The Next Morning
"Hmm...It's evident. Draven and Edgar's tension, that is." the Emperor mentioned to the Empress, who nodded in agreement, "Indeed."
Seated upon his majestic throne, the Emperor continued, "I can't help but say that Arawn has also contributed to the issue. He too is the cause." The Empress let out a sigh, acknowledging the truth, "That's undeniable. Draven has been close to him ever since childhood, and it's evident that Arawn holds him in high regard too."
The Emperor delved deeper, "The main complication stems from the fact that the child doesn't have a mother. Edgar's stubborn. I've advised him repeatedly not to neglect his only son."
With a touch of sadness, the Empress cast her gaze downward, "What can we really do? These matters are personal." she spoke lightly as The Emperor retorted, "Why can't we take action? Edgar is my younger brother, and Draven, well, he's a precious jewel. He should be thankful."
Letting out a heavy sigh, the Empress added, "I understand. Draven truly is a gem. Such a gentle soul, just like his mother. And his eyes, they hold the same sparkle as hers. It brings back memories."
A faint smile appeared on the Emperor's lips, "Indeed." The Empress smiled back, "I also appreciate how he is so sensitive towards anything concerning Arawn. It is unexpected but sweet." she continued, while the Emperor's gaze shifted away momentarily. After a brief pause, he replied,
"Whatever. It's acceptable until and unless it does not affect us." his tone grim.
The Empress stared at him, her brows downturned. Observing the tension in the Empress's eyes, he inquired,
"... Is something bothering you? You appear troubled."
"Oh, no. It's nothing."
Mealtime
Exquisite decor adorned the dining hall at the Imperial Palace. The golden chandeliers illuminated a table abundant with lavish meals of all kinds spread. Everyone, dressed in elegant attires, gathered to enjoy the array of luscious dishes while the room resonated with lively conversations.
King Edgar cast a smile at Abel, his words directed with warmth, "Abel, I have a desire to converse in person with you, considering the long time that has passed since our last meeting, don't you think?"
Abel returned his gaze and replied, "Certainly, why not?" Draven, positioned next to King Edgar, diverted his attention to the side, rhythmically tapping his fingers. Abel chuckled, remarking, "You're quite something, Draven," with an amused tone. Draven, slightly puzzled, questioned, "What do you mean by that?"
Raven, beside Abel gazed at Draven, smiling. Draven, catching her gaze, responded with his usual charming smile. Raven flinched. Her eyes widening as she looked below, her lips curving slightly.
Abel continued, "You never change," his laughter soft. Draven rolled his eyes in a sudden reaction, prompting the Empress to chuckle quietly and advise, "Well then, let's eat already." The Emperor nodded in agreement.
Observing the Emperor's demeanour, King Edgar probed, "What's on your mind? You seem lost." All eyes turned toward the Emperor, who swiftly rebuffed, "Nothing of significance. I'm perfectly fine." King Edgar's smile persisted as the meal commenced.
For a while, Draven observed his surroundings with a hint of concern, pondering, "Arawn….is not here. Is he still troubled with something?"
Draven rose from his seat, while King Edgar in turn inquired, "Draven! Where are you going?"
Draven paused, facing him, and answered, "I wish to check on Arawn."
The brightness of King Edgar's expression dulled, while the Emperor regarded Draven keenly. Raven blinked smiling and guided, "Brother Draven. It's the left spooky room in the corner of the corridor upstairs!" With a nod and a smile in return, Draven departed, catching Abel's creased gaze. The Empress smiled ever so slightly.
Upon reaching Arawn's room, Draven positioned himself on the balcony. "...Your room is practically a cave, seriously. Arawn, do you mind pulling the curtains?" he grumbled complaining. Arawn, settled on a seat with a book, cast a sidelong glance at him.
"..."
Draven let out a sigh of exasperation,
"I actually believed you were deeply troubled by something. Geez. Why did I even let that thought cross my mind!?" he moaned, giving his forehead an exaggerated slap.
Arawn responded with a barely perceptible nod before closing his eyes, murmuring softly, "Seems... you're alright." A sense of relief subtly coloured his words.
Draven suddenly touched, grinned and reached up to tousle Arawn's silky hair, his laughter soft, "You are so considerate."
"How are the others doing, by the way? Royce, Zayne, Drace and the rest?" he continued.
Arawn responded, "Fine...I suppose," Draven's expression briefly faltered, but he managed a smile, "Glad to hear that."
Just as he shifted his attention downward, his tone took a sudden turn, "Oh my dear goodness?!"
Arawn viewed him unamused and reserved.
Draven, his eyes wide with feigned astonishment, continued, "Your hair? It's gotten so long! How in the world did I miss that?" he exclaimed amused while playing with Arawn's braided hair.
Arawn sighed in disbelief. "Clearly, your genes are all from your mother's side," Draven continued.
After a brief while of fun,
Draven gazing at Arawn with a concerned look eventually questioned, his tone growing serious,
"... You're always shrouded in mystery, aren't you? Much seems to have unfolded beyond my knowledge. Arawn, are you willing to open up?"
Arawn turned his gaze back towards him, his response veiled in silence, "..."
Draven patiently awaited his response. Arawn closed his eyes, his hair casting a veil over half his countenance as he spoke up,
"There's no greater sorrow than to be overlooked by one's own father. Do you genuinely believe your father is worth such unending loyalty?"
Draven gazed at him taken aback slightly for a while as he pondered soon answering, "...You ask me?...Well. For me. I must clarify, I'm Draven Edgar, the only son of King Edgar and his right-hand man. Even if he chooses to forsake me, I am resolute in never returning the same sentiment." His expression was steady and tone sincere.
Arawn acknowledged Draven's words, his demeanour still reserved, "...Your unyielding resolve serves truly admirable... My apologies to have asked such an impertinent question." he replied, closing his eyes once more as a wry smile graced his lips.
Draven's eyes narrowed. Arawn stood up, smoothing his robe's long hems, his gaze descended, "-Our lives tread such different paths... For one, I find no pleasure in existence."
His hushed voice resonated softly, leaving Draven wide-eyed and wordless.
Knights Training Base
The sun hung low in the sky, casting long shadows across the training yard. Enya stood practicing, her polished silver sword glinting in the warm sunlight. As she paused to catch her breath, her eyes drifted to the far corner of the base, where a squire was practicing his own swordsmanship. She had frequently noticed that squire. He was a young and eager squire, always willing to learn, and Enya had admired his dedication.
The squire's eyes met Enya's, and he approached her quickly with a respectful nod. "Miss Enya," he began, "I couldn't help but admire your sword. It's a remarkable blade." he bought up suddenly.
Enya knitted her brows, blinking, "Hm?" Enya's grip on her sword tightened, facing him with raised eyebrows. "It obviously is," she replied with a sense of pride. "It's been with me for a long time."
The squire's eyes gleamed with enthusiasm. "I know right! That's why I wanted to talk to you," he admitted. "You see, I have been chosen as a worthy escort squire by general Void."
Enya nodded, "Good, then."
The squire scratched the back of his head nervously. "Well, I was hoping... I mean, if you wouldn't mind... borrowing your sword for some practice with the other squires. I... It would be an honor to improve myself with such a legendary blade to become a knight."
Enya hesitated for a moment, her sword still in her hand. She obserned his earnest expression, realizing that this was an opportunity to encourage the young squire's dedication. With a faint smile, she accepted. "... Very well, then. Keep it safe. But remember, A sword is not merely what makes a knight. It's the skill and hear behind it."
The squire's face lit up with gratitude. "Thank you so much, miss Enya. I will always remember your words."
As he took the silver sword from Enya's hand, she could feel a sense of conflict arising yet full of pride.
Just as the squire curved around to leave, Enya snapped her fingers, "Oh, Listen up! Don't forget to return it back soon." she reminded serious. The squire eyeing her nodded, "Yes. I would definitely return it tomorrow." his tone carrying a hint of mischief. Enya nodded, "Yeah. Make sure."
Afterwards, she trained alongside the cavaliers in the training base using a spare bronze sword. The training persisted, with her sole goal being to become strong enough to triumph in any duel, be it against opponents like General Void even.
Yet, another thought lingered, "I hope that Elix gains self-assurance. I'm sure he can overcome his weaknesses on his own," she mused, a familiar smirk gracing her features.
Meanwhile, Elix stood stiff, his throat tightening. Deion stood before him, his expression grim. "Commander Deion! I..." Elix started, his eyes shifting momentarily. Deion's tone was stern, "My absence led to disgrace. Had I not trained you well?"
Elix's gaze fell, his face displaying remorse. "Explain to me. A squire determined the outcome, while you couldn't. Why? I do not intend to belittle you. I want you to prove yourselves. You're my unit. We must surpass even the first battalion," Deion continued,
"Furthermore, do you realize the weight of taking on scouting missions? The pressure it takes? You are my representation. Your advancement reflects on my leadership. Do you think that your failure would bring me satisfaction? Share with me. Wouldn't you prefer to prove yourselves in a better light?" Deion added, his tone weighted with seriousness.
The aligned knights of the second battalion concurred, a collective affirmation of, "Yes sir."
Elix offered an apology, his words sincere, "I'm sorry, Commander Deion. I pledge to prove my worth to you. I'm determined to earn your respect." Deion gazed at him and nodded, his hand resting on Elix's shoulder in a reassuring pat. "Very well."
The knights alongside Elix were touched as they altogether offered a salute. Elix's smile widened, "Enya was right... I can truly achieve this. I'm determined to earn Commander Deion's approval... He truly is the best leader."
Raven danced, twirling around the corridor, she hummed a melody that echoed softly, like the song of an angel. The very sound of her voice painted the atmosphere with magic.
Suddenly, her lack of care led her to bump into someone, "Ah!" a soft gasp escaped her lips. But before she could tumble, strong arms caught her, holding her steady. A gentle voice, reached her ears, "Easy there~ Little Raven."
Raven was taken by surprise, blinking and widening her eyes as she looked up to meet the person's gaze. His hair shimmered like moonlight, and a vast ocean was mirrored by the depth of color in his eyes. A subtle smile graced his lips, expressing genuine care.
Raven's heart fluttered, staring at Draven's mesmerising turquoise eyes.
"Are you alright?" he inquired softly.
Raven back to reality blinked, her cheeks tinged with a soft blush as she stammered, "Y-Yes, I'm fine. Thank you."
Draven's smile deepened, and he released her hand, taking a step back, "You're quite the bundle of enthusiasm and energy, Raven."
A soft laugh escaped her lips, the awkwardness of the situation easing as Raven cast her gaze downward, "I can't seem to help it. Sometimes, the melodies... in my heart take over."
Draven nodded, his gaze softening as he regarded her with genuine words, "It sounds beautiful."
Raven's heart quickened at his words.
Draven's expression became one of concern as he spoke up, "Um. Now that I think about it, I didn't even properly get to meet you. And seeing you run away earlier...made me kind of confused. I couldn't help but wonder... Is something the matter? Or, did I do something?"
Raven's brows knitted as she cupped her cheeks, "No! I... am sorry!" she stuttered embarrassed.
Draven blinked in mild confusion, his features softening as he assured her, "No need to worry. It's perfectly fine. ...You are as sweet as ever." he winked.
Raven pursed her lips, contented as she smiled, "Thank you... And. Welcome back. Brother Draven." Draven ruffled her hair affectionately, a fond smile played on his lips. "You're welcome, Little Raven."
His footsteps resumed, curving around gracefully. However, he halted abruptly, turning to face her, "Well. I am going outside? Mind tagging along?" Draven offered, extending his hand towards her.
Raven's lips curved into a beautiful smile, with a red shade of blush colouring her cheeks, "Of course." she responded, her voice gentle and warm, as she took his hand.