Chapter 21 - XVIII. God’s Mistake

"Even gods can commit mistakes, they're the mirrors of humans, their mistakes can come from a place of genuine worry or selfishness, even if they're beings beyond human comprehension, they're not exempt from being essentially flawed beings."

With the full moon high in the sky, Lowe walks the gardens he's already so familiar with, he's mumbling words under his breath as his quick steps make a click sound on the garden's stone path, it's already late at night so most of the Palace employees are already gone, only a few knights walking around as they guard the place. 

Usually Rainier would be guarding the Crown Prince's room or out doing errands for the man, however due to the event that'll happen in five days, he's patrolling the Palace alongside the other members of the Silver Crows and the Royal Knights. All of this information was relayed by the man himself to Lowe when they agreed on their relationship. But after that moment when they officialized their relationship, they haven't talked. 

And right now the servant is going to the spot the future Duke is patrolling, near the south gate of the Palace, the small garden he crosses is one he never entered before as it was cared for by the Crown Prince, a gift from his mother when he came of age. The small place is filled with flowers that only bloom at night, as it is also a tribute to the Moon Goddess. The fragrant smell fills Lowe's lungs when he reaches the end of the small garden, he never really liked the smell of flowers, although Raphael tends to give him floral perfumes as gifts, but he needs to admit that it does feel nice to not be smelling gold, metal and wood all the time as he does while walking around the Palace.

Once he reaches the south gate, the smell of flowers is no longer in the air. He watches Rainier from a small distance first, the man is wearing the full uniform of the Silver Crows, the white cloak covers his back, the symbol of the knight's order shining with the moonlight, his white and silver jacket is bottomed all the way up, something he doesn't usually do and at his lapel is laying all the stars of honour he won for saving the Crown Prince's life, six silver stars. Rainier's red fiery hair is styled back, giving him a more noble and classy air compared to the sight of a frustrated and desperate Rainier that Lowe is used to seeing, or even the man's relaxed expression, his hair down and his eyes dark with lust. 

''...We need to check the north's gate next, make sure you check every spot'', the man speaks with a few of the knights accompanying him, none who Lowe knows the name of. Rainier ruffles a few papers that were on his hands, just then Lowe notices that the man is also wearing white gloves. That's sexy, the servant thinks watching carefully as the man continues to speak with his subordinates. 

After the knights disperse and Rainier is left alone, that's when Lowe finally approaches the man, watching as the man's eyes go from tense and focused to a soft gaze and a smile after he sees Lowe, something he never thought he would see. That's right, we're dating now, the servant thinks, biting the inside of his mouth, the metallic taste of blood filling his senses. Just a few weeks ago they were looking at each other with contempt, now he's supposed to be loved by the man. 

''It's late'', Rainier is the first to speak, folding the papers he was holding, walking closer to the servant and proceeding to kiss his forehead as a greeting. Something small that if seen by others would be enough evidence of their relationship, but the future Duke doesn't seem to care. ''What are you doing here?'' He asks, one of his hands softly touching Lowe's lower back.

''I need to talk with you'', Lowe says in a whisper, when did he become so meek? Where did his usual courage go? Three months ago he would have been able to have this conversation without faltering, but now… ''Can we speak privately?'' He asks, aware that nearby there are a few knights that might overhear their conversation.

''It's okay, pup, I'll just cast a barrier'', Rainer says, ''I can't leave this spot because of the patrol'', he continues, Lowe watches as the man releases a bit of his mana, forming a thin red barrier around them. ''They can see us but not hear us'', he says.

Lowe nods, ''I'm not sure how to tackle this subject'', he starts, ''What would you do if I told you I know when you'll die?'' His question takes the man by surprise, of course it does, who wouldn't be surprised to hear about their own death.

''I don't think you would say that to spite me, pup, but you should be careful about telling such things to others'', Rainier sighs, ''I'm quite aware of how I'll die one day, but when is something I never thought about''.

Anxiously, Lowe's teeth digs deeper into the skin inside of his cheeks, ''Rainier, in two years you'll die protecting Prince Alkaios from a collapsing mine'', he can't even believe the words leaving his own mouth, maybe the man won't believe him as well.

But contrary to his expectations, all Rainier does is stay there in silence, his eyes don't falter and his body language doesn't change whatsoever, all he does is lean over Lowe, hugging the servant whose face becomes red by the idea of the other knights walking in on them. 

''Pup, it's okay, you don't need to look so upset over this'', his words are to comfort Lowe, not himself. ''I always knew I would die saving Alkaios, from the moment I was adopted'', his words are calm, and Lowe can't help but wonder if the man was always this mature, most times they ever spoke the future Duke was always mean, sarcastic or ultimately pathetic. Well, sometimes he was moaning in pleasure as well, but those weren't the majority. 

''You can change it'', Lowe whispers, feeling Rainier's hand stroking his back slowly as he still has him in his embrace. 

''I can't''.

''Why?''

''Because it's my duty'', Rainier answers after a small pause. ''I'm not scared of dying''.

''Everyone is scared of dying, so that's a lie. Fear of death is what drives humans to live'', Lowe shoots back, taking a step back and staring into Rainier's red eyes that are darker than usual, maybe because of the lack of light there, or maybe because the man was hiding something from him. ''Why are you accepting to die for someone that doesn't have your best interest at hand?'' He almost shouts. 

''Lowe, if it weren't for Alkaios, I wouldn't be here, I would have lived on the streets and most likely died out of starvation'', the man says slowly. ''I'm already living way more than what I would''.

He shakes his head, not being able to make logic of what the man was speaking of. ''So? You could say the same about Prince Nikias, yet I wouldn't die for him!''

Rainier sighs, ''Listen, Lowe, I can promise you that I'll attempt to prevent it, however if for Alkaios to live I must die, then I will die''.

''You…'' Lowe starts speaking but the words get caught up on his throat. Why should he care? If Rainier wants to throw his life away then let him, however, that's the thing, the man forced himself into Lowe's heart, knocking his box of feelings over, something that before was well locked away is now boiling over to the surface, slowly. Sure, if it was Raphael or Rainier, Lowe wouldn't even hesitate, but when it comes to the Crown Prince and the man he now calls his lover, then he's for sure going to choose to save Rainier. ''If you're going to do whatever you want, then I'll proceed to do the same'', he finally says.

''If it won't harm the Crown Prince, then you can even plan a coup if you want, pup'', Rainier says with a sad smile. ''I'll support you in everything but anything that may hurt Alkaios''.

''...Everything?'' Lowe asks. ''Even if I ask for all of your riches?''

Rainier laughs. ''Damn, with pleasure'', he places another kiss on Lowe's forehead. ''Don't worry so much, pup, I'm quite sturdy, you know'', he points to the stars on his chest. ''And when you have someone to go back to…'', he rests his forehead on Lowe's, their breaths mixing and their eyes staring deep into each other's. ''You tend to live longer''. He concludes with a whisper.

The man brushes his lips against the servant's, ''That sounds like something someone about to die would say'', Lowe points out in a soft whisper, his eyes fluttering with the warm breath coming from Rainier brushing his cheeks. All the other does is laugh before placing a soft kiss on Lowe's lips.

''I need to go back to work, pup'', he says, undoing the barrier. ''Just don't worry about me'', he completes, softly touching Lowe's eyebrows, relaxing his frown. ''Go back inside and go to sleep'', he says with a smile. ''Dream of me''.

Lowe sighs, aware that staying there to discuss with the man more would end up nowhere. ''As if'', he answers before turning his back, once he is far enough he takes a glance back, seeing Rainier talking with the knights again, his face back to his serious expression. 

A feeling he can't describe fills his chest, a mix of sadness and pain, but he also feels a hint of joy growing inside as he crosses the fragrant garden again, this time going back to his room so that he can come up with a plan to save his lover.

As he isn't the type to watch those he cares about die without a fight.

❥

Before knocking on his brother's door, Nikias takes a deep breath. Last time they talked it was more of a fight than a talk and he isn't even sure on how to speak to the man. He knocks slowly on his brother's office room, he usually stays there until late night, so although it's near 1 a.m. he's sure the man is still there.

The door swings open and an unknown man is the one that opens, it takes Nikias a couple moments to recognize him from the books.

If the sound of the Temple bells could become a person, Evangelia is pretty sure it would look exactly like Xylon Bosch, his long blue hair reminds her of the Empire's beaches, his enigmatic grey eyes are a reflection of his calm and pristine demeanor. When Alkaios appointed him as his new aide, Evangelia doubted if he would be a good choice to the demanding Crown Prince, yet in only a couple of months he surpassed her expectations, aiding not only Alkaios but also her, especially during these harsh days as they plan their wedding.

With his glasses hanging on his neck, an unbuttoned shirt and dark circles worse than Fleuri's, there's no doubt he is Alkaios new aide, and that he's probably working more than everyone else during this busy week of preparations. ''Who's at the door?'' the Crown Prince's voice echoes through the empty hallways of the Palace, Xylon's eyes go from surprise from seeing the Second Prince there, to annoyance and at last, compliance. 

''Your highness, what do we owe your honorable visit?'' His voice truly sounds like the early morning bells of the Temple of the Moon, and his grey eyes remind Nikias of the moonlight even more than his and Alkaios' hair is supposed to.

''I need to speak with Alkaios, privately'', he says, being allowed to enter by the aide, that takes a step back. Relief is seen across the man's face, he truly seems overworked. Not that Nikias is allowed to sympathize with the man, as if anyone glancing at Fleuri's face would say the same. 

Well, that's part of the job, he thinks, observing slowly his brother's office, contrary to his, Alkaios office is darker, the window behind his desk is the only source of light besides the scarce mana lights, as described in the book, the Crown Prince always preferred working in the dark.

''Nikias'', his brother's voice is calm, he doesn't seem too hung up on what happened last time, yet his eyes are still flickering with anger. ''Why are you here so late?'' His words are more worried than actually upset.

''Can we speak?'' He says, looking his brother in the eyes, during the night, Alkaios pink eyes look more purple than its original soft pink tone. ''Privately'', he completes, glancing at Xylon who seems more than eager to leave the room.

In the novel his presence was always more of a comedic relief than a real character, he was just there to do Alkaios paperwork and provide exposition whenever the protagonists weren't able to move on in their quest. He felt like a NPC rather than an important character. Although the community surrounding the book loved him, he was people's favorite, especially after Rainier and Scarlet's deaths, since there was no other significant love rival, so they kept making fanfictions with Xylon. Vahe never read any, because he was most of the time busy making ends meet or reading 'Odd Eyes' again, he never really cared for Xylon as well, he was just a background character people liked.

I don't remember, but I think everyone said he was in love with Alkaios, that's why he was so loyal, but knowing him, Alkaios probably just made him sign a blood contract, as his previous aide betrayed him, Nikias thinks while he waits for his brother's response.

''He can stay'', the Crown Prince says with a sigh, Xylon's disappointment is clear in his expression. ''We have too much paperwork to go through, I can't dismiss him just because you wish to speak with me privately, I can cast a barrier if that'll make you more comfortable'', his brother's words aren't rude, but Nikias shakes his head.

''It's okay if you trust him'', he says, there's no issue with more people knowing what he's about to say, the problem is how Alkaios will react.

A doting brother, Nikias thinks, what's the point when he's not even my real brother?

The idea crossed his mind once, when he noticed that he and Nikias look a lot alike and even his fathers are similar-looking, maybe they all were themselves from a different dimension, all that changes are their names, however that doesn't make much sense, after all Zerah and Alkaios not only don't look nothing alike, they also don't sound alike. 

If a world where they all are alive exists, they wouldn't be the same people as they are now, as Vahe isn't Nikias and Zerah isn't Alkaios, despite their similarities with appearance, and even if Vahe and Nikias soul and body has similar frequencies, they could be considered twins at best and doppelgangers at worse.

So it's hard for him to look at Alkaios and think yes he's my brother, using the title brother is easy but the emotional connection? That's something he's sure he'll never achieve.

''I came here to ask for your help'', his words are enough to make Alkaios stop, he drops his pen and stares at Nikias, with the lack of light in the room none of them can see clearly the intentions in each other's eyes.

''Speak'', Alkaios says, now paying full attention to what his brother is about to say.

To get to the point, Nikias first explains his situation with Duke Sawdon, and his unwillingness to return the assets that belong to Nikias that he was overseeing, then he points out he got a report from his knights about his movements, which were suspicious, not that its true, however it also isn't a lie. ''...As we suspect he's involved with the mana stone smuggling case, I figured it might be best to align our resources since you and Evangelia are also investigating it''. Alkaios listens to Nikias in complete silence from beginning to end, his expression never shifting. 

''If he's holding your assets, the best course of action wouldn't be to simply accuse him of stealing from a royal?'' Alkaios questions, sure, it makes sense, but that course of action might prevent Nikias from investigating the Duke's involvement with the Vreme's worshippers and the slave trade as well. ''We can always go after the other heads of the smuggling case as Duke Sawdon isn't the only one involved''.

''We can't'', Nikias says, his brain moving fast to think on how to convince his brother. ''I am investigating the Duke over other crimes, if I apprehend him with only one crime in mind, I might not be able to find the answers to what I'm looking for'', his vagueness is enough to make Alkaios understand that even his younger brother has his own worries and duties. Seeing him as a child that has no talent or will to be a ruler isn't going to be beneficial for him, if he wants to keep seeing Nikias after he moves to the Morke Kingdom, that is.

''Understood'', Alkaios answers with a sigh, picking up his pen again, the pile of documents in front of him doesn't allow him to stop working for long. ''However Nikias, the one responsible for the mana stone smuggling case is Evangelia'', his words of caution means that he knows that his brother and fiance don't get along.

What he doesn't know is the extent of their animosity.

''I don't think she'll turn me down when I offer help with her case'', Nikias says, completely aware that it will take Evangelia another year to be able to break the case, and by then it'll be too late, and the Empire would have already suffered a huge blow. She wasn't blamed, of course, after all, by then Emperor Magnus had already murdered his wife and went crazy, being in the process of being deposed by his son. So her small hiccup wasn't noticed by many, she might not be so lucky this time around, though.

''I'll talk with her first,'' Alkaios says, ''Once she answers properly, I'll inform you or your… aide'', his words are slow, as if the idea of his baby brother having an aide already is absurd. ''Also, how was your meeting with your fiance?'' This time the hostility in his words is clear, an attempt to connect with his brother, one he is extremely regretful of trying.

''It was great'', Nikias answers simply. ''Lyor is kind to me'', he includes, trying to soothe Alkaios, not because he cares if his brother is anxious, but because he doesn't want him to blow up again.

''I see…'' Alkaios answers, his mind muddled, not able to completely comprehend that his brother is being honest. From the side, Xylon's eyes are portraying how awkward he is for hearing the two brother's conversation.

''How's the engagement preparations?'' Nikias asks in return, attempting to put the same effort in, to show he's still the same caring brother, not that the old Nikias ever even managed to have a conversation with the Crown Prince.

''A mess'', the Crown Prince answers with a pained sigh, he leans back onto his chair, looking again at his brother. ''You lost weight'', he points out, making Nikias let out a fake laugh.

''I have been exercising a lot more, maybe that's why'', his answer is polite, and his smile is robotic, he can't wait to leave his brother's office, what he came to do was to ask for his help in investigating Duke Sawdon, not have a heartfelt conversation.

''You should eat more, you're already only skin and bones'', Alkaios words are followed by a worried expression, he must be honest, however, Nikias doesn't really feel anything as his brother's eyes befall him, as if he's filtering everything the family does to him, to keep himself at a safe distance. Sure when he was a child he wanted a complete family, a father that never beat him, a mother and a kind brother, instead he lost everyone and was thrown into hell from a young age. As Vahe he still had a small scar above his hip where his father broke an alcohol bottle in, or the scar at the back of his head from when he was tossed across the room and hit his head at the bedside table. 

So yes, the concept of having a family now, after 18 years of struggle, when said family loves someone who's soul was swapped with Vahe's? Then it's better to just keep his safe distance and never allow himself to care for them.

Not the same way he cared for Zerah, at least.

In his mind, after he called them mother, father and brother, he already somehow started seeing them as such, but there's a point where he needs to cross a line to avoid being hurt all over again.

And that line is being drawn now.

''I'm okay, I'm not starving'' He answers, ''I need to go''.

Alkaios sighs, it was always awkward to talk with Nikias, he never knew what words to use or what to ask, especially when they were children, now that they're both adults, the four year difference doesn't feel that big, but when they were kids it did, it felt as if Alkaios was supposed to be poised and an example, while Nikias was too small to even comprehend what being a royal means.

That isn't an excuse to why he kept ignoring the second Prince during their childhood, but now it's too late to even attempt to explain it.

''Sleep well, Nikias'', he says at the end, his brother nods as he leaves the room, once the door closes shut the Crown Prince lets out a tired sigh, his mana fluctuating and his eyes flickering from pink to purple. ''Xylon'', he calls his aide, who raises his head from the amount of documents he's also reviewing. ''You have a brother right?''

The man blinks slowly before finally understanding why the Crown Prince was asking that. ''Yes, however he's ten years younger than me, so, I don't think I can offer much advice in that end, your highness, as when I take care of him is more as if I'm his second parent than a proper brother'', his answer is elaborate enough for the Prince to look at him.

''Just… how do you do it?'' He asks.

''Do what?''

''Properly convey that you love him'', Alkaios says, leaning back, his eyes on the moon. ''I don't think I ever told him, at least not enough''.

Xylon pauses, thinking. ''I think all you have to do is say it, but our situation is far less complex than yours, your highness, your roles as Princes demand a different posture''.

Alkaios shakes his head, ''Regardless of posture, I thought I was being so different from my parents, but at the end of the day we all neglected Nikias the same way''.

''Maybe you should convey your feelings more honestly?'' Xylon says with caution. ''There's no harm in laying your heart bare to those you wish did the same to you''.

Another sigh leaves the Crown Prince's lips, ''I wish things were less complicated''.

''The complexity of life is something we attribute to it'', he says, making the Crown Prince frown.

''I think we have different opinions on the matter of the complexity of life,'' Alkaios says with a gentle smile. ''Especially considering you can have the luxury of wearing the same outfit everyday, while as a Prince I'm expected to always have the most lavish of clothes''.

The aide laughs ''You could if you wanted, it would become a new fashion trend'', he points out, Alkaios nods. Xylon looks at his employer for a moment, he doesn't pity the Prince, as pity is reserved for those in poorer conditions than yourself, but he sure does feel sympathy for the man, as someone that grew up with the weight of a whole Empire on his back. ''Your highness, you have a lot of people that care about you, and there's no shame in relying on them every now and then''.

❥

After the heat wave of summer, now it's almost fall, and the winds started to change, the wind becoming fiercer, and the Exos Empire that is already naturally colder, is freezing slowly, as cold rains bless their afternoons and early mornings. The cold fine rain is definitely blessing the Golden Phoenices this afternoon, due to the Palace lockdown for the Crown Prince's engagement, all of the knights are staying at the dorms, and their training is even more intense.

The knights that before were at each other's throats and constantly mocking the Second Prince's division can't even waste a glance at them, as the fierce training imposed by the Emperor was eating them alive. And Nikias decided to join them, after a good morning filled with lessons on dance etiquette and the history of mana stones, the Prince decided to delay his meetings to later that night and go out to the training grounds to watch his knights, as it's been a while since he was able to train with them. The last time was about two months ago, when Clara Gagne was still training them all together. 

When he arrives at the training grounds, his white shirt is already half-transparent, how does he know? The weird glances from the knights are enough for him to know that his clothes were a poor judgement from him. I should get a maid, he thinks, as he dismissed Lowe and Raphael from their usual position he now doesn't have someone constantly serving him, at first he didn't see it as an issue, but slowly as he fails a few things due to lack of information, or sometimes can't reach Lowe, he can't possibly function at the Palace without a personal servant. Even if that pains him to admit.

Last week was a clear example of that, he wanted tea, and Lowe was assisting Hannah with the engagement party preparations, so he decided to go to the kitchen himself to get the tea. Not only did he fail to find the kitchen - as he never went there before -, but he also was ignored by the maids that he tried to ask for directions. Of course he scolded them, but in the end he was back at his office with no tea.

''Your highness!'' Dacre is the first to notice his presence, his pink hair is a highlight even through the grey day, his hair and clothes completely soaked, but the boy doesn't seem to mind. When he reaches the Prince he smiles, out of breath, on his hand the new crossbow the Prince gave him shines with the water droplets. ''Are you here to train?'' His question is informal and he watches the Prince's face, as if analyzing how much he can cross the line today. ''Come, Scarlet and Clara are sparring'', he grabs Nikias hand, dragging the Prince towards their colleagues.

Once they arrive, the sight is warm, Gutierre and Jiwon are discussing pointers for their stances, of course the knight from Morke also directed a disturbed look at the Prince once he arrived holding Dacre's hand, not that Nikias cared much, only dropping Dacre's hand once they weren't walking anymore. Miyuki and Irene were sitting a bit far, under a well-placed barrier, protecting them from the rain as they seemed to be discussing research papers. Why did they even bother coming outside? The Prince wonders as his gaze goes from them to Scarlet and Clara, both women were focused on their sparring session with Raphael watching them from the sidelines, while Scarlet was branding her sword as if she's going to war, her grey eyes focused and her short red hair in a messy bun, her clothes soaked but she doesn't seem to mind and her stance wider, as if she's ready to dodge at any moment. 

Her way of using the sword and her small stature is impressive, Nikias thinks, his gaze moving to the older lady. Clara Gagne, former princess from the Lumen Kingdom, she's completely elegant, close to her even the Empress has something to learn, straight back, blue eyes focused on her enemy, although she's also soaked, her clothes don't seem messier because of it, even her high ponytail keeps her light blonde hair completely well-kept, and when she moves it's almost as if she's dancing instead of fighting.

He watches in silence as the two women face each other, their eyes focused on the battle at hand, Clara moves swiftly and elegantly, while Scarlet moves quickly, using their difference in height to her advantage, dodging more than attacking. 

When Scarlet misses the moment to dodge, Clara hits the side of her stomach with the blind side of her blade. ''Focus, if this were a real battle you would be dead'', the woman's tone is calm as she continuously hits Scarlet every time she misses the timing to dodge her swings. ''If you can't attack, defend, if you can't defend, dodge, and if you can't do neither, run''. Her words are strong and her voice is elegant as she hits Scarlet on the head at the end. ''You're good at using the floor to your advantage, but when you're fighting a mage that won't work, and you need to train your block, dodging all the time won't take you nowhere'', she advises, turning to see the Prince. Clara bows, ''Nice to see you, your highness''.

''Good afternoon, Clara'', Nikias says, ''I came to train a bit'', he continued, pointing to the bow he attached to his back. 

''Can we spar?'' Dacre asks, excited, Clara laughs, ruffling the boy's hair. The woman is 11 years older than them, so in her eyes she's teaching children how to walk. 

''I don't see why not'', the woman answers, looking at the Prince, her eyes saying that is his choice to make. In the last three months Nikias learned how to hold a bow, shoot a few arrows and increased his lung capacity so that he can run and shoot at the same time, however he never really perfected the last part of it. Not able to aim properly while dodging or running. He did spar with Clara and Gutierre for the purposes of learning, he also tried picking up the sword again - which he hated. 

Sparring with Dacre, who uses a crossbow, will be challenging, but since he's in the rain, why not get a bit wet?

''Sure, just remember to not hit my face'', he jokes, but Dacre doesn't laugh, he only nods.

''Oh, this will be fun'', Scarlet says as she approaches them, a towel on her shoulder and the cantil of water empty on her hand, her hair is now free from the messy bun, her short hair is a mess of waves but the woman doesn't seem to mind, her grey eyes stare Nikias. ''I don't think the Prince trained enough to beat the candy hair here'', she points at Dacre.

Clara laughs, ''You might be surprised, his highness learns quite quickly'', well, she's not exactly wrong as Nikias surely is a quick and eager learner, however all those years of using the knowledge pods for different subjects helped, especially due to his particular interest in the art of archery.

But knowing what to do doesn't mean you'll excel at the action itself.

The biggest difference between him and Dacre is that the boy has been training everyday since he was recruited, granting a few compliments from their teacher, Clara. While Nikias, with the amount of duties he has been attending, especially his new business at the Capital, his time to train was quite scarce.

''What will we consider a win?'' Dacre asks, ''I can't exactly aim at the Prince with a real weapon'', he smiles.

''We can use a mana barrier'' Irene says as she walks towards them, she and Miyuki spotted the Prince and decided to approach them. Probably in order to ask for more money for their research, as every time they see each other nowadays is because of such. ''I can cast it'', she continued. 

''Sure, that's a great idea'', Clara nods.

Mana barrier is a simple cast, where the caster must imagine a small veil covering what they want to protect and pour their mana out, the casting can take from 10 seconds to 40 minutes, according to records the biggest barrier cast was by Nyx, when protecting the Palace from an enemy, 995 years ago. Mana barriers can have multiple purposes, however are mainly used for protection against arrows or any other projectile and as a sound barrier, preventing others from listening to what's being said inside the barrier. The quality and size of the barrier is equally proportional to the mana control and size of the caster.

Nikias recalls what Sascha Gagne told him during one of their classes on mana two months ago. He attempted to cast a barrier during one of the private classes Irene gave him a few weeks ago, however he failed all sixteen times he attempted it. Even if his mana capacity is ''endless'' - according to everyone around him - he's not able to cast many spells consciously. The only thing he managed to properly control was tracking his mana pacts and feeling his mana by itself.

Irene takes a deep breath and focuses on casting the barrier, after around 40 seconds, a teal colored veil surrounds both Nikias and Dacre. 

''Before you start'', Scarlet says with a mischievous smile, ''Let's bet on who'll win'', her comment makes Nikias laugh.

Dacre raises his hand, ''I bet Nikias will win''.

''You can't bet against yourself'', Gutierre comments, ''What if you try to lose on purpose?'' His point makes the boy ponder.

''I'll do my best'', he says at the end. 

''I bet the cotton candy baby will win'', Scarlet says, crossing her arms.

''I'll bet on the Prince'', Raphael says softly, focused on cleaning his weapon while the others are discussing amongst themselves about who'll be more likely to win. Most of them betted on Dacre, luckily for them, the situation is more amusing than upsetting Nikias, he also doesn't really think he'll win. 

Being surrounded by such noise is usually annoying to the Prince, however right now he doesn't mind, the people he chose seem to be getting along just fine, and their progress in their training is going better than what Nikias expected at first.

''Let's start'', Clara interrupts the heated discussion between Scarlet and Jiwon over if Dacre was good or not with the crossbow, the woman insisting the boy was quite good for a young boy - although she isn't that much older -, while Jiwon insists that Dacre doesn't take things seriously enough to be able to actually hit the Prince.

Nikias takes a deep breath, he focused his gaze on the pink-haired boy, his grip on the bow is firm, and his position is stellar, the rough texture of the wooden arrow brushes his fingers as he watches Dacre load his crossbow, the boy is quick and contrary to Nikias, he's able to move around, zigzagging through the field to prevent Nikias from aiming at him. 

The Prince shoots the first arrow, hitting the ground a few centimeters away from Dacre, he doesn't wait much to load his second arrow, while he positions it, Dacre shoots his first one, it almost hits Nikias, but the Prince is able to dodge without much difficulty, the arrow landing on the tree next to where Scarlet was leaning on.

''Woah boy, I'm not your target'', she yells. 

''Sorry, miss'', he answers, also focused on the spar he's having with the Prince.

Another arrow is shot by Nikias, his fingers pained by the action, something he's not that used to doing, but he doesn't let the pain affect him too much, grabbing another arrow from the quiver on his waist. Again the arrow almost hits Dacre, but the boy dodges while shooting another one with his crossbow, this time hitting close to Nikias feet, just a few more millimeters and he would have hit it successfully.

For a couple minutes their actions are repeated, almost hitting each other, Dacre being more skillful on dodging than aiming, and Nikias being decent in both. 

It all ends when Fleuri arrives at the training grounds, holding a letter, by the corner of his eye Nikias recognizes the seal of the King, due to their visit to the Kingdom, Nikias decided to trust Fleuri to bring Lyor's letters to him, especially considering that the man spends way more time at the office compared to the Prince. The sight of the letter desistabilizes Nikias for a quick second, enough to grant an opening for Dacre to aim at his chest, hitting the barrier perfectly, ending their spar session.

The Prince bows towards the boy ''It was a good fight'', Dacre blushes and nods in response, Nikias with a serious expression turns to Fleuri, walking towards the half-elf to get his letter, his heart pounding with anticipation.

''I can't believe you lost because your lover sent you a letter'', Scarlet comments with a disappointed expression. 

Nikias turns to the woman with an annoyed expression, enough to make her become quiet and turn to Dacre to talk about the boy's moves from earlier. 

''The letter just arrived'', Fleuri says, his face showing his clear discontent for being there at the place he dislikes the most at the Palace. ''Also, Lady Petit requested a meeting with you tomorrow afternoon'', he continues, ''Lowe informed me when I told I was coming here'', in his mind he was probably cursing the butler-in-training for not offering to come himself, however he also knew that he was the only one authorized to handle Prince Nikias letters.

''Good'', Nikias says, walking away without another word, those present there already used to the Prince's detached actions especially when the King's letters are mentioned, some with even a bet over if the letters were sexual in nature or not, as the Prince's expression while he reads it always vary, but the smile on his lips is enigmatic.

To my lovely Nikias,

The night of the day you left was lonely, I caught myself thinking about your presence at the Castle and how natural it all felt. When I think about the progression of our relationship I can't help but be eagerly waiting for what the future has for us. 

Unfortunately this letter's objective isn't to simply speak on how I appreciated your presence and patience, I will be leaving for another conquest after your brother's engagement ball. Due to our marriage and after much consideration and conversation with my subordinates, I decided to complete all my conquests before your official arrival in two years. 

Although I won't be here in the Kingdom, I would like for you to come. I managed to convince the priests to give you the bridal lessons, supervised by Cypress, so don't worry so much.

During your next stay here, Anwar and Hayun will probably be back, so you'll meet them. Anwar is a brilliant strategist and Hayun is extremely talented, her past as a Crown Princess gave her a lot of insights of the path as a ruler.

Regardless, we'll meet again in a few days, I already miss you.

Lyor.

♕

''If we rush now, we might meet in the middle'', Noor says, his voice echoing inside Lyor's office, his fingers tapping the large map open in front of them. He circles the border between the Morke Kingdom and the Ayru Kingdom with his finger. ''I do think we should wait for Anwar and Hayun to arrive, especially considering how dense the forest is there, we might get killed by the monsters before we even arrive at the border''. His words are calm, Seoah sighs, leaning back on the chair she's sitting on.

I agree, however they might take weeks to arrive, and if we delay our departure much longer, they might enter the Kingdom before we can intercept, she projects the words for all the other three men to read, the words fade slowly as Noor nods and turn to look at the silent King, who's staring at the map with a serious expression. 

The many faces of King Lyor is something that gives security to his people, the way he goes from playful to reflective, from angry or stern to excited. He's able to both inflict fear in those who defy him and console a lost child from his Kingdom. A true ruler, who most look upon with respect and awe. 

Not that he was exempt of contempt and anger, especially coming from those that had their Kingdoms conquered by him, even if most of the conquests didn't kill the innocent, they still are hostile towards him who robbed them from their usual daily lives.

Salvation, mercy and blessing, those are things most of the residents of the Morke Kingdom expect from King Lyor as their Saint and Saviour. The man never asked for such a title, yet received nonetheless, and this fanaticism those that believe in him have only driven those who come from other places, further away.

From a political perspective, his marriage with Prince Nikias couldn't come in a better moment, even if the Prince has a bad reputation and rumors that could tarnish anyone's pride, he's still from the affluent Exos Empire, a place that rivals even the Hai Empire, with strong technology and the richest nation in this Earth. People might be against his marriage to Prince Nikias if they only consider the person, not the strength that will come from his backer. However those more aware of the political influences of the Empire might think otherwise, they might see it as an opportunity to turn the Morke Kingdom into a place that'll bring prosperity to the barren Vapidm Continent. 

Of course that Lyor's choices weren't coming from this place of politics and strategies, however he can not deny that when he accepted Nikias proposition he thought about it, the pros and cons, what will the Prince bring to the Empire? Infamy? Or prosperity?

Regardless of Lyor's feelings or affection for Nikias, he's sure whatever the answer to that question will be, he'll be more than happy with it.

And to set the stage for his future husband, he must complete all the conquests and successfully use his marriage day as the day the Morke Kingdom becomes an Empire. For that he not only needs the money, but also the territory. Choosing only nations that are part of the Slave Alliance - an alliance made by nations which gave them an amplitude of routes to send and receive slaves, be those halflings or humans -, or nations that refused his offer of alliance at the expense of applying laws that benefit the population. 

Truth be told, he plans on turning everything upside down, not only the political structure of the Continent or the World, but also the laws which the current Morke Kingdom goes by, abolishing the Saint rule for rulers, and also separating the politics from the religion and Temples. He's ready to go down in history as a Tyrant, or maybe even a King who ruined his Kingdom, but he's not ready to let go of his ideals and plans for the sake of those who wish to remain inside their unmoving bubble of religious fanaticism.

The Ayru Kingdom was one that at first seemed willing to accept Lyor's offer of an alliance, however when he said that the biggest condition was to abolish slavery, they turned, choosing to send spies and plan a secret attack on the Kingdom in a few weeks. With a few spies Hayun trained, he was able to find out about their plan before they even leave the Kingdom's capital, however without three members of his elite knights, he's hesitant to move forward.

He already told Nikias he's leaving in a few days, however he's still unsure if this is the right choice at this point in time, he just came back from a conquest that lasted three months, leaving the Castle for long periods can harm his position, especially considering most weren't happy when Nikias came to visit him.

Saying that his energy was denied by the gods.

Fuck the gods, Lyor thinks leaning forward, his eyes fixated on the map, tracing with his eyes the path they must take towards the border. 

''We can't wait for them'', he says at last, ''We'll move with only 20 soldiers'', his words make all the other three present there shake their heads.

''Your majesty, that's suicide, they have at least 300 soldiers'', Noor says, pointing at the report Cypress is holding.

''Exactly, we should mobilize everyone we can'', Cypress says, moving from where he was standing to the table, leaning on top of the map, staring at Lyor in the eyes. ''You know you can't risk a loss right now''.

Lyor nods, he's aware, the other Kingdoms are waiting for the opportunity to bring him down, and his crescent growth might be catched upon the other Empires that might see his ascension as a threat. ''I know, however I can't risk soldiers' lives as well, we'll just bring those that are the very best, the paladins''.

Will the Temple approve? Seoah asks, her words hasty and almost unreadable, Lyor sighs.

''They must, I'm sure I can persuade them'', he says, aware he must grovel a bit to gain their trust again after he demanded them to respect his future husband more. The Paladins are an order of knights that belong to the Temples, instead of pure mana, they channel the power of gods by devoting their lives to them, most are infertile or crazy due to the effects of the incessant praying they must do.

Paladins are more powerful than regular knights or soldiers, losing only to the five belonging to the Spectres, as the knights chosen by Lyor were exceptional in every aspect of their areas of expertise.

''If, and only if, we manage to get the Paladins, we might manage with only 20'', Noor agrees, giving in to the King's proposition. ''You might need to fight in the frontlines, though''.

''I was intending on doing so already'', Lyor says, of course, he's always the one subduing the Royal families, however due to his strength he rarely fights in the frontlines, to avoid accidental deaths. In this case, he needs to, as they're not the one's instigating the fight, the Ayru Kingdom is the one seeking to invade and conquer the Morke Kingdom.

An act of defense is different from offense, even if Lyor wishes to not cause the death of the innocent.

''At least send Anwar a letter asking for his opinion on the matter'', Cypress says, feeling defeated. ''He might offer some insight.

The letter could be intercepted, Seoah points out.

''You could use mana to protect it'', Lyor says, raising an eyebrow towards the woman who nods.

Just don't expect something flawless in such a short amount of time, the woman gets up, stretching, her eyes going to the three men there. I'll start the preparations on my part, I'll need the letter by the end of today or it might be too late by the time it arrives. Lyor nods in response to her words, and the woman leaves the office.

''I'll prepare the weapons, but your majesty…'' Noor hesitates before speaking again. ''We'll need money to do this, to be honest I'm scared of asking Keres for it, last time she almost set fire to the Castle out of anger''. His words show his clear conflict with his duty, as the knight in charge of the Spectres with Anwar's absence he must do the budget requests, however dealing with the half-dragon butler was always a struggle for the former pirate.

Lyor turns his eyes to Cypress, who shakes his head vigorously. ''No way, I'm not talking with her about money, I know about the state of our reserves and I also do enjoy being alive.'' the man says, turning away as quickly as he can. ''I need to go manage the prisoners, so…'' he trails off, leaving the room as quickly as he humanly can.

''Fine, I'll speak with her'', Lyor says, also not enjoying the idea of talking about money. He doesn't want to ask Nikias about the dowry, but at the pace of how his vaults are drying up, it might be his only answer. 

Noor sighs with relief. ''I'll get going then, I must prepare things to train the Paladins in case we manage to convince the Temples'', he says, Lyor nods. The former pirate leaves the room after bowing to the King. 

As soon as he's left alone, the sound of a letter arriving in the magic circle he has at his desk fills the room, he turns to open the desk's drawer to find the small letter, the familiar seal of a star, the scent of sundried flowers and the rough texture of high-quality paper are all signs that Nikias has sent a reply to the letter he sent earlier that day.

Lyor brushes the seal before carefully opening the letter, he can't save the contents of it, but he also takes care to not break the wax seals, saving them in a small box that stays in a locked box under his bed. 

Lyor,

I feel sad to hear news of your soon departure, as you have just returned and I will for sure miss you and your letters all over again. May I inquire in which nation you're conquering next? I might have information that can help you.

Today I lost a spar with Dacre, this made me feel like I must train more so that I can not only protect myself, but also those whom I care about. Although you must protect me, I fear that I might not be able to do the same.

My self-preservation is definitely something that stops me from protecting others, however maybe if I train hard enough to be able to protect someone I won't feel that I must sacrifice myself to save others.

Lyor, please give the attached paper with the instructions for the clothes for the engagement ball we'll attend to your tailor.

I await anxiously for the day we'll see each other again.

Please, stay safe.

Nikias.

The letter is just as short as the one he sent, but it's enough for him to feel a tightness inside his chest, something telling him that this engagement ball won't be just a small party to celebrate his brother's engagement, but something that might change the course of their relationship. 

His thoughts are further consolidated once a small female voice whispers inside his brain. Lyor, don't go there, her voice is soft as usual, almost like a whistle in the wind, the goddess of Darkness rarely speaks, but when she does is usually to warn Lyor about potential dangers, like an alarm telling him the paths he must steer clear of. 

''Thank you for the advice, but I won't follow it'', his voice is low and curt, sometimes he heard the goddess and ran from danger, other times he ignored, mostly falling into traps or getting hurt, but those were his choices, the scars from his lost battles are the scars that built his character and future decisions as a ruler and as a person.

Don't be stubborn, that place will only erase your very goal, this time the words are whispered by the god of Light, his voice is more firm, like a father scolding their stubborn child. But that's the thing, Lyor isn't their son - or at least he doesn't know he is.

''Last time I checked as a human I possess free will'', he says, grabbing the pen and paper to write back to Nikias. ''And this is important to him, as a couple, don't you understand the needs of being there for your partner?'' His question drives the two gods silent, before the goddess speaks again.

We only wish for your safety and happiness, her words might sound sad, but Lyor doubts gods even know what sadness is. That boy is like poison to you, worry is what fills her tone, but Lyor doesn't shake. 

''So is the position in which you both put me in'', he says, his voice clearly depicting the bitterness he still feels for being forced into the position of ruler by the gods that never regarded his opinion in the matter. ''If you want to keep controlling my life as you see fit, then please, do so, but I'll fight it until the day I die'', he says, ''You keep saying Nikias is poison, but I will only believe in what I see, your empty words only will only solidify my opinion that you're bitter that I have made a choice that doesn't benefit you at all''.

His words are cruelly said to those that gave him life, and even if he doesn't know the truth, his words still are felt by the gods that watch him from above.

Never once I wished to force upon you our wishes, the goddess says, but you're too young to understand the implications of your choices in the universe, she continues, so if you must see to understand, then we'll make you see.

Her words are followed by pure silence and then a strong pain inside Lyor's head, the signs of a vision, his vision becoming blurred and from his fingers to his arm going weak, the pen on his hand rolling to the ground once he faints.

White marble corridors decorated with the most lavish of paintings and artifacts surround the silver-haired boy, his golden eyes inspecting his surroundings, the clear second Prince Nikias Gregor Chrysl follows the corridors, ignored by the maids and other servants crossing his path. He stops in front of a golden framed mirror at the end of the corridor, staring at his figure, his eyes are sunken, his posture is poor and he's clearly malnourished, the boy must be around 20 years old, and even his clothes are clearly too big for his scrawny body.

''What are you doing?'' A voice calls and the Prince turns, his golden eyes flinching when he sees a tall man approaching him.

''Duke'', his voice is meek and clearly shows his insecurities. 

''Shouldn't you be preparing for your marriage?'' His words are sarcastic. ''After all when will you find someone that finds your presence remotely enjoyable but a naive Princess that only sees your appearance?'' The Duke laughs. ''You're lucky to be born with your mother's looks''.

Nikias flinches again with the comment of the man, he nods silently, his gaze shows only fear and cowardice. Unable to speak back even if his position is far more prestigious than that of the Duke. His confidence and spirit were already long broken.

The scenery changes, this time the Prince is sitting alone in his dark room, the candles are almost over, his eyes are staring at the darkness, his hands only moving to fill his wine glass, the red liquid vanishes quickly as he drinks as soon as he finishes pouring the drink, empty bottles rolling down the ground of his room.

A strong smell of alcohol can be felt, as the second Prince empties a new bottle and proceeds to open another, leaning his head against the cold metal of the table. ''Should I just die?'' He whispers to himself, his gaze empty, as if there are no more feelings inside him, an empty shell, not a single particle of his body willing to fight back at his poor destiny.

Another change of scenery, now at the garden of a different Castle, the place is cleaner and with a sky bluer than that of the Exos Empire, the Prince is slowly walking, his clothes are completely white and his hair is styled back, his dark circles hidden behind a small layer of makeup, yet he's still as stunning as usual, everyone around the garden watches the Prince in his walk. 

A woman approaches him, her smile is kind and genuine, but the Prince doesn't move in response, his eyes only stare at her coldly. ''Nikki!'' her voice is loud as she embraces the man. ''How was your visit to your parents?'' Her question makes the eyes of the man tremble, he doesn't return the hug, nor does he move or answer her question. ''Is everything ok?'' her question is filled with worry.

Nikias nods. ''I just want to shower and go to bed'', he whispers, his voice empty of emotions. The woman nods, holding the man's hand and walking with him towards the small Castle. ''Alicia, do you fear death?'' His question makes the woman stop and look at him.

''I do not fear what I cannot control'', she answers, searching the man's face for his true emotions, to no avail. ''You know, you can tell me anything, Nikki. We are married.'' Her words are hesitant, as if she already said such things before.

''I know'', the Prince answers, caressing the woman's hand. They continue to walk in silence until they arrive in front of a wooden door. ''Alicia, I think I'm going to die soon'', his words are tired, as if he was expecting this fate for a long time. ''When I do, find someone better'', he's sincere, something he was never before, as if he's truly at the end of his life.

The woman stares at him, fear clear in her eyes, her thoughts clear in her gaze. She thinks the man is speaking as if he's planning to end his life himself, not that someone or something might end it. Of course her suspicion is due to the man's lack of expression and lack of communication, they don't even share a bed because of his hesitance in tainting her with his presence. Whatever happened in his life, it burned his soul until there was nothing left.

''Nikias, don't say that'', she pleads. ''I love you'', her words make the man smile, the feelings he has for her at first were shallow, he merely chose to wed someone that gave him warmth, but now he wishes he could've given her the same feeling she gave him.

''I love you too Alicia'', he kisses her forehead, his barely grown beard tickling her skin. ''But we cannot change fate''.

Lyor's head hurts ten times more when he wakes up after the vision ends, why did the gods decide to show him that? To provoke him? Say that the Prince has a fate he must follow? Nikias' posture and mannerisms were so different in the vision that hardly can Lyor accept that they are the same person, not only were his eyes lacking the usual ambition, but his posture was bended, unconfident, as if he carried the weight of a forsaken world on his back, which he doesn't think Nikias would even give himself such burden.

The intonation of his voice, the way he walked and even the way he moved his hands while speaking, every detail was simply… off.

Even if Nikias was destined to become like that and marry someone else, what can Lyor do but search for ways to keep the man by his side? That is, if he believed the vision the gods showed him.

Which he doesn't.

The man he knows would never cower in the face of a fate that kills him.

And Lyor believes the Nikias he met, not the one shown to him by those that wish them to be torn apart.

❥

One of Cypress' many tasks as King Lyor's aide is monitoring, registering and constantly checking on their war prisoners. Most Kingdoms have two types of politics regarding the royals of the Kingdoms they conquer, one is instant death, why give them the chance of revenge? And the second is taking them as prisoners, most times to gather intel or to sell them as slaves later on. 

However even though the royals are taken as prisoners in the Morke Kingdom, its more precise to say they're temporary guests, allocated in special cells in the dungeon, with cushions, proper service and even allowed time out of their cells to slowly adapt into the Kingdom, including trips for work or classes. Those who proved themselves to be difficult were exiled, while those who showed willingness to adapt into this new reality are still inside those dungeon cells.

They're considered by all as prisoners of war, the necklace in their throat with the symbol of the Morke Kingdom didn't let anyone forget, after all, even if King Lyor is kind and allows them to enter society again and aids in their adaptation, he's still wary and takes the necessary precautions so that there's no vengeance or revolt.

Currently they have six war prisoners at the dungeon, they used to have eleven, however the rest of them were already released after months of adaptation work. The adaptation of the prisoners is overseen by the Temples, and Cypress is the one that makes sure everything is going smoothly.

Am I the only one working here? He wonders as he passes the empty hallways of the dungeon underneath the Castle, the place is warm due to the heating system of the structure, he finally arrives at the cells, the smell of roses filling the air.

The cells would be considered luxury hotel rooms by those that live in the countryside of the Kingdom, colorful walls made of cement and crushed mana stones, lights made of crystal, beds with the same cushion the King has in his quarters and even a proper private bathroom, the only downside would be the iron bars and the lack of privacy in the cell by itself. Although Cypress considers it all to be excessive and a waste of money, it did prove to be successful in preventing rebellions until now, and the former royals also seem to be less shocked than it would be expected.

Admittedly, Cypress somehow envies those that are taken prisoners there, as in his mind it would be better to lose your Kingdom and be taken somewhere else because of it, than be banished by his own kin.

Cypress White, 23 years old, son of Cedar White and Ivy White, first son, but the fourth child. Banished years ago after being caught trying to revive the World Tree and also for aiding an injured elf. Although the Whisperia Kingdom is known as the homeland of elves and a land blessed by the god of Nature, after the war 500 years ago, the winds shifted, the royal family stopped having saints and the land became barren and the people dissatisfied, followed by greed and misdeeds, the Kingdom became a shadow of what once was, so much so that even their god turned the back at them. 

Blessing only one child after 500 years that showed compassion towards nature, Cypress found out he was a Saint when he was 10 years old, after napping under the World Tree and reading a book on insects. When he woke up there was a man standing next to him, his hair was similar in color to his, his skin was cool and beautiful like the nurturing soil and his eyes shined like the healthy leaves of the tree in which they were under right now. 

At first the boy didn't understand he was talking to a god, only when the man broke a piece of the World Tree and placed it on Cypress' spine he realised. Their talk was short, about the wind, the leaves, the animals and even the composition of a healthy soil, and maybe Cypress would enjoy being a Saint for a god that enjoyed the same things as him, that showed the same compassion towards the small creatures with no choice of their own.

However, gods have no such thing as compassion, at least in his eyes.

The moment the branch of the World Tree touched the boy's spine it burned, a pain like one he never felt before, as if his organs were melting and his soul was being ripped apart. That's the thing about Saints that aren't born as such, they must be blessed by the gods in person and when they are, they go through a test, a twisted test to see if their body can handle the burden.

A burden they never asked for.

Cypress ran a fever for a month, he cried for help, his insides constantly burning, at the time his parents still loved him so they tried to help him to no avail. Once the pain stopped, he was left with a scar at his back, the same shape as the World Tree formed as a scar, which he hid with his life until he was banished.

His life was now connected to not only a selfish god but also to a dying tree, so yeah, that's why not only Cypress found refugee in the Morke Kingdom, but also shares the same views as his King and best friend, the view that gods are nothing more than flawed beings that are mistaken if they think choosing them as their saints mean that they're now submitting to them.

If anything, they despise the gods even more now.

God of Nature, Lucifer as he is called currently, or Xylos, how he's called by the few elves remaining, he was a temperamental men, sometimes he spends months without interfering with Cypress' life, and other times he is constantly nagging in his ear and even shows up to ''keep him company''. The truth is that he never saw a god so lonely, after being abandoned and betrayed by the species he created and tossed aside by those he blessed for centuries, he was left alone with nothing but his pride and power to get him by. If he wasn't insufferable and caused Cypress much distress, maybe he would've pitied the god.

''G'afternoon Cypress, sir'', the knight standing guard bows to the aide, Cypress nods in response, passing him without a word, he's not much for chit-chat with others beside what he must for work. As the King's aide many try to incur his good side, attempting to reach Lyor, as if he's a stepping stone to success, after realising such manipulations he became more cautious of his surroundings and how he interacts with those that are instantly kind to him.

Being suspicious is nice, but sometimes we need also to learn to take a leap of fate, Lyor's voice rings inside his head as he reaches the first cell, he flinches, feeling his blood run cold, he dislikes remembering Lyor's sermons, as the man is too prone to philosophy and intangible feelings which Cypress usually avoids. 

Sure he isn't cold, emotionless nor does he not care for the opinion of others, but after so much pain, he can't help but be cautious of everyone, especially when he's on the job. Maybe that's why his only friend is the King himself.

''Morning'', the man yawns once Cypress hits the iron bars waking him up, he's old, around 60, he's the former King of the Beller Kingdom, he was the oldest prisoner, as the others already left, he isn't defying or seems to care about his lost Kingdom, but he seemed to have decided to stay because of his daughter at the cell next to his. It seems some Kings are able to love their offspring even in difficult times, he thinks, grabbing the clipboard from his bag and making the usual notes about the man's condition. 

''It's already afternoon, sir Pomeline'', Cypress says, his tone is cold, as he must be strictly professional and avoid conversations that might lead to misunderstandings or even instigate the prisoners. ''How was your work at the woodshop yesterday?'' he asks without looking at the man.

''I hated'', the man answers with a groan, ''I sweated and there were children running around with that dangerous equipment, seriously, a knight should inspect that place'', Cypress nods with his answer.

''I see'', he answers, writing in the paper the information and the recommendation of making the man work as a helper in the kindergarten in his next work tryout. ''Well, today you'll have a walk with your daughter and Knight Kian'', he says, changing the paper for the next one. 

''Very well'', the man answers, crawling back onto his bed, it seems that all he does besides the obligatory activities is sleep.

Cypress moves to the next cell, the woman was already awake, sitting on her bed and reading a romance novel she requested to the Knight that supervises her and her father. If he keeps indulging her needs, I might need to intervene, he thinks, writing the information down. ''How was your morning kind sir?'' Her voice is sweet, her honey eyes fixated on Cypress, the former Princess from the Beller Kingdom was known for her beauty and intelligence, a woman that knew how to use both to have her way, no wonder she was a formidable Crown Princess. Well, they should've used her brain and stopped trafficking halflings from the Sokidm Continent, he thinks with a frown, it's clear the woman is trying to seduce him, her clothes slightly pushed up, to show her waist, her pants rolled up, her hair down and she's laying in bed in a pose to highlight her cleavage. It's nothing the woman hasn't attempted before, batting her eyelids, tilting her head, lowering her voice and even licking her lips to catch his attention. 

But deep inside her eyes he can see that it's all a calculated move, that clearly was working on Knight Kian, but it wouldn't work on Cypress, not only was he uninterested in having a relationship right now, but he also was not interested in women. Differently from Lyor who never showed interest in anyone besides Nikias, which he isn't even sure if it's real, Cypress had a clear preference, and had a few relationships before he officially became Lyor's aide, and decided to be more careful about who he lets enter his life. His last relationship was with Anwar, not that he or the knight would admit as it was a terrible sequence of events they rather forget about, nowadays they prefer being professional. 

Also although Anwar was a good-looking man he was far from Cypress' taste, as he tends to prefer those whom he can control and protect, the harder the conquest the tastier it feels, not that he indulges in his impulses anymore. Nor has he met someone who tends to his tastes as well.

I'm too busy with work either way, he thinks, moving the pen on the paper, making notes on the woman's behaviour. ''Miss Polomine, how was your work at the flower shop yesterday?'' He asks, not giving in to her attempt of small talk. 

''It was fine, I like it there'', she answers, not pushing further, aware of the man's disinterest, she moves to sit on the bed properly, her clothes back on the places they should be. ''I could remain working there if my father finds a job for himself''.

''Is it still your choice to be reallocated to a house with him?'' He asks, staring at the woman who simply nods, biting her lip, seemingly anxious. 

''If possible, please give him something that isn't strenuous'', she requests, probably what she was attempting to get with her seduction, not that she needed to do so, Cypress nods.

''Don't worry, we don't require those past 50 to do work that requires much'', he continues, ''The work at the woodshop was basically receiving clients, but I do understand your concern'', the woman nods. ''Focus on your rehabilitation. As the new breadwinner for your house, you should start worrying about maintaining your life rather than your father's work''.

''Yes, sir'', she answers in an almost whisper.

He moves to the next two prisoners that were the Princes from the recently conquered Osas Kingdom, they were a bit hostile when they arrived, but seem to have adapted relatively well, their father and mother were next, the man silent as a stone, only shaking his head or nodding. While the woman seemed more willing to talk, responding well to Cypress' questions, she seemed eager to start work at the Castle gardens the next day. It seems that in the Osas Kingdom women weren't allowed to work, he thinks as he moves to the last cell, where their problem prisoner was. 

''You seem tired today, Cypress'', the woman's voice is hoarse, she's, as usual, exercising, doing push-ups on the cell's floor, her walls are covered in what was her breakfast.

Firuzeh DuPont was a special case, from the war prisoners no one was as special as her, daughter of a count from the Beller Kingdom, the reason she was imprisoned was simple, not only was she a half-dragon that hid in plain sight at a Kingdom that despised halflings, but she also was a Saint. 

 The woman was 22 years old and had the physique of a warrior, her almost transparent skin was a clear sign of her dragon blood, and her crystal blue eyes with slip pupils made Cypress wonder how no one in the Kingdom knew. Not only that but she was starkling similar to the statue of the Ocean Goddess he once saw at a Temple, her blue hair is deep and long, reaching her feet and her soft features make her an almost copy of the goddess. Once he asked why she didn't cut her hair and all she did was laugh.

''Well, ain't I always?'' He answers, dragging a chair and sitting in front of the cell, the woman jumps, getting up from the floor, her sleeves rolled up showing her muscles, her blue eyes looking as disturbing as usual. And at the side of her neck scars on the shape of gills lie.

Probably scars from when she was turned a saint, just like Cypress.

''True'', Firuzeh says with a giggle as she starts doing squats.

''So, why did you skip work yesterday as well?'' He asks, clicking his pen and staring at the woman.

''I already said I can't work with earth animals, because of her'', she says with an annoyed tone, ''And hearing the voices of those fish trapped in aquariums drive me insane'', she continues. ''Just put me to work in construction or something that requires force, just don't make me take care of things''.

Cypress sighs, ''Firuzeh, let me be honest with you, you tried sixty jobs already, none which you chose, and none that you spent a full day in'', he clicks his pen again, ''Our next course of action is to exile you or put you with a stricter supervisor''.

The woman stops, ''Can't I work as a knight?'' Cypress shakes his head.

''It's a liability''.

''I can make a pact or something'', she begs, ''I don't want to go to another place, I like this Kingdom''.

And sure, if you see only the part of adapting into the culture and people, Firuzeh would be stellar, but if she can't become a part of the working force, she wouldn't be able to properly stay there, as the King refuses to take in those who don't wish to contribute to society, of course, he gives as many opportunities he can, but the Kingdom is way too broke to feed a mouth for free when they're completely fine and capable of working for it.

''I'm strong and I am stellar at sea and river navigation'', she smiles.

''I don't doubt it'', Cypress scratches his head, undoing part of his ponytail as usual, he sighs. ''I'll talk with the King, but I can't guarantee it'', he gives in, after all it is also his job to make sure everyone there manages to find their place in the Kingdom. Maybe I should quit, he thinks, not that he will ever actually do so.

He likes working for the King way too much, for his unfortunate future self sake.

''Thank you!'' Firuzeh says, jumping.

''But we need to talk about your behaviour towards food'', he points at the stain on the wall. The woman flinches.

''I told them I can't eat anything that comes from water, but they brought me a fish stew.'' She proclaims, going back to her squats. ''You wouldn't eat them as well if you could hear their voices inside your head as they die''. She doesn't look Cypress in the eye, she's hiding something, but the man doesn't insist, he can check with the maids and knights to see the full picture either way. Everyone there knows they shouldn't bother the prisoners or treat them poorly, however as religious as everyone there is, they might be seeing her poorly due to her sainthood to another god different from their own.

Lyor will need to talk with them again, he thinks, the only reason why he's treated well is because no one knows he's a saint, and he intends in keeping that way, swearing neutrality, never devoting himself to a Temple, no one can ever see him stepping inside just to be rejected by another god.

He exchanges a few more words with the woman before getting up and putting the chair aside again, preparing to leave.

However it seems that their gods have other plans.

At the same time both saints drop to the floor, unconscious, one with a burning pain in their neck and the other in their spine.

❥

A loud slam is heard when the door of Lyor's office is opened in a hurry by a unkept and distressed Cypress, his eyes are dark and his body is covered in cold sweat, the King stares at his aide with a calm expression, sure he's shocked by the man's action, but he awaits for him to explain himself rather than speaking first.

Cypress closes the door of the office, taking deep breaths, he ran all the way there from the dungeon after he and Firuzeh had the same vision, a sight planted by both of their gods. The sight was simple yet terrifying.

Differently from the gods that are overseeing Lyor that sent him visions to tarnish more of his emotional side towards Nikias than attempting to make him hostile, the other gods didn't have such qualms. 

Showing the dark side of the past of the Prince in the previous timelines, showing a darkness Lyor wasn't aware of yet. His parents were scared of driving him further away if they gave him visions that were too different from how the current Nikias acts.

As opposed to the other saints, he actually talked with the man and properly started to get to know him.

''Your majesty… no…'' Cypress starts with a whisper before his voice becomes more stern. ''Lyor''.

''Yes?'' The man answers, his head slightly tilted as he watches his aide take a seat and attempt to speak words that might get through to the King.

''I think you should reconsider your marriage to the Prince'', Lyor frowns.

''We already had this conversation Cypress'', he says, his tone is firm and he leans back on his chair, his heterochromatic eyes staring at his aide with caution. 

There's nothing more frightening than being stared down by Lyor, and sometimes Cypress forgets the feeling, the pressure, of having that… beast looking at him with discontent. Even if most days they're friendly and sure, they're even best friends, that's why he feels free to talk with the man like this, the fact that he's the only saint in the world with a blessing from two gods and power enough to rivalize them, is enough to make anyone shiver at the mere mention of his name.

''I understand, Lyor, you're in love, it happens, but I cannot in good conscience stay silence after what I saw!'' Cypress says, standing his ground, even if his whole body is shaking from the pressure. ''Lyor, that man has a heart way darker than what the rumors even begin to attempt to show'', he continues, pleading with his friend, who's immovable. 

''What did he show you?'' His question carries deep meaning, and Cypress understands what the King means, the distaste in his tone and his cold eyes. The consideration and care he has for his best friend is the only reason why the King is still listening to his words with such patience.

''A lot''.

''Then explain what a lot was'', Lyor says firmly.

Cypress nods. ''I saw the Prince committing a few crimes, including partaking in the slave trade, murder and several affairs'', unaware that those are actions of past Nikias from other timelines, one would sure be surprised to see such past and future.

''And did you see everything?''

''What do you mean?''

''How old was he? What drove him to those choices? Was by pure will? Did you see the nuances or just mere scenes of a future you do not understand?'' Lyor's voice is cold, colder than Cypress ever witnessed, whatever how Nikias bewitched Lyor he did such a great job that he cannot even take criticism about the man. 

''Lyor, can you even say you know everything about him?'' Cypress shoots back, his tone becoming more erratic. ''What if he's just using you?''

''How do you know that the gods aren't manipulating your visions?'' He asks back, this is the first time he raised his voice against Cypress.

They're fighting, sure they disagreed on occasion, but Lyor never lost his composure like that. What did his gods show him? And why is he so vehement in disagreeing with the visions?

''You know very well that no god can manipulate the true past and future, they can only choose which parts to show us'', Cypress answers, attempting to calm down himself so that Lyor's mood will follow, but it doesn't work.

''And you chose to believe those snippets as the full truth'', Lyor answers, his tone is lower but he's still angry. ''As someone that knows the pain of assumptions, shouldn't you attempt to see the nuances of people's actions?'' His question takes Cypress by surprise, sure, he understands that the gods might show him situations out of context. 

But how does selling his sister in-law to slave traders something that could be taken out of context? How locking a small fairy in a cage and shouting at it while getting drunk and taking drugs is something someone could do within any context?

''Some actions have no nuance, Lyor'', he says.

Lyor takes a deep breath, he can feel his mana starting to leak, the room becoming brighter, the light brown walls slowly turning white. ''Cypress, if anything they showed us turns out to be true, then I'll kill Nikias myself''. His words are deep, his eyes both turning white, ''Otherwise, I rather trust him, and this is the end of this conversation''.

''Lyor-'' Cypress attempts to speak.

''Enough!'' Lyor shouts, the candles turning off as the room becomes colder and darker, his eyes now both dark like the emptiness of the darkness. 

''I just hope you don't regret this blind trust… your majesty'', Cypress whispers, getting up, he looks at his friend with worry. ''I am only worried about you, you know that right?'' His question calms the King down, but his eyes remain dark.

''Yes, Cypress, but sometimes, we must learn to trust our own eyes rather than the eyes of those with ulterior motives'', he answers, his tone is calmer, but the office is still as cold as his eyes. ''Sometimes being cautious is good, but don't forget that if I were always as cautious as you require me to be, you wouldn't be here today''.

Nor none of the spectres, and those of other Kingdoms would all be dead, Lyor completes his phrase in his mind, not needing to say it out loud, as his aide can see the intent behind his gaze.

''I know'', the man whispers, the shock of the visions still lingering in his mind. What he saw was extremely different on how the Prince behaved near Lyor. Sure, the visions could be wrong, but if they aren't… Then Lyor is doomed to have a betrayal that he might never recover from.

And Cypress might never call him his saviour or treat him like a messiah. But Lyor is his best friend, someone who he cannot even bear to see in pain, so if the man is so adamant in trusting Nikias, it's up to him to properly investigate the Prince, so that he can shield this stubborn King from his imminent downfall.

If love makes you this blind, then I don't think I want to ever feel something like this.

❥

Chapter curiosities:

There were two more characters introduced this chapter that will become more frequent later on, however I can't attest for their importance right now. As more will soon be revealed later on, I hope the main cast of characters is slowly becoming more natural for y'all, I know its a lot of characters but I can't possibly make it less, that's why if you ever become lost remember to check the Index to recall what is the role of each character in the story or to even remember where they belong to.

Xylon is Alkaios new aide (who remembers in earlier chapters when he talked to Rainier about finding a new aide? hehe), his name is of Greek origin and it means ''wood'' with his name having a meaning of ''from the forest''.

And Firuzeh, is a persian name that means ''turquoise'', her name was given to her by her late mother that said her eyes looked like the ocean near their home.