Lance Vancouv who is an adventurer to not have any high ranking missions.
Once Jean learned about this, he reprimanded Dash, and should this happen again, he will not only be stripped off of his new status he will also be banned from doing any political works. And this could bar him from taking in a wife from a good family. But Keen already had his hands on the details.
He will not let Dash marry into any family. His maddening tendencies could only result in whomever he would fancy and their family name to crumble in shame.
"I heard there are two new adventurers who climbed to a rank of ruby just now," Coral plays with her soft red hair to taunt her commander.
"I do not care for whatever comes next, Coral."
"Really? Even though one of them comes from the East?"
"The East? That poor fishermen land?"
Coral clicked her tongue, "don't be too quick to belittle people, Dash."
Dash was not happy with how she addressed him.
"Don't you remember that handsome friend of your cousin?" Dash's brows drew closer together, "Isn't he from that fishermen's land?"
"What are the names of those two new ruby adventurers?" he demanded.
Coral grinned, "Verin Eros Alon, and Lance Amare George Crest-Vancouv."
'How the fuck did you become an adventure without the help of that old man?'
A shadow of a man slowly came out of the cloud of dust, creeping towards them with a huge grin plastered on his face, eyes shrunken deep as the shadows around his eyes worsened.
"Viv's knives didn't go through," Thenea said, surprised with how the ordinary guy did such a thing. No one has ever escaped Viv's marks.
"Something is wrong with that guy," Lance noticed, but he could not seem to point out what it was.
The ruby's commander readied his bow and arrows, striking at the walking Grun, but it never penetrated him, it never touched his flesh.
"I will go," Verin said, unsheathing his sword.
"Don't."
Everyone halted at those words, they all looked at Lithea who closed her eyes for a brief moment and opened them to reveal her golden divine vision.
"If you go without a plan, it won't end well."
They all gulped but listened to her anyway. Another thing why they must be careful is, they were tasked to hand him over to the J.I and have him thoroughly investigated. If Lady Edrei agrees. After all, he's still from the Land of Scorpio.
"Can you spot his weakness, Lithea?" Lance asked.
But her response surprised them.
"I can't," her eyes had gone dry trying to spot his whole body with something to defeat him, "something is not right, his whole body is wrapped in a negative energy."
"Someone must have controlled this man," Lance nodded to himself.
Thenea looked at Viv and he instantly understood what she wanted him to do. He ran as fast as he could and hopped on a tree branch, helping Lithea to look for his weakness in a normal person's perspective.
"If he swallowed the fruit, could his weakness be in his stomach?" Serene wondered.
"If that's the case," Lance took her words to consideration, "one wrong move could be fatal."
As they were discussing, Grun took something from his pockets. The crystal fruit from the tree.
"Don't tell me," they all can't take their eyes off of him, watching closely what he'll do next. Is he really going to eat the fruit?
Before the affected person could do what he's planning to do, and their questions be answered, as fast as lightning, both Viv and Lance strike while Lithea instantly paused the time for Grun only when she noticed the two were moving. And when she resumed the time, the fruits were already squashed.
They all blinked.
"Did he just freeze on the spot just now or am I just tired?" Serene raised an eyebrow.
"I think he froze," Verin can't seem to believe what they witnessed either.
Lithea had already shown this skill to them twice, unfortunately for them, they never noticed what it really was.
Grun noticed Viv above him and screamed, when his mouth opened, a black smoke escaped from it and long thin needles fired to where Viv was. Thankfully for his fast reflexes, Viv repels the attack before rejoining the others.
"Now what is that?" Lance asked, frustrated at the new skill they discovered he has.
Thenea smiled at the sight of the smoke, she knew right then that only her magic is more suited to beat this man. What better skill to fight dark magic than light magic?
She took a few steps and stood across Grun; she closed her eyes and raised her staff a little with one hand and the other one was placed above the orb of her magical tool.
Lithea, who quickly understood what she was doing, summoned her threads and hardened them. She manipulated them into something sharp, having them scratch Grun, avoiding his vital spots.
"We just have to keep him busy, right?" Verin grinned now that they have a plan.
"Serene," Lance turned towards her.
"Ah, what?" she was already preparing to summon something, "I already know what to do!"
In an echoey voice that seems to be trapped in a glass prison, Thenea began chanting, "lend me your strength and the goodness of your heart. Let me help all creatures be set free from the darkness that controls them."
While their light mage is doing her thing, Serene moved her hands and summoned some thorny vines to tie down the affected Grun. He tried fighting off Serene but Viv's knives and Lance's arrows kept hitting his black needles.
"As the darkness fades, the light will shine," the light from the orb brightens even more, "set this person free from what possessed him and shield him from harm."
When she finished uttering those words, a strong beam from the orb hit Grun and the thick black smoke started coming out of him.
After the black smoke stopped coming out and he was completely wrapped up in Thenea's light, Lance saw the opening.
"Go!"
Viv and Verin quickly got on their feet and went on close range with Grun to have a closer look of his body to look for the weak spot. They followed their guts that Grun must be made a puppet by the real enemy.
Lithea worked on a shield to cover the two and summoned her threads, wrapping them around them like armour.
"Serene, try putting him face down!"
Verin doesn't want to knock him down, so he asked Serene to just have her do it with her vines. It will be gentler that way.
Thenea created an orb and the black smoke she gathered from Grun was kept inside it, having Lance's arrows break the orb to completely eradicate the black smoke.
The vines moved and flipped Grun, but before she could complete her task, a piece of metal tapped the man's nape, breaking the tiny crystal that was embedded on it.
In a flash, the guy recalled the metal, like a wind controlling it, it returned to his owner.
Everyone was dumbfounded, who erased the spell on Grun in just a second? How did he find the weakness before them?
Before they could react, Serene's vines were cut into pieces and freed the guy, having him fall face first on the ground.
"What?" Serene reacted. She can't believe someone outside their group could easily cut her vines.
'An enemy?' they all thought.
Viv being the most rash of the group, his bloodthirst got triggered by the sudden attack, threw a knife towards the direction where the metal retreated, but it was only thrown back past him, scratching his cheek in the process as it got stuck at the tree behind Thenea and Lithea.
'Fast,' his eyes widened in surprise, but he was also amazed. Someone actually had the nerve to fight him.
Viv who was still amazed with the unexpected event, watched intensely at the person who stepped out of the shadows. There emerged a tall man, carrying a sleeping child while holding another kid's hand.
The ruby adventurers could not speak as this mysterious man appeared out of nowhere, knocking their opponent with ease while taking care of children.
"Children?" Serene looked back at Lance, "oi, there are kids."
Lance did not listen to her, his eyes were locked at something that sparkled on his fingers, a ruby ring.