The news of the incident became the number one topic in the Kingdom for the next six days.
Or at least, from what I've heard from all the servants in the castle.
Though it was speculated that the surge of monsters came from Atlas directly, reports that came in from Acies told everyone that there was no spike in monster activity. However, given the fact that the void season's inhalation and exhalation cycle of monsters had become quite erratic and unpredictable for the past ten years, even the Acies report had lost some of its credibility within the noble circles.
This was concerning, but mainly for the Carlos' family safety. If me and Sharice were a second too late, then there wouldn't have been just one life lost that day.
The Hunt had wrapped up the moment Colonel Levon and Officer Naya sprang into action when all the nobles in the stands had seen what I failed to do. Everyone else who could fight, including the Sunshine Infantry, the Royal Guard, and the remaining uninjured hunters had fought back the horde quite well actually, eventually exterminating the entire horde in a matter of minutes.
On another note regarding The Hunt, Me and Sharice, the Rosset Team, had won by a landslide with a total game score of 64. Ours was the second highest score in The Hunt's sport history only losing to the Late King William's grand total of 71 kills in a single trip.
Although it was an outstanding victory for first timers such us, the fact that the sight of Duke Felipe's servant's mutilated body was glued to the back of my mind meant that it was a hollow victory for my part.
At the very least, Sharice was incredibly happy because of me. I've never seen her so happy because of a single thing before.
Of course, thanks to the efforts of the Rosset Team, Naya herself was finally promoted and appointed Security Officer of Paradise Prairie. Celebrations lasted until the night, which I tried to enjoy to the best of my ability before I was dragged back to the castle to continue my duties.
After what felt like an eternity of dealing with my failure, everything was now going back to the way it was before the 30th of Fire Month. I was back at the castle, attending to whatever Princess Angelia had in mind for herself.
Along with the pain fading the moment I returned to the Sun Castle, having talks with Angelia has helped me cope with the shock from The Hunt at least. It was now the 5th of Dew Month, and today was about as ordinary as a day in the castle with the Princess. I was getting used to the castle at this point. We were now walking towards the music chamber for reasons I have yet to ask Angelia.
She looked more eager than usual when she knocked on my door earlier.
Today began with an uncommon occurrence with the Princess herself knocking on my door first thing in the morning. I had just finished my early bathing session and was in the middle of eating my sixteenth salt-cured ham sandwich this month for breakfast when she arrived.
I admit, eating the same thing over and over again was about as fun as staring at a blank wall.
She looked jumpy, which looked a lot like how Sharice couldn't contain much of her excitement and adrenaline during The Hunt.
Or at any given time, actually.
I donned on my uniform as quickly as I could as she only stood around my quarters to wait a few minutes before dragging me outside. Her sudden presence at my doorstep did prevented me from thinking logically, so I only stayed silent as I complied with her orders. I saw a twinkle in her eyes as she marched through the castle halls and through a corridor I wasn't able to recognize from memory.
Speaking of the castle halls, I noticed since the beginning of the month that the decorations of the halls were now replaced with colorful banners. They were in contrast with the dreary military banners and flags that would usually be hung around the ceiling, and instead gave off the feeling of festivities with triangular flags and cloth that spiraled from one point to another.
Aside from the decorations, security also increased when Dew Month started. Me and Angelia didn't even need to lock arms together, as stationary guards were placed at the end of each hall. Of course, since I was still unfamiliar with the castle I needed to follow her from behind most of the time.
At least I didn't have to act so stiff every time she would go out her room for something...
A part of me wondered that the new decorations, increased security, and Angelia's overall mood was a red flag for something, but I'm sure that thinking about it would be irrelevant. Besides, what could possibly call for this drastic change in my environment?
A while later, the sight of a familiar gilded door instantly clicked a memory in my mind. We were at the music chamber. Granted, I wasn't exactly paying attention to where we were going, especially after greeting twenty-four or so guards on the way here.
I'm not going to lie, the music chamber was absolutely beautiful. As beautiful as any part of the castle, it would seem. The walls, ceiling, and the floor were spotless to the point where everything shone with just a little bit of light on them. The floor was carpeted a soft velvet red with golden markings that alluded to sunshine. Gracing the left side of the room, there lay several musical instruments held up by golden stands. A few instruments were big, some were small, others were even tiny.
And I doubt that I would remember most of their names even if Angelia told me about them...
On the opposite end was a shelf consisting nothing but thick books that, I would guess, contained papers that would show you how to play songs. I have seen these papers myself in a book back at Angelia's room, but I couldn't understand them. There were just symbols on lines with few words in between that just didn't make any sort of sense, and how one manages to wrap their head around that was beyond me.
Above our heads and onto the ceiling was a depiction of the Dragon Slayer Vendacti, and the Almighty Dragon Sdorica. It shows Sdorica's last moments as the slayer's spear pierced its heart, with fire bursting from the heart of the dragon. It was a depiction of a tale that told us where humanity started and our immortality ended.
It was a beautifully painted picture, and I'm certain that the painter was proud of have made this in one of the rooms in the Sun Castle.
In the center of the ceiling was a beautifully crafted glass chandelier that was lit by runes, and underneath it was an oddly shaped table. I doubt it's a music instrument. Who would be sane enough to create an instrument the size of a large dinner table?
Angelia made her way to the said table in the middle of the chamber and took a seat in front of it. I wandered around aimlessly, looking for a chair to sit down on before Angelia suddenly voiced out a question to me. "Do you play instruments, Roxas?"
"What kind of instrument?" I said nonchalantly as I desperately tried to look for a chair.
"One that plays music, silly!"
"Oh, right... Then, no, unfortunately." I told her, finally grabbing a chair from a far corner of the chamber and sitting down next to her.
"What were you thinking when I said 'instrument'?" she turned to me as she laid her hands on the giant table in front of her.
"I don't know. I was thinking of the one you use to excavate bones from the ground..." I lied. I wasn't exactly thinking of anything in particular. I was too focused on finding a chair. These words just came out of my mouth in the heat of the moment.
"You're thinking of a shovel, Roxas." she said in the most confident tone she had.
"No, I think it was a different type of tool..."
"A chisel?" Don't know what that is, but it wouldn't hurt to deny, right...?
"No, another one..."
"A rake, maybe?" she said as she tried to hold in her giggling.
"I'm sure that one is for leaves, Angelia..."
"Or perhaps a duster?" she guessed one more time as she looked at me straight in the eye.
"Can a duster excavate bones from the ground, Your Majesty?" Was she even thinking straight? I'm certain that dusters in general don't do that sort of thing.
"Well, no... but you did say you were thinking of different tool, didn't you?"
"Yeah, I did..." Well, she got me there. In the end, I honestly ran out of things to say.
"Then you're thinking of a shovel! Case closed." she said with a grin, looking quite pleased with herself even with the first guess.
"How was that even fair? You can't just magically decide what I think or not!" I wanted to argue, but it felt like I was grasping at straws.
"Hmm? What was that?" she asked with an innocent look on her face. That, or she was pretending to not hear me. In any case, it didn't feel like this conversation was getting anywhere, so I eventually decided to drop it.
"Never mind... so what sort of instrument do you play, anyway?"
"This one, right here!" she patted the table softly two times. At that specific moment, it seems that calling the gigantic object in front of the Princess a 'table' was now deemed as incorrect.
"This thing? This is an instrument!? It's not a table either!" I expressed my genuine shock. Well, a part of me knew I had it coming, so I was partially shocked to say the least. Though with at least one glance around the music chamber, one wouldn't be able to guess this was an instrument to begin with.
That, or I'm just completely ignorant about this sort of thing.
"Of course, it's an instrument! Otherwise, it wouldn't be here!" she said gave me a judgmental glare. I guess I earned that one from her, huh...?
"Just like how chairs aren't supposed to be here...?" I joked as I pointed at the chair I was sitting on, but I knew that she knew it was true. After lifting up the cover of the instrument, she turned to look at me. She was nervous, and it was clear from a glance that she was sweating nervously. I gave her my own glare as she began to scratch the back of her head whilst looking around. To what she was looking at exactly was beyond me.
Aside from the chair she's sitting on and mine, there weren't any other chairs to sit on.
"Uh... well..." she muttered before hanging her head in defeat "You win this time..." she whispered as she sat down.
"Get more chairs, please!"
"Moving on!" Angelia squeaked as she grasped the lid of the instrument before her, making me silent as she did so. As she lifted another cover up, the instrument revealed many squarish buttons of black and white that looked like a row of teeth. The buttons lined the instrument from the left end side to the other end and from the looks of it, they all look like they serve a purpose.
Whatever that purpose was, I have yet to know...
"This is a piano, Roxas. Remember the name, okay?" I nodded as I continued to stare at the buttons. Piano, huh? Is that right? I suppose the name is not that hard to remember.
"These are the keys..." she pointed at the row of buttons. "They're used to play the piano. By pressing them in a specific order, you can play music. For example..." she explained before facing the piano.
Her hands then moved on top of the keys and pressed down, a tune broke out from the instrument itself. Words couldn't describe what I heard, but it did sound pleasant. Her fingers moved from one key to the next, and before I even knew it, she was playing a melody.
It was vaguely familiar, but I didn't think about it too much. I merely sat back and enjoyed the music she was playing. As soon as she was done playing the music piece, she turned to me and gave me a satisfied smile.
Meanwhile I only sat there and wondered one thing: "Are you certain this isn't rune powered?"
"Nope! It's all just string, wood, and metal." she chirped as she knocked on the piano's body with her knuckles, the sound of wood echoed throughout the chamber. So far, I don't see any thing that indicates that this was powered on rune energy.
"What sort of madman would try to invent a thing such as this, anyway?" I wondered out loud. Angelia laughed as she brought her hands together.
"I don't know, Roxas, maybe someone devoted to music?" she said, her fingers rested on the piano keys once more. "Would you like to hear a song?"
"A song? Sure, I don't mind." was the only thing I could say before she played a different tune. I sat back and allowed her to fill the chamber with a melody I couldn't quite put my thoughts on. Soon, her voice followed the melody as she began to sing...
The darkest valley
The highest mountain
We walk in the name of our brave
The rushing river
The blooming flower
We descend from heaven we embrace
The steps we take
And the pain from journey
Could never, ever bring us down
The key's discovered
The new world's opened
Let's run and catch the dawn
Money, power, fame
We want them all the same
Justice, wisdom, strength,
We strive to keep with our faith
Stars keep twinkling
Forget your fears
Build a garden with no more tears
Someday, our path
Part ways in the forest, we see
I know what you seek
But it isn't for me
I wouldn't change; won't give in
It's vital to me
Even alone, I'm proud of my beliefs
We chase the light
And darkness where nobody knows
But on different ways, with separate goals
And I will fight for my honor, rather than yours
Stay away, I'm on my own road
The time is now, the story unfolds~
The song ended with the final notes. She took a deep breath before resting both her hands on her lap, wearing a wide, satisfied smile as she turned to me.
It was an interesting song, to say the least. I'm no expert in music but for me, it gave off a grand feeling of adventure. It captured the feeling of starting a brand new life from scratch. Or at least, that's what I felt considering my experience. In addition to that, Angelia's soothing voice made it softer and pleasant to the ears.
I couldn't help but perk up as I realized the familiarity of the melody. My mind was racing. I swore that I remember this specific tune from somewhere even though I was certain this is the first time I was hearing it.
Then, it hit me like a sole bolt of lightning under a clear prairie sky.
"Was this the song you were humming to, all this time?" Of course this was the one. She was humming to this when she and I went to the royal garden.
Come to think of it, she was singing this whenever she was in a good mood.
"Wow, how did you know it was the same melody?"
"I have ears, too, Your Majesty." I groaned at her sarcastic remark.
"I suppose so." she laughed before turning back to the piano. "So, did you like it?"
"Was I supposed to?"
"You're not very nice, are you Roxas?" she pouted, disappointment sprawled across her face in a very obvious manner.
"Okay, okay. I admit, it was amazing." I reaffirmed her as I crossed my arms whilst wearing a poker face. Admittedly, I doubt she bought that as a light sneer crept up her lips. It wasn't convincing, either. Though in the end, her smile returned to her face in no time.
"I'm glad that you like it!" she desperately tried to put up the kind girl act, but I was quick to the punch and decided to recover my return sarcasm. I didn't feel like making her feel bad today...
"Well, I'm telling you the truth. Your voice was really something else..."
"Really?" she looked up, her eyes glimmering with a sort of wonder I wouldn't find in anyone else.
"Yeah. I liked it..." I said, but Angelia remained silent. She slowly turned away and faced the piano before bringing down the polished wooden cover of the keys.
"What did it mean, though?"
"Oh? You mean the song?" Angelia raised an eyebrow.
"Yeah, I was wondering what it meant. I couldn't quite catch the words..."
"Well, my uncle said that it was a song my mother wrote, but I don't know anything about it beyond that..." she spoke in a low voice. "Uncle Theodore taught me how to sing and play the piano. Now, whenever I think of my mother, I come here to play."
"I see. In a way, this is how you keep the memory of your mother close?" the volumes of our voices were now nothing more than mere whispers.
"Yes. Even if I myself have no memory of her, whatsoever..." I knew how much her mother meant to her, because I know that feeling myself. The only thing I have that contains the memory of my mother is the sole pocket book she unknowingly gave me beyond the grave.
It's strange, but I feel a little glad someone does the same with me. It is a little comforting that people don't just abandon a single memory of their parents. Even when mine aren't the best, it makes me glad she loves hers just as much as I do with mine.
But before we could even dwell on the passing of our own mothers any further, a gentle knock came from the door to the chamber. Both of our heads inevitably turned to the entrance as we waited in anticipation for the person knocking on the door. Tension rose, waiting with bated breath.
"Who is it?" Angelia raised her voice, making sure it was loud enough to be heard.
"May I enter, Your Highness?" voiced out one of the maids in the castle.
"You may..." with Angelia's permission, the maid entered the room. She gracefully strode to where we sat as she bowed down to her before, surprisingly, turning her gaze towards me. In her hands was a creased envelope.
"Addressed to you, Sir Roxas." she said with another bow after handing me the letter. Before I could even muster a reply, she left the chamber in a matter of moments. With the sound of the chamber door firmly locking itself unto the gilded frame, my eyes looked back unto the roughed up envelope.
Angelia stood up and hovered over my left shoulder as I thoroughly inspected the outside of the envelope. "Oh? Who could be writing to you, Roxas?" I didn't answer her immediately. Instead, I looked carefully the creases.
Despite careful examination, my mind was running a blank page.
"Well, let me see..." I mumbled, letting my fingers navigate their way unto the cracked wax seal. It was already damaged that I couldn't even make out the logo that was apparently there. I then turned it to its front to see the address, and now I got my answer.
"Looks like it's from Sharice..."
"Sharice...?" my head immediately turned to look at her as I recognized the tone she said it in. I felt my lips form a light frown as I eyed hers making the same mischievous smirk she gave me back at the orphanage.
Frankly, I was having none of her teasing today.
"Sharice Carterwell." I growled, letting her know that I was getting a bit annoyed. However, it was no use.
"Is she your lover...?" her smirk was getting wider by the second.
"Why does everyone think that's the case between me and Sharice!?" I yelled, but Angelia didn't budge. She simply turned around and headed for one of the windows, still wearing that smirk that's directed at me.
"Oh, I'm simply wondering..." she said.
"If you're curious, Angelia, me and Sharice have been writing to each other since The Hunt. She was my partner, after all, and we were friends before. We're just trying to catch up." I explained to her in the most blunt way possible. I wasn't going to let any misunderstandings go through her head.
However, much to my surprise, she didn't continue to tease me at all. Instead, I found her already walking back towards me with a curious look in her eye. "Oh, your partner was Sharice? I didn't know..."
"Unless Colonel Levon or Officer Naya told you, Your Highness, trust me, you wouldn't know yourself..." I said, earning me a look of disappointment from her. She really didn't like being left out on the business outside the castle.
Honestly, I feel her pain...
"Hmm... I'm a bit mad you don't tell me everything..." she shook me lightly as she made her pout even more evident than one moment ago. It seems she really wants me to know I annoyed her.
I sighed as I gently pushed her hand away. "Well, I'm sorry but I can't read your mind, can I?"
"You're no fun, Roxas..."
"I know, I know... In this case, let me make it up to you." I held out the letter to her. She was taken aback by my sudden suggestion, her lips mouthing silent words as she hesitated to answer at all.
"W-well..." she let out a word at last. "Sure, but isn't this a breach of privacy...?"
I allowed myself to let out an amused laugh, leaving Angelia confused for a brief moment. "Well, it's not a breach of privacy if I let you read it, right?"
"I suppose that's true..." she said as I saw her lips curl awkwardly.
"Besides, I trust you. This is just a conversation between two soldiers anyway, so I don't see why not if I show the Princess its contents." I tried to explain it to her, though she's still hesitating. She eyed me carefully before speaking.
"Are you sure? Won't Sharice be mad?" she asked, her tone now devoid of annoyance and replaced with genuine concern. I smiled but in my mind, I knew what she was getting at.
She was way too kind for her own good.
"Ah, she gets annoyed with every single thing, but she's reasonable. Especially if it's concerning me, so..." I trailed off, shrugging a bit before pushing the letter for her to grab. After a trivial exchange of looks as I insisted her to take it, she eventually did before settling down beside me.
"Read it with me." she demanded, slowly opening up the worn out envelope. Right from the start, I could already see Sharice's unladylike hand writing. There were many blots of ink splayed all around, but I gotten used to it already. Angelia was already reading the contents of the letter. I began to read it alongside her...
Hey hey, Roxas!
First of all, about your last letter to me, it makes me really really happy you're getting along fine after The Hunt! Is the stuff still the same in the castle? Hope you aren't doing crap just because you're near royalty! But I am a absolutely sure you aren't as bored as I am! Mom and Dad went on a business trip together for THE WHOLE MONTH, which leaves only me and my REAL brother...
It's a pain here at home. I can't wait to get back on the field with Armando and Doran! Thank the Sun for Dew Month! Three full weeks of vacation for everyone! Sucks to be you, hehehehe~
Also, very important thing! Can you tell the Princess you're going to have a day off on the 15th? It's my birthday and I really, REALLY want you to come celebrate with me, or whatever! I already told Armando and Doran, so BE THERE, OKAY!?
Your Sister in Arms,
Sharice Carterwell
Angelia closed and handed the letter to me before squealing in delight. "She's such a good girl! She even invited you to her birthday! You must be dear to her, right?" she hummed as she excitedly jumped around.
"So can I go?" I asked, trying all I could to ignore her little sugar rush.
"Of course, you can! I'm sure you really want to go, right? I'll just tell my uncle to give you a day off. After all, you've been doing so much for me. It's unfair to not let you have a little fun outside the castle." I couldn't help but feel incredibly indebted once I heard her say those words out of her mouth.
"R-Really!?" I beamed at her, failing to hold back the volume of my voice as I did so. This earned me a joyous giggle from Angelia as she nodded several times to ensure I got the point.
"You deserve it. And besides, I've heard from Naya that you haven't gotten any vacation time since you started working, so please make this your first!" she brought her hands together and gave me one of her brightest smiles.
"Have fun for me, okay~?"
I'll say it again and I can say it over and over, this girl is way too kind...
Σ-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-
Ten whole days flew by without warning and it was already the day of the 15th. I had left the Sun Castle somewhere near noon and walked straight to the Solaris Sector. I didn't bother calling for a rune chariot.
It seemed unnecessary to me.
However, I did leave behind a letter for Angelia before I left for the Solaris. After all, she was the one who gave me a chance like this in the first place, and I doubt I'll be able to let loose like this any time sooner. She also helped me think about the mandatory birthday present for Sharice, which was a wooden lance keychain I carved myself out of luxury iron wood the Princess magically had lying around her bedroom.
That said, it's only fair that I have to let her know I left once she wakes up. Though I felt kinda bad for just leaving her to her own devices while I have fun outside. Even if it's just for today.
Something about all of this feels off...
However, I merely shrugged the thought and moved on with my walk to the east sector. Unfortunately, I don't have the most stylish clothing in the whole kingdom. All I'm wearing for today are just the red undergarments, belt, greaves, and sabatons of my uniform along with the silk scarf. All of which are under St. Paula's white robe.
It's not the best clothing choice, but with my wardrobe being limited to just my work uniform and armor, it'll have to do.
I doubt Sharice even has the ability to nitpick my clothing style.
The walk to Solaris shouldn't take long. It wasn't a distant walk, but it wasn't a short one either. But considering I have walked from the south end of the earth to the capitol, I'd say it was a shorter walk than anything for me.
According to a letter from Sharice I received yesterday, our rendezvous spot was in front of the Solar Church.
I'll be frank, I didn't exactly know why she would ask me to meet up in front of a place of worship, but I suppose I shouldn't dwell on it too much. After all, maybe I'm just thinking too much into it.
As I walked from the castle to the said gathering spot, the festive mood of the entire Sun Capitol really caught my attention. People were merrily singing in the streets, soldiers were off duty and were happily drinking away in nearby taverns, and even merchants have lowered their stingy prices just for Dew Month. The streets were decorated in colorful flags and banners that hung overhead the streets, much like the ones back in the castle at the start of the month.
With all of that in mind, what was the reason for the extensive festivities? And for whom might it be? Regardless, I had a feeling I was about to find out sooner or later.
Arriving at the Solar Church, loud cheers and merry noises of the Capitol filled the air accompanied with comical music that wasn't too out of place. Balloons and confetti were flying everywhere, and laughter were as abundant as the people as they went from stall to stall in a fair in front of the church itself.
I tried looking around the sea of heads in the fair, but I was unable to catch a glimpse of Sharice's pink hair. It was only when I felt a heavy arm wrap around my shoulders did I finally see the celebrant for today. Sharice was smiling widely. However, the arm that was conveniently placed around my shoulders did not belong to her.
"Hey, Mr. Bodyguard! I hope you didn't forget about us, now?" Armando squeezed me in a head lock as I tried desperately to break loose.
"Why would you think that?" I retorted as I forcefully took his arms off my head. Without hurting him, of course...
"I dunno what goes on in that castle, but Shar told me it's quite something..." he dreamily said as he shrugged his shoulders, obviously either impressed or envious of my position. I half expected this, but I knew there was nothing I can do to avoid it.
"Hey! Don't make stuff up, you idiot! I told you it was boring!" Sharice immediately told Armando off as he pulled down on his left ear, effectively silencing his smug persona in an instant. I only took two steps back and laughed as Armando squirmed as he tried to break free of Sharice's grip on his ear.
It didn't take long until his ear was as red as a tomato.
Even though I knew Sharice was strong, her and Armando's height difference made it look comical as all hell. I was even starting to feel bad about Armando as he began to beg to the birthday girl as if his life depended on it.
"Okay, okay! Sor- SORRY, SHAR! SHARICE PLEASE! Ow-" Sharice finally let him go, sending Armando stumbling backwards. He swiftly hid behind me, muttering 'scary devil' over and over again as he peered at her over my shoulder. She gave him a death glare before finally turning her attention to me.
The way her glare at Armando was suddenly replaced with a cheery smile when she looked at me scared me for a moment. "Hey, bro!" she said with the widest grin she could offer me. I'm not going to lie, it was horrifying see that change.
"Hello, sis..." I reached into my robe pocket, bringing out the keychain I carved out for her. I fumbled in my pockets for a bit as I almost pricked my own finger trying to get the damn thing out. "Happy Birthday!" was all I could say before giving her the wooden lance.
"A MINI LANCE KEYCHAIN!?" she shouted at the top of her lungs as her eyes beamed at the keychain in her hands. She looked like a kid who just received their first bit of candy from a shop, and it looked cute despite the fact that she's the strongest lancer I know.
Well, everything about Sharice was as cute as a little girl. However, her height wasn't something she could boast about. She sticks out like a sore thumb in a group in which everyone had the average height.
That's the only thing she's insecure about. Everything else? Well, she can beat anyone in everything else. Enough said.
"Where did you even get this!?" she held out the keychain in front of her, her eyes completely locked unto it and filled with glee. I could physically feel the excitement oozing out from her small stature. For a girl that barely covers my shoulder, the amount of energy going through her still manages to surprise me to this day.
But that was to be expected. After all, this was Sharice Carterwell.
"Mom and Dad haven't even seen anything like this before!"
"Oh, I carved it myself. It's no big deal, really..." I gave her a smile. Sharice immediately attached the keychain unto her belt pouch around her clothing.
Apparently Sharice had decided to wear a vanilla colored sleeveless shirt with a brown skirt that was roughly cut above her knees that didn't exactly fit her look as a normal girl. She had the same idea as me as she wore the belt of the standard army uniform, along with a bit of armor on herself. She wore one shoulder pad on her left shoulder, her metal gauntlets accompanied by forearm bracers, as well as her iron greaves and plate sabatons. It was the same thing with Armando, except the only armor he wore were his rusted metal sabatons.
Looking at both of them, something was lingering at the back of my mind...
"Where's Doran?" I asked out loud, bringing the cowering Armando back to his regular senses. The birthday girl only groaned in annoyance as she ignored Armando's smug look at her direction. She turned away, admiring the gift I gave her in secret.
"Doran should be here by now. He said he was going to the loo, dunno what's taking him so long..." Armando decided to answer.
I have a feeling that this wasn't going to end well if Armando kept up his act. He wasn't here for himself, and I honestly think he has forgotten why we're here in the first place. Sharice acting strange even after me giving her my gift was getting to me.
Grabbing a hold of Armando's shoulder, I brought him closer to me before whispering in his ear with the most terrified tone I could have, "Have you given Sharice anything, yet?" To my absolute horror, Armando slowly shook his head as my eyes bore into his soul.
"Are you an idiot!?" I yelled in a whisper. My hand found itself grabbing unto nothing. Armando managed to slip out of my grasp. To think he would give her a bad time on her birthday of all things makes me worried about how this day would go on from here.
He sighed in defeat, his hand reaching for his nape as he turned away from me. After staring at nothing in particular for an uncomfortable amount of time, he sighed as he walked right on over to Sharice.
I have a feeling that this wasn't going to end well, but I also felt like intervening wasn't a good idea. In the end, I just stood there and watched as the storm began to uncurl itself. Bringing two fingers to both my ears, I welcomed the silence as I waited for them to finish.
Armando and Sharice talked awkwardly for the next few moments. Within literal seconds, she grabbed Armando's right ear and dragged him around us. The look on her face told me that she was obviously incredibly pissed at whatever he said to her. I couldn't hear him, but I knew he was already pleading for his life. Sharice wasn't too keen on letting him go just yet, and I could only pity him as his face was already flushed in red.
As soon as I caught a glimpse of Doran walking over toward us, I then removed the fingers covering my ears; bringing in the delight sense of sound once more. Shifting over to his direction, I quickly greeted him as I tried to dutifully ignore Sharice and Armando altogether. The only sounds I heard at that moment were Armando's pained howls, Sharice's rapid fire scolding, and Doran's whimpers as he fails to try to get them both off of each other.
I only stood there as my mind went through the works as to how I was able to meet these people in the first place.
After a long argument and calming Sharice for twenty or so minutes, we were on our way to the fair. The stalls were neat and orderly, and most of them didn't compare to the stalls back at Corona. Some of them had food, some had souvenirs, others were game stalls that had cheap gimmicks only kids would fall for.
Unfortunately, all three of us were subjects to the whims of Sharice Carterwell for the rest of the day thanks to a tiny mistake of Sir Armando Gallard himself. That meant we were forced to do every single thing that caught her attention, and we could only stay quiet as we did all that she asked.
Not that I didn't particularly hated it. In fact, I quite enjoyed the games she was interested in. We tore through every game she wanted to participate in and soon enough, an exhausted Sharice decided to stop near the sector park to get some food.
"Shar is killing us..." blood rushed through my veins the moment I heard Armando's voice complain from behind us.
"All thanks to you, dumbass. Why the hell did you expect her to do anything for you!?"
"It's a birthday! Give me a break!" Armando threw his arms into the air in frustration, but admitted defeat before sitting down on a park bench.
"Whatever..." I took a seat on the bench opposite to him as we waited for Sharice to come to us with the food from the nearest food stall. By some miracle from the Sun, she was the one who graciously decided to get food for all of us, even though it should be us to get food for her.
Well, in any case, I'm not complaining whatsoever. If anything, Doran seemed to deserve the break more out of all of us. Sure me and Armando were tired, but he was the one that hauled all the prizes Sharice won from the game stalls. He plopped down next to Armando as he allowed himself to rest under the warm rays of the Sun. It was now a few hours after noon, and we were starving.
I didn't even get to eat breakfast back at the castle.
Once again, I couldn't see Sharice anywhere and I had to assume she must be on her way with our lunches. My stomach rumbled as I tried to not think about food as the seconds go by. What's taking her so long? Should I actually go and look for her?
But my questions were immediately answered as the girl in question was now walking toward the four of us with four large sandwiches wrapped in a bag. Armando started drooling as she saw her present the sandwiches to our faces.
"Tada~ Here you go, you lazy numbnuts!" she threw each of us sandwiches before sitting next to me. Calling these sandwiches large was a bit of an understatement considering a large sandwich could fit in my hand. These were about as tall as the length of my hand, and just thinking about makes my stomach drop.
"Sis, are you serious about this...?" Even after examining the sandwich from different angles, it was still hard to believe that I could finish everything at once. Glancing over to Sharice, she didn't even answer my question as she already started to chow down on this monstrosity of a sandwich.
With a smile on her face, even!
Hesitation ran through my body as I gulped down a lump on my throat as I stared down onto my supposed meal and lunch. However, seeing both Armando and Doran wolfing down the sandwich as if they hadn't eaten for days made me even more uncomfortable. But as my stomach rumbled one last time, I had to do what had to be done.
I carefully unwrapped the sandwich, and I'm immediately blown away by an aroma I never even smelled before. Taking in deep breaths, it was hard to describe it what it was but if there was one word that I would use to describe the scent of this sandwich, it would be 'enticing.' I took a leap of faith as I plunged my teeth into the soft bread of the damn thing. Flavors invaded my mind and one moment later, I found myself with an empty sandwich wrapper in my hands with a full stomach. It was hard to even straighten my back after that meal, and I couldn't control my constant burping with every passing moment.
I think I lost my train of thought during all that...
My attention was caught by Sharice, who grabbed my head by my hair and forced me to look straight at her. "You alright, bro?" her tone was concerned, although my brows narrowed as her grip on me became uncomfortable. All three of them wore the exact same expression as they stared at me.
"Hey, Roxas, you fallen asleep or what?" asked a concerned Armando.
Looks like we've wasted time here.
The Sun was now far from the highest point, and it was a bit more until it begins to brush upon the rooftops of the Ignis sector houses. The sky was slowly but surely turning orange. Sunset was near, and so was the ending to Sharice's birthday.
"Ugh..." my legs felt like they weren't giving much strength than I expected. It didn't take long until I fell down unto the concrete floor. Searing pain smothered the left side of my body. I was then pulled up as I tried to stand on my feet. I looked to my right, Sharice was supporting the weight of my body.
"Roxas...!" Sharice struggled as she carried me. Strength soon returned, and I was able to stand again. I tried walking several steps away from her, only to fall down unto my knees. My legs were now heavier than usual, but it was doable.
Hurried footsteps made their way toward me, along with the sight of Sharice pulling me up once again. "It's fine, sis. I can walk..." I tried to tell her off. She glared at me for a moment. but soon she only gave me a pout before allowing me to walk on my own, but I doubt she was convinced by me.
This girl was really acting strange.
"Hey, guys? The afternoon show at the theater is about to start. Should we go?" Doran threw his thumbs toward east, his face was anxious yet excited for something.
Afternoon show?
"Oh, yeah! Come on, Shar. I bought tickets for all of us." Armando pulled out four identical looking pieces of parchment from his belt pouch before handing one to me. It was a ticket for the 'A Retelling of a Tale: King William.'
It seems we're going to a theater play.
I looked over at Sharice; she wasn't as excited as Doran or Armando. That's probably because she's worried about me not being able to walk. I'm not going to lie, I was still feeling a bit groggy from the sandwich.
Just what was in that sandwich!? If they wanted to kill their customers, they would've succeeded.
Regardless, a smile was plastered on her face as she realized what we were going to do. "Oh, oh!" Sharice started jumping up and down in anticipation. "I know this play!"she said before running ahead of the group. Doran gave us a pained look on his face before all three of us chased after her into the sector streets.
After several minutes of both running around the entire Solaris sector to just find Sharice, we stood in front of a crowded line toward the auditorium near the East Gate. The line was filled with starry eyed children and tired adults who came from the fair earlier. Meanwhile my friends were doing their own things. Sharice kept bobbing up and down like a little girl, while Armando and Doran were chatting about other things I didn't find interesting.
I found the line wait to be interesting all on its own.
The line line slowly trimmed away and we were slowly advancing toward the entrance of the auditorium itself. Not much time had passed and we were already inside. Bright rune lanterns filled the building as several banners depicting the theater play were put out as decorations. A worker of the auditorium stopped us and told us to present out tickets. One by one, we made our way through another door and into a rune filled hall. We then found ourselves into a larger room that was lined with seats and a stage with dark velvet curtains at the end of the room. Armando and Doran fell silent, and Sharice was now calmer than she was outside, though her breathing was still heavy. Her eyes darted everywhere as she took in the marvel that was the royal auditorium.
I was genuinely surprised that this royal building was open to the public, though I'm sure it was only for a limited time.
We took our seats somewhere in the middle of the room and waited for the play to start. Everyone else that came into the auditorium was surprisingly well mannered as they took their seats in silence as everyone else was already in their seats, waiting anxiously for the play. We didn't wait long, fortunately, as the curtains rose and the bright rune lights dimmed as our focus was centered on the stage itself. I could no longer see my companions, but I know their eyes were also glued to where I was looking at.
It was a silent play, only accompanied by an orchestra in front of the stage. King William looked a lot like Angelia, with golden blonde hair and green eyes, he looked confident through and through. Accompanying him was a younger Dylan Levon, having the exact same charisma as the real one. King William and Dylan heroically answered the call of Flaron. They drove back the desert forces from the village, defending innocent civilians and avenging the deaths of their loved ones. They wept and they mourned among the masses. They carried their duty with utmost diligence. The final act was them chasing the stragglers on the Poleva Desert Borders. King William was met with a prisoner of war. Little did he know that it would be his last moments. The prisoner slashed at him, causing the King to fall to his knees and slowly bleed out right before his killer revealed himself as an assassin sent by the monarchs of the Desert. Dylan single-handedly drove back the entire forces before tending to his dying King. Instead of cursing his assassin, he only thought of his brother and daughter with his only regret to be leaving them behind earlier than he would've wished.
"Man, was that amazing or what!? Can't believe all that happened in real life!" the cheered yells of Armando continued to echo through the night as the four of us exited the auditorium along with the parting crowd. We were practically shoulder to shoulder, so it wasn't hard to get separated from each other.
It seems the play took a while, as the Sun had already set by the time it ended. What's more, it did get rather chilly. How many hours had we spent in there? It's honestly terrifying how time flew so quickly today. First the sandwich, now this?
"You really think that? If I were to guess, half of those things didn't even happen! You do realize that King William didn't die in the Desert Border, right!?" Doran argued as he crossed his arms. He was clearly unimpressed by the play as a whole.
I thought it was pretty good; emotional even.
Armando, on the other hand, wasn't taking that for an answer. "Are you being dense, Doran!? Are you doubting the royal history!? That kind of thing is called, 'treason' and you know it!"
"What!? I'm being critical here! I'm just saying the play was not up to realistic standards!"
"Oh! Oh! You're committing treason all right! You're a soldier, too, so it's straight to the dungeon for you! How can you betray the country you swore your life to, you oaf!?" Armando tried to do fake tears, but ended up with a weird and distorted face that looked constipated more than anything.
"Oaf? Who're you calling oaf!? I'm being realistic here, you numbnut! I wasn't the one who forgot to give Sharice her birthday gift earlier!"
This was getting annoying real fast. "Can you guys knock it off? It's just a play, you two..." Both of them opened their mouths to argue back, but no such sound came out. I'm glad they're still reasonable. Armando physically shivered, turning to Sharice.
"Hey, Shar, it's been a great day, but I have to go. Catch both of y'all later!" He said to both Sharice and Doran before turning to me. "Catch ya sooner, bodyguard boy!" Armando gave me a classical wink before disappearing into the crowded sector street.
Doran was awkwardly scratching his head as he anxiously moved to Sharice. "I gotta go too, Shar. My wife's waiting for me at home. I'll see you next week, alright?" Doran hugged her tightly before walking into the folds of people, never once turning back.
Now, it was only me and Sharice. She was being awfully quiet for a long period of time, and I was getting worried. We only stood there, with her blankly staring at nothing. This girl was a ball of sunshine a few hours ago and now this happens? Was she tired? I mean, she has to be. We've been out in the Capitol for, I think, almost eight hours. Surely she must be exhausted.
However, the frown on her face and the desolate look in her eyes told me otherwise. She wasn't tired; she was scared. But of what, exactly? It seems this looks like something only I could fix, but I'm uncertain if I can.
Whatever the case this was the sister I chose, and I'll be that brother she deserves.
"Why are you acting weird today, sis? I thought you'd be happy with us here." I finally broke the ice. I wasn't going to sit here and let her give me the silent treatment.
Sharice hesitated for a second, but yielded as she let out a droning sigh before answering. "Yeah, I am, but I kinda thought you'd hate me..."
What? What sort of thoughts does this girl have?
"Hate you? What are you talking about? What'd you think you did?"
"The sandwich..." she mumbled in a whisper that I barely even heard her through the sounds of the crowd around us. Are you kidding me? You were upset for the whole time because of a sandwich!?
"Really, now? Please tell me you're joking, Sharice..."
"I'm not..." she did not even try to look me in the eye as she said that. She actively avoided my gaze looking at me as we're having the conversation, and I couldn't help but feel amused and sad at the same time.
"You think I'd hate you for that?"
"Well, yeah..." she looked away as she mumbled one more time. I see, so that's how it is...
"Stop being stupid, sis. What made you think that way, anyway?" Whether this girl was being serious or not, I wasn't going to tolerate her bad mood any longer. If anything, I'll give her a good reason not to have it in the first place.
Besides, it didn't suit her...
"I've never had friends before, okay!?" her voice echoed through the sector street. Luckily for her, there weren't many people around to have caught her yelling at me. "I just... don't wanna be alone..." she was on the verge of crying.
I couldn't exactly take it anymore. Sharice was being ridiculous as all hell, and it felt weird seeing her like this. Perhaps this was a side I didn't know of? Ah, screw it. This wasn't Sharice, and I don't like it.
Not one bit...
"Oh, you dumbass... As much as I hate the fact that you're annoying as all hell, I couldn't replace you. Even if we're not related, I wouldn't find a better sister than you." I said in the most sincere fashion that was fit for her.
In other words, sarcasm...
"Believe me. If you don't, I'll slap you until you get a scar on your cheek, okay?" I gave her a condescending smile.
Finally, this earned me an elbow to the head and a pissed off little demon I call Sharice Carterwell. "I'm trying to be open with you, you dumbass! You think my sadness is funny!? You think I'm weak!?"
A smile crept up on my cheeks. The return of her usual self rubbed off on me, as I even ignored the searing pain that was on my temple. I couldn't contain my happiness as I laughed it all out. "That's my sister..."
She crossed her arms and turned away. "Whatever! I'm hope you had fun today!"
"I did, sis, I did..."
"Well, you better enjoy the night with me while it lasts, 'cuz I doubt you'll be having fun tomorrow!"
"What? Why? What's going to happen tomorrow?" even though I spoke the truth, Sharice only gave me a puzzled look. It was almost as if she wasn't believing what I was saying.
"Haah!? You mean you don't know about tomorrow!?"
"What? What about tomorrow?"
"You do realize today is the 15th of Dew Month, right?"
"Yeah? So what happens on the 16th?" I asked her in full curiosity and sincerity, because I don't know what's going to happen tomorrow. Instead of an answer, she lost all emotion on her face. She looked disappointed than anything.
"Are you being stupid, Roxas?" she asked, her voice devoid of any feeling in it.
"No...? What makes you think that?" I raised a single eyebrow. Now it's my turn to be confused.
"What!? So you don't know about tomorrow!?"
"What!? Just tell me! Get to the point!"
"Where were you born, Roxas!?" What? What the hell? What sort of answer was that!? This is getting even more ridiculous by the second.
"In Paradise Prairie? Away from the capitol?"
She fell silent for a moment, as if she was hit on the head with a blunt object. "Oh, right..."
"So!? What's going to happen tomorrow, Sharice!?" she was at her limit.
"Tomorrow is the Princess's 18th birthday!"
Wait, hold on a second... "What did you say?"
"I said what I said. Tomorrow is the Princess's birthday." I'm sure I'm not hearing this right. It can't be possible. No, it surely can't be. Angelia didn't even mention it to me. She didn't even talk about it this month, she acted as if nothing of note was going to happen.
That, or I'm just blind to everything before this very moment.
A pit in my stomach grew as the thoughts of Angelia celebrating her birthday tomorrow sunk in.
The reason why people were in such a festive mood.
The reason why said festivities lasted more than a week.
Was it all for Princess Angelia's birthday tomorrow?
A part of me was completely excited for it, but other one was not. I feel like throwing up the more I think about it. Even though I want to say that I feel like I'm a failure as a friend to her, deep in my heart, I knew the exact reason why I'm feeling this way.
I did not have a gift ready for her.
All the time I spent thinking about a perfect gift for Sharice would've also went into thinking about a gift for Angelia. But what would she want from a commoner like myself? She's the Princess of the country, what could she not have? I wouldn't even doubt if she had everything in the entire continent in a room dedicated for her items somewhere in the castle.
What could she want?
What could she want!?
Is there even anything I can give her!?
A hand gripped me on my wrist. Sharice was staring at me with narrowed eyebrows. "What the hell are you thinking, brother?" She forcefully pulled both my hands off my head that it left red marks on my wrists. I didn't even realize I was clutching my head.
"Huh?" she continued to stare at me, this time with a mix of annoyance and worry. "Ow... that hurt..." was the only thing I could say before I felt a sharp pain on my left cheek and the next thing I knew, I was staring my right.
Did she just slap me?
I brought my hand up to where she slapped me. "What the hell was that for!?"
"That's for being stupid! You're such a damn airhead sometimes! Get a grip, Roxas! Everyone knows Her Majesty's birthday! Even babies born here know of it!"
"Sorry for not being born in the capitol, then!" she only crossed her arms, shook her head slowly, and let out a frustrated groan before even looking at me with a serious face.
"I know you're panicking, brother. Just take a look at yourself!" I remained silent.
Sharice only groaned at the lack of response. "So, what are you gonna do now? I'm guessing this is a big deal to you?" she asked, her stare intensifying within seconds.
"I don't know... I don't have a gift for her or anything."
Sharice fidgeted for a moment. Hesitation was drawn on her face as her body was getting more and more impatient. Whatever she was impatient with, I don't have a clue. After a few moments of staring at me with disappointed eyes, she let out a sigh.
This time, her anger cooled off. She took out the wooden lance from her pouch, smiling as she did so.
"Listen, Roxas..."
"Yeah?"
She cleared her throat. "Since you went out of your way to make this for me, let me return the favor..."
"How exactly? You do realize I'm in a pinch, right?"
"I know that! That's why I'm repaying you right now! You don't have a gift for her, right!? Then come with me for a bit!" she grabbed me by the wrist before breaking into a run. She was fast, and I was forced to match her pace. The cold night air blasted onto our faces as we sprinted through the streets of Solaris.
"Where are we going, sister!?"
"Mom and Dad's treasury! Did you forget, brother!? I am the eldest daughter of the Carterwell Merchants! I am confident as all hell there's something in there that the Princess herself doesn't even have!"
Σ-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-
"Roxas! Are you ready? Is the armor too uncomfortable for you?" Angelia kept pestering me through my own quarter door, but I really couldn't blame her for it. For the first time in my life, I was having trouble putting on my uniform. For her birthday, Regent Theodore had given me the regal edition of the standard Royal Infantry Armor.
It was something that only the likes Colonel Levon would wear, and I'm hoping I'm never going to wear this thing again in my life. Aside from it being bulkier compared to the ones the normal Royal Infantry soldiers wore, just feeling my legs through the leggings proved to be irritatingly uncomfortable.
"Just a second, Your Majesty!" I yelled in response as I tried to don the thick arm bracers of the armor set. I couldn't get a good grip on the armor piece, causing me to fumble more than what I would've liked.
"Okay! I'll be waiting here!"
Though I really did need time to wear this damn armor set, I didn't want to keep her waiting outside for a long while. So after miraculously strapping on the other arm bracer, I took the helm and placed it bluntly on my head. As much as I hated to do it, the cape on my back did not allow me to strap on my sword sheath on the back.
The armor forced me to play its game, and I was given another reason to dislike it.
After reluctantly strapping my blade on the left side of my waist, I was finally given the chance to stand up and take a good, long look at myself in the mirror. And frankly, it did not look half-bad. Sure this was the most uncomfortable armor set I had the utmost displeasure of wearing, but at least it did fit my build. Come to think of it, I wouldn't mind wearing some of the armor pieces as part of my actual uniform once I do get back on the field, like the greaves and sabatons.
That is if I get to keep it, of course...
Opening the door to my quarters, Angelia stood there and looked at me with starry eyes. I gave her a bow whilst she did her own curtsy. "You look great! I'm so glad uncle had given it to you!"
"Thank you, Your Highness, but it isn't as comfortable as it looks..."
She covered her mouth with her hand as she giggled. "I'm sure you'll get used to it soon enough."
"As for you, Princess, you look amazing yourself."
"I'm glad you think so!" she did a little twirl, letting the skirt of her elegant dress follow her movements. Angelia wore a grand dress of white. It was, as expected, adorned with the Sun on her chest. The shape of the dress almost seemed like she was wearing the puffiest cloud in the sky.
"Perhaps we should head to the Grand Hall? I'm sure the guests are anxious to see you."
"Then let's not waste time, Roxas."
"Lead the way, Your Majesty."
Through the windows of the castle, the sky was already in the shade of twilight. Sunset was very near, and so is the climactic end to Angelia's birthday. Looking back, I couldn't quite believe that I actually lived through yesterday. I'm a bit more confident today thanks to Sharice's efforts, and it's thanks to her that I was able to sleep soundly last night.
If she didn't decide to help me that time, I doubt I would've had the courage to look at Angelia's face today.
But now, I didn't have to worry about a single thing. As long as the Princess enjoys herself today, that's all the matters in the long run. Although I couldn't help but feel she's forcing herself to enjoy her birthday, and she's been wearing that same stressed grin on her face since morning.
Maybe she's realized something about her birthday? I wouldn't mind asking her about it later after the stuff that's about to happen in the Grand Hall.
We walked through the East hall, past the royal garden, and through a larger hall. At the end of it was, without a doubt, the Grand Hall. Angelia's fast pace from earlier had slowed down to a slug crawl. She looked uneasy; her hands were trembling.
"Are you feeling well, Your Majesty?" she merely shook her head vigorously before plastering an obvious fake smile on her face. The smile that she perfected to reflect her true kindness inside her. I don't know whether to take pride in it, but I saw right through it.
I suppose Naya or Sione Aldric would notice it, too.
She took a long, deep breath before walking forward. The gigantic doors opened to reveal the marvel that was the Grand Hall. It was unlike anything I've seen before. Everything about it was absolute perfection, and it was the perfect place for nobles of the highest caliber to be in. The music and chatter of the nobles had stopped as soon as Angelia stepped inside. All eyes turned to her, and each expression on their faces told a different story.
Admiration, Envy, Desire, Arrogance... They were all directed at her direction. Somehow, I didn't sit well with me at all.
As she walked forward with perfect poise, I silently turned right and disappeared into the back end of the crowd of nobles. The music began again, this time playing a much more cheerful tone than the last. They all parted for the Princess as she made her way toward the thrones at the end of the hall. This time, Regent Theodore was not sitting on the elevated throne.
Today was her special day, and she was deserving of it.
I slipped through the crowd and walked through a small doorway. I was to stand guard at the Grand Hall's secret balcony, and I was only to watch from afar. I was not to disrupt the gathering with my presence, and only intervene when need be.
I climbed the stairs toward the balcony, and soon enough, I was already watching the gathering from a great height. However, 'a great height' wouldn't exactly be the perfect words to describe where I am. The balcony was merely a few meters high on the right side of the hall, but it was blanketed by a transparent white cloth. From outside, it would only look like it was part of the marble pillars that adorned the hall itself, camouflaging the guard balcony from sight.
The only way to know that there even was a secret balcony to begin with was if you already knew of it, or if you actively searched for it. In this case, the latter would've been harder to do.
Thankfully, there was already a chair for me to sit on. I'm glad Angelia actually acknowledged my complaints. I took a seat on the comfortable, and quite expensive, royal chair and watched the gathering unfold from here.
The cheers of the crowd were muffled by the cloth; it was hard to hear anything at all. I could lift up the cloth, but then I would be discovered. I merely sat back and did all I could to try and understand what they were saying. Unfortunately, even after putting it my all, the cloth made it impossible for me to truly decipher the words of the person speaking in front of all of the nobles. On the plus side, it was only Regent Theodore who did most of the talking, so I didn't have to worry about what other people had in mind.
He droned on for a while, and it was not getting any interesting the longer it happened. I was honestly getting bored just sitting here and doing nothing, but it is what it is. I'm here to protect, not to have fun. In the end, I sat back and tried to be comfortable as much as I can.
As Theodore's speech came to a close, the nobles then burst into cheers and applause as the rune lights of the hall began to dim. A strong rune light shone down from the ceiling and focused only on Angelia, who stood up and walked toward the center of the room. Greeting her in the middle was a tall noble who offered a hand to her. As expected, she accepted and began to dance. It was a slow start, but they began to glide across the hall effortlessly. He guided her and supported her spins, catching her whenever she strays too far. Their feet moved in unison, and it was almost hypnotic. The music became louder and louder, and I was on the edge of my seat. Their motions quickened to the pace of the music, but never once did they lose the sense of elegance and mastery. As the music came to a close, they embraced.
Everyone was silent for a moment, but the applause followed after. Every single noble in the hall was awestruck. Including me. The spotlight had faded and the lights brightened once more as they parted from each other. Aside from knowing how to play musical instruments, I'm surprised she knew how to dance.
It seems this is what happens when you're locked up in the castle all your life.
She returned to her throne and a few nobles had lined up in front of her to give her their gifts in boxes. I couldn't see most of them as she bowed and gave it to a soldier to bring to her room before taking another. One by one, she expressed her gratitude toward them before sending them away. It wasn't long until every noble had already given the Princess their gifts.
After that, nothing of note happened. The nobles of the room began to socialize and it didn't take long before folks decided to flock up on the Princess. One male noble after another, they didn't hold up a decent conversation with her. However, she talked with one noble longer than the ones that tried to speak with her. It was the same man who I've technically met on the night before being assigned as her bodyguard.
Ace Aldric, was it? If I were to guess, he would be Sione Aldric's brother. I can't exactly blame Angelia for approaching him, I would be worried about my friend too. Whatever illness she is suffering from right now, I hope she can make a full recovery soon.
Their conversation ended soon afterward as Regent Theodore gave his closing remarks. Or, what I think are his closing remarks anyway. The entire hall was filled with relieved murmurs and satisfied grins, and it was time for the day to finally end for the rest of them.
For her, however, I doubt the end of the night will be near.
Once again, the crowd parted to make way for the Carlos family. This time, Angelia was leading the way as both of them exited the Grand Hall. That served as the cue for my shift to end, and so I raced down to accompany her to her quarters. I took a different passage this time, and that lead me straight outside the hall itself and into the hallway where she and Regent Theodore were having a decent conversation with each other. With each step, my armor had echoed through the halls and they eventually took notice of me. Once I was near them, I knelt down before the both of them.
"Rise, soldier." ordered Regent Theodore. His voice was hoarse and deep, and I couldn't imagine what it would be like to get shouted at by him. Authority was seeping out of him as he stared at me with a blank smile, in contrast to Angelia's kind one. His gaze sent chills down my spine, but I tried not to show myself shivering in his presence.
"It is best you return to your room, Angelia. Good night, and happy birthday..." he offered her a warm smile. She, in return, had jumped to embrace him. This took him by surprise, but he soon returned the hug with one arm.
"Thank you, uncle. Good night!" they broke off and she made her way toward me. "Shall we go, Roxas?"
I bowed in silence as she took my arm before walking back to her quarters. As we walked back, she was completely embracing my arm as if she was dependent on it. Her head rested on my shoulder as she hummed along the way. I remained silent as possible. The castle was pretty desolate for this hour, but I didn't mind the silence. It was comfortable, and if Angelia wasn't complaining, I don't have a reason to.
Eventually, we arrived at her quarters. She, at long last, let go of my arm before jumping unto her bed and squealing into her pillow, ignoring the large pile of gifts that was right next to her bed. A smile crept up on my cheeks.
Her antics never fail to amuse me.
"You seem to be in a pretty good mood..." I said to her whilst I took off every bit of armor on me except the greaves and sabatons. Though I did get used to the shoes, the cuirass and pauldrons were just overkill and way too uncomfortable. I laid them down near the door, so as to not forget them once I decide to leave.
"Was it because of the noble you danced with?" I asked in an amused tone.
"Cecil Vincent? I don't like him. He's much too uptight for me..."
I raised an eyebrow. Now, I'm simply curious. "Then what was the reason?"
"Dear Sione is getting better! Isn't that great!?" one doesn't need to be a genius for them to know the joy and relief that was evident on Angelia's face. It seems that this is the news she's been aching to hear all this time.
"I suppose it is..." I mumbled back, turning away as I did so. My thoughts could wandered elsewhere.
I suppose my time here will soon come to an end, but where do I go from here? I don't have to worry about my pay, since I have already enough stashed up over the course of the month. I wonder if I can go back and join the three of them back in the infantry posts? I'm sure Sharice will be thrilled to see me back there.
That being said, with void season right around the corner, it's too damn risky to even try to get back to a normal company line. Either I go back to Acies, or I go work for the army somewhere secluded.
A hand was on my shoulder. Instincts kicked into gear as I reached for the sword on my back that wasn't there. Instead, Angelia was now hovering in front of me. Her joy from earlier now replaced with worry.
"Angelia?"
"Roxas...? You're not upset, are you?" she asked as she sat down beside me on my right. Upset? Me? Right now? It just cannot be. "What? What makes you think that?" I answered her, letting out a small chuckle.
She shot me a dissatisfied look as she groaned. "You looked away!"
"What of it? It doesn't mean anything..."
"No! It means you're not thrilled as me!" I suppose I can't blame her for worrying about me. I shouldn't have dropped the mood with my silence. "You're thinking too much into this, Princess."
"In that case... what were you thinking about?" she shifted her body, turning to full face me. I raised an eyebrow as I looked at her carefully.
"What's this now?"
"I'm curious. Would you humor me?" she pleaded in a soft tone. It was next to impossible to deny her her wishes.
"Sure...?" I said mindlessly as her lips curled into a smile. "Then would you mind telling me why?"
"Hmm... Alright, then."
"Your Princess is listening~" she hummed, but she was visibly shivering from the anticipation.
"I'm just wondering what will come next after I'm done here." I decided to tell her the truth after a long pause. I didn't see any reason not to tell her. The time will come that I'll leave her side as her bodyguard, and I'm sure she would also be wondering that as well.
Angelia didn't respond immediately. Like me, it seems she settled down with her thoughts in silence. Eventually, she let out a dead chuckle as she spoke. "I see... It's funny, really."
"What is?"
"I'd nearly forgot you're just a temporary substitute." Considering how much time I spend with her, it's no doubt that she would think that way. I wouldn't blame her. I feel the same way about this whole fiasco.
"I'd almost forgotten that myself..."
"Are you worried...?" she asked again. Her voice was now just a mere whisper.
"Not particularly... just simply wondering, that's all."
"Wherever you go next, I'm sure you'll do great."
"You think so, Your Majesty?" I turned to her.
"I know so. You've already done a great job being my bodyguard! I'm certain that you'll also do the same as a soldier." a genuine smile graced her face. There's no reason to doubt her. However, it's also fair that I get to do the same with her.
"I appreciate the thought... but let me return the question to you."
"Roxas?" her kindness turned to worry for a moment, but ultimately, she was curious.
"Are you worried about the future? I'm simply asking..."
Angelia heaved a heavy sigh before speaking once more. "Do you want me to be honest...?" I simply nodded at her. There was no reason for her to lie to me. Or rather, I don't want her to lie to me.
"To tell you the truth, I..." she hesitated. "I'm not sure... Now that I'm eighteen years old, it's probably time I prepare for my duties as Queen in the future."
"A Queen, huh?" I wondered out loud. So this is what she faces in the future? I'll be frank, even just thinking about it scares me. I can't understand the scale of her situation, but that doesn't mean I can't worry about her.
"Yes. It is my father's will, and I will do all I can to live up to it."
"I can't fathom how important that must be. It sounds like a tough road to take." I muttered the truth in my heart.
"But it is one I have no choice but to take... I'm not even sure what the future holds, and it scares me." her voice cracked.
"What if I fail the Kingdom? What if I'm not up to the task of being Queen? What if the people dislike serving under me...?" she stopped and buried her head in her arms. These doubts of hers, they're way too familiar.
I spoke without thinking. "Whatever the case, Queen or not, I'd be happy to serve you..." I don't know where these words came from, but they sounded true. In any case, I don't want to take them back either way.
"Would you...?"
"I would..."
A small smile crept up on her cheeks. "That's a comforting thought..."
"At least we now know we're both wondering about the future."
"I suppose that's true. Will you still be my servant even if I fail as a Queen?"
"You don't even have to ask. Trust me, I'll be there..."
"Hmm..." her face turned into a frown for a moment, but relaxed in the end.
"Okay, I trust you..."
The mood died down again. Well, this is no good. I suppose I need to find a way to make her take her mind off things for now. Luckily, there was a way and it was closer than I would've expected it would be.
"Hey Angelia, aren't you going to open those?" I pointed at the stash of birthday gifts on the right side of her bed. Her face instantly lit up before making her way toward the gift pile. The serious mood from earlier had disappeared immediately as she stood in the middle of it all.
Well, that's one way to change her mood...
Boxes of different colors and sizes were splayed all around the room. I couldn't quite imagine what these nobles would even give the Princess, but I'd soon find out. Angelia sat down in the very middle as she surrounded herself with her presents. "Please open them with me, Roxas!" she told me before opening up one small gift. She took out the object inside and held out a jewel encrusted ring that looked painful to even wear on one's fingers.
"Um... Roxas?" she turned to me with the ring on the palm of her hand. "What do you think?"
"I think that doesn't look even remotely good..." Angelia mumbled something before placing the ring back inside its box and setting it aside. She reached out for another box before opening it immediately afterwards. "On to more gifts, I suppose..."
"Princess?"
"Yes, Roxas?"
"Out of curiosity, do the people who gave you gifts tonight know you personally?"
She had stopped unwrapping for a few seconds before answering back. "Unfortunately, no..." she said, sadness filling the tone of her voice.
One by one, we unwrapped tonight's pile of disappointment. At first, I didn't exactly understand why she wouldn't be thrilled to have presents on her birthday, because I don't exactly have birthdays myself, but I found out why the more I unwrapped these presents for her.
All of these objects didn't have sentimental value.
She received two rings, the other one being much more uncomfortable than the first, a golden goblet whose purpose wasn't to serve cold drinks, two sets of dreadful looking high heels that didn't suit her, a single teacup, a bracelet that looked really painful, and a fishing pole.
A damn fishing pole.
Angelia heaved a sigh. Her good mood that came from the news of Sione Aldric was now gone. Even as she looks around the gifts the nobles had given her, not even an ounce of happiness was found on her face since.
"Thank you for opening all of these, Roxas." she gave me a smile before standing up, carrying the empty boxes to another spot in her room. Before I could even begin to help her with it, she grabbed me by my wrist and stopped me. "You can go back to your quarters now. I'll clean up..."
I know she doesn't like to burden people with a situation involving herself, but this is just ridiculous. Besides, I wasn't going to sit here and let her end the night of her 18th birthday on a sour note.
Angelia deserves better...
"Hey, Angelia... Would you close your eyes for a bit?" she instantly shot me a confused look. She brought her arms close to her chest as she slowly backed away.
"W-what!? What are you going to do...?" she mumbled as her face was graced with a red tint.
"I'm not going to do anything strange, I promise!" Damn, I should be more subtle with my wording. Thankfully, she calmed down a bit and her arms were now crossed in front of her chest.
"You promise...?" she said. She was still doubting me, evident with the narrowed eyebrows on her face.
"I promise..."
She took a deep breath before finally deciding to trust me. "Okay..." she soon closed her eyes. All that was left was for me to do what I'm supposed to do. I took out a pendant from the pocket of my uniform. It was a diamond shaped gem that matched the exact color of Angelia's eyes: a delicate light emerald that almost fades to gold from a distance.
To think Sharice had a pendant with a gem like this, one that even matches the color of her eyes, it's almost too surreal to even be possible. But here I am, about to put this pendant around her neck.
I took three steps forward until I was in front of her. Taking the tiny hooks of the pendant between my fingers, I moved forward and threw my arms around her for me to lock it behind her neck. The scent of lavender overwhelmed me, and she lightly flinched at my touch. After making sure that it was locked, I let the pendant fall.
As expected, the green gem rested on her chest.
I slowly backed away before anything could happen. "You can open your eyes, now." As she did, the moment she looked down was also the moment positivity had returned to her face. It was a mixture of shock and absolute joy.
"How did you even... Roxas! You didn't have to get this for me!" she smiled wide as she grasped the gem between her fingers. Her eyes were twinkling with wonder the longer she stared at it.
"I stumbled upon this on pure luck, mind you..." I lied. "It's no big deal. Besides, it would just be rude of me if I didn't get you anything on your birthday of all things."
"Oh, thank you so much, Roxas! How can this night be any better...?" she trailed off.
I think she merely said that to emphasize the value of my gift to her. However, I did have a vague idea on how I might make that possible...
"Angelia?" I approached her. She fell silent as I offer her my hand with a bow. "I know I'm not Cecil Vincent and I'm also not a great dancer, but may I please have this dance? I would be honored..."
She took several moments before she even realized what I was trying to do. Once she did, a wide smile graced her lips as she desperately tried to contain her giggling in front of me. Hell, even I couldn't stop myself from laughing along with her. As her laughter faded, her smile grew wider as she looked at me in the eyes.
"Of course..." she simply said as she placed her hand on mine.
I pulled her close, and the first thing that came into my mind was her scent of lavender. I dutifully placed my hand on her waist as my fingers interlaced with hers in my other one. And then, we slowly moved.
It wasn't at all graceful, and I struggled to keep up with her.
"Sorry..." I mumbled as I missed a step.
"Damn..." I missed another.
"Forgive me..." and another.
Angelia simply giggled to her heart's content, even as I continuously failed in her presence. She eventually let go and decided to wrap her arms around me. "How about this...?" instead of how Cecil held her earlier, she simply brought me into an embrace. I wanted to argue, but I gave up. It didn't make much sense to ruin this any further. So, I returned the hug and brought her closer to me.
In the end, she comfortably rested her head on my chest while we slowly danced to the music that was absent from the room.
"Happy Birthday, Angelia..."