-The Second Chapter-

Last-minute Revelations

The sun was setting, and streetlamps lined on the sidewalks were turned on one-by-one. People on the streets scrambled, and they hurried back home. As the surroundings darkened, the townsfolk opened their lights to illuminate their houses. Their silhouettes can be seen from the windows, showing figures running inside the house. These folks were bringing their formal clothes with them, fitting their chosen apparel and grooming themselves to look really elegant and fashionable.

...The question is: what is going on with these people, bustling like a disaster's coming upon them? Is it the end of the world or something?

The answer - there's no disaster at all; it's already the day of the celebration! Everyone in Folsense was invited by Duke Herzen to the party. The duke was also known by the people for his festive parties and celebrations, where everyone can enjoy and take part in for free. Whether you're a commoner or a person of high class, everybody's welcome. No wonder they're so busy preparing for the event!

While the townsfolk were hurriedly fixing themselves in their homes, the hosts of the event were patiently waiting for the servants to set up the whole venue. Duke Herzen occupied himself by supervising the workers on where various ornaments will be placed and how the place will be decorated. They just started setting the castle up, but they're working at a pretty fast rate.

Meanwhile, the brothers were also busy dressing up for the party. Fredrich seemed to be excited for the night, while in contrast, Anton was just neutral for the party. While putting on his bow, the little brother started a conversation with his big brother.

"Hey, Anton, aren't you excited for tonight? I think this will be the most enjoyable party ever held in our castle so far! There's a feeling inside me that tells me so."

"You know me, Fredrich. I think all these celebrations are just the same, just commemorating different events. I respect your feelings though, so just enjoy the night," Anton replied. As he was reaching for his indigo coat, he also asked his brother a similar question.

"If it isn't bad to ask, what are you excited for anyway?"

"Well, I would say it's mainly about the guests. I could just imagine myself entertaining them, and then these people would shower me with good words... especially the girls. Hehe."

Anton, having exactly the opposite views, looked at his brother with confused eyes and with a raised eyebrow. He thought otherwise, but... is this even something new?

"E-err... Good for you. But, isn't that something that happens every time we have these parties?"

With confidence, Fredrich voiced out his point of view. "Ah, that's because I enjoy every single night we have this kind of events!" He then combed his hair in front of the mirror, making sure not even a trace of messy hair is seen.

"I won't ask more then. I guess we really are polar opposites either way... I look forward to experiencing something new today, though." Anton just gave a chuckle while putting on his coat, since he had nothing else to say. He was happy for his brother finding happiness in the party though.

Finishing all his self-grooming procedures, the little brother got ready to go outside to see the decorated great hall. Before he did so, he gave some final words to his brother.

"Alright, I'm done! I better get going now. And about new experiences, I'm sure we'll be having a good time tonight. Much more guests will come to the party, that's why! Father made sure to make this night a one-of-a-kind celebration. That's what he told me anyway, but who knows what that man's thinking... Well, I'm off, Anton." He waved his right hand and bid his brother goodbye while walking towards the door.

The older brother gave a smile to the other, straightening out the sleeves of his long coat. "I'll keep that in mind, Brother. Oh, and tell Father I'll be on the way, okay? Thanks in advance."

"Count on me," Fredrich eagerly replied, hands inserted on his pockets. "Good luck dancing with the ladies and finding a suitable partner for yourself!"

Fredrich's words caused Anton to suddenly stop in place and drop the comb he was holding. His turquoise eyes widened in shock, along with his mouth, forming the shape of the letter "o". "Did you say... partner? I-in the romantic context?", he asked, with so much horror in his shaky voice.

His brother was already outside the door when he asked the question. Hearing this, Fredrich took a few steps back to answer the petrified blond in the room. "Well, yes, what else could it mean? Oh, wait, I was supposed to tell you this the night Father talked to me about the party! I'm so sorry Brother. So, umm, I'll be going for real, so see you at the great hall!"

Anton still was as immobile as a post a few minutes after his brother's revelation, and could only blink his eyes. He tried to move, but couldn't because of shock. "If that's what Father told him... then does that mean this is what he meant by 'taking it seriously'? B-but, considering the type of ladies coming to the celebration..."

The thought of the obsessive girls came to his mind. He imagined one of them constantly talking about him. He imagined one of those girls demanding him to go with her all the time, wherever she wants to go. He imagined one of those women hugging him so tight he wouldn't breathe... and worse is that he imagined that they'll get married and live together for the rest of their lives. Anton's pale face even got paler after imagining all those things. He couldn't help but shout out of grief.

"Oh, the horror!"

Haha, that was funny! I typed this all in one day, and this was dialogue-based, so it's kinda short... XD

Anyway I kinda got this twist after reading some other fanfics, so let's say this chapter's idea is inspired by other people's works. I shall thank them, then! :)

Oh, I have an idea: since I'm in a drawing mood today, I'll propose a little offer! If you guys want me to draw a certain part of this fic, I would be accepting requests. You can put these requests in your review or in a PM. It could take some time though, so your patience is appreciated.

Thanks so much for the support so far! As always, reviews are welcome. Look forward to the next chapter! ^_^