Author Notice:
Celeste(Kagome)—Age 15
Midna—Age 18
Zant—Age 30 (Appears to be younger in his early 20s)
Celeste's gaze swept the entirety of the Princess's bedroom, from the large silken bed perched atop alabaster steps, to the balcony right beside the bed, the double doors woven between glass and wood overlooking the gardens below. Large white pillars supported the high ceilings of the chamber, followed after by many family tapestries, banners, and candlelight. The furnishings in the room were grand; there were cream colored sofas, a few large shelves filled with an array of different books, and even an exquisite fireplace which was currently lit, its blue flames warming the room comfortably. "I still can't get over how beautiful your room is," She replied, knowing this wasn't the first she'd visited.
Midna smiled. "Thank you. But as beautiful as it is, it's quite empty, and certainly gets drafty in the mornings." Once removing Celeste's dirtied apron from her plain black dress, Midna guided her to another set of doors, this one leading into a much smaller room where Ruth tended the bath.
Noticing the two girls beside her, Ruth smiled. "It's ready. Go ahead and remove your clothes, dearies and I'll scrub you down."
"There's no need. Celeste and I will manage on our own," Midna explained. "If you would, please prepare our dresses."
"Of course, Princess," Ruth replied, bowing once more before exiting the room.
Once she was gone, Midna inspected the large onyx colored tub, her hand gently testing the water's temperature. Hot. It was the perfect temperature. With the use of magic in their kingdom, the people easily created their own unique adjustments within life, and bathing became a much easier process.
"Is it really okay?" Celeste asked, her eyes looking upon the large tub hesitantly. She'd never bathed in such a large tub before, mainly settling for wooden basin which all the maids shared amongst themselves.
Midna nodded, helping her friend disrobe. "It's fine," She replied. Once her friend was entirely exposed, shivering in the room, despite the steam coming off the bath, Midna quickly removed her undergarments and tossed them aside before ushering Celeste to sit down.
Reaching for a bucket sitting beside them, Midna dipped it into the tub, filling it halfway with water before pouring it gently over Celeste's nude form, as well as soaking her long flowing white hair. After which, she reached for a crystalline bottle filled with soap, applying a small amount of the scented gel to her palm before massaging Celeste's scalp gently.
Celeste relaxed in contentment, her blue eyes closing as she inhaled the sweet scent of the soap. With Midna's fingers working hard to lather her hair and cleanse it from the flour, she couldn't help but side glance her friend curiously. Although they were three years apart in age, herself being eight years old, they were actually very different in appearance. While Kagome's skin was a milky white in color, her hair just the same, with one of a kind blue eyes, Midna's skin color on the other hand was turquoise, a pretty color between blue and green. There were black markings across her body, markings she presumed she was born with. Despite all that, Midna's characteristic were very similar to everyone else except Celeste. As much as she didn't want to admit it, she realized they looked completely different from one another.
Once she'd lathered her hair, and scrubbed her body clean from dirt, she urged Celeste into the steaming water. As the child eased herself into the tub, the water's height exceeding as high as her neck, Midna quickly set to washing her own hair and body, finishing a lot faster than expected. Soon after, she joined Celeste, the two leaning back against the tub contentedly.
"I really wish I didn't look so different," Celeste commented, rinsing her hair carefully in the water.
Opening her eyes, Midna looked at Celeste, blinking at the question bemusedly. "What's wrong with the way you look?"
Celeste shrugged. "I mean … no one else looks like me. My hair … my skin…"
"Isn't that nice though? To be different? I'd give anything to have such pretty white hair," Midna replied, smiling at the thought. "I don't think the flour did a good job hiding this orange hair though…"
Celeste laughed. "We made a mess in the kitchen. I hope mama didn't have trouble. I'll have to apologize when I return later."
"Zant must be speaking with father about what happened … I can already hear the conversation. Your Majesty, your daughter is completely unreasonable. Not only did she flee from the lecture, but I found her covered entirely with flour in the kitchens!"
At the sight of Midna pretending to act like Zant, her voice attempting to reach a deeper level of masculinity spurred a giggle from Celeste. The two fell into laughter soon after, talking amongst themselves during the duration of their bath.
Once cleansed and relaxed, the two emerged into the bedroom, the sight of Midna's Nurse Maid standing beside the bed smiling. While Celeste attempted to hide her indecency, covering herself with her undergarments, Midna on the other hand approached the bed, not at all modest about her nakedness.
"I've laid out your dresses. But first, let's get your undergarments," Ruth replied, reaching for two white linen dresses, the length exceeding no further than their knees.
"If you will, assist to Celeste. I'll manage fine on my own," Midna replied, pulling the undergarment down over her head.
While Midna attended to her own dressing, Ruth aided Celeste, pulling the linen gown over her head before handing the child knee length stockings, which she tied around the upper knees with two black ribbons. Satisfied, Ruth reached over and held out a lovely blue and white dress for her, the child marveling at the beautiful lace interwoven into the neck, bodice and elbow length sleeves.
"So pretty…"
With her black and red dress already pulled over her, tying the black ribbon behind her back easily enough, Midna glanced over at Celeste, the child twirling around in circles excitedly. "Blue really suits you, Celeste. I don't know why, but blue and white have never suited me."
"Do you think so?"
Even Ruth nodded. "Quite so. They complement your eyes wonderfully. Here, why don't you have a look?" Guiding the child over to a large white vanity, a large oval mirror greeted the child, reflecting the sight of the gown in the mirror.
Celeste's smile widened. She looked so different! "Amazing…" As Ruth urged the child to sit, she did just that, seating herself in the velvet white cushions of the wooden stool, watching as the Nurse Maid brushed her hair free from tangles.
Upon the vanity in front of her, she saw an assortment of beautiful ribbons, hair ornaments and necklaces. There were also various small bottles of sweet smelling perfumes, combs, brushes, and small containers filled with makeup powders and rouge, all of which left the child marveling.
For some reason, Celeste never once saw Midna wear any of these ornaments in her hair. Why was that?
"How should we do your hair?" Ruth asked, running her fingers through the soft strands. "Perhaps we should pull it up? Or would you like braids?"
Accessing herself carefully from head to toe, pressing down the lace upon her bodice, she slipped her feet into a pair of black polished shoes. Pleased by her tidy appearance, she approached the vanity, her amber eyes shifting across the hair ornaments situated on the table. Hoping to find a decent ornament to complete Celeste's appearance, she picked out a long light blue ribbon. "The ribbon would look lovely in her hair."
Ruth nodded. "Certainly."
The result ended with Celeste's hair combed back halfway and away from her face, the upper portion of her hair braided back and tied at the end, with the remainder of her long hair brushed beautifully over her shoulders. With a little help from Ruth, Celeste's bangs were trimmed a little, the layered fringe laying just at her eyebrows with a little curl at the ends. Powder was then lightly applied to her face, a little blush upon the apples of her cheeks and a little rouge painted upon her lips. To Midna's and Ruth amazement, the child looked exactly like a porcelain doll, staring peculiarly at the mirror.
"Oh, she's so adorable!" Ruth gushed.
"I think you've outdone yourself," Midna commented, smiling as she took a seat beside Celeste. While her Nurse Maid combed her vermillion curls back into a style similar to Celeste, Midna pressed some of the powder lightly to her face, lightening up her complexion slightly before applying her blush and rouge. Pleased with her appearance, her smile fell short upon noticing Celeste's frown.
"What's wrong?" Midna asked, noticing a sudden sadness overcome her countenance.
"It's just … I look so different. Are you sure it's alright for me to wear your clothes and your makeup?" Celeste asked.
Midna nodded. "I don't mind at all. Do you not like it?"
The child shook her head. "I love it. I just … think it would be bad if I got too used to it, you know?"
"Sometimes Celeste, I wish I were in your shoes," Midna voiced softly, ignoring the surprised stare from her Nurse Maid. When she saw Celeste's confused expression, Midna only shook her head. "It's nothing. Come on, I'm sure Zant is waiting."
The doors to the dining hall greeted them, and the first thing Celeste's eyes glimpsed upon her entrance was the form of a tall man. He was dressed in black fitted attire, a cloak wrapped around his broad shoulders with his back towards them. Ever so slowly, he turned, his crimson gaze locked with hers for a brief moment. From top to bottom, he accessed her, and Celeste noticed his once soiled hair damp against his pale turquoise face, his sharp jawline more apparent with his hair combed back, a few strays of his layered bangs falling over his intense gaze.
"Oh good, you've arrived," His deep voice replied, a single hand smoothing back a few strays from his countenance.
Although it was difficult to admit, Celeste found his stare alluring and his entire visage charming. Never in her life had she seen such a beautiful man, and while his gaze swept over Midna's form, critiquing her appearance just the same, she found it difficult to look away.
Pleased by their appearances, he flashed them a smile, one which left Celeste weak at the knees. "Yes, I would say you've both cleaned up quite well. Lovely in fact."
Celeste blushed at the compliment, fiddling her fingers in front of her as she looked away timidly. Although it wasn't directed solely towards her, it was still a charming trait of his, one which she couldn't help but find attractive.
"Now then, Celeste," Zant began, startling the child from her own musings. "We last left off, I presume, teaching proper etiquette and how one should greet their peers. My questions to you is, how much you've learned while growing up in the palace?"
While she wasn't expecting a question from him, at least not with him so close, Celeste swallowed nervously, her eyes looking elsewhere but at him. "Oh … well … mama always taught me to always bow my head … and never speak out of line…"
Zant nodded. "And you would be right, however, there is so much more you've left out. Since you've accompanied the Princess in her studies for this afternoon, please make yourself comfortable wherever you'd like," He replied, guiding them further into the room before taking a seat in one of the many chairs aligning a long dining table.
A bit hesitant, Celeste picked a spot closest to Zant, her eyes shifting beside her as she regarded him shyly. In all her life, she never once thought she'd actually get the chance to speak to him, let alone sit right beside him. It felt almost unreal, and yet, he wasn't talking down to her at all, despite being a Lord.
Noticing her stare, he flashed her a small smile, one which immediately startled her. "There's no reason to feel nervous. You'll see first-hand, how far our Princess has progressed in her lessons."
Taking her place in front of the adviser and her seated friend, Midna turned to her Nurse Maid, the older woman smiling bubbly before greeting her with a small bow of her head. Midna acknowledged the greeting, nodding her head slightly with her hands clasped over her abdomen. The two conversed, a conversation similar to what they held each day, though Midna carefully chose her words, but somehow, it made her feel uncomfortable and distant.
"Yes, very nice," Zant replied.
With encouragement from Ruth, Midna sauntered around the entirety of the room, a large tome balanced upon her head. Each step, she carefully swayed, her feet guiding her around the entirety of the room, circling the large dining table more than a few times, her eyes focused before her. As she made her laps around, her nursemaid nodding enthusiastically, Zant however refrained from writing in his open book, his quill relaxed in his hold.
Finishing her fifth lap around, Midna finally stopped, her Nurse Maid clapping delightfully upon the sight. "I've greeted and I've walked like a Princess. Is there anything else?"
Zant arched a brow, closing his book before regaining his standing. "Before we move on to the cutlery and seating, I would like for you to greet me properly."
A sigh escaped her. Really? If anything, she'd rather greet a wall. "If it speeds things along, then fine," She replied, crossing her ankles before lowering her upper body into a graceful and over exaggerated curtsy, lifting her skirts before Zant. "How do you do Zant?"
Unable to withstand facepalming, he wiped his hand across his face, rubbing his temples irritatingly. Such an ill-mannered Princess, and even after compromising with her, she still refused to properly greet him. Zant sighed. "You're really testing my patience … Do it again."
"Zant," Midna replied, this time standing up straighter, her arms crossed over her chest, and her mouth turned upwards into a sarcastic grin.
"You drawl my name with such disdain," He replied, thoroughly unimpressed by her indignation. It was obvious the child disliked him, but for whatever reason, he couldn't be sure. "What is it about me that displeases you?" He inquired, arching a delicate crimson brow.
Midna looked away, ignoring the baffled stares from the three. "Whatever do you mean, Zant?"
Seeing as how she wasn't going to answer truthfully, despite her childish antics, Zant turned to the white-haired child sitting behind him, and with an offered hand, softly smiled. "Celeste, if you would do me this favor?"
Blinking at his offered hand, the child took it, dropping down from the chair carefully as he turned towards her. Wait, was he going to involve her in this demonstration? "Yes?"
Kneeling down in front of the child, Zant allowed his height to match her own. With a gentleman conduct, he brought a single hand to his chest, his gaze staring alluringly into Celeste's, oblivious to her reddened cheeks. "Hello Celeste, you look rather lovely this afternoon," He softly replied. Now that her hair was swept back half way and tied in a braid with a single blue ribbon, he was finally able to see her face. "This is the first I've seen your face. You should wear your hair back more often."
Celeste fought the urge to hide her blush. Even if this was a simple demonstration to help Midna out, she played along. Smiling, she offered a small curtsey, which was neither dramatic or overexaggerated. "Hello Master Zant. Thank you for noticing…"
Upon her reply, Zant immediately stood up, turning once more towards Midna, who practically blanched at the sight, a sudden notion to gag springing forth from her esophagus. "Why can't your words flow more elegantly like Celeste's? Though this is her first day, she was perfectly capable of greeting me."
She blushed at the response, hiding her blush with her hands. "Oh, I don't deserve such a compliment, Master Zant…"
For the first time that afternoon, Midna suddenly felt a twitch surface beneath her eye. Master? What in the Twili was going on? Could it be possible, her friend felt certain inclinations for her father's adviser? No, that couldn't be it. Then again, there was no mistaking the obvious blush encompassing the entirety of her face, the excited smile, and her timid countenance as Zant helped her back to her chair; it definitely did not go unnoticed to Midna.
An unexpected knock resonated within the kitchens, and bewildered by the interruption, Sophia pulled away from scrubbing the dishes and approached the door. Pulling it open, she stepped back, her eyes wide as she took in the towering form of his Majesty the King. Such an unexpected surprise startled her, his blank expression watching her as she lowered herself onto her knees respectively. Why was the King here, of all places?
Dressed in his regal attire, the remainder of his clothing concealed beneath a black furred coat, he stood at an intimidating height of eight feet, her own stature a mere five feet and six inches in comparison. A beautifully trimmed red beard presented itself upon his angular face, his hair combed back as his amber eyes regarded her softly.
The King didn't step inside, but instead, he beckoned the woman towards him with a wave of his massive hand. "Come with me. I would like to have a word with you," His deep voice replied before he turned and sauntered down the halls, his dark cloak dragging behind him with each step.
Bemused by the situation, she hurriedly rose to her feet and followed after him, maintaining a four-foot distance behind him so as not to appear too informal. As they sauntered through the Servant's Quarters, passing many maids who were just as surprised as Sophia, bowing their heads respectively to the King, they eventually exited into the gardens, crossing beneath the trellis before entering into the Main Palace. From there, during the entire silence, they ascended the long intricated carpeted stairs, Sophia's worry only increasing.
What did his Majesty want? Where was he taking her? Sophia practically bit her lip worryingly as she tried to piece together the mystery. The very thought of the King crossing the entire Main Palace to the Servant's Quarters, seemed entirely ludicrous, but he sought her audience. She half wondered if it was because of what transpired within the kitchens earlier.
"Zant reported what happened with regards to my daughter visiting the kitchens," The King began, still calmly ascending the stairs.
Sophia thought that was the case. Was he intending to punish her and Celeste for their ignorance? But if he were, why would he personally make the trip? If he had wanted her punished, wouldn't he have commanded the palace guards to send them away to the dungeons? "Forgive us, Your Majesty."
Once climbing the stairs, he paused, turning and beckoning her closer. "You need not be afraid, woman. You and your daughter will not be punished," He replied, furthering Sophia's confusion. "In fact, I approached the Servant's Quarter with other intentions, not interrogations. You may relax."
If that was the case, then what did the King want?
Continuing down the hall, their steps resounding somewhat loudly, the King went on. "I would like to apologize for my daughter's ignorance. It seems she enjoys frequenting the Servant's Quarters, though I worry it might interfere with your chores and her studies…"
"Not at all, Your Majesty…"
He nodded. "Though her irresponsible behavior leaves much to be desired, it is, perhaps, and without a doubt, my fault. You see, I cannot always remain beside Midna. As King, it is my duty to focus my utmost attention onto my people, my Council and the Kingdom itself. There are many days, that even I am unable to seek audience with my own daughter. And so, she's had to grow up alone for all these eleven years."
Hearing this, Sophia nodded. While she wasn't always around the Royals each day, she never realized the disconnection between the king and the princess. So, he blamed himself for her behavior?
"On the night my daughter was conceived, the Queen passed away, her own body unable to fight off her sickly illness," He replied, remembering the fatal day the royal physician informed him of the tragic news. Unable to be beside his wife during her delivery, he recalled ending his meeting with the Council, favoring the deathly room where his wife laid, cold and unmoving, and the crying of a newborn infant cradled in one of the maid's arms. "Even without a mother to look after her, especially that of her own father, the Princess has been alone. It's to my belief, she has managed to fill the empty void within her, in favor of your daughter."
Sophia looked up at this, her eyes wide. Was that truly the reason? In a way, it made sense, but to enjoy the comfort of a servant most of all, Midna must have truly felt alone all these years.
"I sought you out, not with the intention to punish, but simply to discuss something rather important, which I hope to receive your answer," He explained. "It concerns your daughter."
Sophia physically stiffened at the remark. Celeste? He wanted an answer about her daughter? "Yes, Your Majesty?"
They paused before the Dining Hall, and as the King slightly opened the door, he beckoned the Head Maid to peer within. "See for yourself."
Accepting his command, she crept closer to the King, surprised he remained standing despite her closeness, and she peered into the small crack within the large furnished room. Within, Sophia noticed the Royal Adviser, Midna's Nursemaid, the Princess and her daughter; they were all standing, the two young girls gliding across the room, hand in hand, and they were both laughing elatedly.
Zant was nodding in approval, jotting down his notes within his small tome, while the Nurse Maid clapped her hands approvingly at the sight, watching the girls curtsey before them.
"I have not seen my daughter smile for a long time," Came the King's voice behind Sophia. "Lately, she's been laughing more, favoring the company of others rather than her empty room which she used to lock herself within countless times. In short, I would like Celeste to become my daughter's companion, someone who would always remain by her side, as a friend."
Sophia frowned, her stare faltering to the floor at her feet. So, it seemed the King suddenly noticed the friendship between the two girls. "But, what of their statuses?"
He mused for a moment; in truth, the idea weighed heavily on his mind, and seeing no other reasonable way to fix it, he came to one conclusion. "With your permission, her status as a maid can easily be stripped away in favor of becoming a personal companion for the princess. Think of it as a title but without status."
Sophia turned half way at this. A title but without a status? She'd never heard of such a thing. But, if that was the case, Celeste could live a life free of burdens, a life beside the princess, wearing finely fitted garments that only servants could wish for. Should she agree to allow her daughter this extraordinary opportunity, then she and Celeste would undoubtedly become separated.
While his gaze surveyed the lesson within, he noticed his daughter pause, her attention shifted away from Zant's lecture, though, he noticed Celeste paying close attention, urging the Princess to follow along. "I believe Celeste would be a good influence on my daughter," He couldn't help but smile at the sight. "With your answer, I will have her removed from the Servant's Quarters and placed within the Main Palace near my daughter's chamber."
Sophia moved away from the door, stepping back from the King at a reasonable four feet, her head bowed respectively. "Your Majesty … I do not mean to be rude, but, are you taking my child away from me?"
"I will not be so bold as to separate a mother and daughter indefinitely. I am not so cruel," He laughed, perfectly understanding her worry. "You will certainly see her, but her residence will be moved within the Main Palace. I only seek an answer. If you are not comfortable with the thought, you may say so now."
She nodded. "If that's what you wish, then I will allow it."
Pleased by her acceptance of the proposal, he turned away from her, sauntering past her bowed form. "Very well. I'll have the servants prepare her things."
Evening descended, the lesson lasting much longer than Celeste anticipated. Since then, after completing the etiquette portion of the lesson earlier that afternoon in the Dining Hall, they eventually crossed the halls towards the Royal Library, where Zant eventually began a lecture over the history and science of the Twili. Celeste remembered how long the lesson lasted, her confusion circulating around many topics discussed. Eventually, when the hour struck nine, she realized how fast the day ended.
Midna and Celeste said their goodbyes, Celeste promising to wash the gown lent to her properly before returning. After which, Celeste watched as the Princess's Nurse Maid walked her back to her rooms before running down the empty halls towards the gardens. Once crossing the gardens, she arrived in the Servant's Quarters, the halls strangely quiet on her trek.
Arriving upon the room she shared with her mother and several other girls, Celeste stepped in. "Mama, I'm back," She called, but she paused beside the open door, her large cerulean eyes widening bemusedly.
The maids were standing with their hands folded in front of them, their heads lowered pitiably as several Royal Maids dressed in finer garments crossed the entirety of the small room.
Looking closely, Celeste realized the items the Royal Maids were carrying and going through were her own, and she became distressed, quickly approaching the still maids. "What's going on? Why are they taking my belongings?"
"Celeste?" Sophia's voice called from the small enclosure, which served as hers and her daughter's room. Exiting, she approached her daughter, kneeling beside her with a displeased frown. "Did you just return?"
The child nodded, her eyes shifting around her. "Mama, why are they taking my stuff? Did I do something wrong?"
Sophia shook her head, smoothing out the small wrinkles in her daughter's gown. "No, you did nothing wrong, honey…" A faint smile crept across her face.
Another person stepped into the room, this one quite familiar in appearance, and Celeste recognized her as Midna's Nurse Maid. Ruth. She glided across the room, bowing respectively to the little girl and her mother before softly smiling. Upon her entrance, the Royal Maids approached her, the child's possessions held in each of their hands as they lowered their heads respectively.
"Your Midna's Nurse Maid…" Celeste voiced curiously. Why was she here? What was going on?
"Greetings once more, Celeste. I was briefly informed by one of the attendants to escort you to your new residence this evening. I apologize if I arrived at an inconvenient time," Ruth apologized.
New residence? Why? Celeste looked back at her mother, touching her shoulders warily. "I don't understand. Why am I leaving, mama?"
"It was a request his Majesty asked of me," Sophia replied, smoothing back her daughter's hair. "He said he would feel more comfortable having you beside the Princess. Certainly, it's good news, Celeste."
The child nodded, but this was all happening too fast. "But I just got back. Mama, will I never see you again? How long will I be gone?"
"Of course, you'll see me," Sophia reassured. "It'll be as if you never left. The King was generous enough to give you this opportunity, and I believe it would be best for you. As for how long, well I'm not certain, but do not fret, honey."
Ruth nodded at this, surveying the items the Royal Maids gathered from the room. Judging by the amount, it seemed there wasn't much which belonged to the child, merely a few dresses, a shawl, and lackluster shoes dirtied with grime. "I believe everything is in order," She replied, taking the necessities into one hand before ushering the Royal Maids off. "You may leave. I'll handle the rest of it."
Upon her order, they left the room, and Ruth turned towards the mother and daughter, smiling softly. "I'll wait outside while you say your goodbyes," She replied, turning as she exited the room, closing the door quietly behind her.
With the Royal Maids and Nurse Maid gone, the maids within the room released a long breath, a few leaning against the walls for support. They immediately gathered around the small child and her mother, most delighted by the news and other sad the child would leave.
Meira frowned beside her twin sister Lyra. "I honestly don't like this. We might never see her again…"
Lyra only rolled her eyes, smacking her sister lightly on the shoulder. "That's not true. We'll see her just as often as we see the princess."
Sophia nodded. "That's right. It's nothing to be upset about. A new change has begun in your life, Celeste, and you get to experience far more than any of us ever could."
The child nodded, though she felt entirely uncertain about all of it. "Are you sure I'll still see you?"
Sophia nodded again. "I promise you. I'll even visit when I have the chance, and you're always welcome to visit."
Satisfied with that, Celeste enveloped her mother in a tight hug, the mother tightening her grip around the child lovingly. "I'll miss you, mama. I promise to visit lots!"
"Be good and listen to what they say. If you do that, I'm sure everything will be just fine."
"I love you, mama."
Pulling away, Sophia wiped the tears from the child's eyes and kissed her daughter's forehead. "I love you as well, Celeste. Now, you shouldn't keep her waiting."
Understanding, Celeste sniffled, and approached the young maids within the room before enveloping them with hugs as well. As soon as she said her farewells to everyone, she opened the door, peering back once dismally.
"Are you ready?" Ruth's soft voice asked.
Celeste nodded, taking the young woman's outstretched hand before following after, looking back one last time as her mother and the other maids gathered outside the door, waving with tears in their eyes.
Opening the large double doors, interwoven with silver in the wood, Ruth guided Celeste inside, the child taking in the ornate and large room. Much like Midna's, it maintained the very same extraordinary grandeur, and with a balcony beside the large bed.
Closing the door behind her, Ruth sauntered over to the closet, and retrieved a silken gown from the assortment within. Closing the door, she approached the child, her eyes taking in the entirety of the room with curious wonder. "I know it must be hard leaving your mama and the other girls, but you'll grow to like it here," She replied, lying the gown upon the bed gently. "Would you like help dressing?"
The child shook her head, turning towards the young woman with a soft bow. "No thank you…"
Understanding the child's want to be alone, Ruth lowered her head respectively. "If there's nothing else, I'll be going now. If you should need anything at all, please ring this bell here," She explained, retrieving a small silver bell from her pocket. After handing it to the child, she sauntered towards the doors, opening them before turning back once more. "If you'll excuse me, miss."
Once she was alone, Celeste wondered the room, exploring its exquisite mysteries. The vanity was just as nice and polished as Midna's, and there was a separate room for baths, the interior very familiar to her. There was evern a lit hearth within the room, its blue flames dancing and warming the room wonderfully. Crossing the room, she approached the large closet, pulling open the double doors before peering inside. Beautifully laced dresses of various colors were hung within, many accessories and polished shoes settled upon small shelves beneath the gowns. Out of all the dresses, they were beautiful, but they were not her dresses. Where were her clothes? Where were the clothes her mother made for her?
Closing the closet doors, she turned and made her way towards the large bed, her hands gliding over the silken white gown lying over top the warm blanket. This would be the first time she'd sleep alone, without her mother. Removing the gown from her body, the shoes and the stockings just the same, she folded them and set them aside. After that, she pulled the silken gown over her head, the sleeves long and the length of the gown as far as her ankles.
With a deep sigh, the child blew out the candle beside her bed, the rest of the lights within fading as darkness surrounded her. The moonlight peered into the room through the glass windows of the balcony, and with her head nestled against the soft pillow and the sheets pulled up over her body, she closed her eyes.
A few moments passed, and feeling a presence in the room with her, she opened her eyes. Sitting up, she peered around the room, her eyes searching the darkness. "Emmett?"
"You've met with a terrible fate, haven't you?" His voice called from the shadows of the curtains nearest her bed.
A gasp escaped her, and her head swiveled in his direction, the moonlight casting a glow upon his tall form as he stepped into the light. "It's you!" Celeste couldn't contain her joy upon seeing him.
"Or so I would say, but perhaps I'm getting too ahead of myself?" Emmett remarked, chuckling to himself. Nearing her bed, the child flung herself against him, wrapping her arms around his midsection, much to his amusement. He ran a hand through her long white hair, nodding his head understandingly. "Hmm, it would seem you're moving up in the world."
The child looked up at him, tears prickling her vision. "They took me away from mama… and they took all my clothes," She complained, not satisfied with the situation.
Emmett mused. "Your clothes? Are you certain?"
"Yes! There's only fancy gowns inside," She replied before moving away from him and crawling off her bed. "Come here. I'll show you!" She replied, reaching for the nearest candle not blown out before guiding him towards the other end of the room. As she pulled opened the door, she pointed towards the dresses within. "See?"
His scarlet eyes looking through the dresses, shifting downwards towards the ribbons and shoes before taking notice of a small bundle placed carefully into a basket. "What about this basket?" He asked, scratching his chin knowingly.
Bemused, she looked down as well, noticing the basket for the first time. Immediately, she fell to her knees and took hold of it, delighted her clothes were not thrown away. "My clothes!" She replied ecstatically. "They weren't here a moment ago … Emmett … did you bring my stuff?" She asked, looking up at him curiously. Did he use his magic again?"
"I believe I cannot take credit for this. It might have been the young woman who walked in earlier with you," Came his reply.
Looking back at her basket, she suddenly remembered Ruth had gathered her clothing and brought them with her to the room. She must have placed them into the closet without her noticing. "I didn't even notice. I'll make sure to properly thank her tomorrow."
"Quite so," He replied, coaxing her back into bed, and satisfied she was comfortably lying there, he pulled the covers over her.
"Are you going to stay longer this time?" Celeste asked, turning her head to the side as she looked at him.
He arched a brow. "Would you like me to?"
"Yes. Just for a little longer, until I fall asleep. I've never slept in a room before by myself…"
Emmett pondered. He supposed it would be alright, and it had been a while since he last saw the child. "Very well," He replied, sitting beside her in the bed before raising his finger upwards, twirling it ever so slowly. A smog of shimmering colors danced above the child's head, the little girl at awe at the sight; it was a tactic he used sometimes to help the child sleep at night, when no one else was awake.
"Emmett. Can I ask you something?" Celeste asked, looking at the tall figure sitting beside her. At his nod, she went on. "Where did you come from?"
The question left him chuckling. "Now that's a long story."
"I like long stories. Mama always tells me a bed time story."
A smile spread across his face, his eyes turning towards the bright moon outside the window. "Would you like me to tell you a story?"
She nodded. "As long as it's not boring. I don't want to fall asleep too quickly."
Once more, he found himself chuckling, and he stroked the child's hair softly. "What kind of stories do you like?"
"Ones with Princesses!"
He mused. Well, he certainly didn't know any stories with such damsels, though he was certain he could make something up. However, a thought came to mind. "Instead of a Princess, what about a priestess who is whisked into a magical world?"
Celeste's eyes alit with wonder. A magical world? It sounded quite interesting already. "Okay, but what's a priestess?"
He shushed her softly. "Then I'll begin the story. Once upon a time, there was a naïve and clumsy young girl who fell down a magical well which took her to a world filled with terrors and strange creatures…"
"A magical well? Are all wells magical? Emmett, there's a well in our garden," Celeste replied excitedly.
He only shook his head. "No, not all wells are magical. If you choose to jump down that well, you might very well meet with a terrible fate…" Honestly, that would certainly become quite ironic.
Celeste pouted. "You're always saying that, but I don't understand what it means."
"When you're older, you'll understand. Now, do you want to hear the story?"
She quickly nodded. "Yes!"
Satisfied he finally caught her utmost attention, he relaxed against the headboard of the bed and closed his eyes, the child snuggling closer beside him with curious wonder. "She fell into a magical well and…"
Cookies, baked to a deliciously sweet crisp were placed upon a silver platter, beside two intricate polished teacups, the exterior painted with black and crimson flowers and steaming with the pleasant aroma of herbal tea. Satisfied with the presentation, Celeste grasped the ends of the tray, stepping carefully off her stool as she sauntered across the kitchen towards the door.
"Celeste, what are you doing?" Sophia called out, arching a delicate brow.
The child paused, turning slightly as she regarded her mother behind her, a stern but gentle expression graced upon her countenance. "I'm going to meet Emmett out in the gardens today, mama," Came her reply, as if it was an obvious answer.
"Oh, I see," Her lips turned into an all-knowing smile. It was no secret everyone in the palace knew of her daughter's imaginary friend, one which she believed was an older man gifted with magical powers, just like those of the Twili. Emmett, she called him, an ever-present phenomenon which followed and watched after Celeste. "Will the Princess be joining you?"
"No, mama. She's visiting with her Father at the moment."
Nodding in understanding, she allowed the child to continue her task, watching as she exited the room, carefully balancing the food in her grasp.
After exiting the Servant's Quarters, Celeste ambled into the gardens, passing under the trellis before approaching a glass table with two wooden chairs perched beside it. Carefully setting the tray down upon its smooth and glossy surface, she searched her surroundings, her blue eyes hoping to catch a familiar glimpse of her friend.
An hour soon passed as she waited, her small hand grasping the cold cup of tea. Once more, there was still no sight of her friend, and dismayed he might not appear, she released a sigh. While he normally visited her day by day, his appearance within the palace slowly began fading. One moment he'd be there and the next, a month would go by without any word.
"Maybe he's busy again…" She mumbled, biting into one of the cookies thoughtfully.
Not sure whether to return the tray back to her mother, Celeste remained outside, her eyes taking in the sight of the Twili Flowers budded across the outside walls, surrounded by numerous thorny black vines. During her distraction, he noticed a shadow in her peripheral vision move, and she quickly swiveled her head. "Emmett!"
To her excitement, he stood there, cloaked as always and wearing the usual jovial grin. "It's been some time, Kagome."
Leaping from her wooden chair, she flung her arms around his waist, hugging him tightly. "You were gone much longer this time!" She complained, pulling away before pouting at him. "I hardly see you anymore, Emmett…"
"My apologies," He replied, stroking her head softly before seating himself upon the chair, his eyes taking in the sight of the cookies and tea. "I see your compassion hasn't diminished, my dear. They look positively delicious," He replied, biting into one of the cookies before crossing one leg over his knee. "I'm afraid I cannot stay much longer this time…"
After seating herself, she looked up at him from across the table, her eyes betraying her confusion. "What do you mean? Are you leaving?
Emmett nodded. "Unfortunately, so…"
"You've been busy a lot lately. How long will you be gone for?"
He mused, noticing the child's sullen countenance. How long? "That is uncertain … but it may very well be our final parting…"
Disappointed by his reply, the child's expression fell, twiddling her fingers upon her lap nervously. So, he was really going to disappear from her life? After such a short amount of time? "Emmett…"
"Yes?"
"Can I ask you something?"
He nodded, hovering his hand over the cold tea before a gentle steam emanated from the cup.
"Why did you appear before me that day?"
Pausing mid-sip, he arched a delicate brow. Swallowing the contents of the tea, he placed the cup onto the table, his eyes closing briefly. "Well…" Honestly, he never expected the child to bring this up. Perhaps his reasons for appearing were simply a fuel for his curiosity. Born from an entirely different world, with memories of her past life erased, Emmett supposed he wanted to see how she would adjust in this new world, with new memories and a new beginning. Would she remember her past life? Would she grow up well? After all, he brought her to this world of Twilight, and though he was no longer responsible for her well-being, he couldn't help his lingering curiosity.
"Emmett?"
"I suppose I thought you were interesting," Came his reply.
Celeste blinked. Interesting? And now he was leaving? "Am I no longer interesting? Is that why you're leaving?" What did she do wrong?
Hearing her reply, he couldn't hold back his laughter. No, that was surely not the case, but from the expression upon her face, she seemed entirely upset. "No. You've become even more interesting, I might say. But that's not the reason as to why I must leave, Kagome. My duties in the other world have become rather burdensome, I must say. My actions bring about consequences, and these days, I've brought troubles upon myself with regards to 'others.'
"Others?"
Well, he certainly couldn't bring up the Goddesses to the child; after all, she didn't know the first thing about them, at least, he thought so. "Yes. Do not feel saddened by this. It's still uncertain how long I'll be away…"
She nodded. His busy schedule in the other world, wherever that was, must be quite hectic. "Will you tell me where it is you came from?"
He shook his head. "Now is not the time, I'm afraid…"
"But why? It couldn't hurt to know, right?" Celeste asked. If he was leaving with the possibility of never returning, she at least wanted to know where he came from. She wanted to know everything she could, and she certainly didn't want regrets. "Please?"
Seeing her determination not to let this go, he paused, musing briefly. To tell her now, certainly wouldn't do her any good. Yet, not wanting to bring further disappointment upon her, he released a sigh. "Where I come from is neither here nor there…"
What? "I don't understand…"
"Well … to make it less confusing, I was born over a thousand years ago, my immortality has become somewhat of a curse for my wrongdoings…" Emmett replied, reminiscing on older memories, ones which no longer disturbed him.
Celeste's eyes widened at this new revelation. "You're immortal?"
He nodded. "Yes. I was once a young man, talented in the ways of sorcery. Among my tribe, I was credited for my vast knowledge and skill, though my curiosity of other worlds quickly drew my fascination. During my previous years, our Kingdom faced a time of rebellion. There was an attempt to overthrow the sovereign of our land, in hopes of bringing a new change to our era," He replied, remembering the days as if it happened yesterday. "Though things quickly spiraled out of control after…"
"What happened? And how did you get cursed? Were you part of a bad tribe?"
Emmett nodded once more. "Indeed. Like many within our tribe, we wanted to rid the Kingdom of its bloody history, a history which presided within the Royal Family. However, during the time, I sought after an ancient relic of sin, one which was rumored to grant wishes. In those days, I had hoped to find a means to quell the anger within our land, something which would easily help my people, though I blame my selfishness to keep such powers for myself. I had hopes of gaining immortality, a means to travel in-between the dimensions and time, but I did not anticipate the evil within the relic would soon consume the bitterness within my heart."
"Did the relic curse you?"
"Not so much as curse, as it completely twisted my perspectives around me. I no longer had any control over my thoughts; they were no longer my own but the relic's spirit. I turned against my own kind, and I invaded the palace, using others as a means to perform the dirty work. It wasn't long before the Kingdom soon crumbled, and I laid amidst the wreckage. In short, I soon came to my senses, and realized I had caused great turmoil, a wish that was not my intention from the beginning. Because I had traveled to forbidden lands to acquire the relic, and turned the entire Kingdom upside down because of my selfish greed, I was cursed, forever to wander the lands…"
After hearing his story, Celeste fell silent, her eyes acknowledging the young man sitting before her, his eyes closed as if reliving such terrible memories. For as long as she'd known him, she realized he was not whom she expected him to be. "And now?"
He opened his eyes, regarding her calmly. "Though I still remain immortal, it's something I've come to accept." Emmett replied. After a thousand years of wandering those lands, tormented by his past deeds, he searched for a means to attain forgiveness, and by doing so, he realized he could not attain it on his own. Within Termina, he used his powers and brought an interesting group of people, from a different dimension into the cursed world. Without hesitation, those people went out of their way to help those in need, and in the end, he revealed himself to them, and ultimately, he attained forgiveness from the Goddesses.
Noticing a smile appear upon his face, Celeste canted her head to the side. "If it was something so bad, why are you happy?"
"Because Kagome, I was eventually saved. I attained forgiveness after so many years, but that my dear, is a story without need of explanation."
The child nodded. Well, she supposed that was alright. If he was eventually forgiven, then she was glad. "But you still retain immortality? Are you happy now?"
He nodded. "Well, I suppose I am. My fascination for these worlds has never diminished, and I'm content learning them as the years go by."
"Have you ever felt lonely?"
Now that was a question he also didn't anticipate. Did he feel lonely? Maybe. "After meeting you, Kagome, I would say I'm no longer lonely…"
Hearing his words, her face alit with joy. "Why do you keep calling me Kagome?"
Standing up, he moved away from the table, approaching the trellis as he admired the vines hanging from its interwoven height. "You are curious? Would you prefer I call you Celeste?"
Moving from her chair, he approached his side, staring up at him as he gingerly touched the vine. "Well, it's just, you've never really called me by my real name before. You've always called me Kagome…"
"Your real name…" He muttered softly. "A long time ago, there was a young woman who looked remarkably similar to you. Her name was Kagome … and she was a priestess from another world."
Celeste blinked. Priestess? "Wait. Emmett, is she the same priestess from the stories?"
He nodded, laughing before stroking her hair. "You catch on fast. Indeed, she was. A fiery young woman with great compassion. Looking at you, you remind me so much of her. I suppose, I merely prefer calling you by that name. Does it trouble you?"
Understanding, the child smiled. "I always thought those stories were made up," She replied. "If that's the case, then I don't mind if you call me Kagome," She replied. "How did you meet her? Did you have feelings for her?"
The very thought almost caused him to double over with laughter. "A mere acquaintance actually…" It was nothing more than that. Realizing time was of the essence, he turned away from the trellis, and withdrew a small item from the pocket of his cloak. "I have something for you. Hold out your hand."
With her hand held out, he placed a small jeweled necklace into her palm, the chain a shimmering silver. The gem at the end of the chain glimmered in an ethereal glow, its edges soft and finely crafted into a small crystalline diamond, a small blue orb centered within. Celeste marveled at the fine craftsmanship, her small fingers touching the surface of the gem. "It's pretty!"
From her ecstatic reaction, he smiled. "It's something which once belonged to you, Kagome."
"Huh?" She looked up at this, baffled by his words. The necklace was once hers? "Do you mean me or the priestess?"
He didn't answer her, but only nodded. "The necklace is called Nayru's Love, a precious gem once created at the beginning of time. If you wear it, it will protect you from harm."
Celeste only stared at it. Nayru's Love? The child wasn't sure why, but as she peered into the shiny surface, eyeing the small blue orb within, a strange feeling swept through her; it was one of familiarity, though she didn't understand why. "You're giving something so important to me?"
"Time is drawing nearer, child," He began, turning his gaze up towards the Twilight Skies. "Likely, this will be our final parting. If you ever find yourself doubtful and confused one day, I'm sure the necklace will bring some form of comfort and reassurance."
She looked up, shoulders trembling as tears clouded her vision. "I don't want you to go…"
Kneeling before her, Emmett placed a gentle hand atop her head, ruffling her white locks lovingly. While he watched the tears fall from her eyes, he couldn't help but smile softly, though his eyes betrayed his sadness. He pulled the child into his embrace, stroking her head softly. "Do not worry about my absence, but instead, focus your heart on what will lie ahead in the future. After all, your fate has only just begun…"
"My fate?" She sniffled in confusion.
Morning's Twilight drifted through the open balcony door, and stirring from her deep slumber, Celeste's eyes fluttered opened. While she took in the grandeur of her lavish bedroom, her eyes noticing the lit fireplace across the marble flooring, the young woman briefly recalled her dream. No more was it a dream than it was a flashback, a time in her youth she missed so much. Emmett was a mysterious man from another world and time and often watched over her, the two becoming friends easily enough; it had been a secret during her childhood years, and although no one had ever glimpsed him, they assumed he was nothing but an imaginary friend. If only they knew, he meant much more to her than simply that.
Pushing away the warm blankets, Celeste removed herself from the large bed, her bare feet carrying her across the room to her vanity. As her fingers glided over the smooth surface, her eyes fell upon a beautiful gem and its silver chain; it was a gift from Emmett so long ago, and it meant so much to her, despite its simplicity.
Perching herself onto her cushioned chair, she picked up her brush and combed through her unruly white tresses, her hair as long as her feet. Celeste never cut her hair, not since she was a child, preferring to leave it long since her mother found her hair beautiful. Despite its exceeding length, she liked it, favoring different styles of braids so the ends wouldn't drag onto the floor.
Reaching for a long red ribbon, she pulled back her front locks, tying it behind in a soft and simple style, the remainder of her hair lying beautifully in waves at her ankles.
Satisfied with her tidiness, she reached over for the necklace and pulled the silver chain around her neck, clasping the ends together until it lied above her breasts. After which, she stood up and approached the large closet across the way nearest the hearth. Celeste shivered slightly, despite the warmth of the flames beside her; the morning was rather chilly, and wearing only a simple silken white gown, she sought the warmth of her layered garments before her.
A vast arrangement of beautifully intricate and colorful gowns greeted her as she stepped into her closet. Only the best seamstresses of Twilight wove these dresses from scratch, the vast majority with laced bodices, frills, ribbons and cuffed wrists. Various styles greeted her as she sorted through the hundreds within, though, she couldn't resist turning away from them in favor of her mother's hand-me-downs gowns hung behind her.
Her cerulean eyes swept over the few gowns gifted to her from Sophia. While they were quite simple in appearance, they were the most comfortable out of all the dresses. Picking out a dark red and white gown, and a pair of black polished shoes, she stepped out of her closet and approached her ornate mirror beside her bed.
Removing her silken nightgown, she dressed herself into a knee length woolen gown, the sleeves long and cuffed at her wrists. After buttoning up the front, her eyes fell onto the corset lying upon a chair beside her bed. The thought of wearing it once more drew a deep sigh from her.
As if on cue, a familiar face sauntered into the chamber, the woman's warm amber eyes greeting Celeste with a deep bow. "Good morning, Celeste. I hope you've slept well," Ruth replied, crossing the room before reaching for the white corset hanging over the chair.
"Good morning," Celeste replied, holding her arms up as the Nurse Maid wrapped the corset around her midsection before tying up the long ribbons in the back. Steadying herself against the wall, she felt the corset become much tighter around her, and after a few tedious moments, the corset was securely fastened around her. "Thank you. I can handle the rest."
Nodding, Ruth stepped away and tended to the dying flames in the hearth, throwing on another piece of lumber.
Pulling up her white stockings over her knees, Celeste reached for the short sleeved red gown and pulled it over her head, the ends of the knee length dress flowing in soft ruffles. The entirety of the chest was intricated in white lace, three black buttons fastened in the front with a large red ribbon secured at her collar. After adjusting the ribbon and smoothing back the ruffles in her gown, she stepped into her polished black shoes and assessed herself in the mirror.
Although it was a simple gown, it was nonetheless perfect for Celeste. While Midna's gowns were far more extravagant and revealing for her tastes, this form of modesty suited her better.
"You look positively beautiful Celeste," Ruth complimented, smiling at the young woman. "Come, let us do your makeup," She replied, grasping the young girl by her arm lightly and leading her towards the vanity near the balcony.
Seating herself, she closed her eyes as the Nurse Maid applied a faint amount of white powder to her face, before applying rouge faintly upon her lips and the apples of her cheeks. A little bit of pink color was added to her eyelids, the ends much darker in contrast. Hardly any makeup was needed, Celeste was quite pretty without, and after trimming a few long strays from her face, Ruth tidied up her bangs, the ends layered and framing her face prettily.
Unexpectedly, there was a knock at the door, and as the two girls turned at the noise, they noticed a young man saunter in, his head bowed respectively to Celeste. "Forgive the intrusion, but his Majesty has summoned everyone for a gathering in the Main Hall."
Celeste nodded, removing herself from the vanity before smiling gratefully to Ruth beside her. "Thank you. Is Midna up?"
Ruth nodded. "She left her room earlier before you awoke. His Majesty summoned her for a brief discussion, though I am not sure as to what. I do believe she is already in the Main Hall."
"I see. I'll be on my way then."
As her feet carried her down the halls, her hands folded neatly in front of her, several servants rushed past, offering quick acknowledgment before disappearing down the hall. With Ruth walking calmly behind her, Celeste found herself lost in thought, gently touching the gem around her neck.
'I wonder what he's up to these days…' Was it truly the last time she'd ever see Emmett? Did he go back to his own world? Was he doing alright? Was he alone?
It wasn't long before she found herself standing before the Main Hall, amidst a large throng of people, their cheerful smiles and loud voices filling up the space. Among them, Celeste noticed several Council Men gathered together, their cold stares searching the room for anything to criticize, though their gaze mostly remained on those of low status. There were also many young knights gathered around, varying in ages from twelve to thirty-eight talking amongst themselves, mostly laughing and goofing around. There were personal attendants of his Majesty gathered together, Royal Maids and low-class maids which Celeste immediately recognized across the way.
As she slowly made her way through the crowd, careful not to bump into anyone, she caught sight of Midna standing atop the steps beside the King, overlooking the people quietly. She was dressed in a revealing black gown, its length as far as her ankles with slits in the sides, revealing her long slender legs. A green sash was tied around her waist, her entire bust ample and on view. Light makeup was applied to face and black eyeliner which greatly enhanced her already fierce façade. Her long vermillion waves fell along her lower back, styled with a few strands framing her face prettily; Midna's entire assemble screamed beauty, a stare which could easily seduce even the weakest of knights, and a voluptuous body which teased the eyes too easily.
As Celeste ventured further into the room, Midna caught her gaze, waving her over, and while Ruth helped Celeste climb the steps, it wasn't long before she stood before his Majesty and the Princess of Twilight. Respectively, she bowed to them and took her place beside Midna.
"Where were you?" Midna asked, leaning into Celeste's ear.
Celeste quickly apologized. "I got lost in thought on my way…"
"Again?" She asked, and only rolled her eyes. "That's been happening a lot lately."
While Midna playfully smacked her arm, Celeste couldn't help but lean over, her blue eyes noticing a young man positioned on the right side of his Majesty. Deep scarlet hair was combed back, a few strays over his crimson beautiful eyes, and he was dressed in well fitted black and maroon garb, his usual black cloak draped across his shoulders with the crest of the Royal Family embedded into the thick cloth.
Noticing her staring, he flashed her a smile, his brow arched in a way which made her blush.
Straightening her posture, her eyes looking elsewhere, Celeste attempted to hide her embarrassment. Warmth spread across her cheeks, her smile turning into a bashful grin.
Midna only blinked at Celeste, her own brow arched before curiously looking in the direction of Zant beside her father. There was a playful smirk upon his lips, his eyes sparkling mischievously at her friend; the sight was enough to irritate her. With a roll of her eyes, she nudged Celeste's side, hoping to pull her away from intimate thoughts concerning the Royal Adviser. "Father has an important announcement to make…"
Hearing this, Celeste nodded. "I heard from your Nurse Maid you spoke earlier with your father. Was it with regards to this?"
Midna shook her head. "Actually, he has kept it to himself. I'm curious to know why he's summoned everyone so early this morning…"
As if to answer everyone's thoughts, his Majesty approached the railing of the steps and looked out across the crowd of people. With a single raise of his hand, the entire room quieted, and all eyes turned to him. "I would like to thank all of you for gathering. As you know, my daughter's nineteenth birthday is quickly approaching, and with much thought concerning such a celebratory day, I have decided to hold a competition within the week's end."
A chorus of cheers resounded within the room, the remainder clapping at the wonderful idea.
"Any man may enter this competition," The King replied. "It does not matter what blood you may have. The competition will mainly be focused on skill, swordsmanship and magic. Certainly, I would like to see many of you compete, especially new trainees. It will not only be a test of skill, but it will be a chance to prove yourself and achieve even greater success. To the victor, you will be granted a single wish on the night of the Royal Ball. It may be anything as long as I approve, be it land, be it status, wealth, or … the hand of my daughter."
