The sun had been up for a few hours now, its rays casting a warm golden light through the windows of my bedroom. I stirred from my bed, normally I would be ready to return to a peaceful slumber as was my usual routine. But today was different, as I had important duties to attend to in the capital - entertaining at the celebration hosted by the royals.
In this moment, my quarters were swarming with servants bustling around me, fussing over my appearance. I couldn't help but feel like a child being dressed by others, though usually I would send them running with a swift kick. Unfortunately, my parents insisted on letting the servants choosing my attire themselves, not trusting me to make appropriate choices. I couldn't fathom why, considering my impeccable fashion sense. But apparently, it didn't meet their standards.
With a heavy sigh, I allowed them to drape various luxurious fabrics over my body. The threads were spun from gold and silver, woven into the finest silks. Despite their opulence, the clothes felt suffocating and restrictive. I couldn't understand why nobles enjoyed such uncomfortable attire- were they masochists?
After what felt like an eternity, they settled on an ensemble that met their stringent expectations. A flowing pelisse adorned with intricate embroidery and delicate golden lines that caught the light from every angle. At the waist, a perclose was chosen to be worn, adorned with lavish gold accents.
As the tedious process of clothing selection finally came to an end, I descended the stairs and made my way to the garden where my carriage awaited. My luggage had already been prepared by diligent servants, so all I had left to do was bid farewell to my parents and attend the never-ending celebration ahead.
As I made my way to the garden, my eyes caught sight of two figures eagerly awaiting my arrival. The carriage, already loaded and prepared for our journey, stood alongside a small army of knights - at least 100 strong, if not more.
"Well well, it seems our dear host has graced us with his presence," Father joked with a wide grin on his face.
I couldn't help but wonder how he could be so cheerful at such an early hour.
"I wouldn't have minded sleeping a little longer, but here I am," I responded with a tired sigh,
I couldn't quite understand why we had to leave at such an ungodly hour when the feast was still three days away. We could have easily reached the capital in less than two days.
"Remember darling," my mother chimed in as her eyes scanned over my attire to ensure it met her standards. "You have an image to uphold in the capital, so please don't go searching for trouble."
"I'm sure Favian already knows this,"Favian replied as he put his hand on mother's back, before continuing "But yes, please remember our talks " Father said as he gave me a gentle nudge towards the carriage, urging me to get inside.
"I'll see you in a week or so then," I bid farewell before pausing as I caught sight of Roy and Caer. With a wave of my hand, I beckoned them over and they eagerly obliged with bows and greetings.
"Gentlemen, I have some promising news for both of you," I announced in a monotone voice. Sir Roy's face lit up with anticipation as he leaned forwardwhile Caer's expression remained guarded but curious.
"I spoke to my father about our agreement, Sir Roy. Soon, you will be rewarded handsomely for your invaluable help," I continued, my eyes flickering between the two men.
Caer turned to Roy, his gaze lingering on his face as His brows furrowed in confusion, before turning back to me.
"And as for you, Sir Caen," I said, addressing the scarred knight directly. "I shall speak to the king and convince him to grant a pardon for your past transgressions,as a small favor ."
Sir Caen's eye widened in surprise and gratitude as he bowed deeply before me, thanking me profusely. "There is no need," I replied calmly. "You have been an exceptional mentor to me and it is partly thanks to your guidance that I was able to survive in that hell .
I believe the king will not ignore such a small request, especially considering my worth to him," I added confidently.
Before either of them could respond, I quickly instructed them to mount their horses and prepare to leave. W With one last nod of appreciation towards Sir Caen and a reassuring hand on Sir Roy's shoulder, I made my way inside the waiting carriage.
As we rode away from the grand, imposing mansion, I settled back against the plush cushion of the carriage. From within my dress, I pulled out a small chocolate bar and indulged myself with it. The rich, smooth taste of the chocolate was a welcome comfort in this world of harsh realities. The carriage jostled and bounced along the uneven roads, lacking any form of comfort or suspension. But at least I had my chocolate to ease the discomfort of travel.
The carriage moved along the winding road, its wooden wheels creaking in rhythmic harmony with the horse's hooves. Dust kicked up from the path as the vehicle navigated the uneven terrain, jostling its occupants within. Beyond the window, the landscape unfolded—a patchwork of fields, distant hills, and the occasional homestead. The rhythmic sounds of travel accompanied the gradual progress, marking the passage of time as the carriage rolled onward.
Suddenly, Baalkaroth's voice resonated within my mind, its timbre laced with curiosity. "So, Favian, what are your plans after this grand celebration?"
I let out a heavy sigh and took a deep breath, preparing to explain myself once again. "I will be heading to the royal academy in about a month."
"The academy? Why waste your talents on such mundane tasks?" Baalkaroth sneered, clearly unimpressed with mortal institutions.
I gritted my teeth, trying to hide my irritation. "It is not a waste. I have important business there and it also gives me a chance to make valuable connections for my future plans.I believe that trouble is brewing and is coming right toward us ''
A mocking chuckle reverberated in my head, causing me to clench my jaw. "Do you not fear the saintess of Sarleon may make an appearance? After all,the holy city is awfully close," Baalkaroth challenged.
"I am aware of the risk, but it is one I am willing to take,also I believe that I should be able to maintain a sufficient distance from her so no danger should come my way " I replied curtly.
Secretly though , I wondered how the demon had acquired knowledge of this world's geography, as I had never divulged such information to him.
The carriage jolted to a sudden stop, nearly throwing me off balance within its confines. With curiosity sparking inside me, I leaned out to get a better look at what had caused the interruption. Up ahead on the road, another carriage had broken down, its occupants frantically trying to fix the unexpected turn of events.
Baalkaroth's voice echoed in my mind, suspicion lacing his words. "This seems rather suspicious."
I couldn't deny the oddness of the situation, feeling a twinge of unease in my gut. The timing and circumstances seemed too convenient, raising my guard even higher. After all, I knew there someone plotting against me at every turn,and this may be one of his trap.