I have something to share with you guys. During the past few weeks, I was plagued by insecurities on how to finish this work. I have an incomplete outline which I constantly update and try to improve. But as much as I work on it, and the ending I have in my mind, I keep on having doubts on whether I am on the right direction. I do not feel confident with my writing, and I seriously wish to come to terms with this. Some of you may probably think why do I have such thoughts, and I cannot explain them myself. But there you go.
This is just a little confession. And I hope as I progress along, I can find a solution for this and write a proper closure.
Title: The Resident Pharmacist of the East Wing
Inspired by: Chapter 47 of the Manga Akagami ni Shirayukihime
Character: Izana Wistalia
Rating: General
Status: Beta-ed chapter by Kartara. Please check out her profile and support her works
I glanced up and down at the tall young man in front of me, trying not to be too obvious with my scrutiny. The young man looked a little younger, lean, and sprightly. He carries his bearings well, not to mention he is easy to look at with his blue-gray eyes and strong chin...
Hmmm.
I leafed through the papers to make a show of reading. But in truth, I was already briefed by Maruko about the things I demanded be followed now that my brother has officially moved to the East wing. The man before me has been working as a junior steward for the past two years. The chief steward recommended his appointment to handle the logistics of running the East Wing. Zen's number of aides is growing, and for them to be able to function, they would be needing assistance.
"So, Gaveen." I lowered the papers I was holding, holding his gaze. "Have you sorted out the guard details of the east wing?"
"As what Your Highness wants. It has been done."
"What about the improvement studies I have requested? Can you explain them to me?"
As he went through the proposals one by one, I half-listened to what he was saying and let my mind wander for a little. Most of the proposals seemed valid enough. I have already decided to approve the improvements and set aside a small budget.
I was about to hold up my hand to stop him from continuing when I caught hold of his last sentence.
"..proposed to make use of this material to make the walls soundproof, Mistress Shirayuki is having trouble sleeping."
I sat up straight, interested about the sudden developments. "The pharmacist is having trouble adjusting to her new location?"
Gaveen looked a little uncomfortable and his face turned pale, before slowly nodding.
"Why?"
Maruko cleared his throat softly, and I raised my hand. "You knew about this?" I asked my aide.
Maruko bowed, "The reports came last night. I am about to tell you after you finished Gaveen's interview, Your Highness."
"The junior ministers have caught the news of the pharmacist moving in the East Wing. Many are speculating that..." Gaveen hesitated, eyeing me nervously, unable to continue.
"Go on," I prodded.
"They are speculating that the pharmacist is there as a... paramour. And a couple of times, a few of the junior ministers gave snide remarks whenever she is in the room." The steward before me seemed to shrink a little.
It seemed like the very air was sucked out of the room. It was so quiet that I could feel my heart beat slowly and loudly.
"I see." My tone turned to ice.
My brother is not aware of what's happening because I sent him to the Southern borders on a visit, together with Mitsuhide, Obi, and Lady Kiki three days ago. They will not be back until the next two weeks.
After dismissing Gaveen, I brooded over the next two hours. A future king never concerns himself with such petty gossip. Such activity is beneath myself, and it is only prudent I get involved if the situation concerns the country. Therefore, it is unwise to intervene. As much as I wanted to find out who were the culprits behind such unsavory gossips, it would only get bigger if I meddle and might put Zen and Shirayuki into a more unfavorable light.
Gossip, as always, is the favorite breakfast of the elite, the nobility, and the politicians. Each of us have our agenda, and knowledge is always utilized as a weapon, be it false or not. If Zen and Shirayuki were to survive and render support to my cause, they should be able to navigate the shark-infested waters of court life and intrigue.