Guest: I'm thrilled you're liking it so far!
defensecommand90: Alma is definitely a interesting character, she defined most of Historia's personality in canon so I think that if she's more caring in this story, Historia will be a little different as well.Since every chapter is seen by the POV of certain characters, we'll know more about Alma and what she thinks and feels about her daughter and Rod.Thank you for your kind words and your insight!
And now, here's a long juicy chapter!
The day had come, Frieda would be coronated and officially become the 'King of the walls.' a part of him didn't want to go, it was like an insult, rubbing salt in a wound that was just closing. But he had to push those feelings aside. He hadn't apologised to Frieda yet.
She didn't have time now what she was going to become queen, most likely she never expected to become one, despite being given the best education money could buy she wasn't as prepared as Blake.
Still, he ought to apologise that very same day. After or before the coronation, Frieda would end up hearing his apology. The carriage that was leading them to the capital was one he had been in a few occasions.
The late king Uri brought Blake to court when he was just four years old, he had started his education to become a suitable heir to the throne of Eldia should anything happened to the king. Although that extensive education barely matters now. Blake said bitterly in his head. He wouldn't show he was still upset, but he couldn't forget the slight the late king had made to his own son.
He wasn't really in the mood of talking to any of his family at the moment, His uncle, aunt, Urklyn and Frieda were in the same carriage as him while Carly stayed in the second vehicle with the rest of his younger cousins. Dirk, Abel and Florian held no dislike towards his friend. In truth, she got along with them.
His family was doing fine talking to each other, the mood was overall calm, considering the circumstances. He hadn't seen uncle Rod happy in a while.
He was laughing at the jokes Urklyn said and listening closely to whatever his aunt was saying.
He just sat there in silence, watching the scene that caused some small pain when he remembered his mother and the late king.
"Your father never showed you the affection or attention Rod and Elissa show your cousins, nor your mother bothered to take you with her when she left." A voice inside his head mocked him. And it didn't matter how much he tried to silence that voice, he knew it was right.
His thoughts were interrupted when he felt a hand squeezing his. He looked beside him to see Frieda had snuggled closer to him, she watched him with worry in her eyes, they weren't purple like king Uri's unnerving eyes, they were the same blue colour he always had seen, and as always, they showed pure kindness.
That was probably the reason why his aunt and uncle were so overjoyed. Whatever that meant, it was a good thing to see everyone happy.
Everyone was happy, except him.
He returned Frieda a look of his own, he tried to soften his gaze as much as possible to let her know her concern was noted and appreciated. They understood each other as twins would but he was afraid that connection had been severed by the small rift the decision of the King caused.
Fortunately for him, that wasn't the case.
She smiled brightly and focused her attention to her father once more, however she didn't let go of his hand.
"You're awfully quiet right now young man, what are you thinking?" Her aunt suddenly addressed him, the affectionate nickname she always used and the gentle smile she was offering him meant she wanted to include him in their conversation. And he wouldn't be a moody little cunt.
"I was thinking about the first time I came to court," Blake revealed his thoughts to the family.
"I remember when Uri and you came back home." Rod chimed in. "He said the Royal council were amused to see a furious four-year-old when he was called an adorable little boy. And then said boy proceeded to insult Elliott Stratmann, Uri's friend had called him that."
His aunt frowned a little but he could see the small smile on her lips, Urklyn chortled with mirth alongside his father as Frieda's expression when from surprise to a giggle she suppressed with her hand. Blake, however. Just crossed his arms and let out a scoff.
"Yes! That's exactly what you did." Rod exclaimed with joy, continuing to tell the anecdote as his family listened with great interest. "Then when he asked the king if he could pick you up you snatched his hands away and said: Fuck off, old man."
The family went into a sudden silence, Rod was still chuckling but the look his wife gave him reduced some of that laughing. They all knew that she was trying to hold back the laughter.
Urklyn and Frieda however. Couldn't help themselves and burst out laughing.
"You said what?" Urklyn asked while holding his stomach. "Oh, I should've been there!"
"What did he say, father?" Frieda asked while grinning, Blake finally gave in and let out a small chuckle, their reaction and the memory of Carly's father expresión was too much for him.
His uncle wanted to finish the story but his aunt's stern gaze refrained him from doing so. Thus, the prince decided to finish the story.
"He froze, dropped his cigarette and then laughed at the King's embarrassment. How could I know that was a mean thing to say? Kenny said it every day and the king didn't seem to mind."
"That man has been a bad influence from the start," His aunt spoke. "With Uri gone, I don't know why he's still with us." She gave Rod another one of her famous looks after she said that.
The mood changed a bit as Rod's smile vanished but he just shrugged. "He's... Useful."
"I'm sure you'll do great at court, brother." Urklyn smiled warmly, trying to change the subject. "You're prepared and have the right temper for it."
"And that's why I'm not worried in the slightest," Frieda added while she grabbed Blake's arm. "I'm surrounded with the people I love and trust, not to mention they're very capable and remarkable."
He couldn't help but feel a little happier upon hearing their encouraging words. If it wasn't for them he probably would be utterly depressed.
"Everything will be fine," Rod assured with a smile. "I knew it from the beginning, Frieda would not succumb to the ghosts of the past."
"Let's hope she doesn't." Blake pondered with worry. It was good that Frieda wasn't a victim of whatever happened to king Uri. But from his education and what Kenny had told him many times, life at court was one full of intrigues, when friends backstabbed you, a place where the walls had ears and you couldn't even fart without people making a scandal out of it.
He hoped Frieda was ready for it and the side glance his uncle gave him confirmed he was thinking the same thing. But for the sake of not making Frieda anxious or scared, they kept their smiles and amiable conversation.
Their conversation didn't last long as they had arrived at the capital, it had been a while since Blake had been there. But the castle was the same for him, a death trap.
As they descended. Blake snorted at seeing the ridiculously oversized carriage. It wasn't something you would use. The thing was different from other carriages. The somehow black windows allowed you to see outside but you couldn't see what was happening inside of it, the wheels were reinforced to avoid accidents and its strange unique feature was that it was armoured.
"I know, its a fascinating piece of work." Uncle Rod appreciated the sight of the carriage when he saw his nephew staring at the vehicle. "I had it made after we met Kenny, it can withstand a Canon shot and nothing would happen to it."
Blake thought it was exaggerated to build such thing, if they wanted to not draw attention to themselves then it was a stupid idea to make an oversized armoured carriage. It needed 6 horses to push it, there was no other carriage in the walls such as theirs.
His attention shifted to the second carriage behind the one where he had been. His younger cousins climbed down alongside Carly who was grabbing a sleepy Florian by the hand.
"Ugh, such a boring trip," Abel said dryly, stretching her arms and yawning loudly. Dirk walked behind her, not offering any comment.
"You shouldn't have slept so much, Flo," Carly said to the youngest Reiss. "You won't be able to sleep at night."
"Maybe if you tell me a story I will." Florian smiled lazily at Carly while rubbing her tired eyes.
Aunt Elissa quickly approached her youngest daughter and to Blake's and everyone's surprise, she gave her a nod. "Thank you, girl."
Carly was agape by the words she heard from Aunt Elissa, she gave a clumsily bow like if she had been hit in the head.
"O-of course lady Reiss." Was all his friend could say, his aunt took Florian and they made their way to the palace. The Royal Palace was the result of classic architecture used to build the greatest and most gorgeous building in the walls.
At the entrance, they were greeted by many servants and military police soldiers. "It is an honour for all of us to meet you." One of them said as all the servants and soldiers bowed in unison. "I was instructed to escort you to your Chambers."
His uncle was going to reply but stopped at the last moment, he looked at Frieda and cleared his throat, implying he wanted Frieda to start taking command.
"We're grateful for your kind welcome," Frieda spoke with a firm but kind tone. "Please take us there."
The servant gave her a broad smile as he instructed his peers to act. "Of course my queen, everyone, escort the honorary family to their respective Chambers.
As they walked inside, Florian, Dirk and Abel were amazed by how big the halls were, even compared to their home which was already big itself, the Royal Palace easily made their house look like a home for dwarfs.
Eventually, everyone was assigned a room, Carly decided to share a room with Florian, and instead of rejecting the girl's offer, his aunt and uncle accepted.
Abel and Dirk had a room of their own much to their joy, same as Urklyn and Frieda. When the moment came to assign the same room for his aunt and uncle, however. His aunt shook his head and wanted a room for herself.
"O-of course my lady Reiss, forgive me," the servant quickly apologised as if he had made a capital offence. "Right this way please."
As another girl took his aunt away, Blake turned to his uncle confused.
"What's wrong uncle?" He asked trying to forget Rod's infidelity.
"She's just a little upset at me." Rod explained while looking at the direction where his wife just left "We had a discussion last night." He decided not to pressure his uncle further and accepted the explanation.
"We'll talk later." Rod promptly said and he went inside the room, leaving the boy alone with a couple of servants.
"Please follow us, my prince." One of them addressed him, and so he followed.
Their rooms were relatively close to each other, but considering the size and length of the halls, that distance was still something to consider.
As he went inside, the room was as big as the room of the king back home, he could only imagine the size of Frieda's room in the Royal Palace, the place was their as well after all.
He took his time to explore the big room, and when he was pleased with it he decided to lay down on the ridiculously oversized bed, like. Seriously, whoever came with the idea of making everything big had serious issues with the size of things.
However he wasn't alone for long, a knock came to the door and as he groaned he took his time to approach the door.
When he opened a middle-aged woman accompanied by a girl and a boy greeted him with a bow the oldest woman had a huge grin from ear to ear.
"My prince, my name is Amelia Black." The woman paused, most likely waiting for him to recognize her name.
"You're the owner of dazzling apparel, the finest clothes comes from your company," He noted dryly, his simple statement seemed to boast the woman's huge ego.
"Yes! I'm glad you recognise my family's company."
"My wardrobe is full of your company's clothing, why wouldn't I know you." Blake said sarcastically.
"May we come in, my Prince?" the woman asked, ignoring his previous comment, even if he said no. It seemed she had already invited herself in with a foot inside the room.
He didn't reply and fully opened the door and let them in, the woman confidently walked in as she turned around to face him.
"So! I was contacted by lady Reiss to manufacture the attire you'll be using this evening my Prince!" She informed the boy as the other two at her side facepalmed at her childlike demeanour.
"That's why she requested that other servants take my measures?" He asked to the excited woman who nodded.
"That's right! I've spent all these days working on every detail of your family's attires, yours was more complicated and thus, more exciting."
"How so?" The prince inquired, he thought Frieda's attire would be more difficult to make since she was the centre of attention.
"Lady Reiss told me you have specific tastes when it comes to formal clothing, so I devoted myself to make an attire worthy of the Prince of the walls!" She said excitedly, the bags under her eyes showed she took that mission to heart and probably deprived her of any sleep for a few days.
"I'm sure you've achieved that vision, Mrs Black." Blake complimented, to be honest. He liked how serious she took her job and how she made sure to make the outfits for his family and him. "Shall we begin?"
"Of course!" She paused for a moment and looked at him, or rather, his hair. Then she looked at the other two teenagers. "But first we must cut your hair, my Prince, I assure you, when Jon has scissors in his hand he's a mage with them!"
The teenager named Jon looked away shyly and rubbed his nape. "Your haircut will look even more amazing after I'm done prince Reiss, I can promise that."
"What's wrong with my hair?" Blake frowned a little as he locked his fingers with his shoulder-length hair. "I know it's messy but can't I just, brush it and tie it?"
Amelia quickly shook her head and offered a smile. "It looks great! But, I was ordered by Lady Reiss and the Queen to cut it, so it matches your clothes."
"So not only aunt Elissa doesn't like it, but Frieda as well." He thought sadly, though it was probably for the better, his unkempt hair wasn't presentable, much less during a coronation.
"Very well." He resigned himself to Jon's magic hands. "Surprise me."
The nervous boy suddenly smiled confidently as he heard Blake's words. "Gladly, my Prince."
"Annnnd done!" Jon exclaimed when the last piece of hair hit the floor, the young boy gave Blake a mirror to watch the result.
He was surprised when he saw his new short hair, he looked well with the new haircut as he ran his hand through his hair he let a small smile formed in his lips.
"You look amazing my Prince, that short hair highlights your chiselled jawline." She didn't miss the chance to flatter him, she wasn't wrong though, he did look attractive, another feature that ran in the family.
He was pleased with the result, as Jon was sweeping the floor where the hair was he addressed the woman. "I think I should take a bath before you show me the attire you so hard worked for."
"Indeed my Prince, I took the time to fill your bathtub while Jon was cutting your hair." She announced which surprised him, she sure was eager to get him dressed.
Without another word, he walked into the bathroom. As he undressed he locked the door, he didn't want any of them to offer... Assistance... In bathing.
The water was still hot, as he slowly sank into it he let out a sigh of relieve and pleasure, he allowed himself to relax as he scrubbed and washed his body and hair.
He didn't take notice of how much time had passed, but a knock in the door let him know he had taken his time in the bathtub.
"Prince Reiss?" A voice spoke through the door. "Are you alright? Do you need some assistance?"
"I'm alright." Was his response, "I'll be out soon."He groaned as he got up from the water, he felt chills run down all his body and he quickly covered his body with a bathrobe, putting clean undergarments on he got out of the bathroom, where the trio was still waiting for him, they had the attire in their hands and Black's grin showed she was anxious to begin.
And so he obliged.
When they were done, he was happy to know it, he had been standing for a while now, he had insisted he could dress on his own but at the end he allowed the woman to have her way and assist him in dressing, stating every detail had to be perfect.
When he was allowed to see himself in the mirror he was surprised to see how well his attire had been made.
He was wearing a black tailcoat that matched his blue eyes and blonde hair, under it was a deep blue waistcoat that ended a little bit before his waistline, an elegant white cravat hugged his neck as he admired the golden buttons around the tailcoat.
His only complaint, however, was that the breeches she had made for Blake were a little too tight for his liking, he would've preferred riding breeches instead, to allow his legs and most importantly, his crotch to breathe, he could swear with those breeches everyone could see whatever movement happened down there.
But he had to admit the brown colour of them suited the attire overall, the white knee-high stockings connected to his black court shoes.
"Well look at you." Amelia whistled as she admired her work. "You look mighty and graceful, the perfect combination worthy of a Reiss. What do you think?"
"I really like it," He admitted to the woman while he checked the mirror.
"My work here is done." She smiled at him, motioning her companions that it was time to leave. "We have to be with other members of your family my Prince if you excuse us."
Blake walked away from the mirror and nodded, opening the door for them. "Thank you, Mrs Black, this is one of the finest pieces of clothing I've ever seen and wear in my life."
"I'm honoured my Prince, I'll see you soon, I hope."
And with that he was left alone in his Chambers again, he sat on a chair and looked at his belongings to see what he could do in the meantime.
There was his sketchbook, something he quite enjoyed to do in his spare time, but he wasn't feeling any sort of inspiration at the moment. He put it aside and gave an uncertain look to the Red diary of the late King.
He reached out to it but he didn't open it, with a sigh he also put it aside, there would be a time when he would open the diary and read it, but not at the moment.
Perhaps he was meant to just wait for hours until the ceremony started, he was doomed after all since the breeches wouldn't allow him to do anything fun at all.
And so he chooses to wait, luckily for him he just had to wait three excruciating hours.
He simply decided to leave the room and roam the halls aimlessly, until either a servant came to him or something interesting happened.
The former happened, the same young man that greeted them at the entrance of the Palace approached him. "My prince, your presence is requested at the throne room."
"The coronation is finally beginning?" He asked.
"It's about to start, some preparations are being finished and the last guests and nobles are arriving." The servant informed the Prince who nodded.
"Very well, let's be on our way."
As they walked Blake was quite comfortable with everything, the only thing he hated was the pressure against his legs and crotch.
"Just don't do something stupid like running or crouch and don't have... Funny thoughts about girls like you usually do when you're alone in your room." Blake's brain instructed him, if he were to disobey its command, eternal embarrassment would be assured.
Soon, they reached the room where every powerful person in the walls plus his family and the royal council would be there. They would be ass kissers and flatterers to his Queen-cousin Frieda.
As he walked in, he was glad he was not the centre of attention at the moment, in the throne room he could see there was a large number of people despite being a 'secret coronation'
He made his way towards his family, his younger cousins were wearing rather simple yet elegant clothes.
His aunt and uncle wore more elaborated attires, though they weren't as colourful as his. The closest to Blake attire was Urklyn's who had a grey frock coat with a red bowtie.
"You look amazing," Urklyn said with surprise, the rest of his family were quite pleased to see him with short hair and more formal clothing.
"I knew all these would suit you, young man." His aunt noted approvingly.
"You look like a clown." Abel snorted and Rod gave her a stern look while Dirk and Florian giggled.
"Apologise to your cousin Abel." Rod chastised her. She wanted to smirk but instead smiled innocently at him.
"Just kidding cousin, you look good."
"Thanks, I guess?" Blake titled his head to the side, smiling at Abel's joke. She wasn't wrong to some extent, outside court that attire was ridiculous and unpractical. He looked around searching for Carly but she was nowhere to be found. Before he could ask where was she his uncle spoke first.
"Now keep quiet both of you," Rod ordered calmly. "The ceremony is about to begin."
"Well... Here we go."
When they heard the trumpets announcing Frieda's arrival the entire room went silent and focused their attention on the door.
When two officers of the military police opened the door everyone went in shock upon seeing the Queen's appearance.
Frieda was wearing a white velvet gown, its features were, a full skirt supported by a petticoat, her tight waist was achieved by a bodice with a stay to keep her upright and with perfect posture, the golden choker necklace was a beautiful piece of craft, its precious gems consisted in blue and red gems that covered a great part of her exposed neck and chest since her dress had a low-cut neckline and her arms were covered with white long gloves that reached to her elbows. Her long dress was complete with the traditional red royal mantle of Eldian kings, the piece of clothing was embroidered in gold which formed roses, it was so big that it reached the floor and was being carried at the end by no other than his friend, Carly looked amazing as well, a dress similar to the Queen but much less elaborated. Though in his opinion, it suited her.
Blake was surprised Frieda would choose Carly of all people to accompany her during her walk to the throne. As he looked to his family, Rod was the only one to meet his gaze with a cocky smile. It seemed his uncle had spoken with Frieda about her dislike towards Carly.
Frieda took short and confident steps, she occasionally glanced in every direction and before getting to the end of the room where the throne was, they were there, waiting beside it. She managed to smile at them before focusing on the throne and where pontiff Roderich, the maximum authority figure of the church was waiting.
Carly stopped before reaching the stairs to the throne and took her place next to Blake.
Now that Frieda was in position, the holy figure spoke.
"Its the knowledge of all, that the terrible race known as titans, was sent as a punishment from God to cleanse this world of the wickedness of men. In his abundant mercy, he allowed us to live, and gave us these three walls to protect us from his wrath, we, the last scion of humanity has atoned for the sins of mankind, and now, he sends us another leader to guide us into the path of good."
As the man continued with his ceremonial speech, the voice inside his head tormented him even further. "You should've been there, that was your destiny, but the king deemed you unworthy of such burden and responsibility, you'll live in the shadow of the queen and only be remembered as the queen's cousin." The rage and hatred the voice in his head had was something no boy should hear in his thoughts. But what disturbed him, was that that voice belonged to him. Those were his thoughts.
"With the blessing of God, I, his humble servant, bestow this crown upon our queen's head." He grabbed the crown that was resting on a pillow held by another man of the church and carefully placed the yellow golden diadem inlaid in precious gemstones on top of Frieda's head, her hair braided into a bun made her look every inch queen.
"May this be the beginning of your glorious reign your majesty. Wherever you lead us, we shall follow."
As the now crowned Queen placed her fist into her heart to make the known salute of the army, everyone in the room knelt before the Queen.
"All hail Queen Frieda!" The pontiff bellowed.
"All hail queen Frieda!" everyone echoed through the room.
"You may rise," Frieda commanded, everyone obliged as they looked expectantly to hear what the Queen had to say.
"And now, we shall hear to whatever her majesty has to say if she so chooses." The holy man added, and now she could give a speech if she wanted to.
"My subjects, no word currently existing can describe the emotions we feel at this moment." Frieda began, her now stern gaze landing on her family.
"We have learned from the mistakes of our forefathers, their faults and sins have brought woe and havoc to our world, and we shall fix that, for that is our responsibility as your queen, and our desire as human, please, know that as long as we breathe, every single of our efforts will be dedicated into making this world a better place, where no sinners or those wretched creatures known as titans roams our paradise."
Blake felt shivers run down his spine as he saw a small glimpse of those purple eyes appearing on Frieda's eye sockets, the way she spoke and what she said was uncharacteristic of her.
The rest of the people in the room thought otherwise, they smiled and clapped as Frieda bowed and sat on the throne. The rest of the coronation ceremony would be her sitting for a couple of hours receiving oaths of fealty and hearing ass kissers.
And he wanted to see none of it. His uncle quickly rushed to Frieda's side in case of support or assistance. The rest of the family remained beside the stairs waiting for the affair to be over.
When the night descended, every soul in the throne room was taken to the ballroom, but no ball would be taking place, instead, a feast would replace the dancing.
The food served was courtesy of the Reiss family. Blake considered rather stupid to spend such amount of money since they could well save it for something else, but it was a royal tradition to throw a feast after the coronation, where the powerful people of the walls would reunite to forge alliances, scheme against each other and arrange marriages.
Frieda wasn't left alone for a single second, this time his aunt and uncle were with her at all times while she had to force a smile and listen to everyone in the room.
He stayed with his cousins and Carly as they tasted the food, everyone seemed to enjoy themselves but he specifically was more than pleased with the food.
Of the many times he tasted, the baked chicken was his favourite dish, the meat was drenched in a spicy and slightly sour sauce. The chicken stuffed with mushrooms and bacon had every flavour one could wish in a plate.
The baked potatoes seasoned with the sweet taste of paprika clashed and complemented at the same time the sharp and spicy smell and taste of the black pepper on them.
The tenderness and juiciness of the chicken pleased him as much as the sight of it, the white and shiny colour of the meat showed how well prepared it was, and the firm texture of the potatoes could fool everyone, for as soon as they reached his mouth, he could feel them melting down into his tongue and teeth.
He drank the sweetened wine to help his throat swallow the big bite more easily, as he closed his eyes momentarily and let out a soft moan he focused on the sweet taste of the drink, although at the end it became a little sour, reminding him that, although the wine was one distinguished for its taste, it still had alcohol, it was wine after all.
As long as he eats and drank with 'royal modals' no one would care how much he ate, his woes and worries went away every time he took a sip or a bite.
"For God's sake cousin, calm down with the food, there's plenty for everyone."
Urklyn remarked from his side, Dirk and Abel were looking at him quizzically as he lost himself in the sweet pleasure of food, Carly was too occupied with trying to get Florian something to eat to judge him as his cousins were at that moment.
"This is just too good." Blake offered a weak explanation that didn't convince Urklyn.
"I know, but people are watching..." He whispered as he pointed with his eyes to every direction of the large room, Urklyn was right, the Reiss children glanced at the people who were staring disdainfully at Blake.
He in return didn't give a fuck. Those were the same people who fucked, killed and hurt other people endlessly and he wasn't judging them, not openly at least.
But to avoid any sort of stupid scandal he slowed down the pace of eating, and took small bites and barely touched the wine with his lips. As soon as he began to act 'naturally' the looks stopped and those assholes returned to their business.
"They should look at their stomachs and appearance before judging a Reiss," Dirk said angrily of the looks they gave his cousin.
"It seems its fine they can eat until they burst but we can't enjoy the food we so kindly provided them tonight," Abel added with the same negative emotions as her brother.
"Perhaps we should go to a place quieter." all the eyes turned to Carly who seemingly gave up with Florian.
"Yes!" Florian encouraged "I'm not hungry, just bored." they looked at Urklyn who was the oldest of the siblings and thus, the one in charge.
"I don't see why not." Urklyn hummed in approval giving a side look to his oldest sister and parents, who were still talking with a group of people.
"I'd tell mother and father we're going to the gardens but I don't think they'll notice we're gone for a while." Urklyn grinned at their surprised faces. Blake was mildly focused on their talking as he was still eating but his surprise was also there, Urklyn usually was the more attached to the rules.
"Who are you and what have you done to my brother?" Abel was the first to recover, her surprise now shifted to a smile.
"Would you like him back?" Urklyn questioned and everyone shook their heads in unison. "Then stop making questions and let's get out of here."
They started walking away as the endless talking of nobles was too boring for them. Blake would've gone with them but he was still busy with the food.
"I'll join you later, go ahead."
Urklyn frowned a little but said nothing, with a nod he guided his siblings outside the room.
"Don't you want to go with them?" Blake asked his friend, Carly stayed with him after the rest had left.
"I will but I wanted to talk to you." She said.
"And here I thought you stayed because you enjoyed watching me eat, I'm hurt, Stratmann." Blake jested as he took another bite.
"I apologise, watch as you're stuffing yourself with food isn't as fun as I thought I'd be." Carly returned his jest with one of her own.
"Jokes aside, I've been busy studying something my father used to show me." She explained, his grin faded upon the mention of her father and he knew whatever she was going to say was something important.
"You look worried," He noted as he placed his plate aside, now giving her his full attention.
"I'm... Excited that's all Before my father died... He said that I should have the best education, one able to match the royal family's extensive education."
As he waited for her to clarify, the meaning of her words reached him before she continued. "So you want to pursue this plan Mr. Elliott had for you."
"Yes." She gave him a smile followed by a troubled sigh. "But I have no money, my father's rivals bought his company and properties, if it wasn't for king Uri I don't know where I'd be today."
"You want me to talk to Frieda about it?" He offered the simplest and most direct solution. "I'm sure she'll agree."
"Well, she did ask me to help her during the coronation but I wouldn't call her a friend just yet, I don't want to live all my life at the expense of your family or to be thrown out with no achievements reached." She explained to a determined Blake, he would get Frieda to say yes.
"She'll agree to it, leave it to me, Carly."
"You're a blessing!" She beamed in excitement as her smile got broader.
"That's something we both can agree with." Another voice joined in their conversation, as they turned around, the Queen of the walls was right in front of them, her parents behind her as if they were bodyguards.
"It looks someone was enjoying himself." Frieda pointed at Blake's visible potbelly. He blushed in return and both quickly bowed to her.
"Your Majesty, I--" His explanation was cut off when Frieda raised her hand with a giggle.
"You don't have to explain yourself to me cousin." She smiled warmly at him and her smile turned into one of courtesy when she looked at Carly.
"Where are your cousins?" His uncle asked and Blake's relief was short-lived when he heard those words, Urklyn would get into trouble for not asking for permission to leave.
So as a good cousin, he decided to blame himself , even if they wanted to punish him, they couldn't. He wasn't their son after all.
"I suggested they could leave since you were busy."
Frieda raised an eyebrow at his statement while his uncle and aunt were giving him their famous glance.
"And it didn't occur to you to suggest them to ask us first, young man?" His aunt's tone at the end became dangerously low, but before disaster could happen, Frieda turned to them.
"I saw them leave with a couple of guards, I know how tedious this day must have been for them so why don't give them a break?" The words of his cousin saved him from the wrath of his aunt and uncle, even if they wanted to still chastise him, they couldn't disobey their queen.
His aunt lowered her head in defeat and with a sigh accepted her daughter's explanation, she grabbed Rod by the wrist and led him away but before she asked where their children went.
"They went to the gardens." Carly quickly answered to them. "May I come with you, my lady, my lord?"
Before they could even reject her request Frieda cut them off first, it seemed she was getting used to exercise her authority. "It's fine Carly." The Queen spoke with a soft tone. "You may go with them."
And with that, they knew nothing could be done, the queen's authority was absolute.
As soon as her parents left, Frieda quickly grabbed his by the hand and walked towards the exit. But they should've known better, all the people in the room rushed to her wondering why she was leaving.
"Queen Reiss, your majesty! I've been waiting all day to get a chance to talk with you." A man shouted which was followed by more shouting.
"Your majesty, a word please!"
"My queen, I ask for your blessing!"
And more shouting
" My queen please wait!"
"Your majesty!"
She turned around and gave them a confident, and coolly smile. "My Lords and ladies, we must speak to our cousin in private, we shall be back to listen to whatever troubles you."
They couldn't protest further, once she spoke she immediately led him out of the room, a couple of guards wanted to follow but she dismissed them.
" What did you want to talk about? " he asked but Frieda's only reply was clinging to his arm.
" Not here, these walls have ears."
They walked the halls in silence as the only sound was their footsteps, she took him to her Chambers, where yet another two guards at the sides of the door raised their eyebrows in confusion.
"Tell everyone who comes we're not to be disturbed." She instructed the two men who obeyed without question and opened the door for them.
He was surprised to see how big the room was, the large space had many types of furniture from a large desk to many oversized drawers.
She sat next to the centre of the bed, she looked so small in comparison. "Sit." she offered him, she didn't even take her shoes off. "Don't worry about the shoes."
He obliged and sat in front of her she removed the crown from her head and gave it to him. "This crown belonged to Edward Fritz VII." She explained as he looked at the incredibly big amount of gems inlaid in it.
"This crown is ridiculously expensive but at the same time, Edward was one of the best Kings Eldia has ever had."
He returned the crown to Frieda and she placed it beside her, she looked down thinking and then chuckled. "I'm sorry, I doubt you're here for a history class."
"I don't mind." Blake quickly replied. "If it takes your mind away from today then I'll listen to whatever you want."
"I might just need that." She smiled tiredly as she rubbed her head. "We haven't talked in days."
This was his cue to apologise. "Frieda, I--" His apology came to an end when she placed her finger on his lips.
"I know, There's nothing to forgive."
He smiled a little as he scratched his right ear. "You know me well, your majesty."
"When it's just the two of us I'm Frieda to you, I'll always be," she said as she eyed his attire. "You look very handsome today cousin."
"And you look gorgeous." Was his quick reply. "You look like a queen should, Frieda."
She rolled her eyes and Blake thought his comment perhaps annoyed her or was out of place, but she quickly shook her head and grabbed his hands.
"Forgive me, I've been hearing false compliments from boot lickers and lecherous old men it's hard to remember this one is an honest one." She explained why she reacted that way, and truth be told he admired how she was able to not lose her patience when dealing with people like them.
"I have an important announcement to make, but before I made it public I wanted to ask you first." She said, pulling a broach out of her dress.
"Blake Reiss, we offer you the position of high chancellor of the queen, will you accept our appointment?" Her fake serious tone and giggle seemed like a joke, but the golden broach that belonged to the personal advisor of the Queen showed she was serious.
" Me?" The astonished boy asked and she nodded.
"I remember all the ideas you'd share about your plans for the future of our people and how you would change things for the better. I can't think of a better choice for the job, my cousin, a prepared young man, advising me with the realm's best interest at heart"
Her kind words and expectant smile told him she wanted a yes for an answer and it was hard to say no, with such decision, she was naming him the second most powerful man in the walls, not even his uncle Rod, who was acting as regent would hold such power.
"I don't know what to say, Frieda..." He began, choosing his words carefully. "I've... Been thinking about other paths I might choose, to find what I was born for."
His words probably had come out harsher than he wanted, the sad look on Frieda's face was something that almost tempted him to change his mind and say yes. But no matter how much he loved her, becoming king was no longer an option, he had to consider what he'll do next.
"I understand." She said, looking away most likely to try to hide her disappointment. "All those people talking with me want just to improve their position, they want to take the appointment I'm offering you." Her tone was low and calm but her words were resentful.
"I'm not those people." Blake's sharp reply made Frieda sigh as she laid down on her bed.
"Of course you're not, that's why you must take the job, I won't force you, but please consider it."
"I will."
A moment passed and silence filled the room, she palmed the space next to her inviting him to lay down as well.
As he did, the silence continued and he thought now was the time to ask Frieda for a favour.
"Carly wants to pursue the education her father planned for her before his passing." Blake suddenly spoke, hoping Frieda would be in the mood to listen after he declined her offer.
"She wants me to pay right?" Frieda's words seemed a little hostile but she just looked at him blankly. "If I do, will you accept the job?"
"I said I would consider it." he frowned, feeling forced. "You don't like her so I thought you may want her out of your sight."
"To be honest, I don't dislike her and I'm sure she'll do great at university when the time comes," Frieda spoke, closing her eyes out of tiredness. "That can be arranged."
He smiled as he rubbed her shoulder affectionately. "Thank you, Frieda."
"Uh-huh." Was her weary reply, her closed eyes showed she was tired, she didn't open them for a few minutes as they enjoyed the silence.
"We have to go back."
"I know." She groaned softly, she had to put the crown back on as they walked out of her room. "Stay with me the rest of the night," She said and that wasn't an order from the queen, it was a plead from his cousin.
"Of course." with newfound energy, Frieda resumed her duties as Queen for the rest of the night, hearing more empty compliments and requests and endless troubles from her subjects.
As midnight came, Blake couldn't sleep, maybe it was the bed or how much he ate, whenever he closed his eyes, sleep didn't take over him.
As he got up and sat on the desk next to the bed, he looked at the red notebook that belonged to the king... He wouldn't dwell in the past and cry about it, King Uri was dead but maybe he could find something useful to tell to Frieda.
Blake opened King Uri's diary. As he looked at the first page, the date was a little covered in ink but he could read the year.
Diary entry #1
Year 827.
This is my first time writing a diary, it is meant for you my son, this day is the craziest and happiest of my life, your mother is tired and resting but everything went fine and both are healthy and well.
You're a chubby adorable babe, Rod will hate me if he ever finds out, but I have no intention of you becoming king or giving you this wretched power within me, I want you to live a full life, son. And that's why... May the goddess forgive me, I will name my niece Frieda, my heir.I will not torture you with the awful truth about our family and the world, I want to give you everything you could ever want and need to find your place in this world.
You don't need to be someone special in life son, I just want you to be happy, I want to give you what my father couldn't, a chance to get away from everything.This may not make sense now and I hope it never will, I just want you to know that your mother and I love your dearly, and I'm sorry I won't be there for you when you need me the most.
Please, son, live assured that you are my greatest pride and joy. Be a good man... Always seek freedom... To make your own mistakes.
As he closed the book he grimaced at what he just read, his uncle always described Uri Reiss as a good man victim of the power of the founding titan. And now, he felt conflicted about King Uri.
A part of him was a little relieved that the decision of disowning Blake was to protect him, but at the same time, king Uri had condemned Frieda in Blake's place, it didn't help either that he was neglected most of the time plus his mother abandoned them when he was a kid.
He closed the diary and in both hands, he thought what sighed, knowing what path should he take.
As he looked at the golden broach that Frieda gave him he knew he could serve beside her and try to change things, but the process could consume him and his sanity as it did to King Uri.
And then as he glanced at the diary... He could break away from his so 'cursed family' perhaps he could join the army and take the fight against the titans, unravel the mysteries of the world and free his people from their chains.
Both paths required strength, sacrifice and suffering in different ways. He put his hands together at around his mouth, with fingers interlocked, he had to choose...
"What should I do". he wondered
Frieda uses the "Royal we" when she's in public, being Queen. So she'll refer to herself with "We"
I thought I could write this chapter in like 4k words but ended up writing the double amount of that goal.
Please tell me what you think.Any feedback/ criticism is greatly appreciated!Take care and stay safe guys