Chapter Eleven
_ The Imperial Capital
* * *
The rest of the two weeks passed quickly; the preparations were ready, and the wedding would be tomorrow...
The sense of achievement was immense. I placed Ian in the crib in my old room and gave him a kiss on his forehead...
"Auntie, Mama and Uncle are waiting for you in the garden."
It was a beautiful eight-year-old girl with golden hair and deep reddish-purple amber eyes, wearing cute pink pajamas. I lowered myself to her eye level and said gently:
"Hasn't it come time for the lovely Lorena to sleep?!"
"Lorena is going to sleep now, but I gave Mama a bedtime kiss and I wanted to give one to Auntie and Ian."
The private nanny was behind her. I looked at her, then picked Lorena up, approached Ian's bed, and whispered to her:
"Give him a small kiss; he is sleeping."
The girl smiled playfully and kissed Ian happily. We both left the room; I set Lorena down and patted her head:
"Auntie! When Ian grows up, will he play with me and Danny?!"
I smiled at her kindly:
"He will play with you both, and you will be their big sister who looks after them.."
Lorena smiled with a bright face and hugged me with her gentle warmth. Did children always have this warmth?! I thought only my child possessed such warmth. Every passing day, I feel that what I am doing is the right decision. I patted the little girl, who stepped back happily and said:
"I'm going to sleep so I can become big like Mama and Auntie."
The girl moved briskly with her nanny behind her. I headed to the inner garden, sorting through my thoughts as usual. Since Viola and Goren were too old for me to enroll in the academy, I appointed tutors to teach them. It seems my efforts bore fruit in just a few days; Viola was very proficient in medicine, and the professor—who was initially very annoyed at teaching a commoner girl—became so impressed that he told her she would be his official disciple. Truly amazing...
As for Goren, despite his genius, he needed a lot of guidance. Not due to a lack of knowledge, but because of his hesitant attempts. Unlike Viola, who only needed a doctor of great experience to teach her, Goren needed several teachers for arithmetic, magical physics, mechanics, and more. However, their progress has been great in a very short period. Fermin's morale is high; after a crying session that lasted nearly three hours, the three of them slept until the next day hugging each other like young children. Goren and Fermin are still children, after all. I learned they didn't speak until the next day, and Fermin decided he would also move to live in the annex with his siblings. Frankly, I didn't mind, provided he was diligent in his work. The annex became the residence of the Niva siblings...
When I went out, I felt the cool spring breezes piercing my soul. I felt refreshed and at peace. I stepped forward with light steps and a happy heart toward them...
They were sitting in their comfortable clothes, far from officialdom and aristocratic complexities... It was a family atmosphere: the tea kettle, favorite refreshments, and tea cups arranged elegantly. Everything was surreal..
"Good evening, Elie."
"Good evening to you both."
It was Lewis's voice that made me realize it was real. I smiled and sat in my seat across from them, raising the tea cup to inhale the refreshing scent of lemon and mint. I looked at them and smiled playfully:
"From your faces, it seems you were gossiping about me..."
"Yes and no..."
They spoke playfully. Elaza said that while laughing, then Lewis stopped laughing and said cheerfully:
"Jeremy was here minutes ago, but he couldn't stand us and left to sleep.."
"Did you two bully him?!"
I looked at them skeptically. My sister laughed and said:
"To be honest, Lewis bullied him a little and I supported him..."
"Hahaha... Sister, were you looking for an opportunity to bully your husband? Poor Marquis, he will hate the Bryants..."
Ela frowned in a cute way and said:
"Do you think so?! I must make it up to him..."
I laughed at my sister's worry, and Lewis spoke gently:
"Sister! Jeremy is an understanding person and won't be bothered by it, rest assured..."
Ela smiled with relief. Lewis had always been someone who knew the right words to comfort anyone...
"My little brother, how do you feel finally getting married?!"
My brother Lewis's ears turned red at Ela's question, and he covered his face in embarrassment. I laughed at the sight; I had witnessed much of Lewis and Aldora's relationship. If my brother knew she was drinking tea with me, he would come to the Duchy with any excuse. I wasn't a cruel person; I would leave them under the excuse of Ian. Martin was troublesome, but he calmed down after marriage. The love born between them was like a spark that strengthened my brother's desire to achieve more and faster. I looked at the shy Lewis, patted his back, and said:
"Ela, don't embarrass my brother; he is completely in love... that's why he's getting married."
Ela laughed and stopped teasing him. My brother took out a handkerchief to wipe his sweat, and before I noticed, Ela spoke..
"Lewis, is this the handkerchief... ?!"
I looked at the handkerchief and smiled at the old and happy memory at the same time. Lewis unfolded the handkerchief to reveal the Bryant symbol: the red flower surrounded by black thorns—a strange but beautiful symbol—and the first letter of his name. The embroidery wasn't very perfect, but it was beautiful and sweet. The handkerchief and the luxurious threads it was made from, along with clear care, were what made it last until this moment. I laughed with embarrassment:
"Lewis took good care of the handkerchief I made."
"My sister is excellent at embroidery. No one would believe you embroidered this when you were only six years old."
"Mother drew the emblem and the first letter; what I did was trace over her lines. I am very bad at drawing..."
I was grateful for my brother's praise and also felt nostalgia for my mother, who helped me with my desire to give handmade gifts. Ela looked at me and said:
"I wasn't able to embroider at this level until I turned thirteen. I swear you are wonderful, my little sister."
"Elie, you are good at using your mind and your hands."
I felt flattered by Lewis and Ela's words. I held Lewis's handkerchief and felt nostalgic for the past. I had embroidered three handkerchiefs that time...
"Sister, you aren't upset because I took the one Mother helped you make..."
I nodded in denial, so Ela smiled and then remembered:
"Regarding embroidery, do you still embroider?!"
I smiled with embarrassment and said:
"Not much, but I plan to embroider a special robe for Ian when he turns six. Will I finish it if I start now, considering my busy schedule and dwindling skills?!..."
My siblings laughed together, and Lewis said:
"I never doubt my sister's abilities..."
My siblings' presence had a beautiful impact on my heart. Ian, my brother Lewis, my sister Elaza, and the good people around me—I hope to give them the happiness they deserve...
* * *
The wedding ceremony was very grand. Martin held his sister's arm and walked her toward her future husband, Lewis. She was carrying Ian, who was refreshed by the elegant and lively atmosphere. The largest church in Altan was decorated with many orchids and white lilies. Aldora's dress sparkled with the brilliance of diamonds and pearls scattered generously over her elegant gown. Her blonde hair was styled beautifully, interspersed with white diamond flowers, along with her white jewelry giving off a beautiful pink glow. She finally held Lewis's hand with shy glances, but love hovered intensely around them. Lewis, wearing a pure white suit with a wine-red cape and a red flower on his lapel, created a beautiful contrast that added to his handsomeness. Ellette looked at her eldest brother, beaming with happiness...
Lewis approached Aldora, and they began to hear the priest's words. Lewis's eyes did not leave Aldora under her transparent white veil sprinkled with diamonds. They exchanged marriage vows, then the priest declared them husband and wife and allowed them to kiss. Lewis lifted the veil from her; she was very embarrassed and unsettled. He kissed her forehead with affection and smiled at her...
"I am truly happy..."
"I... I am too"
Aldora's expression brightened, and her cheeks flushed... Ellette watched that and was truly happy. She was carrying her child and sharing these beautiful and refreshing moments with him...
"I hope to become a wonderful mother like the Duchess."
Ellette turned toward the source of the soft voice to meet a beautiful face with golden blonde hair and watery blue eyes. Her features were innocent and beautiful..
"No doubt the Viscountess will be a wonderful mother..."
"Thank you, Your Grace. I will strive to live up to Your Grace's expectations..."
I smiled at her kindly and then returned to my child and the warm atmosphere before me...
* * *
The reception held at Bryant Manor was large, and the attendance was massive. I looked at myself in the mirror one last time before heading out...
A water-blue dress with a high collar and long, puffed sleeves. The dress was modest and very elegant. My chestnut hair was styled and pinned with a hairclip in the shape of a blue glass flower. I checked my appearance for the last time and went down to the ballroom...
I was the highest-ranking person at the banquet, so everyone was looking forward to seeing me and speaking with me. Interests and agendas were everywhere, even during a happy celebration. I went to my sister, who was talking with a group of noble ladies. As soon as she saw me, she approached me with a bright face:
"I feel sleepy.."
I whispered to my sister. She stifled her laugh and said:
"Duchess, you just came down..."
"I've been working for a long time. It seems I will take a vacation for a while until I regain my energy..."
Elaza smiled with poise and seriousness and said:
"Is what I heard true?! You will somewhat retire from the Duchy..."
"Somewhat, yes. Altan will be neutral and will limit itself to its own affairs only..."
"And the reason?!"
"To let Ian grow up a bit. When I find the right time, I will intervene..."
My sister laughed cheerfully and said:
"I don't know, but Elie, my sister, I feel you are very mature. I feel like I am talking to someone who has lived a very long time, not my little sister who is only seven years younger than me."
"Big sister, I have seen a lot... that's all there is to it. But I'm fine.."
My sister's concern was justified, but I am someone who has lived a lot. I have seen many people destroyed and dying; I never saw the happiness I see now on their faces, so I want to protect it fiercely...
I felt a prickling in my back. I looked at Ela:
"I must leave for a moment..."
"Take your time"
I left my sister and moved with calm, elegant steps toward one of the balconies overlooking the garden. When I entered it...
"My Lady! I have delivered the information as you requested. We await the results.."
I turned to the boy with deep purple hair and smiled at him:
"Well done, Fer. You can return and rest now.."
Fermin bowed and left, jumping from the balcony despite its height, with complete smoothness. That's why in the previous life, Fermin was Ian's shadow; he was skilled in stealth and surveillance...
I smiled with relief and returned my gaze to the party. Only now can I enjoy myself.
* * *
"Everyone is waiting for us downstairs, we will be late..."
"I didn't find it.... I didn't find it anywhere"
The small body was spinning in the room without stopping or pause, scattering pillows on the bed, going under the table for a moment, and sometimes fiddling with the bookshelf. She sighed and before she approached him...
"Are you looking for this?!"
The voice was gentle and cheerful. The little one crouching under the table turned and looked at the beautiful appearance at the open door. The child's smile widened and he rushed to her with enthusiasm:
"Mama, you found my brooch..."
She lowered herself to her little one's level and placed the silver brooch, decorated with a glowing red ruby, on his beautiful sky-blue jacket. She patted his soft silvery-white head and said lovingly:
"I didn't find it; you are the one who placed it in my room..."
His ruby-red eyes widened, and he struck his forehead in remembrance....
"Mama, Ian forgot that. I apologize for delaying you all... Rosie, I'm also sorry to you."
Ellette smiled lovingly at her child and patted his chubby, rosy, cute cheek:
"No problem this time, but you must be careful next time..."
He smiled with a bright face and said confidently:
"I promise, Mama..."
Ellette hugged her child, then picked him up, and they left the room followed by Rose...
* * *
At the bottom of the stairs in front of the gate of Altan Manor in the province, all of Altan's servants stood in two rows. When Ellette descended accompanied by her child, everyone bowed to bid farewell to their young master and their lady...
"My Lady, Master, I hope you return safely..."
Lux spoke with sincere eyes shedding tears. Ellette smiled and looked at the rest, whose faces were clouded with sadness...
"Mama, we are going to the Imperial Capital. Why is everyone sad?! Is the Capital dangerous?"
The innocent voice of Ian broke the sad atmosphere. He tugged his mother's sleeve and asked her:
"It's not dangerous. Everyone isn't used to being away from little Ian... that's why they are sad.."
Ellette spoke with kindness and a compassionate smile for her child, who turned to everyone with a bright face and smiled:
"I will return soon, don't be sad.... Mama, let's buy gifts for everyone from the Capital..."
"Alright"
Everyone was moved by Ian's kindness. Ellette hugged her child again and then whispered to him:
"Goodbye everyone, see you safely..."
After giving his farewell, he looked at his mother for praise. She patted his head and extended her hand:
"Let's go..."
Ian nodded with enthusiasm and grabbed his mother's hand. Ellette moved to the carriage, and Rokan helped her and Ian board. She looked at everyone with a warm smile...
Before the carriage moved, Rose entered after her and sat in front of Ellette. With a smile, she spoke:
"Is the young master ready for travel?!"
"Certainly... I've been asked so much, I'm starting to feel bored"
Ellette and Rose laughed, then Ellette spoke gently to her child:
"Because we will use the magic gate, everyone is wondering if you are excited?!"
"Ian hates the magic gate..."
Ellette smiled widely and said:
"But Goren made a special gate for us, so the existing magic transport gates don't bother Ian..."
"Really?!"
"Certainly"
Ian hugged his mother and sat sedately. Ellette laughed silently, patted his head, and whispered like a lullaby:
"You can sleep and rest, my little one..."
Ian, who drifted off with his mother's words into sleep quickly, placed his head in his mother's lap and slept deeply...
"My Lady, why do you put the young Duke to sleep when reaching the magic gate?"
"Viola says that Ian's magic is high and he might feel pain from the magic present in the gate. It's not an official gate; it's a gate exclusive to Altan that contains higher and stronger magic..."
"It's good that Miss Viola takes care of the young master's magical power... and also, my young master controls it wonderfully compared to children his age"
"Certainly, my child is wonderful... and we must protect precious treasures..."
She gently patted her child sleeping in her lap with great care, and finally, the gate was crossed. The background changed from Altan Manor in the province—the ancient and lavishly beautiful manor—to a beautiful, elegant, and modern manor painted in bluish-white and scattered gardens. Rose was also amazed by the ease of transport. Ellette patted her child's head quietly:
"Ian, my little one, wake up.."
Because he slept via magic, he woke up quickly as if nothing had happened. He looked out the window around him and with an excited face looked at his mother:
"Is this Altan Manor?!"
"Yes"
"It's very beautiful..."
Ellette smiled widely and then extended her hand to Ian:
"The carriage will stop soon. Come close to me so you don't fall"
Ian jumped gently into his mother's lap, smiling with his innocent face...
The carriage finally stopped and opened to reveal rows of servants bowing to the owner of the manor. Rose got out, then Ian, and Ellette descended with Fermin's help. A middle-aged man with styled blonde hair and dark green eyes in servant's clothes approached in an elegant manner and bowed...
"Gabriel Louise greets the Duchess and the young Duke... I hope your journey was safe..."
"Happy to meet you, Gabriel. How is the Capital?! ..."
"It awaits the arrival of the Lady..."
Gabriel smiled at her question and answered. Ellette laughed, then held Ian's hand and said:
"Perhaps the young Duke is tired from travel. We will rest a bit, then I want to hear reports from you, Gabriel...."
Ellette went up and headed with Ian to his room. Ian looked around; his room closely resembled his room in the manor at the estate..
"Come, you must sleep to rest..."
"But we didn't travel for long, I'm still awake.."
"I know our journey took less than an hour, but the magic gate is exhausting; even Mama will go to sleep... Let's sleep a bit, then let's tour the manor as soon as you wake up"
"Really?!"
Ellette nodded yes. Ian thought for a bit then said:
"Ian wants to sleep next to Mama..."
Ellette laughed at her child's sweetness then nodded yes:
"I will go change my clothes, do some work, and return to sleep with Ian..."
He nodded with enthusiasm and hugged her. Warmth filled her heart:
'Let's protect this precious happiness first...'
* * *
About five years have passed. Goren Niva's achievements reached the sky, under the name of Altan, of course. The camera, which I didn't show directly at my brother's wedding—though we used it—appeared months later and its appearance was revolutionary. Altan now owns the largest photography studios in Serdia. Goren's achievement wasn't limited to the camera; he had many amazing works in the field of magical tools. And not just Goren Niva, but Viola Niva, the most famous doctor in Serdia; she was even requested to teach at the Imperial Academy. The three siblings were granted honorary titles for their achievements. To speed up the annoying war, knights from Altan were requested as in my previous life, but unlike my previous life, this time I sent two units from Altan led by Fermin Niva, who contributed strongly to the victory....
In my previous life, the war with Heliva lasted for more than ten years, but now it has almost reached the end of peace talks...
... To be continued ...
Note: For those who would like to see pictures of the characters, you can find them on my Wattpad account or Telegram channel.
@sara_luffy11