⚠︎ This chapter has allusions to sexual assault (not described or explicitly mentioned), violence and blood.
♬ pourquoi la mort te fait peur - Pomme. ♬
"When the golden sunshine kisses our bodies, the warmth of the sun engulfs our beings, please turn your kind gaze towards me and through your beautiful orbs reflect the love I have for you."
A scorching sun that blesses a territory so vast that on foot it would take months to see it all, perhaps even years, however with the extensive research and contribution of the knowledgeable and insightful Emperors of the past, now has a railroad system enviable by all other nations.
And although Nikias never saw it before, he can instantly recognize it, the sound of the mana stone powered engine, the scent of iron and gold, the people brushing past him, worried about their own trips. The train is bigger than he thought by the pictures he saw in the books, he was too closed off in the Palace to ever see one in person, and the people working on the trains wore funny clothes with a funny hat, their fake hospitality smiles made him uncomfortable.
He looks around, yet doesn't move, because right now, his body doesn't belong to him, he can see what he does, he can feel his feelings and even the world around him, but the movements and decisions were already made in the past.
Since this is simply, a memory.
Looking at his own distorted reflection on the train iron carcass, he guesses he's supposed to be around twelve, his silver hair is styled in a more childish manor, his golden eyes are dull, the usual shine nowhere to be found, and his clothes were clean and poised, but the collar is so tight its suffocating.
A sudden tug on his hand makes him start moving, his gaze fixated on his reflection, so he can see the woman pulling him, but he can't recognize her.
Kidnapped, probably.
There is, however, no feeling of despair or sadness, only quiet, his gaze fixated on his own reflection.
''Damn it, how did this happen?'' The woman murmurs, out of breath as she pulls him around, behind them the sound of whistles and dogs mean that the guards were probably already after them. The guards? For the kidnapping of a Prince? Not even the Knights? Why?
Well, it does not matter in actuality.
The grip of the woman's hand becomes tighter, hurting even, but Nikias doesn't flinch or complain, not a single sound leaves his lips.
Slowly he turns his gaze to the sight behind them, the guards running, the chaos of people being shoved aside, the dogs barking as they guide the guards towards Nikias. What's the use of tracking dogs when easily a magician could track them? Is it because the use of a magician would be more expensive? Or gather more attention?
Even more than his clear silver hair and golden eyes?
Frantically, the woman pulls the boy towards a door, closing it behind them, the sound of the guards outside is faint, she probably succeeded in diverting their attention, how she did so wasn't caught by the boy's eyes.
''We're finally alone'', the woman says with a smile, he can't see her eyes, but he can hear her panting. Her hands touch his body, he can tell by the silence and the uncomfortable feeling, but in truth, he can't actually feel her touch, or hear whatever she's speaking, the cold hits his body when she removes his clothes, but there's nothing else.
There's no use of something more, because the context clues are enough.
Enough to tell what happened, how long it passed is hard to tell, Nikias doesn't move, speak or even try to fight the woman off. After a moment, that could've lasted a minute, an hour or a day, the door opens behind him, he can see the woman yelling, the guards grabbing her, covering his body and saying something he can't hear.
The numbness covers his entire body, swallowing his will, his energy, his life.
Until eventually he's back in his room, safe, with guards outside snickering about what happened to him, making jokes about how lucky the young Prince is, simply because the woman who kidnapped him was the daughter of a Margrave known for her beauty, no matter that she was double his age or that he was simply still a child.
And although the woman and her family were killed, the Prince stayed in bed, for days, hearing the jokes, the comments, and the snark remarks of his attendants. There was no word from his parents or his brother, although there were rumors that the Emperor was ruthless to the woman and her family, Nikias saw nothing, he felt no warmth from them.
There was never an apology.
He was only out because he wanted to follow his brother to the Academy, see him even if from afar, he was careless, yes, but there was no one stopping him from being so. There was not even a need to be secretive, he left his room and the Palace in daylight with hundreds of Knights, maids and attendants passing him.
For a Palace bustling with people, none stopped the young Prince from leaving unattended.
No one cared.
Any hope Nikias carried of being loved was shattered, there was nothing left to hope, no one left to resent, but himself.
Because just as his father's butler constantly told him as a child: This is solely a punishment of the heavens because he's tainted by evil.
A Prince so evil that he's impossible to love.
That is Nikias Gregor Chrysl. That is who he is and who he always will be.
A loud gasp reverbers on the empty hallways of the Palace, holding himself in place by leaning against one of the walls, Nikias pushes his sweat drenched hair back, as he tries to regulate his heartbeat and breathing. The sound of the ballroom bustling with people at a distance makes him feel heavy, the aftermath of the memory is hard to deal with.
He can't scream, so he pants, crouching on the floor, his head spinning and his legs feeling weak. It has been a while since he had a memory from the old Nikias coming to the surface.
The memory is difficult to swallow, he can't even process it properly as most of it was numbed by the trauma, there was almost no sound, no memory of the feeling, no memory of what actually happened, only the before, after and the damp uncomfortable feeling.
Did she… he tries to make sense of it all, but he can't, because it all makes his head hurt, he wasn't the one such things happened to, however the pain and numbness feel as if it truly belongs to him.
He gets up once his breathing becomes regulated, fixing his hair and attire in the reflection of one of the decorative swords decorating the Palace hallway. It's fine, it's not my past, he and I aren't the same, he thinks, attempting to soothe himself. The more he recalls memories that do not belong to him, the guiltier he feels, for living a satisfying life in the body of someone who only knew hurt.
Even if he was destined to hurt others as well if he remained alive.
Could a world where they both achieve their happiness exist? A world where Nikias and Vahe can co-exist and still be happy?
Is he even happy?
Can he be happy?
Another wave of guilt, this time a familiar one, the guilt of his own past, of his late brother, sometimes when he sleeps or closes his eyes to rest he can still see it.
The eyes of his dead brother, staring at him, as fear was the last emotion in his expression. The sound of his father's drunk ramblings, the stench of alcohol and piss, sometimes he can even remember the scent of wet soil when he buried his brother's body that was already heavily decomposed.
No wonder he prefers working in place of sleeping.
Work is rewarding, he plans, studies and applies, being able to see things slowly moving towards his goal is all he truly wishes for at the moment.
For his engagement, for his marriage, and for his future life after they defeat a god.
A chuckle leaves his mouth as he enters the Sun ballroom, to think that he sees defeating a god as part of his path, not the end goal of it, is almost hilarious. He takes a deep breath, trying to forget such bleak thoughts, at least for now.
The Sun ballroom is decorated with silver and blue, a representation of the union of the couple, and in the middle of the ballroom is the happy couple, talking with politicians from different nations, dancing and laughing.
They shine with happiness, a happiness unfamiliar to Nikias.
Is that what love looks like? He wonders.
His gaze then falls on Lyor; it's not hard to spot the King amidst the people of the Empire, not only due to his unique attire, but also due to his height, being the tallest there. The King looks extremely uncomfortable around the nobility of not only the Exos Empire, but the other Kingdoms as well, it's no wonder he would be approached as it's not everyday one has the opportunity of speaking with a King so isolated on the other side of the Blue Sea.
Near Lyor he can also spot Cypress, who's holding a glass of wine and speaking with one of his older sisters, his expression is frozen in displeasement and he looks about to run away.
On the other side of the ballroom, is Rainier and Lowe, they're talking in a corner, holding their glasses, as Rainier is also holding Lowe's waist, they look more comfortable beside each other compared to the engagement party a few months prior.
Nikias starts to walk towards his own fiance, but is stopped mid-way by a man he rarely sees, yet dreads to interact with. Margrave Larchier is, per usual, using his purple robe from the Magician's Tower, his blonde hair is shorter than before, reaching now only his ears, his green eyes, though, still bring shivers to Nikias spine, like staring in the eyes of a serpent.
''Your highness!'' The man says with a mischievous smile and cold gaze. ''What a joyous occasion, no?'' He asks, giving Nikias the glass of wine that was in his hand, but the Prince refuses. ''C'mon, worried I would have spiked it?'' He asks, laughing, his gaze never leaving the Prince's, as if he's calculating every move.
I don't like dealing with him, Nikias thinks, dodging the man and continuing to walk towards Lyor, just to be stopped by the man again.
''You know, your mana is so interesting'', his words make the Prince sigh.
''Whatever do you want, Margrave Larchier? I won't give you any more of my blood'', he says, annoyed.
''I don't exactly want your blood, but I hear you have contact with other Saints'', he gazes towards Lyor, only making Nikias more upset.
''Never''.
''Just a drop!'', The Margrave begs. ''I'll do more magic circles for you'', he says, but Nikias shakes his head, walking faster. ''Free of charge'', Margrave says, running behind the Prince. ''I will even pay for the materials!'', his words finally make the Prince stop.
''Not Lyor's'', Nikias says. ''I'll send you a letter next time I need your services, I'll comply then''.
Margrave Larchier smiles, that creepy smile of his, and nods, taking a sip of his wine. ''I'll await for your letter than,'' he bows, ''your highness.''
Finally he manages to reach Lyor without interruptions in his way, he approaches the man slowly, standing on his side as he overhears the words of the nobles trying to butter the King up.
''...the produce of your nation is truly superb, do you have any intent in entering other export deals besides the one with the Second Prince?'' The one who asks is the Crown Princess of the Saxum Kingdom, Wren Mons was recently crowned and she looks exactly like her sister Alicia Mons.
''If you wish to discuss such business, Nikias would be of better help, as it is his venture'', Lyor answers with a cold expression, he looks clearly uncomfortable with the situation, looking around, probably looking for his fiance, as the moment his eyes meet Nikias' his gaze softens and a soft smile appears on his lips. He raises his hand, caressing the Prince's face before resting his hand on his shoulder. ''You took a while in the bathroom, are you doing well?'' Lyor's words forsake the others that were previously talking with him, his whole body turning towards the Prince, as if he doesn't care about the others.
Which is, most likely, the truth.
''I was just taking a breather'', Nikias says, his gaze going from Lyor's heterochromatic eyes towards the dance floor, where the loving couple keeps dancing without a care about the nobles watching them, eager to gain favor with the future rulers of the Exos Empire. ''Should we dance?'' He asks, actually not truly meaning his words, as even if he had dance lessons with his teacher, he still dislikes the activity.
Lyor smiles. ''We could move to the balcony to talk, instead'', his suggestion is met with a sigh and a smile from Nikias.
''Lead the way'', the Prince says simply. Lyor takes his hand and leads the Prince towards the second floor of the ballroom. From up there, everything feels and looks small, the sound of people talking and their laughter are like a muffled background noise.
And once the door of the balcony is closed behind them, the sound is completely gone, and the only sounds to be heard are of the Knights patrolling and the night bugs.
''How are you feeling?'' Lyor asks, after casting a small sound barrier around them, the trail of white mana forming a thin veil around the balcony only lasts for a split second, becoming invisible to the naked eye a moment later. So that's what full mana control looks like… Nikias thinks before leaning against the balcony's rail, staring at the full-moon, gracing the engagement of the two lovebirds inside.
''Another memory'', Nikias says, closing his eyes as he feels Lyor's hand on his face again, his cold touch always manages to soothe his racing thoughts. ''I know I'm not him, that those memories do not truly belong to me'', he continues. ''But I can't avoid feeling it, you know?''
''What happened?''
''There's no doubt that Nikias was someone that suffered a lot'', he says opening his eyes, staring directly at Lyor's face, his eyes are both white due to him using his mana for the barrier, and his hair is a bit more messy than what it was before at the weeding. Even so, he still looks mesmerizing. ''I just never thought it would go that far'', he closes his eyes again, recalling the terrifying memory. ''The more I think about it, the more infuriated I get, how could…'', he pauses, frowning. ''How could they neglect a child that badly, the way they treat me you'd think he was spoiled, the way they see him…'' Nikias opens his eyes again, looking at Lyor, ''I felt how alone he was, how he had no hope left''.
''Do you feel guilty?'' Lyor's question makes Nikias snort.
''Guilty? Of course I do, I'm living a life that doesn't belong to me, but that's not all, I also judged Nikias to be a shitty person'', he says, taking a step back, crossing his arms on the balcony rail and leaning his head onto it. ''But now I know, he was only just as broken as I am, we are… similar in a way, I keep thinking that maybe if the gods were merciful, we could've lived in the same world, found our way towards happiness, leaving those who caused our pain behind.''
''It's not your fault'', Lyor says caressing his head, and Nikias knows he's right, he was not the one that put his soul inside Nikias' body, he was not the one that left his son alone to bear with the pain of being ridiculed for being kidnapped and assaulted. But he's here now, inside this body, learning more about the poor child that died feeling alone in the world.
I don't want to be alone.
A familiar pain grows inside his chest, he closes his eyes again, taking a deep breath, he can't lose his strength now. Not again. ''Nikias wasn't a good person, I'm not a good person, is that why the Universe cursed our existence? One trapped in a family and a life he couldn't change, suffering neglect all of his life, and the other…'', he trails off, feeling Lyor's hands on his chest, pulling him away from the rail towards him, embracing Nikias in a cold and comforting hug.
''You are good Nikias'', Lyor says. ''You can't possibly look at all you've done since you became a Prince and think you weren't doing good''.
Nikias sighs. ''Lyor, doing good with dirty motives isn't commendable''.
''That's not true, do you think the halflings you saved think that you didn't do good just because you wanted the information in exchange for their lives? Or do you think your Knights, that were desperate for a chance, care that you only have them salvation for your own benefit?'' Lyor says, caressing Nikias' back.
''Aren't you the one that hates being called a saviour?'' Nikias asks with a soft smile. ''And I'm not selfless like you, if those people entered the way to my goal, I would've killed them, just like the ones we judge bad. All that changes is the side we're on''.
''Those who do not consider themselves good, are often the ones helping others the most. We both do what we can''.
''Don't compare your quest to protect others with my quest to save myself'', Nikias shakes his head. ''You risk your life to eradicate slavery in your continent Lyor, I only do it here because the ones behind it are the ones hindering my peaceful future''.
''If that were true'', Lyor says in a soft tone. ''Then why do you feel guilty for taking upon Nikias' life? If you're so bad, why do you dislike taking upon the familial love directed at him? Don't you also crave such a connection?''
''No'', Nikias whispers. ''It's different''.
''How so?''
Nikias falls silent, unsure how to respond to Lyor's question.
''Why do you feel so guilty for being happy?''
A sigh leaves his lips before he's able to answer the question, his throat drying up. ''Because I don't know how it feels, being happy, that is.''
''It feels like a gentle breeze'', Lyor says, kissing Nikias' forehead. ''A small breeze on your heart, filling your lungs with fresh air, soothing your throbbing head and enveloping your being with the soft feeling of being there.''
''You read too many philosophy books'', Nikias complains as Lyor places more kisses on his face. ''Happiness is abstract, not tangible. How can one expect happiness when they're not aware if what they're striving for will, in fact, bring them such an abstract concept of a feeling? It's not like hunger, or thirst, it's not like being alive, those are concrete objectives''.
''There isn't a moment you thought: 'I would love to freeze time right now'?'' Lyor says while kissing the side of Nikias' eyes.
''Sure, but that's just because it's comfortable to remain frozen in a time where I ain't suffering'', Nikias answers with a shrug.
''That is happiness'', Lyor says with a smile. ''You're so happy you want to remain in that moment where you're in bliss''.
''Then why can't I?''
''Because happiness is built in moments, a happy life is one built of several moments of bliss, it doesn't mean you'll lack fear or pain, just that the blissful moments overshadow the pain'', he answers, touching their foreheads together. ''Nikias, instead of feeling guilty for being happy, try honoring those who died and be happy for them''.
Nikias doesn't say a word, he can't. Because although everything Lyor says makes sense, his heart can't be fully changed, he can't erase those feelings, the feeling of not being allowed to build a happy life after the pain of others whom he loves.
How can he build a life on top of the corpse of his brother?
Trampling over the trauma and pain of the original Nikias, who never had the chance to be happy as well?
Vahe can't be happy, be it as himself or as Prince Nikias, happiness shouldn't be allowed for those that are alive because of other's death.
''When I was a child'', Lyor whispers. ''I saw a halfling child die of hunger, I was trapped inside the Temple, I was well-fed and cared for, I didn't know that others weren't. Being special granted me a privilege that I thought was a staple to any child''. He closes his eyes, Nikias watches as his eyelashes flutter with the wind and his lips move softly with every whispered word. ''Then I escaped the Temple for the first time, and just a few meters away from where I was being kept well-cared and well-fed, a child was trampled to death for asking for food, then further away, another child laid cold on the floor, dead by the hunger desolating the Kingdom''.
He pauses, frowning, Nikias raises his hand, caressing Lyor's cheeks, softening the man's expression.
''The food I ate until then, if I just went hungry one day or the other, could've saved lives'', He opens his eyes. ''Do you think I don't deserve to be happy as well?''
''It's not the same, Lyor, you didn't know''.
''Vahe'', his name makes his body tremble, an urge to cry taking over his heart. ''It's not your fault as well'', he whispers in his ear. ''Your brother's death and Nikias' death, they aren't your fault''.
''No'', he shakes his head. ''They are, if I died instead…''
''Then the same would be true, do you think your brother wouldn't blame himself either?'' Lyor's question makes the tears in Nikias' eyes finally fall. ''Your death wouldn't bring solace to them, your pain doesn't bring them happiness, I understand it is hard to accept yourself as someone worthy of love, but Vahe, you can be happy, even amidst the pain''.
No words leave Nikias' mouth, he simply hugs Lyor quietly, after a few moments taking solace in the man's cold embrace, he takes a step back looking at his fiance with a sad smile. He keeps allowing himself to be vulnerable with Lyor, he can't understand why it's so easy to open his heart to the man.
If one day Lyor betrays him…
No.
He can't think of this possibility, because if he starts thinking about that, he'll go down a spiral he isn't sure he can get out of.
With his rough cold hands Lyor scoops Nikias face, bringing him closer. ''We're together, you're not alone''. His words sound serious, and truthful, but even so, can he truly be trusted blindly?
Lyor touches their foreheads before placing his lips on Nikias', a short, sweet and lingering kiss, soft like a warm summer breeze, after their lips part ways, a soft sigh leaves Nikias' lips.
However, before either of them can say anything, a loud sound can be heard from inside the ballroom, screams, broken glass and a commotion.
Already? Nikias thinks as he and Lyor leave the balcony.
Inside the ballroom is a situation that isn't as bad as Nikias thought it would be.
Sixteen hooded figures brand diverse weapons across the ballroom, they're wearing black robes with an hourglass symbol at the back, their faces are covered by not only a mask but also an identity concealing magic circle.
''You knew?'' Lyor asks, Nikias nods.
''I did my best to stop it, but the details weren't clear'', Nikias says, running down the stairs, Lyor grabs his hand softly making the man stop and look at him.
''You don't have a weapon, and can't properly control your mana yet, don't run in front'', Lyor words make Nikias' blush, not due to embarrassment for his words by themselves, no, because for someone who cares the most about his safety, why did he run face first into such danger? Is he crazy?
''Yes'', Nikias nods, taking a step back holding tight onto Lyor's hand.
An absolute mess, that's how the wedding party for the Crown Prince is, the guests are all in corners being protected by Imperial Knights, while others already ran away from the ballroom while the door wasn't sealed shut by the magic circle made by the cult.
At the center is the Crown Prince and Princess, protecting them are the Silver Crows Knights, the one fighting the most intruders is, of course, Sir Rainier.
Where's Lowe? Nikias thinks, scanning the ballroom, until he spots his butler talking with his twin brother in a more secluded hidden spot. On the other side he can see Fleuri and Cypress talking as well, near them are the Royals from the Whisperia Kingdom, who don't seem at all pleased.
''Your highness!'' Scarlet appears behind Nikias startling him, she's with her sword on hand, but that isn't what surprises the Prince, the fact that the woman is covered head to toe with blood is. ''It isn't mine'', she comments simply.
''How's the situation outside?'' He asks, his hand still holding tightly to Lyor's, they weren't noticed by the cult yet due to the mess of the ballroom, and meddling now would only bring them harm.
''Dacre and Jiwon stayed outside, I escorted Irene and Miyuki to the Knights' dorms and came back, there are around thirty in total, I killed four, Jiwon killed one, and a few escaped inside, I apologize for our shortcomings'', she says quickly, bowing apologetically, she looks frustrated with herself.
''You did well'', Nikias says with a sigh, his eyes going from one place to the other, registering where everything went wrong. ''It changed'', he whispers to himself. The Time Cult attack at the wedding had a few purposes, but not many of them were revealed, of course they don't want the Crown Prince to take the throne, but an attack during the wedding? Do they know about Evangelia? If yes… how? If so, was the attack in the novel with the objective to harm her? Is it due to the time curse she carries?
''Scarlet, where were you?'' Out of nowhere, Frode appears, grabbing his sister, his eyes are dark and his clothes are also stained with blood, just not as much as his sister's. ''Father was furious!''
She shoves her brother off. ''Fuck off Frode, we're under attack and you're more worried about messing with me?'' She asks, turning away from the man, who attempts to grab her again, but the woman slides off easily.
''You know something about this, don't you?'' The man asks, his gaze going to the Prince. ''Are you involved?''
Nikias scoffs. ''Sir Frode, I recommend you shut your mouth when speaking to me''. He turns away, his gaze looking for Gutierre, who's supposed to be guarding them as well, but the man is nowhere to be seen.
''I saw him on my way here, he was fighting off those who were trying to get in here'', Scarlet comments, ignoring her brother who's growing angrier.
''Were you so jealous of the Crown Princess that you had to ruin her wedding?'' Frode says, finally managing to make Scarlet look at him again.
''Go do your job, because I am doing mine'', she answers simply, turning to speak with the Prince again. ''Your highness, let's go, I'll escort you to your room''.
Nikias shakes his head. ''No'', he looks at Lyor, who's in full guard, his gaze is cold and serious, his hand gripping tightly onto Nikias' while his other hand is touching his earring, as if he's just waiting for the right moment. ''Don't'' he whispers to Lyor, getting his attention. ''They can't know your full power or that you have a relic''.
Lyor looks startled and confused, but he nods either way, his gaze falling onto Scarlet. ''Give me your sword, I'll take Nikias to his room''.
''No'', Nikias says with a sigh. ''Help them'', he points at the center of the ballroom where eight cultists are trying to reach the Crown Prince and Princess, and although Alkaios is fighting as well, it is only four against eight. And Evangelia won't use her mana here, he thinks. ''I'll be fine with Scarlet, I'll go where Cypress is'', he says, knowing that the other Saint's presence will appease Lyor.
''Fine, but make sure to not engage in any fight'', Lyor says, frowning.
''You're crazy if you think I'll let you get near the Prince!'' Frode says, pointing his own sword at Lyor, but some fights don't need to be fought for you to know the crushing defeat you'll face. The moment Lyor's eyes meet Frode's, the man flinches, shaking.
''Just go'', Nikias says, ''Give him your sword Scarlet'', the woman complies and they move away towards where Cypress and Fleuri are.
Lyor messes with the sword for a moment before walking towards the middle of the ballroom.
''Why is he there?'' Cypress asks, leaning against the wall, his expression is tired and he looks angry.
''I asked him to'', Nikias says with a sigh, his hands fidgeting onto his pants as he looks around. From sixteen, now only ten remain. ''Why aren't the other Knights moving to protect my brother?''
''Because they're protecting the Emperor'', Cypress comments, pointing towards the thrones where the Emperor and Empress are, their expressions are calm, as if they don't truly believe something bad will happen to their children whilst they're surrounded by fully armed Knights.
''Your highness'', Fleuri approaches him. ''I think two of the sixteen are the musicians from before, their clothes under the cloak are similar, and I saw them leave a few minutes before the attack''.
Nikias nods. ''I was aware''.
''If you were aware why not say anything?'' Cypress asks.
''Because the future is uncertain'', Nikias answers simply. ''It can change''.
''That's…'' Cypress speaks but Nikias can't hear him, his gaze fixed onto Lyor.
There is a lot to be mesmerized about the King, his appearance, his reverence, his kindness and power, and although Nikias knew about his skills, he never saw it, so he couldn't properly judge it. Sure he can feel the man's power in mana, but not his ability with the sword.
And it is more mesmerizing than he ever thought it could be. He moves precisely, his moves are concise and quick, there's not a second wasted, he strikes the first cultist with a diagonal slash, and the man falls immediately, making the Prince and other Knights startled by the sudden help.
Alkaios speaks something, but Nikias can't hear through the distance, all he can see is Lyor's face that showcases no emotion at all, his eyes are clear and his mouth doesn't move, he simply nods turning to the second cultist near them. This time the cultist fights back, their swords clashing four times before effortlessly Lyor manages to disarm them and strike the back of their neck, causing them to fall down as well. He's getting them alive, he's really good at avoiding deadly strikes, just how many times did he spare other's lives with such tricks? Nikias knows that Lyor refuses to kill while at war unless it was strictly necessary, he just never thought about how the man had done it.
Another cultist is down, this time by Rainier's sword, his face and clothes are already covered in blood, this time the cultist was killed.
The fight isn't prolonged longer, both Alkaios and Rainier manage to take down another cultist each, while quickly Lyor takes down the remaining three.
Silence befalls the ballroom as everyone looks around to see if that is it, if there isn't any more remaining, just so then the silence is broken by the sound of a gun being fired. A mana gun? Nikias thinks, scanning the ballroom until his gaze hits near the previously shut door, there he can see the Knights tackling the cultist that just shot his gun, behind him Nikias can see an injured Gutierre who was probably fighting off other cultists.
His gaze then goes back to where Lyor is, a small pink barrier fading, Alkaios grabbing Evangelia, his eyes open in worry, his lips moving frantically as the woman simply laughs it off. So she was the target…
Why? Is it just because she is the Crown Princess? Or do they know something more? Could I not be the only one that knows the future of the novel?
Such speculation must be done another time, Nikias' gaze goes from the recently wed to Lyor, who's speaking with Rainier, observing him from afar he can't help but think that the man is truly distinct from others. And not only on his beauty or height, or his poise, but the fact that he doesn't have a single drop of blood in his clothes.
After it's confirmed that all cultists are either incapacitated or dead, Nikias walks towards his fiance. ''Are you ok?'' He asks, looking up at the man and brushing his shoulder carefully. Lyor's expression that before was calm and composed is now open in a sweet smile.
''I wouldn't dare to get hurt'', he answers, caressing Nikias' cheek.
''Thank you for the assistance'', Alkaios says, interrupting their conversation, his eyes still filled with hostility but his words are sincere.
''All I did was by his request'', Lyor says with a soft nod, but his gaze doesn't leave Nikias as he moves his hand from his cheek to his ears. ''You should go to rest'', he speaks directly to his fiance, ignoring the Crown Prince.
''I need to check on others first, will you be leaving after this?'' Nikias asks, placing his hand on top of Lyor's. ''You could sleep here''.
Lyor shakes his head. ''Send me a letter after you rest, ok?''
Nikias sighs, he wants to ask Lyor to stay longer, but he doesn't, the King lowers his head, placing a kiss on Nikias' forehead.
''We'll talk more about that later, just think about what I said'', Lyor says, with a soft smile.
Alkaios makes a noise cleaning his throat to get the attention of the Prince and the King, but they ignore him, exchanging a few more words before Lyor leaves to talk with Cypress.
''Thank you, Nikias'', Evangelia is the first to speak, her eyes show no emotion, but he can hear the trembling in her voice, she also noticed that something felt wrong.
''There's no need, it was Lyor who did all the work'', Nikias says. ''Congratulations on the wedding, my gift will be ready when you come back from your honeymoon''.
''You shouldn't have'', Alkaios says, his hand on Evangelia's waist.
Nikias opens his mouth to say something along the lines of 'you're my brother of course I should've', but he doesn't, sighing and smiling in the end saying: ''Just enjoy the peace while you can''.
He turns to walk away, but is stopped by Rainier's voice: ''Your highness, wait a moment''.
''Yes?''
''Can I make a request of you?''
''What will you give me in return Sir Rainier?'' Nikias asks, his golden gaze is cold and he's slightly impatient as he wishes to return to his quarters and rest, his mind racing, and he still needs to check on his Knights as well.
''I will owe you, your highness'', Rainier looks anxious, his eyes darting around and his hand fidgeting with the sheath of his sword. ''Listen, I'm worried about Lowe'', his words make Nikias raise his eyebrow.
''Whatever do you mean? Worried because he's working too much? Or perhaps because you're leaving him to care for your childhood love's honeymoon?'' Nikias says with a mocking tone.
Rainier pauses, frowning, he appears to get angry but doesn't act upon the emotion. ''Neither'', he probably wishes to rebuttal the Prince's words, or justify himself on his actions, but he can't, because the Prince hasn't lied. ''One of the cultists…'', he rubs between his eyes, ''Said his name to me, I killed him before he could elaborate further, but I am worried he might be in some sort of danger.''
Considering the Northern Tower has connections with the cultists, it isn't surprising some of them might recognize Lowe and Raphael, even so, they shouldn't know they're working at the Palace, Nikias ponders. Could it be because of Raphael's works last year? Or perhaps the person was simply surprised to see Lowe here, that's why they mentioned his name? Regardless of the reason, they should be more careful moving forward.
''You don't need to tell me how to treat or care for my employees, Sir Rainier.'' Nikias says. ''Lowe is under my wing, of course I will care for him''.
''That's not it!'' Rainier shakes his head. ''I wasn't clear enough, your highness, I just wish for you to keep him inside the Palace until I return.''
Nikias scoffs. ''Sir Rainier, Lowe is more able to care for himself than you give him credit for''.
''I don't doubt his abilities.''
''Yet here you are, asking me to force him to stay inside where you consider safe because you're worried harm might come his way'', Nikias can't help but laugh. ''But when it comes to abiding by his worries, you ignore it due to your responsibilities'', he takes a step closer to the Knight. ''Don't be mistaken by our previous cooperations Sir Rainier, I can see you still distrust me, and when it comes to my people, I do not trust you either''.
''Your highness-'', Rainier attempts to speak but Nikias cuts him off.
''Lowe is older than us, he lived things we couldn't even fathom, yet he's here, he survived a horrid past. He isn't weak nor stupid'', Nikias smirks, ''Or do you think that his relationship with you makes you more important to him than me or his brother''. He's starting to become more annoyed. ''The only person here who brings him any kind of harm is you''.
Rainier's red eyes darken. ''I am aware of all that, your highness. I am aware of my hypocrisy and that Lowe is a capable magician''.
''Then why worry for his safety outside the Palace? Aren't you simply using him to forget my sister-in-law?''
Nikias' words catch the Knight off-guard.
''No… I…'', he seems unable to say anything further, silence befalling between them.
''Greed costs a lot, Sir Rainier'', Nikias says at last. ''You wish to build something with him, yet can't let go of your title or her''.
The man remains silent.
''Those who wish for it all, one day, may find themselves with nothing'', Nikias says, he almost laughs at his own words, quoting one of Lyor's books is ironic, especially on how boring he found the book when he read under the man's recommendation.
He doesn't allow the man to speak again, turning and leaving to check on his Knights so he can finally rest for the day.
❥
A comfortable silence, the only sounds are muffled by the distance, the sound of the wheels of the carriages leaving, the sound of the night bugs, or the rustling leaves against the wind, nothing truly interrupts the precious silence of the night. High on the sky the moon shines brightly, with not a single cloud to be seen, the stars also shine beautifully.
The sweet scent of the flowers of the Empress' garden where previously the wedding took place, now not a single thing denounces the big event that was held there, all cleaned by the efficient servants of the Palace. Just so that now the Empress can walk there unobstructed. A lot in the mind of the woman.
Her eyes shine in a bright purple tone, her silver hair is as shiny as the moon itself, she's wearing only her white night gown that reaches her ankles, her hair down and her face bare. Once she reaches the middle of the garden where a small field filled with night phlox flowers, she kneels on the ground, feeling the grass tickling her knees.
With her eyes fixed on the moon she raises her hands, and speaks in the ancient language of the Empire: ''Oh dear Moon, answer my prayers, hear my pleas and bless me with the grace of your presence.''
Accompanied by her words, the field is filled with her mana, purple sparkles filling the place away from prying eyes, the flowers shining as they change colors from their usual white tone to a bright purple one.
Seconds pass before a woman appears in front of Empress Else, the woman is similar to the Empress, but she's undeniably prettier and appears younger. Her silver hair shines brighter, and her purple irises have a mysterious tone, and she's tall, so tall that even if the Empress weren't kneeling she would need to raise his gaze up to look at her.
The goddess touches Else's head, allowing her to speak. Compared to how the goddess behaves amongst her peers, in front of her subjects she's revered, and her behaviour is a reflection of such, standing straight with the cold gaze only a god could have.
Looking down at a mere mortal.
''My Lady'', the Empress says, her eyes filling with tears. ''Please tell me why must we go through such trials?''
''Dear Else'', the goddess says, her voice sounding like an echo, distant and powerful. ''It isn't up to you to choose which trials one must experience''.
''Can't I take upon my children's?'' She pleads, tears running down her face.
''You were always such a sweet child, my dear Else, you grew up finely'', the goddess kneels as well, placing her cold hand on the Empress' face. ''Your children's sins aren't to be paid by the parents''. Her words make Else open her eyes in shock.
''They're children, what sins could they have committed?'' the woman pleads.
But the goddess doesn't even flinch. ''Fate has its own plans, dear Else, there is very little even gods can do against it''.
''How can I watch them being harmed like this?'' Else says, biting her lower lip to stop herself from sobbing.
The goddess pauses, watching her Saint vulnerable expression with pity in her heart. ''Dear Else, I adore you'', she says with a soft tone. ''But not even I can interfere with other's free-will, all you can do as a mother is to stand with them'', she tilts her head, watching as the Empress' lips bleed as more and more tears stream down her cheeks. ''My dear, if you wish to protect them so badly, why haven't you done so until now?''
Empress Else stops, her eyes gazing directly into the goddess' empty purple eyes, her heart beating inside her chest hurts, way more than any physical wound could.
''I simply…'', she trails off, the guilt she's been feeling all along crashes down onto her at once, of course she knows the truth, that her husband wasn't the only one pushing their children away due to the duties of the Crown. ''I am responsible for so many lives'', she says with a whisper lowering her head in shame.
''And so are your children'', the goddess says. ''And although it pains me to say this my dear, perhaps it's time for new eyes to gaze upon the Empire''.
''Pass the throne? But he's not ready!'' The woman sounds more desperate. ''Alkaios is still a child''.
''Else, fate can always force one's hand'', the goddess comments, standing up again, her eyes now at the Moon. ''I do not wish for this any more than you do''.
''Then why? Please, My Lady, give me guidance'', the Empress begs, lowering her head.
''That's for you humans to decipher, my dear, all I can do is provide you with a bit of a clear mind'', with those words the goddess places a soft kiss on the Empress' forehead, making the woman fall down, asleep.
❥
''It's time we start preparing the invitations, your highness'', Lowe's words early in the morning sound like noise inside of Nikias' throbbing head, he slept only a few hours and awoke with his whole body aching due to his long previous day. Who knew he would be that tired after a wedding that wasn't even his.
''Then proceed, you will know better than I who to invite…'', he trails off his gaze fixed on the window of his room where the sun shines brightly. ''Oh, don't invite Duke Sawdon or anyone involved with him'', he turns to look at Lowe. ''I need to make my position clear, anyone involved with the Tower as well''.
''Your highness, that could implicate…'' Lowe starts speaking but is cut off by the Prince.
''Lowe, in one year we won't be in the Empire anymore. If I bend down and allow them to think I'm easy, how would they perceive me as a King Consort? They steal from me, dare to attack my brother's wedding and I should invite them to my engagement party?'' Nikias shakes his head, yawning. ''I don't care about the political game my brother or father play, I have my own plans''.
''Being on the bad side of one of the Dukes isn't ideal'', Lowe says with a sigh, his eyes are bloodshot and he seems to have been up all night.
''Did you say your goodbyes to your boyfriend at night?'' His question makes the servant blush.
''No, I was working on the engagement'', he answers, his hands holding tight onto the papers in his hand. ''Rainier was…'', he swallows, closing his eyes for a second before continuing: ''Guarding his highness, the Crown Prince's quarters''.
Nikias laughs. ''They sure can be cruel, or perhaps that's just customs?''
''It's the customs'', Lowe says, ''The consummation of the marriage of the Crown Prince must always be verified''.
''That's quite old-fashioned, he probably could've avoided it if he wished to'', Nikias leans back onto his bed, staring at the ceiling of his room. ''Make sure to add the Royals of the other Kingdoms as well, except the Whisperia Kingdom''.
''Due to Cypress?'' Lowe asks, making notes.
''Yes and no'', Nikias says, leaning to the side so he can look at the servant. ''They're colluding with the Time Cult, we can't allow them inside my engagement''.
''Not even for observation?''
''No, there's time and place for that'', Nikias says with a sigh. ''Alkaios was crazy to actually invite them to the wedding, especially after murdering their youngest Prince''.
''Didn't you guarantee to Cypress they wouldn't attend?'' Lowe asks, making the Prince sigh in return.
''He probably will send a letter complaining later, make sure Fleuri is the one to deal with it'', Nikias says, taking a deep breath. ''Oh, invite the Hai Empire, only the Princes''.
Such a statement startles Lowe: ''Pardon? Why? Aren't they also involved with the Cult?''
''Yes, but once Lyor tries to establish the Empire I need them to back off and allow it, making them see Lyor's imminence in person is one way of guaranteeing it'', Nikias says, his finger tapping on the mattress. ''They might be the enemy, but we can't bear to be on their bad side, not yet at least''.
''Won't they take this opportunity to harm the Empire? After all, they always wished to wage war against us'', Lowe asks, slightly uneasy.
''No, that won't happen, I'll deal with it, don't worry so much Lowe, I have everything planned'', Nikias smiles. ''Make sure that all the attendees are proper, and don't forget to invite Evangelia's allies as well…'' he pauses, ''Invite the Temple as well, both the Empire's and the Kingdom's''.
''Yes'', Lowe nods. ''I'll see to it, your highness''.
''Ask Fleuri to come here once you leave'', Nikias says, laying down again, staring at the ceiling as he thinks about his engagement that is only one month away.
In one month he and Lyor will officially be fiances, and a year later they'll marry. Since we have no plans of divorce, after we kill Vremes, will we have one of those families I saw in movies back then? Will our kids be happy with us as parents? Would I be a good parent? We need heirs as a future Empire, but even so, could I do a better job than my own? Nikias shakes his head. There's no use wondering this now, we need to be finally married to have children, and most of all we need peace to raise them properly.
The door of his room opens, distracting him from his bleak thoughts. He turns to stare at Fleuri who has a terrible expression on, the bags under his eyes are worse than usual and his hair is a mess. ''What happened?'' The Prince asks with a soft laugh.
''Not relevant'', Fleuri says frowning, ''I've dealt with it''.
Nikias doesn't pry longer due to the aide's expression, his eyes show clearly that he has no intention of saying it. I should talk with Dacre again later.
''Why did you request me, your highness? Ain't I on my two-week vacation at the moment?'' Fleuri asks, taking a seat at the room's table, laying his head onto it, brushing his hair away from his face, revealing his elf-ears. ''I'm exhausted and very much would like for you to keep your word''.
''This will be quick'', Nikias says, sitting up. ''Schedule a meeting between the Saints. For two months from now'', he continues. ''The subject will be a secret, the only attendees will be the Saints and you''.
''Me?''
''Of course, you're my aide'', Nikias says as if it was obvious. ''You'll need to make the records and print the materials'', his words make Fleuri raise his head from the table, his eyes filled with annoyance.
''What kind of material do I need to prepare?'' He asks despite being clearly annoyed at the situation and order.
''The gods, we're going to discuss the gods and how we'll proceed in killing one of them''.