Author's Note:
Hello ^^
Sorry for taking a full month to post this, I kinda got writer's block due to a few inner conflicts with my writing. Hopefully you ain't bored of this story yet. I ask for your patience, even if it takes me long, I will finish this story, I promise.
This story means a lot to me, and hopefully I'll grow as a writer as I walk through this alongside you readers.
Please don't give up on this story <3
Even if it has obnoxiously long chapters and I take too much time on side characters bcz I want to build the world surrounding Nikias too badly and even if I ain't a perfect writer.
I'll attempt to go back to my regular posting of every week or every two weeks, if you ever wanna know when I post a new chapter, you can check my BlueSky, although I DO ramble a lot in there about chapters or other nonsense.
Enjoy the chapter and again, I'm sorry for taking too long.
Oh, and I apologize for any mistakes in this chapter I did have a small surgery two days ago and proof-reading might not have been perfect due to being medicated :D
⚠︎ This chapter has no major warnings.
♬ I'm Gonna Love You (part. Wonstein) by D.O. ♬
"Dear, put your hand on mine, feel the breeze across your face as we take step after step over this broken glass that is the future we chose."
One day. That's the time left before the big event that ends the first installment of 'Odd Eyes'. The Exos Empire's Palace is bustling, not a single servant is standing still, the Knights training endlessly while also doing constant patrols, the servants clean and put up decorations, the kitchen maids are doing the last preparations to start cooking at dawn, and the Royals themselves are also as busy as it gets.
Emperor Magnus spends his days in strategic meetings, while also discussing with his allies about supporting his eldest son's journey as future Emperor. At the other side of the Palace, Empress Else is busy organizing the nobility together with her daughter-in-law, while also overseeing all the wedding preparations alongside Lord Rainier Bauldry who's temporarily taking care of the security of the wedding by his friend's request. The Crown Princess, on the other hand, is doing all that while also actively investigating the Time Cult, suffice to say, the attendants will need a miracle to hide the woman's dark circles.
Crown Prince Alkaios' day-to-day before the wedding was more ordinary as he kept doing his regular paperwork, while also requesting his aide, Xylon Bosch, to assist his soon to be wife and leave all of the paperwork to him. Such an act can be seen as a selfless sacrifice to assist Evangelia, however, all the man wants is time alone to think.
In the eyes of those working in the Palace, all the Royals are extremely busy, just like them. Satisfying is the feeling of knowing your boss is putting as much blood and sweat in the work as you.
Well, all Royals, except the Second Prince Nikias.
Who is locked in his office for the last two days, only his servants are entering and leaving, and since they're all tight lipped, in the eyes of everyone else, the Prince is hiding off in fear and shame.
But there's no doubt that Prince Nikias is the busiest Royal, currently.
Overseeing the ledgers of his new business, talks about expansion, managing his retrieved assets and organizing his engagement party, it all occupies his mind at the moment, however this isn't the only things he's working on, no, hiring spies for his Information Guild, acquiring intel on other nations and the Time Cult. He manages to have darker circles than the Crown Princess who hasn't slept in forty-two hours.
Currently, as the sun slowly rises in the horizon of the day before the end of the first novel, Nikias is sitting on his desk, staring at the window with his feet on his chair, his golden eyes shining as the first rays of sunlight hit the window frame, his silver hair is dripping wet from the bath he just took, the wet tips tickling the back of his neck, and although the feeling of his white linen shirt getting wet is annoying, the man does no effort to move or dry off. On his knee is Petal, the fairy is sitting staring at the horizon just like her owner, her body covered in yellow petals shines with the early lights and her yellow-ish hair is in a long braid, her eyes fixated on the sun, and although she cannot communicate with the man, the fairy emotions are well-felt by him.
''Everything will change tomorrow, Petal'', Nikias says, his voice is hoarse due to the early hours, a small gust of wind comes through, messing their hair, but they stand still. ''All will become even more dangerous as the war approaches, six years…'', the man sighs. ''One is already gone…'', his voice drifts as he tilts his head, his gaze focusing on the fairy on his knee now. ''Should I send you back to the fairy forest?''
Petal looks at him, she shakes her head, sounds leave her mouth, but there's no use. So she gets up, flying up, her yellow-ish transparent wings shine with the light coming from the window, the sound of her wings beating is faint, almost like wind itself passing by. She approaches Nikias, placing her hand on his cheek and then sitting down on his shoulder.
''I don't understand, I've done nothing to harness your affection'', Nikias says, but his eyes are soft, effective as always, the mana coming from the fairy calms his turbulent heart, allowing him to understand more about himself, and with a clear mind, think objectively. ''We'll be in danger soon, with the Cult becoming more active, their infiltration at the wedding…'', he sighs again. ''I should tell her, but so many things have changed, how much will my knowledge hold up? If I tell her and nothing happens, I will just be humiliating myself. And she also hasn't been the most cooperative as well, even after giving me such a good birthday gift, she keeps crucial information all to herself.''
He's rambling to the fairy, not knowing if she even understands him, and even if she does, what could a small creature do? The only reason she's there is because Nikias needed the protection spell, and even so, after that what is her use? Fairies have inherited mana from birth, and sure, Petal's mana is amazing to calm Nikias down, emanating positive emotions, however, aside from that, she's weak.
A flick of a finger from anyone would kill her, and even with the small artifact that allows Nikias to know her location and status, even if he knows she's in danger, what could he do before the worst happens? He can't carry her everywhere, she's a liability.
So why can't he send her away? Sure, he's constantly telling her about sending her back to her fairy forest, but he never does anything to make it true.
Because although Nikias refuses to admit to himself, he's already deeply connected to the small fairy.
And not only her.
His Knights, his servants, even Lyor and his own entourage, Nikias, who never thought he was able to, cares about every single one of them. The amount he cares for each differs, of course, but the idea of caring for someone terrifies him.
As such is the first step to let your guard down and be betrayed.
Being betrayed by someone you care about is worse than being betrayed by someone you don't, and even so, with all the precautions he has in place, the blood and magical contracts, the mana pacts and back-up plans, he still cannot let go of his distrust, his fear.
He sighs, leaning back, his head hanging down from the table as he looks at his office upside-down, papers everywhere, the faint scent of tea, a few weapons on the corner, paintings of the Empire hanging on the walls, he became familiar with this place, so much so that he can look at this and thinks 'this is my office', the same with his bedroom which he still winces every time it shines bright due to the white walls and precious stones, but that isn't true. This isn't his, never was.
This life, the money, opportunities, the people following him, how would they feel if they found out the truth?
That he's a fraud, a lie.
Lyor was right, it's risky to reveal such a thing before he's fully safe.
But even so… Everyone deserves the truth.
Although they all had a hand in the miserable life of the previous Nikias, even if they caused his death and neglect, even if they all pushed that man to the brink of madness… The love and care they felt for him was real, and the fact they think they had a second chance in redeeming themselves, that it's all ok because they were able to say 'I love you' just once.
No. That's not fair.
Not to them, not to the previous Nikias.
It's cruel, to continue this facade, even if he wishes to continue living as Nikias, even if he has no wish to avenge a man who had his plethora of wrongdoings, he cannot let go of this guilt, eating him alive every time his 'brother' or 'parents' tell him something that wasn't directed at him, but him.
''On the day I leave, that's when I'll tell them'', Nikias says, ''The day I start over, will be the day I'll set myself free from this guilt''.
A knock on the door makes the man rise up, going back to his chair, while Petal flies away to sit on the window's frame, probably to sleep.
''C'mon in'', he says, cleaning his throat.
The office's door opens slowly, two figures enter the room in the middle of a discussion. ''...It needs to be white silk, I'm telling you, it's obligatory'', Lowe's voice is the first to reach Nikias' ears as the figure itself passes through the door.
''And I'm telling you it'll be way over budget'', Fleuri's annoyed voice follows along as he closes the door behind him. The two men bow to the Prince, while continuing their discussion. ''Do you actually need two full kilometers of silk? For what? Tacky decorations?'' Fleuri continues, walking towards his own desk.
Nikias watches as the two men discuss in front of him.
Lowe sighs, his hair is slightly messy and his eyes are sunken, proof of his hard work in the last months. ''If we don't follow tradition to the tee, it'll only make his highness look like a brat, it needs to be perfect''.
''I can understand that, what I can't understand is why we need to spend five hundred gold for mere silk that will only be used once, I don't know if you noticed Lowe, but we don't really have money to spare right now'', Fleuri frowns as he moves his papers around, searching for something. ''With the Knights, the engagement and the raids, we are only surviving due to the profit of the store''.
''Don't we have an extra budget? Her majesty should've assigned an extra amount for his highness' engagement, that's simply customary''. Lowe says, sitting at the sofa in the middle of the room, scratching his head.
Whichever papers Fleuri was looking for, he finds it, bringing it to Lowe. ''This is our current budget, so do not ask me for more'', the man says with an exasperated sigh. ''Sure her majesty said we would have extra money this month, but she probably forgot due to the Crown Prince's wedding''.
''Forget?'' Lowe asks in a whisper, staring at the paper, numbers scattered all around the page, as if it's the rumblings of a madman, how could he even begin understanding it? ''It's her son, why would she…'', he stops, he almost forgot. ''Right, can't we move money from the estates for a while? It's all abandoned either way, we don't need staff there''.
''If we send them away, rumors about the Prince being unreasonable will surface, we already have the minimal amount of staff required there'', Fleuri says, his eyes are completely surrounded by dark circles, deep enough for someone to mistake him for a zombie. If anyone looks at them, they would think they're my slaves not my employees, Nikias thinks, observing the situation, he could step in and solve things, but he'll wait a bit more, to see what his employees could suggest as a solution.
''Then I'll talk with Madam Hannah…'' Lowe begins speaking, but Fleuri interrupts him.
''I spoke with her already, Lowe, she denied our allowance expansion request'', Fleuri says. ''I know she's your mentor and you are fond of her, but do not forget people hate his highness in this place, just because we're always surrounded by his friends, doesn't mean his enemies are erased''.
Lowe frowns, rubbing between his eyes, trying to think. ''I know that Fleuri, don't forget I serve his highness for longer than you have'', he leans back, thinking. ''Can't we pull money from anywhere else?''
''Just diminish the scale of the ball, it's not that deep'', Fleuri shrugs.
''It is that deep Fleuri, this isn't the engagement of a Second Prince, but of a future KingConsort, we cannot allow any mistakes, or for it to be at any smaller scale than the one the Crown Prince had''. Lowe insists, and he's right, any hiccup and they would be looked down upon by nobility, and even if it doesn't really matter, politics is strictly necessary if in the future they wish to keep a good relationship with other nations. ''This engagement needs to be even more memorable than the wedding tomorrow''.
''Are you sure you're not just too fixated on this because of your boyfriend's absence?'' Fleuri mocks, rolling his eyes as he goes back to his desk.
Lowe stares at the half-elf with annoyance. ''I'm not a child Fleuri, Rainier is working and so am I, that has nothing to do with why I'm on edge. Are you aware of our footing? We need this engagement to make sure no one will doubt Prince Nikias' position anymore''.
''Of course I am aware of that Lowe, but how do you expect me to find more money to waste in mere decorative nonsense?'' Fleuri says raising his voice, they're both exhausted, brought to the limit by their jobs.
That's when Nikias finally speaks: ''If anyone saw you they would think I force you to work hours without breaks'', his tone is calm, but it makes the two men flinch either way.
''My apologies, your highness'', Lowe says, lowering his head, he does sound tired.
''When it was the last time either of you properly slept?'' Nikias asks.
''With all due respect, your highness, when it was the last time you properly slept?'' Fleuri throws back, his eyes serious.
''I'm the one with the most to gain, so of course I must work the most'', Nikias answers calmly.
''And as those whose lives depend on your success we must also work as hard'', Fleuri answers as he stares at documents on his desk.
Nikias ponders for a moment before speaking again: ''Take the rest of the day off, both of you'', he blinks slowly, staring at his employees, and before they protest he raises his hand stopping them. ''Tomorrow morning we'll have a meeting, and on the money, we can always make more, so sell some of the jewels in my room which I do not use''.
''We can't possibly-'' Lowe attempts to say but is interrupted.
''If you sell it in secret it won't do any damage, ask Gutierre to take care of it, and I rarely use any jewelry either way, so it doesn't matter, you know the ones I care for less, so do as you see fit, Lowe'', Nikias says, opening his drawer to grab his letter papers. ''Now, if you could, please leave and rest for the day, in fact, tell the others to take the day off as well, they'll need it''.
Lowe stares at him, his lips pursed as he seems to be eating up the words he wishes to say.
At the end he simply nods, leaving the room, but Fleuri stays.
''Leave as well'', Nikias says, as he starts writing his letter of the day to Lyor, not even looking at the half-elf.
''Your highness, what will happen tomorrow?'' His aide's question makes the Prince look at him.
''Whatever do you mean? My brother's wedding of course''.
Fleuri sighs. ''We both know what I mean by my question, your highness, making the Knights patrol although they're not even allowed near the venue, and the closer the wedding gets, the more you are trapped inside your own thoughts'', his observations are spot on. ''I can only conclude something big is about to happen, and I do not think you consider the wedding itself something of importance''.
Nikias puts his pen down. ''Fleuri, what do you think defines who you are? Your soul? Your thoughts? Your body? If your memories are gone, would you still be the same person you were yesterday just because your soul is the same? Or if perhaps the soul inside a body changes, would it still be the same person? Or would it be someone completely different?'' His question has nothing to do with what Fleuri was speaking of, or at least the halfling doesn't seem to understand the correlation.
He answers it either way: ''I think our soul is what defines our potential, while our experiences and body defines our life, but a body by itself doesn't represent a person''.
''Then what are blood ties? If souls change bodies, but the blood in those bodies differ, does that erase their previous family or make them less of a family to their current one?'' His question seems to trouble the aide as he frowns.
''I'm sorry your highness, but I do not understand your question. If your soul goes through a cleanse and you're born in a different body, you'd belong to your current body's family, after all, familial ties are as fleeting as such''.
Nikias shakes his head. ''No, Fleuri, I mean if a soul doesn't go through its cleanse and enters a body that has no soul, would they be who they were before, or who they currently are?''
''That's…'' Fleuri pauses. ''Impossible, it would never happen''.
But it did happen to me, Nikias thinks before sighing.
''Of course, you're right''.
''But, if that did happen for whichever reason, I think that person wouldn't be either'', Fleuri says, ''Neither the body they now live in, nor the one they previously had''.
''Why so?''
''Because the changes are so drastic they would simply become a different person, regardless of body or soul'', Fleuri grabs a few papers from his desk. ''And I don't think familial ties from their previous lives can be erased, however, it also doesn't mean they're not related to the new ones they acquire''.
''However they're not the child their parents raised all those years'', Nikias points out.
''Doesn't make them less their child, after all, what they gave birth to was the body, not the soul'', Fleuri words make Nikias flinch, he never thought from such perspective, not that he completely agrees with Fleuri nor he thinks he is able to erase the guilt in his heart with those thoughts.
But the aide's words do soothe him to a certain degree.
''That's quite an interesting perspective Fleuri, thank you, I'll relay your thoughts to Lyor'', Nikias says, going back to his letter. ''We were discussing souls'', he lies.
''Your conversations do sound rather dull'', Fleuri points out, walking towards the door.
''Well, I find it quite enjoyable'', Nikias smiles softly.
❥
Even though Nikias wishes for the day to go by slowly, his wishes are not granted as the sun has already set and he's currently sitting at the dinner table with all of his 'family'. Fleuri's words are still echoing inside his head, could he even think of them as his real family? Sure sometimes he catches himself looking at them and thinking 'brother', 'father' and 'mother', but at the back of his mind he's always correcting his thoughts.
''How are the wedding preparations?'' Emperor Magnus asks, his eyes look as sunken and tired as everyone else at that dinner table, his words are calm and his eyes are cold, per usual, though.
Evangelia is the one who answers, although she looks half-dead, her words are still clear. ''Everything is going perfectly well, thank you, your majesty'', she smiles.
For someone that hates her in-laws, she sure fakes well, Nikias thinks, focused on his salad, playing with it a bit before eating, he's not the focus of this talk, this dinner's objective is for the two lovebirds to talk with the Emperor and Empress, he's just there as a requested presence.
Little does him being there actually matter.
He is proved wrong, though, when his father turns to him instead: ''What about you, Nikias, how are the preparations for your engagement?''
His question catches the Prince by surprise, he never thought any of the people there would even care about his engagement, much less direct a question to him about it one day before the wedding of the clearly more important Crown Prince.
''Smoothly, we did run into a few budget issues, though'', he comments, his gaze going towards his 'mother', she flinches, probably only then realizing the lack of funds directed at her youngest son's engagement ball. ''But Lowe is quite competent in what he does''.
''That's the commoner boy who's in a relationship with Sir Rainier?'' The Emperor asks.
Nikias nods: ''Yes, he was also officiated as my butler as of this morning'', he continued, as he had finished the documents needed that day and that was also the last day Lowe accompanied Madam Hannah around. ''Of course, he still has much to learn, but we will develop together as master and servant'', he smiles softly.
''That's good, it's important to have trustworthy allies by your side, son'', the Emperor nods, his words make the Prince uncomfortable, but he doesn't say a word.
''Madam Hannah praised Lowe a lot, I'm glad you have competent workers on your side, Nikki'', his 'mother' says with a shameful smile, clearly feeling guilty for the engagement money that never came. Well, it's normal to forget something when you're too used to neglecting your son already, not that Nikias particularly cares, he can always find other ways.
''All of my subordinates are hard-workers, on that note…'', he cleans his mouth with the napkin, his plate clean while the others are still half-way. ''I would like to request a Knighthood ceremony for my Knights'', his words make those at the table fall silent, his 'father' flinches while his 'brother' looks at him with worry clear in his eyes.
''Nikias, you're aware we cannot do that'', Emperor Magnus says with a frustrated sigh. ''Giving your Knights the Knighthood for them to just move to another country even if they continue to serve the same master is against the Imperial rules''.
''I am indeed aware of that, your majesty, however it does have precedence'', Nikias says, remaining firm in his words. ''In 845, the Emperor allowed his daughter to take her entourage of Knights with her after her political marriage, with the pretext of protection of the bloodline.''
''That would entail the obligation of having offsprings'', Alkaios interrupts, ''Princess Klara was only allowed to do so because she was already pregnant when the wedding took place''.
''But I do intend on having children, sure not at the moment, however all of this can be fixed with the protection pretext and a contract making sure my first offspring continues to transit between the nations'', Nikias nods, he already exhausted every possibility out there. At first he thought it would be better to do the ceremony at the Morke Kingdom once he becomes King Consort, but that would mean Gutierre wouldn't be able to do business in the Exos Empire and that his other Knights wouldn't be able to take on works in the neighbouring Kingdoms.
His plan of investigating the Whisperia Kingdom's connection with the Hai Empire and the Time Cult would go down the drain.
So it's of utmost importance that his Knights bear both titles of Knights of Exos and Knights of Morke, and such can only be allowed under the pretext of bloodline protection.
Back in 845 the young Emperor was only able to have one child with his late wife before she passed away due to poisoning, and his daughter ended up getting pregnant from the Prince of a Kingdom that collapsed 100 years later, to ensure the continuation of his bloodline and ensure his daughter happiness, he allowed her to become the Consort of the Prince with the condition that her children would be raised in the Exos Empire instead.
The Emperor ended up dying 26 years later and who took the throne was the second child of Princess Klara, Prince Theodore. Therefore due to such an extraordinary situation, her Knights were allowed to serve both the Empire and the small Kingdom. Of course the situation of the inheritance was not so clean cut as the history books claims, but that isn't of Nikias' concern. He doubts his children will ever need to take over the throne of the Exos Empire one day.
After that, the protection pretext wasn't used again, as the Exos Empire doesn't enjoy political marriages outside their nation, however Nikias now is embarking in such an extraordinary situation himself. And although his 'brother' is the heir and his children will be the heirs as well, in the case where his children or him may come to harm, Nikias and his children would be the heirs.
Therefore the protection pretext can be used in this situation.
''We can discuss this again after your engagement party'' Emperor Magnus says, frowning. ''I can't simply decide that myself, I'll need the approval of the other nobles''.
Nikias scoffs. ''Since when nobles need to approve the Knighthood of the Prince's Knights? Even the protection pretext says the decision is up to the good discernment of the current Emperor''.
''That's how it used to work 200 years ago, Nikias, it's not that simple anymore'', the Emperor says with a sigh. ''You cannot take what history books say at face value, there are other factors involved, you should know better''.
His words make the Second Prince freeze, his cheeks burning with embarrassment, he feels as if his real father is scolding him for doing something wrong, his heart beats fast and he takes a deep breath trying to control his feelings. He doesn't even know what to say to rebuttal what his father said, after all, what else can he say? If he brings up what's written in the Imperial Law, all he'll do is reprimand him for being naive again.
Naive…
Can such a cute word even be used to describe him?
''Understood, father'', he says simply, unsure how to proceed.
Of course he can always resort to other plans, but they do include breaking a lot of laws of other nations including the Exos Empire's ones.
The dinner continues but Nikias remains quiet, letting his 'family' members talk amongst themselves as he's trapped inside his thoughts, thinking about what he must do next and his other responsibilities before the wedding, not even paying attention to the others' conversation.
Once everyone finishes eating and the soon-to-be-wed couple leave the dinner room, Nikias gets up to leave, but is stopped by his 'father'.
''Nikias, have a glass of wine with me'', Emperor Magnus says, nodding towards the Empress, who understands his intentions and leaves, but not before placing a tender kiss on Nikias' forehead and wishing him a good night. Such a gesture only makes the young man feel even more uncomfortable.
He takes his 'mother's' seat next to his 'father', the servants place the wine and glasses in front of them and leave the room at the Emperor's orders.
Slowly the older man serves the wine up to half of the glass, almost making Nikias chuckle, remembering the nights he and Dacre were drinking and filled their glasses to the brim, even if it isn't proper etiquette, however he holds his amusement, taking the glass and swirling the liquid softly before taking an elegant sip.
''Son, I understand a lot of things on how society works can make you deeply frustrated, however, you mustn't forget that the position of Prince or King Consort, are positions for the people, not for oneself.'' His words are calm, he sounds wise and kind, quite similar to how Alkaios sounds as well, they're more similar than what the Crown Prince would ever admit, quite the opposite from Nikias, though.
The Second Prince ponders for a moment, his eyes fixed on the deep red liquid on his glass, his fingers tapping on its base. ''Why do you assume my actions are solely for my benefit?'' He asks simply, turning his gaze towards the Emperor, the golden eyes of the Emperor are calm, like a warm desert made of golden sand, while Nikias' eyes are more turbulent and cold.
His words come from a place of unfairness and the wish of going against what others assume he's up to, although the Emperor's assumption isn't that far off, it is also true that Nikias' choices and actions will benefit the greater good, indirectly, sure, but still will.
Just like the halfling children he already saved, his Knights whom he shifted their path towards a better place, and even the Morke Kingdom itself, where he's actively working towards improving their finances. The end goal is his safety, happiness, survival and peace of mind, yet his actions greatly improve the lives he crosses paths with.
Emperor Magnus takes another sip of his wine as he seems to weigh his son's words, shortly after he responds: ''It's understandable you're defensive over my words, but son, people don't believe words, they believe actions''.
Nikias can't hold his laughter this time, his laugh is cold and the anger in his eyes is clear to the Emperor, but the older man doesn't even flinch. ''Your majesty, your words amuse me, tell me then, why do people mistrust my actions? Is it because I hit the maids that attempted to touch my naked body? Or because I punished them when they thought they could curse me to my face with no consequence?'' His voice raises with every word, ''Or is it due to me cowering in corners during parties as a child due to my fear of speaking out of turn?'' He leans back. ''Oh, maybe it's because I stayed cooped up inside my room because I believed my presence would tarnish my family's reputation?''
He scoffs.
''The people sure have a reason for mistrusting me, a child grown being hit by a servant, being told his parents were doing that because he was bad'', he's angry, but more than that, he's exhausted of these conversations, it's been a year, he's working his damned ass off to change his image, yet they dare to keep using the same past to shame him?
A victim of neglect and greedy adults, the past Nikias suffered until he reached the boiling point and actually became a villain. Slowly, the more he understands why.
He would never do what the old Nikias did, after all, he knows better ways of hurting others, yet he can at least be sympathetic now, after living a year under the same pressure and rumors.
''Hit?'' His 'father' asks, his eyes show clear discomfort and doubt.
''That's not relevant right now, it's been a decade, what's the use of me complaining about it now? Tell me, father, would it change anything? It's all in the past, the damage has been done, and I decided to forego it all'', Nikias says, drinking the rest of the wine. ''Now let's see, if it isn't my past actions the reason is it because I hired competent commoners as my employees? Or because I'm about to marry a strong, reliable and kind King? Perhaps it is my claim of wishing for the freedom of halflings in a nation where they're sold as slaves?'' He pretends to be thinking, ''Oh!'' He snaps his fingers. ''I know! It's because of my great contribution in stopping the contraband of mana stones, surely the people hate it.''
''Nikias…'' His 'father' attempts to speak but Nikias interrupts him.
''Surely it can't be because I'm gay or due to the involvement of the Sun god in the Founding Day?'' He pretends to be offended, holding the base of the glass tightly. ''Tell me, father, why do people dislike me? Why is it that their mistrust in my actions is so big that I can't even have my Knights be officially recognized under a law made in order to protect Royals under political marriages?'' He scoffs. ''I guess it may be due to my wicked personality. Of course, I am the evil lurking in children's dreams, lacking the conscience of a normal person. Should I show them what wickedness actually is?''
The Second Prince raises his glass, his grip tightening even more on the cup, his eyes glow with the anger in his heart.
''Son, you almost killed a Knight, you threatened a Duke, and… even though your mother and I love you no matter what, the commonfolk still are wary of…'' He doesn't need to finish his sentence, he can't even, actually, since the glass on Nikias' hand shatters.
Without a word, Nikias gets up, cleaning his bloody hand with the napkin and walking away, leaving the dining room. Once he crosses the door he requests for one of the servants to fetch Lowe, and calmly he walks towards his room. His eyes are shining, yet he allows no mana to leak, he can't give them any more reason to talk, not when his 'brother's' wedding is tomorrow.
''Nikias'', he can hear his father's voice, yet he ignores it, even when the man repeats it again and again.
Because if he stayed in that room.
He was going to kill the Emperor.
And that would destroy everything.
So instead he chose to leave, because being seen as a bad son and an insubordinate Prince, is much better than being killed for treason.
❥
The day of the Royal wedding starts early for everyone at the Palace, even before the sun rises, the corridors are bustling with servants and the excited whispers on the streets are heard all across the Capital. But for some, the work never stopped and they never managed to 'start' their day as the previous one, never 'ended'.
With a loud sigh, Xylon Bosch lays his head onto his desk inside the Crown Prince's office, his eyes are bloodshot, and his whole body is shaking, craving nutrients as it's been twelve hours since he last ate, yet, he can't even manage to complain as he finishes making sure every supplier for the wedding delivered what was ordered properly.
''I miss my baby brother'', he says with a groan as he stretches, trying to wake up so he can finish everything.
''Want some coffee?'' A voice startles him, making the man jump in his chair as he turns to see the Second Prince's aide at the door. Fleuri always manages to make Xylon feel as if he's not actually working that much.
''You look as dead as always'', the blue-haired man comments with a relieved sigh as he calms his own heartbeat.
Fleuri stares at the man for a moment before chuckling and placing the mug of coffee on the desk. ''I came to wish you good luck'', he says before dropping actual paperwork on the table in front of Xylon. ''And also bring you our report on the new-year's incident''.
''Weren't your guys on the scene? Why did it take you…'', he comments, grabbing the papers with one hand and the coffee with another, drinking a sip while speaking just to immediately spew it all out. ''What is this? Poison?'' He asks frowning.
''We had better things to do than reporting information to those who don't share the same courtesy'', Fleuri comments, grabbing the mug from Xylon. ''And this is what keeps me alive'', he takes a long sip of the coffee, making a satisfied expression. ''Expresso machines were the best creation ever made with mana stones''.
''I quite disagree, how many shots are in that thing anyway?'' Xylon asks, as he reads the report.
''Ten''.
Xylon pauses, his gaze going to the blonde aide who's gulping down the coffee like water. ''How are you alive?''
Because I have elven blood. Fleuri thinks, but simply answers: ''If I died I think the Prince would find a way to resuscitate me just to make me work even more'', it's a joke, but Xylon simply nods, as if he completely understands what he means. Sure, both Prince Nikias and Prince Alkaios do work just as much as them, it doesn't make it all much better though.
The blue-haired man continues to read the report, until he reads a certain sentence, reading and re-reading again, raising his gaze to the other man again, then lowering to read it all again. ''Fleuri, is what's written here, true?''
Fleuri sits down on the chair in front of the Crown Prince's empty desk. ''Correct, everything reported is factual and it was approved by the Second Prince himself.''
''Are you aware this will make the Crown Princess quite mad?''
''Listen, Lord Xylon, it took us six months to give out this report because we were cross-checking facts and making an investigation of our own. There's no reason why we even should share this with you, but since we already finished checking the information, holding them out has no use for us anymore'', Fleuri answers, leaning back, his gaze fixed on the Crown Prince's aide. ''Do you understand what I'm saying?''
''...You mean Prince Nikias knew the identity of one of the Cult members, yet held onto such information for six months just so he could get ahead?'' Xylon says with a tired sigh as he wrecks his brain trying to think of a way to report this to the Crown Princess that wouldn't make his own life much harder.
''It was a dead end, if that helps, but that report is going to take another six months'', Fleuri says, getting up from the chair. ''Good luck with the wedding, oh, and if you need any help, the Prince's office is always unlocked''.
''Wait'', Xylon gets up, ''You can't drop this bomb in my lap on the day of his highness' wedding''.
''It was an order, Lord Xylon, do you think I enjoy working at…'' Fleuri checks his own worn out pocket watch. ''Three in the morning?'' The half-elf rubs between his eyes, regretting ever waking up from his ten-hour nap. Should I quit? He thinks, having absolutely no intention to do so. ''Prince Nikias has a message to the Crown Princess,'' he sighs again, ''If you think time is running out, then knock on my door and find out why your time is already gone'', he winces at the annoying task. ''Just give her the report and the message, let the superiors fight this off'', and with those words he leaves the Crown Prince's office directly to the kitchen where he very much intends to get another few shots of coffee.
Two hours, that's how long it takes for Crown Princess Evangelia Petit to knock on the Second Prince's office's door, the sun hasn't even risen yet. The Prince sighs looking at his watch. She's late, he thinks, sitting down at his desk as he puts down the letters he was reading in his locked drawer.
''Come in'', he says with a tone just loud enough for the woman to hear.
She opens the door carefully, and she looks even worse than the night before, her black eyes are sunken, her black hair is in a messy braid and she looks even paler than usual, and looking closer she clearly lost quite a few pounds.
''Is this true?'' She doesn't curtsy or even greets the Prince before slamming the papers on his desk.
''Good morning for you too, Miss Petit'', he says with a smile, looking at the papers she slammed on his desk.
Golden Phoenices report on the new-year's incident with the supposed 'Time Cult'.
He raises his gaze towards the woman. ''Sit down, Miss Petit, you lost a lot of weight for the wedding, I see''.
Evangelia glares at him before sighing and messing her hair. ''Listen, Nikias, let's drop this kindness act. How could you withhold this information for six months?'' She asks, frowning. ''I understand we have our disagreements, and I did refuse your offer to work together, but this… This doesn't affect only us'', she points at the papers.
''And what will you do with this information?'' He isn't smiling anymore, leaning back onto his chair, even in the darkness of the poorly lit room his eyes shine brightly. ''Wage war against the Whisperia Kingdom? Do you even know why an officer of their brigade was there?''
The woman flinches. ''I would if I knew he was there! Now I'm six months behind with the investigation!'' Her tone is urgent, yet she doesn't raise her voice. ''You know how much this means to me…'', she trails off, sighing. ''Why did you hide this?''
''Miss Petit, isn't it obvious?'' He asks, tilting his head softly. ''Although our objectives align, our methods don't''.
''I can't understand how you can find everything so quickly? I…'', her words are stopped by a knot on her throat, her eyes glistening with tears that she swallows before continuing: ''I'm working hard as well, we want the same thing, and even whilst I pour all my time, connections and resources I am unable to find even half of what you do.''
Well, all I know is because of you, not that you'll ever know that. Nikias thinks watching as the woman makes a frustrated expression and rubs her hands on her face, probably trying to calm herself. For a future Empress and someone regarded as elegant and poised, she seems to lose quite a lot of her facade in front of him.
He says his next words carefully, he needs to be careful to not startle her too much and make her mana leak. ''If push comes to shove, and everything is lost. You still have a few more trials left, no?''
Silence. Slowly Evangelia takes her hands off her face, her eyes are cold and unreadable, her lips pursed and she's gazing directly at Nikias. ''What did you just say?''
Nikias fingers tap on the table rhythmically alongside his heartbeat. ''This is your fourth attempt, no?''
The woman jumps, grabbing Nikias' collar, her eyes are darker than the dark sky of Morke, although her gaze doesn't reflect a specific emotion, chills still run down Nikias' spine. But he's not the type of backing down on a choice he made after careful deliberation, especially when he did consider she might get violent.
''Your desperation is understandable, I too have people I wish to protect, but what's the use of knowledge when you have no way of enforcing them?'' Nikias says.
''Are you saying I'm stupid or something?'' She asks, her grip on Nikias' collar becomes tighter. ''You can understand me? Did you ever watch someone you love die right in front of your eyes?''
''Yes'', Nikias answers with no hesitation startling the woman.
She releases his collar, going back to her chair. ''How did you find out?''
He taps near his eyes. ''One of the benefits of being a Saint is seeing what others can't''.
''If that was so, the Empress would've known as well'', she says, giving up even trying to hold back her words. If, and just if Nikias truly knows it all, then maybe they can do this.
''Well, I'm special'', he says, making the woman chuckle.
''Of course'', she sighs, leaning her face on her hands again. ''Are you going to tell Alkaios?''
''No'', he answers, ''I have no use for that, but I will tell him about you trying to kill me''.
Evangelia flinches again.
''What use you have for that?''
''Do you think I don't have the right? That I should accept the punishment quietly?'' He scoffs. ''Listen, Miss Petit, you might be marrying him today, and that your love for each other is unstoppable. However if you wish to punish me for what never came to happen this time, I also deserve to punish both of you for the actions that did.''
She's shaking, hiding her hands under her thighs, but the man could still see them. Although he always admired Evangelia's resolve, seeing her so fragile did take her down in his view. After all, the strong female protagonist who would even kill for her beloved's sake, shouldn't be shaking in front of someone she deems her enemy.
''If you know everything, we should…''
''Share everything? Funny how that's exactly what I offered you a few months ago.'' He turns his gaze to look through the window as the first rays of light start to appear in the horizon. ''Our objectives are the same. And I know the answer to everything.''
''Yet you choose to hide it?'' She questions.
''No, Miss Petit, do not hide, I am doing everything in my power to fix everything, protect myself and everyone from doom. We both knew of the involvement of the Whisperia Kingdom and the Hai Empire, yet we had no proof. Now…'', he points at the papers. ''We have proof, yet, when you dig a little deeper you find a dead end. The man was already in exile and had no connection with the Kingdom anymore, of course that's all bullshit, but it still proves nothing.''
''We could still use it as fuel!''
''For what? A war that is already happening?'' He asks, shaking his head. ''You're way too naive, right or wrong, black or white, hero or villain, it barely matters, it's all conjecture. Things aren't as cutthroat as you think they are, that's where you fail. A good person would never do something wrong, and your actions can't possibly bring harm when all of your intentions were as good as they come.
''What are you trying to say, Nikias?'' She asks, her hands gripping on the chair. ''That I was wrong to poison you? That I should regret it? You ruined my life! You ruined our lives!''
Nikias pauses sighing and not looking at the woman, his eyes reflecting the sun that has yet to rise. ''Evangelia.'' His voice is low, the woman flinches again. ''All I am saying is that your reasons, my reasons, everyone has reasons behind their actions, none that make them better or worse than you or me'', he leans his head back, closing his eyes. ''Our methods don't align, but rest assured that we are both walking towards the same goal''.
''That's all? You want me to say thank you? What do you actually want with all this?'' She asks, her tone shows hostility but her voice is low.
''Support'', Nikias says. ''When I leave the Empire, I want to be able to come back freely, I want my Knights to be able to move freely''.
''That's why you wanted to use the protection pretext?'' She nods, as if everything is finally clicking inside her head.
''Part of it'', he admits. ''I don't think father will stay in the throne for long'', he continues, ''He is growing tired of nobility and Alkaios' influence has been growing due to your involvement in politics''.
''I am aware'', she says, crossing her arms, having calmed down already. ''So you want me to meddle with the politics behind the scenes and make sure you get what you want?''
Nikias chuckles. ''That's one way of putting things. But as long as you understand that I am not in your way anymore''.
''What I can't understand is, if you can see it all, then why marry outside the Empire? Wouldn't it be more useful to marry someone like Rainier?'' Her question makes sense, and sure, it was something he considered as well.
Why did his head even consider Lyor? He's the strongest and the one that defeated Vremes, yet he has no information on him in actuality, and he could be a huge liability. That was a bit out of character for him that wanted full control of his future. Yet something just made sense in choosing him.
Is this due to the fate Jiwon mentioned?
''Love knows no reason'', he answers, knowing it was something she could relate to, and telling her the truth that he chose him simply because he was the strongest would be extremely stupid.
''So you actually love him?'' She raises an eyebrow.
''Didn't you see it already?''
Evangelia chuckles, ''Sure, I saw the little show last year, but that was obviously made-up to convince the Emperor and Empress'', Nikias isn't even surprised she saw through him. ''And you did seem awfully close at the engagement and your birthday's brunch, but I saw it as the continuation of your show, no?''
He stares at her for a moment before speaking, he isn't sure if it's due to her being the person he knows the most about or due to his constant fear of being abandoned, but he speaks words he regrets immediately after: ''Sure, me and Lyor aren't exactly like you and Alkaios, I don't even know if our feelings are love, but I do wish to be next to him until death''.
She looks surprised. ''So it is a political marriage''.
''If you say a word to anyone, I will most certainly tell all your secrets to Alkaios'', his words make the woman chuckle.
''Nikias, you finally grew up, huh?'' She gets up. ''I will never forgive you for the past, and you don't need to forgive me either, but at least I am glad to not be fighting alone''. She is sincere, ''I wish you for the best, not that I think my wishes matter much to you''.
It never crossed his mind that he could be surprised by Evangelia's actions, since he knows so much about her, yet her words of sincerity truly shake him.
''I wish you all the best too, Evangelia.'', he says sincerely, ''I always did'', he completes, and even if the woman looks confused, it is the truth.
He might've had his qualms about her, and even disagreed with her words or actions, but until the end of all of 'Odd Eyes' installments, he never stopped wishing for her happiness.
❥
Even if passages of 'Odd Eyes' come to Nikias' mind as he walks the hallways towards the wedding venue, there is no need for him to think too much about them, since right now, he's living it.
The Palace is fully decorated, even hallways that aren't used all that often have white silk hanging on the ceiling showing the direction of the wedding, although all of his employees asked to accompany him from his room to the venue, he denied their offers, he wants to be alone with his thoughts while walking these already empty corridors.
He has sent Scarlet, Dacre and Jiwon to guard the sides of the venue, in hopes they'll catch the Time Cult members even before they attack. Raphael, on the other hand, is accompanying Miyuki and Irene, making sure they're not attacked as they're filming the wedding as a gift.
Recording devices are all around the Palace, however the device Irene crafted has better resolution and has a playback feature where they can project the image in different sizes. If it were easier to craft it would be a great business venture, Nikias thinks as he walks. After much deliberation he decided to give them a good recording of their wedding, since after the Time Cult attacked in the novel, there was none left.
Gutierre was tasked in escorting Lyor and Cypress to the wedding, and guarding them to the side, since he is already a noble, it was easier to make sure he attended the wedding than to make a request for his Knights to attend officially.
And Lowe, of course, was attending the wedding as a guest, accompanying Rainier, who was the honor guest of the groom.
Wedding customs of the Exos Empire were similar to past customs of Vahe's world, probably where the author drew the ideas from.
There were a few unique things here and there. Like covering the ceiling of the Palace with white silk to signify the blank beginning of their new lives as heirs to the throne, or the bells that are rung all across the Empire in the moment their wedding is officialized.
Compared to the wedding of the Crown Prince, Nikias' wedding will have quite the lower scale, but that can't be helped considering the difference in power of the two nations.
He stops for a moment in front of one of the windows of the Palace, Petal, who's hidden inside his blazer's pocket moves up to see why he stopped. Through the window he can see the wedding venue.
The Empress' gardens are completely different from what usually is. Chairs made of silver fill the garden, silk hanging from poles decorate the space giving it a more ethereal atmosphere, the usual flowers of the garden are changed to white alstroemerias. What was the meaning behind the flowers again? Lowe told me a few weeks ago… He ponders but still can't remember, while he appreciates Lowe trying to get his insight in what to choose for the engagement party, he cannot, for the life of him, find interest in those things. Well, perhaps except when Lyor sends him something on the meaning of flowers, then, he may recall it as a fond memory.
Flags with the symbol of both house Petit and the Empire are standing near the altar, a beautiful arched sculpture made of silver decorated with the same flowers that surround the garden, nearby there are musicians positioning themselves and the guests that are already arriving sit in the chairs according to their standing. The higher their positions the nearest they are to the altar.
From the window, Nikias can see Rainier and Lowe sitting near the altar, talking, from behind them he can see Margrave Larchier, the actual Duke Bauldry and other respectable families like his teacher Sascha Gagne and his wife, Clara Gagne, who teaches his Knights.
Although many faces are now familiar to him, Nikias has no feelings of wishing to speak or socialize with them today, his head is a mess with the conflict of knowing what is about to happen and the possibility of things being different due to his own influence.
So many things are different from the wedding of the novel, for once, Nikias is alive, but also the presence of Lowe as Rainier's significant other, when in the story he was miserable watching his best friend and the girl he is in love with marrying, but also the presence of all of the new characters Nikias brought to this situation.
''Stay hidden'', he says softly to Petal before he starts walking again, in a few minutes reaching the entry of the venue, where he stands waiting for Lyor to arrive.
It's almost time for the ceremony to start, the only ones missing are our parents, me and the groom and bride themselves, Nikias thinks with a sigh. He is wearing a simple black long sleeved buttoned shirt, social black pants, his worn out favorite black boots, a golden belt shaped like flowers glued together and a simple black shoulder long cape made with golden details and threads, adjourned with black wolf fur Lyor gifted him the last time he went to Morke.
The only jewelry he's using is his watch and necklace gifted by his parents, the silver bracelet from Lyor, the silver ring he uses to track Petal and the gold hair stick with a peach blossom at the end he was gifted by Jiwon which is holding half of his hair up in a bun.
Attempting to look the most inconspicuous as possible to let the attention be on the bride and groom, not that it truly helps as everyone that walks by him can't help but stare. I need to cut my hair for the engagement party, he thinks, as if he isn't thinking the exact same thing for months already. I hope nothing happens today, he sighs, turning to look around, to finally see Lyor coming accompanied by Gutierre and Cypress. The sight of the three men makes Nikias remember the conversation he had with Lyor and Cypress last time.
''It isn't wise for me to accompany the King to the wedding'', Cypress said with a sigh, leaning on the chair he was sitting on. ''It's highly likely at least one of my family members will be there, it could possibly cause a scene. They still think I'm dead''.
''We would protect you Cypress'', Lyor says, leaning against the wall, his eyes fixed on Nikias as he reads the papers that were given to him a few moments ago. ''You know you can't hide from them forever''.
''Even so, it could cause a political grudge between the nations'', Cypress insists, frowning. ''I did not choose to become your aide to be the cause of any sort of political struggle.''
''Your existence is a political struggle, will you die then?'' Nikias says, putting down the papers. ''The Whisperia Kingdom Royal Family won't attend the wedding.'' He states grabbing one of the pens and scribbling on the papers he was reading. ''After Alkaios ordered your younger brother's death, the imminent war is a question of when not if''.
''Isn't that one more reason for me to not attend it? Sure I don't care about most of my family, but Juniper's death was an avoidable tragedy'', Cypress closes his eyes, the pain visible in his somber countenance.
''Lyor cannot attend alone, due to his status as King'', Nikias says, his gaze on the conflicted man. ''And don't use the death of your brother as you wish, you know who's truly to blame for it''.
''Are you defending the Crown Prince's choices?'' Cypress asks, flinching.
Nikias shaked his head: ''No, Alkaios shouldn't have asked for the head of a ten-year-old just because the King pissed him off.''
''Then what?''
''Cypress, calm down'', Lyor warned.
''Your existence as Lyor's aide is what makes your presence required. If you do not wish to attend, then fine. But don't speak as if your brother's death was truly devastating as a reason to avoid this responsibility'', Nikias pointed out. ''You solely don't wish to get involved with the nobility again, I understand that as some still remember you. But instead of hiding, own your new position, be proud of it''.
''I am proud of where I stand, your highness, what I do not wish to experience again is the unbearable questions about your and his majesty's relationship'', Cypress lies, it's obvious as he avoided looking at Nikias directly.
''Everyone has something to hide, something they're ashamed of, your past will hold you down as long as you allow it to'', Nikias said. ''If you are honest about your wish to support Lyor and build Morke into the Empire both of you wish so badly, then start with the politics you so much hate''.
And there he is, with a displeased expression as he speaks with Lyor and Gutierre. His long green hair is down with almost no styling, and he's wearing a simple dark green suit with a pale green vest.
Gutierre right next to him is wearing the Golden Phoenices social uniform that is composed of black pants, shirt and a black coat that was buttoned up fully giving him a more serious look, the uniform has golden buttons and on the chest it has the symbol of the Knights in gold.
But Lyor, contrary to the two other men, takes his appearance as a King seriously, no one looking at him would even doubt that he was a high-status man. His clothes are similar to Nikias' in tone, black pants and a black buttoned shirt with a white vest with golden buttons, however instead of a shoulder cape like the Prince, the King is wearing a long dark fur coat made of the same material as the fur part of Nikias' clothes. His black hair is slicked back, only making his eyes more piercing than usual, and like always he's wearing his sword as an earring.
He sure does like his fur coats, are those his definition of dressing up? Nikias thinks to himself while watching the men walking towards him. Well, he looks good on them, so I don't really care.
Lyor's fur coats are made with the fur of animals he hunts and skins himself, he told Nikias he does so once every year, and this year he did split the fur and gave part to Nikias, his maids being the ones that made the coat and the cape for the Prince. And he only wears coats to important events. Was my Coming of Age ceremony an important event? Or he wore that time to showcase his best appearance?
Questioning that isn't productive, and even if Nikias wishes to be lost in his thoughts for longer, the three men finally reach him.
''Good afternoon, your highness'', Cypress says, curtsying.
''Your highness'', Gutierre greets him as well.
Nikias nods towards them, his gaze fixed on Lyor. Their twenty centimeters of height difference is always felt by the Prince, even if he doesn't consider himself to be short, it's just that the King is extremely tall. But that difference isn't felt after the King leans to place a kiss on Nikias forehead and places his hand on his as they prepare to enter the wedding venue.
''Don't be nervous, everything will go well'', Lyor leans down to whisper to Nikias, who nods in response. ''You did everything you could.''
''I know'', Nikias answers, as he confided in Lyor through his last letters on how he was worried about his changes affecting the flow of the future. The moment the future actually shifts, Nikias might not be able to control the situation anymore, and the outcome might change completely.
Gutierre goes to stand to the side, taking off his greatsword, holding it in a straight posture, ready to react if anything happens, his eyes fixed on the Prince and the King. Cypress on the other hand, avoids the announcer by sneaking in and swiftly sitting next to Fleuri, who is by himself near the end rows.
Fleuri's presence at the wedding was a last-minute decision by Nikias, at first he was going to give the half-elf the day off, but after he remembered about the man's skill of long-range hearing he decided to slip him in the wedding for spying purposes.
''That's not in my job description, your highness'', Fleuri complained, the sun starting to rise, a few hours left only for the wedding to start. ''And I wasn't invited, I'm a commoner!''
''So is Lowe'', Nikias pointed out.
Fleuri scoffed: ''He's accompanying the son of a Duke, it's not the same as entering alone with the purpose of spying on other nobles!''
''No one will know you're spying on them'', Nikias said calmly.
''I will know!''
The Prince looked at the aide quietly, his cold golden eyes making the man shiver.
''You can't possibly think they would be as stupid as to discuss important things at the Crown Prince's wedding? Especially if they're colluding with the Time Cult'', Fleuri said, trying to convince the Prince. ''And most of all, I don't even have proper clothes to attend such a high-end event.''
''Use the same suit you used at the store's opening'', Nikias shrugged, making Fleuri wince in response.
''I want a bonus'', he said at last. Nikias nods. ''And I want a two-week vacation after your engagement party''.
''Sure, if you can manage to leave work behind'', the Prince answered, knowing that the only way Fleuri manages to not work is to sleep for long periods of time. On his last day off, Dacre found him in Nikias' office at night working on documents for the store.
''Of course I can'', Fleuri answers, unaware of his own workaholic tendencies. ''Just hope everything goes according to plan…''
''It will'', Nikias sighed, also worried, but trying to pass a false sense of confidence to his employees.
However, truth be told, he never felt this unsure.
The last chapter of the first novel is about to unfold and he doesn't feel like he accomplished much.
Truth is, he is prepared, even overprepared, for what might happen today, but there's still a voice at the back of his mind, telling him to not trust others, that something will go wrong due to his own complacency.
Lyor's hand tightens on his shoulder, probably seeing Nikias' worried gaze as he is attempting to calm himself down. And it works as the Prince takes a deep breath, his heartbeat slowing down.
''Announcing the arrival of Prince Nikias Gregor Chrysl and his fiance, King of Morke, Lyor Natrix Noir'', the announcer says and slowly the two men walk towards the front roll of chairs nearest to the altar. The only chairs left are for the Emperor, Empress and Evangelia's father.
The overbearing scent of flowers, the soft breeze of the wind and the warmth coming from the sun bathing the garden, the day is beautiful, not a single cloud in the sky, a signal that the gods are blessing this union.
Behind them, Lowe leans over to talk with the Prince.
''There are six minutes left'', he reports, Nikias nods.
''What are you whispering about?'' Tove asks, she's sitting next to Rainier as she's the honor guest of the bride, she doesn't have a companion and she's wearing a simple navy blue suit to match the colors of House Petit.
''It's not of your importance, Dame Chastain'', Nikias says, turning his head to look at the people behind him, Lyor takes his hand, squeezing it softly.
''Well, it certainly sounds interesting enough'', she comments, crossing her arms. She looks slightly out of place.
Lowe leans back, his hand also on Rainier's, who seems focused on the entrance, not paying attention to the conversation of those around him.
''Worried about the security?'' Lyor is the one who asks. He and Rainier never conversed before, however the King knows about the red-haired man through the letters he exchanged with Nikias.
''That's not it… Something feels off'', Rainier answers and in response Lyor looks at Nikias, asking a question with his eyes which Nikias simply nods in response. ''Doesn't the musicians look… strange to any of you?''
No wonder he's such a celebrated Knight, his instincts are insane, Nikias thinks before saying: ''What exactly looks weird about them?''
Rainier frowns, his grip on Lowe's hand tightening. He doesn't look sure, probably wondering if he's not making things up in order to disassociate from the fact his best friend and long-time crush are marrying in five minutes.
But whatever was he was about to point it out he never manages to as the group is approached by a man, no, more specifically, Nikias is approached by the Head Priest of the Sun Temple.
''Your highness'', the old man says, his eyes are of a dark tone of blue with small specs of gold, he's wearing a white robe with golden embroidered details of worship towards the Sun god, his face is filled with marks of his advanced age and he walks bended over. Next to him there's a younger man, probably near Nikias age and also a trainee to take over the position from the older man. Both which Nikias recognizes from the reports he got from Raphael when they investigated the Temples months ago. ''You're a hard person to meet'', the old man known as Cato Virtus Surya says.
''Well, I am the Second Prince of the Empire'', Nikias says with a courteous but cold smile, he doesn't even look directly at the Priest. ''If you wish for a meeting then all you need to do is simply send a letter beforehand'', he says knowing well he's been ignoring all the letters from the Temple for the last six months.
The old man chuckles. ''You're just like your father'', he points out. ''I'll be sending an invitation for one of our prayer sessions, and I hope you come by if you're free''.
''I'll need to check with my aide'', Nikias answers simply, he won't do it either way, but he still needs to be courteous towards a highly influential man, unfortunately.
Although compared to the Morke Kingdom the Exos Empire doesn't allow the religion to influence the politic climate, they're still an integral part of their system, especially when regarding the fact that the rulers of the Empire are all blood-related to the first Emperor and Empress, whom were Saints of the patron gods of Exos.
Attending prayers, and rituals like the Founding Festival are where religion and politics meet, past Emperors who tried to leave those connections behind were found incompetent and cruel by the people.
There is no running from the worship when the gods you serve are so expressive like the god of the Sun and the goddess of the Moon, both blessing and seeing the people constantly, their presence a reminder of why the Empire even exists.
''I see, hopefully it will be a response that pleases us both'', the Priest answers with a mysterious smile. I can see the venom behind your eyes, Nikias thinks, his eyes fixed on the empty altar. ''Hope you all enjoy the ceremony'', he bows shortly and leaves.
''He's a venous motherfucker'', Tove comments under her breath. ''All he wants is more funds for the Temple, as if that place isn't already covered in gold'', she shakes her head. ''Using gods to hide his greed''.
Nikias nods, agreeing with the woman's words.
''Your highness, the ceremony will start now'', Lowe says, his gaze on the entrance where Alkaios is standing.
The Prince turns to see his 'brother'.
Alkaios Theodore Chrysl, it perhaps finally hits Nikias that he's living inside the story he read for so long and so many times. The man is standing there, at the entrance, his appearance a contrast to the first time Nikias met him back the year before. Healthier, Alkaios is now taller and his muscles are more prominent, although still lean, his before dull pink eyes look livelier. And his silver hair is slicked back, every inch perfectly cut, he looks like a Prince.
Just like his title requires, a presence that can't help but draw eyes, a stance that shows elegance and power. That's the man that in two years time will become Emperor.
Wearing the ceremonial clothes of the Empire, contrary to the interactions he previously had with his 'brother', he now certainly looks like a man of power.
A white suit with a buttoned blazer with silver buttons, a silver sash on his waist and on his back a long cape that reaches the floor, the cape is white and while inside is silver the outside has the symbol of the Exos Empire embroidered in red and gold.
He's standing right at the middle of the two rows of chairs, ready to enter, awaiting.
Then, the music starts and the guests become silent.
Slowly in front of Alkaios, the Emperor and Empress enter, they're both wearing white simple robes, a symbol of respect towards their child who's about to marry, a way to humble themselves and allow the gods to look at the children and not them. A custom that was born 450 years ago.
After the Emperor and Empress take their seats, Alkaios walks, slowly and steadily, his gaze directly on the altar where the Head Priest is standing, waiting.
The way he walks, his gaze, everything brings chills to Nikias' spine, he wonders if one day he'll be able to bring forth so much power with simply his presence, if one day he'll look this worthy of his position.
Under the blazing sun, amidst this floral garden blessed by the gods.
This is Alkaios stage, the moment he and Evangelia will become the couple that'll bring a new beginning to the Exos Empire.
An Emperor that rules with kindness for the weak and strength for the strong. An Emperor willing to fight a god to save his Empire, willing to die to save his beloved. A man who wears a mask he puts on himself in order to become a person worthy of his heavy position.
Although Nikias has his problems with Alkaios actions and his brotherly love, he still deeply respects him and the way he never wavers under the crushing weight of the future he was cast with since childhood with no regard for his own opinions or choices.
The moment Alkaios reaches the altar the song changes, becoming more mellow, instead of looking at the entrance, Nikias gaze remains fixed on Alkaios. He's able to tell the moment Evangelia enters, as the expression on the man's face changes.
An expression of pure love, his pink eyes shining with pure adoration. Nikias' heart clenches and he finally turns to look at Evangelia.
His eyes open in awe as he watches the woman walking her arms interlocked with her father. Her long black hair is up in an elegant bun adjourned with a silver headpiece made of silver chains and small stars, her face has a soft makeup that makes her look well-rested and ethereal. And the dress is long, but slim, of the same white tone as Alkaios' suit and covered with a red lace on her waist towards the tail of the dress.
''She's stunning'', he can hear Rainier comment in a whisper, and he must agree with the man.
Looking at them like this… No wonder they're the protagonists of this world.
Once she reaches the bottom of the altar, her father bows, letting go of her arm and going to sit near the Emperor and Empress.
Evangelia then kneels, lowering her head as she's the one entering the family, a symbol of respect and asking for permission from the gods to enter the Imperial family. The Priest says a few words in the ancient language which Nikias understands as: 'The Sun god allows your interference'.
The woman then gets up, entering the altar and finally facing her love and future partner for life. When the two of them lock eyes, it's clear they enter their own bubble, tuning out the rest of the world, a smile on their lips and a sparkle in their eyes. For anyone there, there is no mistaking it.
They're completely in love with each other.
For some reason unbeknownst to him, Nikias feels the urge to cry.
With words in the ancient language and a soft melody in the background, the ceremony starts. It's a long ceremony, with words spoken by the Priest, groom and bride, with the exchange of rings and the prayer to the gods for blessings.
Then, they start their vows.
Alkaios kneels, holding Evangelia's hand to his forehead, closing his eyes.
''My dear Angie, the day we met as children was the happiest day of my life. I can still remember the sound of the birds in mother's garden, the rustling of the leaves as you popped out of a bush covered in dirt…'', he smiles. ''I was amazed at the young lady that was carrying an injured bird with so much care, the small hands that had barely learnt how to press piano keys, the mumbling of a little girl that was talking with the creature as if it understood your every word.'' Alkaios opens his eyes, raising his head to look at Evangelia. ''The sun shone brightly just like this, your tiny hands became beautiful as you continued to care for others like they're more precious than yourself. Everyday I watch you bring this bright light to those who can't shine by themselves. I feel myself becoming the best version I could ever be. Your kindness, your loveliness, your selflessness, it inspires me to become the best version I could and future Emperor shaped by your benevolence.'', he kisses the back of her hand. ''My love for you transcends our souls, transcends our mortal bodies and even the universe. Evangelia Petit, you'll forever be part of my heart, part of my past and future. And even if the world falls to flames, my place will always be right next to you''.
Nikias can see that the Empress and Evangelia's father are both already crying, and even Evangelia herself seems to be holding back her tears as Alkaios gets up and kisses her forehead.
''I love you, and I will continue to love you for as long as space and time exists''. He says, finishing his vows.
Evangelia kneels again, doing the same as Alkaios, holding his hand on her forehead.
''My beloved Kai. I may not be as proficient with my words as you, I may not be as poetic and lovely as you, but dear…'', she chokes, closing her eyes as tears roll down her cheeks. ''There isn't a world where my heart won't belong to you, there isn't a reality where my love for you won't exist. Even if I have to fight god, burn the world or walk across fire, to be next to you, to love you, I would do it all with a smile.'' It's actually impressive how she manages to say it all clearly as she cries. ''Alkaios, I love you despite time and space, even if the voidness of the universe swallowed us whole, my love would remain, because without you life isn't worthy living, without you my heart isn't whole. You're the life I live, the air I breathe and the nourishment that moves me. I love you in any reality, any universe and any timeline. I promise to cherish your existence, to thank your birth and to walk alongside you through any hardship.''
It takes her a while to get up as soft sobs leave her lips, she's crying way more than she did in the novel, perhaps the conversation she and Nikias had before made her more sentimental.
The ceremony continues as they pray more, and finally it comes to an end as the Priest says a last prayer and paints the forehead of the couple with a golden colored paint made with mana stones. A sun on Alkaios' forehead and a crescent moon on Evangelia's.
''May the warmth of the Sun god and the protection of the Moon goddess bless your union'', the Priest says at last, raising his hands and lowering his head as Evangelia and Alkaios seal their union with a kiss.