Rahua's POV
It's been a few days since the kidnap incident. I have been trying to wrap my head around all that is happening to the storyline, everything is so messed up that I don't know anymore if the original story events will even happen anymore.
I am just as clueless as everyone else, my only advantage point is now useless.
"Big sister, we are ready, to learn." Says little Zoe with her big bright eyes coming to the table, a pencil and a piece of paper.
Two days ago, I realised that my younger siblings don't know how to read. None of them, I am pretty sure the original body owner didn't know either. Well since reading and learning is normally reserved to noble houses, it's not surprising that they never learned. But now that I am here, I am determined to change that. I will provide Kira some reading skills, she is smart and learns fast.
Saya, has finally decided to join the tower of mages on her own she will also need reading abilities which will help her learn the magic... spells, which untill now Mr. Cirius has been teaching her, but at tower she will need to know how to read. Zack and Zoe are already 6 years old, they are at great age to learn.
I take a deep breath and put on a smile for Zoe. "Of course, little one. Let's start with the basics, shall we?"
We spend the next few hours going through the alphabet, sounding out the letters and forming simple words. Zoe catches on quickly, her eagerness to learn evident in the way she absorbs the lesson. Kira as well, she learns fast as she understands how each word sounds like. Saya is getting slowly there, but is also very motivated.
However Zack is getting hard time, to learn the basics. I guess he its hard for him to have the same method of teaching as the others. He was as eager as Zoe when we started but he seems disinterested as we progressed through the lesson.
I wonder if Zack is struggling to focus, his mind seems to be wandering to other things. I try my best to keep him engaged, using different methods and approaches to cater to his learning abilities. But it's clear that he's not as enthusiastic about reading as the girls.
I take a moment to sit next to him and gently place a hand on his shoulder. "Is everything okay, Zack? You seem a bit distracted."
He looks up at me, with his big round eyes, with a pouty expression. "I don't like reading, it's boring."
I sigh, trying to understand his perspective. "I understand that it may seem boring at first, but once you can read, you'll be able to explore new worlds and learn so many things. It's a skill that can open up a whole new world for you."
Zack looks at me skeptically, not fully convinced. But I can see a glimmer of curiosity in his eyes. "Really? Can I read about dragons and adventures?"
I nod, smiling. "Absolutely! There are countless stories waiting to be discovered. And who knows, maybe one day you'll even write your own amazing adventure."
Zack's eyes light up with excitement, and suddenly, he seems more willing to give reading another chance. We continue the lesson, with me using Zack's interest in dragons and adventures to make the learning experience more enjoyable for him.
As the hours pass, I can see progress in all of them. They start forming simple sentences and reading short text that I write for them. Their faces light up with pride each time they successfully sound out a word or understand a sentence. It fills my heart with joy to see them embrace the beauty of reading and learning.
As the day comes to an end, I gather my siblings to praise their efforts. "You all did amazing today," I say with a warm smile. "Remember, learning is a journey, and each step forward is a victory. I am proud of each and every one of you. Don't worry about knowing everything at once, you learn something new everyday."
"Big sister is so smart." Says Zoe very excited and happy. They all beam with happiness, knowing that they are making progress. And in this moment, I feel a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos of the storyline, that I felt like I already lost its grasp.
In this world that seems to be spiraling out of control, it's these little moments of normalcy and progress that give me hope, that I can keep my family developing, to a better future.
As the day grows darker mother and father arrive from working at the shop all day, Zack and Zoe happily greet them showing off what they have learned today.
****
Damion's POV
"That old man has lost all his senses, I told him that I reject any engagement proposals and he still disregarded my whishes. You should talk with him Ceaser." I demand infuriated with the situation. My heart already chose Rahua. I was pacing around in the room, Ceaser was sitted not giving me the much attention this subject clearly needed.
"His your heart made of stone? Why are you like this, so cold, that you don't care about my own happiness? " I said already tired of his indifference to my suffering.
"In matters of the kingdom, I should refrain myself to give my opinions, I am not your advisor." This man is getting on my nerves today, what is wrong with him?
"Have you come here just to upset me?" I asked him, already fumming in my anger.
"Damion," he says his voice cold and calm." I understand that you're upset about the situation, but it's important to approach it calmly and rationally. Yelling or arguing with others might not help solve the issue. The way I see it, His Majesty, is just trying to do what's best for the Kingdom."
I glared at Ceaser, my anger boiling inside me. How could he not understand my perspective? Rahua was the one I loved, the one I wanted to spend my life with, not some random noblewoman or Princess, chosen for me by the old man. My heart ached at the thought of being forced into a loveless marriage.
"I don't care about what's best for the Kingdom right now," I spat, my voice dripping with frustration. "I care about my own happiness, my own desires. Is that too much to ask for?"
Ceaser sighed and looked at me, spotting his cold gaze "Yes," his firm words caught me by surprise . "it's too much to ask for, Damion. As the future king, your decisions carry weight and consequences that extend beyond your personal happiness. We must consider the stability and prosperity of the realm, of your people, you can't turn into a selfish king, of those we have had plenty."
I shook my head in disbelief. "Should I sacrifice that for the sake of the kingdom? Is that all a king is supposed to do?"
Ceaser's expression remained the same "Yes, that's exactly what a King should do, sacrificing for his people, Damion. Your happiness does matter, but it's ensuring that your people doesn't suffer because of your personal preferences and your own desires, is what makes you a great king. If not, what makes you any different from any other man?"
I sighed, my anger beginning to subside as Ceaser's words sank in.
"Alright," I said finally, my voice still tinged with frustration. My heart ached I wanted to be a great King different from my father, and his life lead by luxury indulgences. I wanted to make this kingdom prosper like never before, but for would I have to sacrifice my own happiness?
After taking a moment to think, I acknowledged Ceaser's words. He was right. Being a king meant a responsibility to the kingdom and its people. I couldn't let my personal desires cloud my judgment or jeopardize the welfare of those I was meant to protect and serve.
"But what about my own happiness?" I asked, my voice filled with a mix of resignation and desperation.
Ceaser placed a hand on my shoulder, his gaze softening. "Your happiness is important, Damion," he said gently. "But sometimes, as leader, you must make sacrifices for the greater good. It's not an easy path to follow, but it's necessary."
I took a deep breath, trying to find the strength within myself to accept this truth. "I understand, Ceaser," I replied, my tone filled with frustration. "I will try to find a way to fulfill my responsibilities as a future king while seeking a compromise that allows for some measure of personal happiness."
Ceaser nodded, his own expression mirroring my determination. "It takes a great king to sacrifice himself for betterment of his kingdom and his people."
Once again, my duties were starting to feel more like a prison less like an honor. The weight of the crown began to feel heavier on my head, and I couldn't help but wonder if there was a way to balance my personal desires with my responsibilities.
*
I take a break from everything, to organise my feelings, I decide to escape for a while, I tell Loyd to not disturb me, until I call for him.
I ask Cirius to open a portal for me so I can leave my chambers unnoticed.
"Your Highness, is been a while since we last spoke, what does your visit will be bestowing upon my humble self?" Cirius asked his voice filled with sarcasm.
"I need some time alone, Cirius," I replied, trying to keep my voice steady. "I just need to get away from the castle for a little while, you know? Clear my mind and find some peace."
Cirius nodded understandingly. "I can open a portal for you, Your Highness. Where would you like to go?"
I thought for a moment, contemplating the perfect destination that would provide me with the solitude and escape I craved.
"Surprise me , somewhere where I could enjoy a little time, without my responsibilies, so I can organise my thoughts." I say.
Cirius smiled mischievously. "Very well, Your Highness. I have just the place in mind."
He opened a portal, and before I knew it, I was transported to a strange place, as walked out of the side street I found myself in a bustling Market filled with people, and life. The air was aromatic, with all sort of fragrances I had never smelled before.
I wondered why would Cirius transport me to such place filled with people and noise. As I wondered around the place I was surprised of each shop had to offer. It was very different from the market back home, also the prices was completely different, a disparaging difference. I was offered to try many items they seemed eager for me to try it anything and everything.
I spent my time roaming through the city and the market losing myself in the beauty of the place, the tents that covered the market, the artists that displayed their art formed the streets. With each step, my mind became clearer, and the weight on my shoulders slowly lightened. The worries and frustrations that had consumed me earlier began to fade into the background. The music was loud and lively, there was dancers at center, their movements were so smooth and a delicate, it looked like they were moving with the air around them.
I found myself captivated by the energy and vibrancy of the place. The music, the colors, the laughter—it all seemed to infuse the air, creating an atmosphere of pure joy. I couldn't help but be drawn towards the dancers, their graceful movements and infectious rhythm captivating my attention.
And there ... At that moment I saw her, on the other side of the enjoying the music, and the dancers her body also flowing with the music. Before I noticed I was making my to her.
"Rahua? " I whisper in her hear. Her eyes opened widening.
"Damion? What are you doing here?" Her voice brought peace to my tumultuous heart.
I smiled, as relief washed over me. "I needed to clear my mind, and I found myself transported to this incredible place. And then, I saw you, and I couldn't resist coming to say hello."
Rahua's eyes sparkled with delight. "I can't believe it! What a wonderful coincidence. This place is truly magical, isn't it?"
I nodded, feeling a sense of happiness and serendipity. "It truly is. And seeing you here, in the midst of all this beauty, makes it even more special." I could see she was blushing.
She held my hand pulling me away from the noise of the music and the people encircling the dancers. "Look here, Saya, Kira. Damion is also here isn't it a wonderful coincidence. " They had in their hands small bags, from the market.
"Damion, good afternoon. " Says Kira very formal, while patting my back. "We were just sightseeing with big sister, doing nothing wrong." She says suspiciously. I just smile at her familiarity. I could see Saya was looking troubled with her sisters familiarity with me. She just bowed lightly while pulling Kira to her.
"Big sister why don't you stay here enjoy, the day with, your Hi... Damion, we will, take things home, I will comeback later to take you home." Saya says while pushing Kira away not leaving a chance for Rahua to reply. I was glad for Saya help, I couldn't help but to smile.
"Sometimes my sisters act really strange." She says, but I find funny that among them she is the strongest one.
As we walk through the market our hand still entwined. Rahua glanced at me, her eyes filled with curiosity. "Damion, what brings you to this bustling market? It's quite a long way from Arrentela, isn't it?"
I smiled, enjoying the warmth of her presence. "You see, Rahua, I was transported here unexpectedly by Cirius. It seems fate has brought us together once more."
She chuckled softly, her laughter like music to my ears. "You? " My curiosity got the best of me. "What are you doing here so far away from home."
She looked around as if she was searching for anyone who could be listening. " You can tell this to anyone back home, but we are buying our ingredients for our shop here. "
"Why? " My voice comes out a surprise tone. "We do have the same ingredients back home, why would you travel all the way here."
"Hmm, you don't seem to know much about what's going on in the kingdom do you? You haven't change much." She says her voice filled a amusement.
I frowned, I didn't like what she was implying, I did change and learned a lot about my kingdom. "Is that so enlighten me." My voice came out more annoyed than I intended.
She smiled. " Don't take it personally, I didn't mean to sound condescending, however, I understand if you don't know this kind of things." She looks like she is searching for words. " Well what do you think a bag of 10 kg wheat costs in our Kingdom?"
It daunt me, I had no idea, she was right once again. I felt a mix of anger and ashame with myself. " I don't know."
"Well, you see in our Kingdom 10kg of wheat is 50 silver coins. However here 10kg is 5 silver coins." I was speechless, how is that possible to have such disparity in prices, what was happening? She must have noticed my horrified face.
"Well this happens because our Kingdom only exports goods and then they have to sell in a higher price to make profit. To a noble house that's practically nothing but to families like mine, there's no way we have that kind of possibilities. " I didn't know that I could feel more ashamed, but I was, I had no idea how terrible it was for Rahua and her family, and other families in my own kingdom. I was gloating to myself that I knew everything, that I could make myself a better king if I just did some good things and few sacrifices, but I don't actually know anything.
"How? How is that possible?" I feel my voice breaking. I look at Rahua, her voice filled with resignation.
"That's just how it is. Our Kingdom doesn't produce anything, no cereals, no fruits, no goods, we only buy and buy. But how is possible, I don't even know, I guess it makes sense that we end up in famine...I mean, I don't know that we will end up in famine, I mean if that does happen, it would make sense. But I don't know." My mind was running over all the information I just learned, it was clear, if the other markets had a problem and we couldn't buy from them there was no way that anyone could survive, there would be definitely a famine.
"Damion?" Rahua's worried voice made me comeback from my thoughts. "You have been silent for a while. I am sorry if I upset you. I didn't mean it, I was just trying to explain myself I ended up saying, things that I shouldn't. "
"I.. " I didn't know what to say, I was angry, frustrated with myself, once again it Rahua who showed me something so basic that I never knew about my own kingdom. I am absolutely the worst future king that ever was.
"I apologise. You have done nothing wrong. "
" I am still feel like I should apologise." Rahua said softly, her gaze filled with warmth.
"It's not your fault," I whispered, my voice filled with sincerity. "You were just trying to open my eyes to the reality of our kingdom, and for that, I am grateful. You've shown me something that I was completely oblivious to, and I can't thank you enough for that."
Rahua's eyes softened, a mixture of concern and understanding in her gaze. "Damion, you can't blame yourself for not knowing everything. You're still learning, still growing. What matters is that you're willing to listen and to learn."
I nodded, still feeling ashamed, she was the same age as me but her understanding of the world was far greater. I cup her face between my hands, I place my forehead against hers. " I will do better, I promise." She smiles her soothing and gentle.
"I believe you." She says.
I felt a wave of warmth and gratitude wash over me, knowing that Rahua believed in me when I could barely believe in myself.
I tilt my head to the side, I could feel her warm breath against my lips, as I lean closer, I could feel my heart pounding louder and faster, it was as if it was about to explode.
In a moment, our lips met in a tender and passionate kiss. All the worries and doubts seemed to melt away as our tongue danced around with eachother, our connection grew stronger with each passing second. It was as if the world around us ceased to exist, and there was only Rahua and me, lost in the blissful embrace.
Time seemed to stand still, and in that moment, I knew that Rahua was not only the love of my life but also my guiding light. With her by my side, I felt invincible, ready to face any challenge that awaited me in my journey as a future king.
As we pulled away, breathless yet filled with a sense of euphoria, Rahua smiled softly. "Damion," she whispered as if in transe, her low voice made my body shiver in excitement.
"Rahul. I have to go" I say pulling myself away.
"What?? Why ? What happened. " She asked worried.
"There's something I must do. Worry not, we will meet again." I kiss softly on her temple before leaving. I need to make things right, and be someone worthy of her.