The mansion, in its current state, looked more like ruins than the former residence of an old member of the Royal Family; the peeling walls told tales of years of neglect. The hallways were coated in dust and debris, while the gardens, once splendid, had turned into tangles of weeds and twisted shrubs.
He had heard that his father wasn't very well-liked at the court, nor even by the common folk due to his reputation as a womanizer and one who lived off the wealth of the Royal Family. It even seemed that people were relieved when news broke that he was found dead in an alley in the capital. And apparently, his father's reputation became something to expect from his only legitimate son.
Alpha let out a long, slow sigh. Yes, he loved being a background character, but being one with the reputation of a father he never knew was more problematic than he had thought. He rested his hand under his chin, letting his head droop in defeat.
"Damn useless old man, you were so hated that nobody bothered to keep your house in good condition!"
However, despite the decrepit state of the place, there was a quiet dignity in those walls. For Alpha, every room held potential, every hallway was a blank canvas he could paint in his own way.
As he delved into a scroll containing the blueprints of the old mansion, Alpha outlined plans for the restoration of the main hall, especially the strategic placement of a piano in front of a spacious window to illuminate his evenings of feigned melodrama. That's when Alpha entered the room, exuding an air of determination that he picked up on instantly, sensing that the young elf was observing him with unusual intensity.
"Your last name," Alpha began, her blue eyes reflecting Cid's face like a mirror, "is of royalty. Midgar. I've heard the rumors in town."
Cid tensed subtly, his shoulders stiffening.
"Rumors? Hold on, she isn't talking about the rumors about my father's bastard, is she?" Cid thought, lifting his gaze subtly toward Alpha. The young elf's look seemed that of an inquisitive judge about to pass judgment. "Definitely those rumors! Is she planning to leave me now? I wouldn't blame her, she probably thinks after hearing those rumors that I just want to lay my hands on her... Damn old man!"
However, as Cid continued his internal monologue, Alpha went on.
"I don't understand why someone of your stature would be here..."
That pulled Cid out of his inner dialogue, his eyes meeting Alpha's.
"I don't understand why you're playing architect in a run-down mansion, fighting against a dark order when you could be living in the palace, far away from all of this."
"What? This isn't about the rumors about my father..." Cid felt a relief that washed over him; he wouldn't have to find a replacement for Alpha. He immediately resumed his calm, indifferent demeanor, barely lifting his gaze from his blueprints.
However, before he could voice his thoughts, Alpha continued as if reaching a realization.
"Your mother was a servant, wasn't she?" she asked, her tone gentler. "You understand not just the life of royalty but that of people left offstage. Those whose sweat and blood maintain the shiny golden corridors."
Cid offered her a half-smile, partly intrigued, partly amused by how Alpha saw him.
"If that helps you sleep better at night, let's say yes," he thought. "I just want to be a power behind the scenes, pulling strings without anyone noticing."
Alpha walked over and stood beside Cid, looking at the blueprints in his hands. At that moment, Cid caught a soft forest-like scent, fresh and alive, emanating from her. Was this the typical fragrance of elves?
"Then," she said, resting her head on Cid's shoulder, "let's make this mansion the perfect stage for your play."
"I'm counting on you," Cid replied before returning to his blueprints. Alpha, however, remained leaning on his shoulder for a moment before leaving the room.
"Umm… Aren't you being too close?" Cid asked an absent Alpha, "You must've felt very lonely before. Maybe I should get you a pet. But something small and quiet."
And so began the restoration of the mansion that would be the first base of Shadow Garden.
XXXXX
Mornings at the mansion began early, with Cid and Alpha going over the blueprints and discussing the day's tasks. Cid, meticulous and stubborn, had a habit of devising several secret passageways throughout the mansion, believing they would be useful for moving discreetly and efficiently.
To his surprise, and either fortunately or unfortunately, he discovered that the mansion already had a network of hidden passages. Cid saw this as tangible proof that his father had been a cunning person, perhaps more than the rumors suggested.
However, recalling the stories that surrounded his father, even long after his death, Cid could get a fairly clear idea of the purposes for which his father might have used these secret corridors. Perhaps they were the escape routes of a man accustomed to living amid intrigues and scandals, or perhaps just a whim of someone who valued his privacy above all else.
"Either way, I owe a small favor to that useless old man for saving me some work," Cid murmured to himself, with a touch of irony in his voice.
One particular day, Cid was alone in the library, which was in the worst state of all the rooms. Sunlight barely filtered through the dusty, dirty windows. Cid ran his fingers over the faded and empty shelves, imagining the works they once held and those they would hold again.
That's when, unexpectedly, his eyes settled on a corner of a shelf. Amidst the dust and cobwebs, a deep red book peeked out, almost as if waiting to be discovered. Its reddish leather cover seemed to resist the passage of time, standing in vibrant contrast to the forgotten shelf.
Cid reached out gently and took the ancient book that protruded indiscreetly from the shelf. The leather in his hands felt cold and surprisingly solid, as if he were touching an object frozen in time. After examining it, he hastened to dust off the book's cover with a cloth, revealing the words engraved on its cover: Origin of the Royal Family of Midgar.
"A book about the Midgar family? Why would something like this be here?" Cid wondered, questioning why his father would have something like this in his personal library. This wasn't something you'd expect a member of the Royal Family to have, those who had been educated since childhood to know every detail about their ancestors, and the mistakes and successes they needed to avoid. Being one of the most repeated to him: Don't be like your father.
And yet, here in what was his father's house, he found a book about the origin of his family, it was as if fate had set a trap for him in the most unexpected way.
With a curious look, he opened the book to examine its content. Once opened, he observed that on the first page, right under the title and accompanying the author's name, was a name as familiar as it was unknown to him: Blaz Midgar, his father.
That name, written in elegant and firm handwriting, struck him like an icy wind. Here, in that abandoned book and in that dusty corner of the mansion, was his father. Not as a memory or a rumor but as a tangible and immediate presence.
Cid slowly flipped through the pages, each one crunchy to the touch and leaving a trail of dust in the air. His eyes scanned annotations and comments spanning from the dawn of the House of Midgar to the reign of the previous monarch. As he progressed, the annotations became denser and more detailed, especially in the section dedicated to the royal family's political relations. Several notes referenced the Kingdom of Oriana, underlined and noted as if they were of crucial importance.
But what caught his attention the most was when he came to the page that narrated the story of the prince of Midgar and his relationship with the human hero. It was an epic of bravery and sacrifice, where the prince and a diverse group of heroes had joined forces to defeat the Demon Diabolos. Next to this epic tale, his father's handwriting had scribbled a note that left him puzzled: "What if the heroes had not been men but women? Would the story change?"
Moreover, between the lines, there was another note that read: "The blood of the Midgars may have some connection."
One last note, scribbled in the lower margin of the page, took him by surprise: "The Order of Diabolos may not be what it seems."
'The Order of Diabolos?' That startled Cid even more than finding that book with annotations from his father. Yet what came next was far more shocking.
On the subsequent page, with unusual precision and detail, his father described how this "Order of Diabolos" had infiltrated the highest echelons of the church, distorting part of the history surrounding the heroes who defeated the Demon Diabolos so that Diabolos' curse was mistaken for demonic possession, rather than the curse affecting the descendants of the heroes who defeated the Demon Diabolos.
Cid turned to the next page, where he found hidden trade routes. One of them immediately caught his attention; it was the same route where he had found Alpha, held captive by those slavers. And attached to that page with a faint residue of red wax, was a carefully folded piece of paper. With nimble fingers, he unfolded and read it. That wrinkled sheet detailed the guard shifts protecting the west gate of the capital, all sealed with the unmistakable seal of the royal family.
'What does this mean?' Cid pondered, his finger tracing the worn wax of the royal seal. 'Is the Order real? No, no, it can't be. Nor can it be some cruel joke from Alpha; she's not one for such pranks, too serious for that kind of mischief. So, there's only one answer: The Order of Diabolos must be real.'
Realizing the situation he was in, a rush of adrenaline surged through his veins. This was the moment he had been waiting for, yearning for since he was a child and imagined himself a shadowy figure of importance.
'A real enemy! A real fight!' His mind could scarcely contain the wave of excitement that washed over him.
'Is this real? Could this be real?' He wondered, allowing himself to savor the thrill before reason intervened. For, as swiftly as it had come, that excitement hit a wall of disbelief.
The "Order of Diabolos" was a fabrication, a piece of fiction designed solely to deceive Alpha. But now... what if the lie he had spun turned out to be a hidden truth in tales?
Cid slowly closed the book, his mind a whirlwind of emotions he hadn't felt since he was a child in another life. Those annotations raised questions he might never find answers to.
He thought again of the rumors that had always surrounded his father, Blaz Midgar. Cid had always dismissed them as just that, mere rumors. But now, the possibility that his father was entangled in something larger, potentially connected to this Order of Diabolos, made him question Blaz Midgar's real role in this chessboard.
And so, for the first time, Cid wondered if his father had been a protector of the realm or someone who had perilously played within the order.
Just as Cid was about to get lost again in his thoughts, the library door squeaked open. It was Alpha, her face glowing with enthusiasm.
"My Lord Shadow, I bring encouraging news about our progress in restoring the mansion," announced Alpha, a pleased smile on her face.
Surprised, Cid quickly hid the book behind him, like a child caught in mischief.
"Ah, Alpha! I've told you, there's no need to address me that way when it's just the two of us," said Cid, his tone more cheerful than usual.
Alpha paused momentarily, noticing the change in Cid's tone but chose not to question it.
"We've made significant progress. I expect the main rooms to be in good shape within a week, including this library," she reported.
"That sounds wonderful, Alpha. Do you need anything else to finish the library?" asked Cid.
"With the materials we've already retrieved, I believe we'll wrap up soon," Alpha replied.
Cid smiled, letting a feeling of relief wash over him. But that feeling was only surface deep, like a varnish on wood. Beneath, questions about his father, the Order of Diabolos, and his own place in this vast, intricate world still burned.
"Excellent. Let's keep up the good work, Alpha," he said, still keeping up the charade of his uplifted spirits.
"Of course... Cid," Alpha responded, bowing before leaving, closing the door behind her.
Once alone, Cid carefully placed the book on a hidden shelf behind other more innocent tomes. 'It's far too dangerous to let that book fall into the wrong hands,' he thought. Although relieved that Alpha hadn't discovered it, the issues the book raised added another layer to his already complex world.
And as he stared at the closed door, Cid wondered how many more secrets and perilous truths he was about to uncover.
XXXXX
The following week, the halls of the mansion were bustling with life in a way they hadn't been in years. Alpha was in the garden, engrossed in tending to the plants and flowers they had planted. Cid, meanwhile, was in the study, surrounded by scrolls and blueprints.
"How's that design for the west wing coming along?" Alpha inquired as she entered the room with a curious demeanor.
"It's taking shape," replied Cid without looking up from his sketches. "I'm considering a design that lets in a lot of natural light."
Alpha approached and leaned over to inspect the blueprint. Cid's strokes were precise, and his design displayed keen intelligence and meticulous care. Something that only he, the person who had given her a purpose in this life, could achieve. She didn't know what designing and drafting blueprints entailed, but Alpha was certain that Cid was a mastermind in every field.
"It's perfect," whispered Alpha, in admiration. "This place will feel more alive than ever."
Just as the conversation seemed to be turning casual, an ash-colored raven perched on the windowsill, holding a small piece of paper in its beak. Cid rose and approached the bird, which handed over the paper without hesitation.
"The Order is making their move," murmured Cid, unfurling the message with steady yet careful fingers before leaning against the windowsill.
Cid gazed at the blank paper for a moment, weighing his options. Sure, it was just a simple blank piece of paper. But in his hands, such a paper could become a potent weapon.
'This is too good an opportunity to pass up,' he thought, allowing himself a smile. 'After all, every great figure in the shadows needs their theatrical moments.'
Holding the paper between his two fingers, he made it vanish with a flash of his magical power. He stared at the empty space in the air where the paper had been just a moment before, fully aware of the absurdity of the situation but determined to make the most of it. He could also use what he had discovered in the book to add some exciting twists to this plot.
Alpha looked at Cid, completely astounded, searching his face for any sign of fear or concern. But Cid remained calm, his expression as stoic as ever.
"What are you going to do?" asked Alpha, her tone serious yet full of concern.
Cid looked up and met Alpha's gaze, a steely resolve in his eyes.
"What I've always done. Move forward," Cid replied, aware that he had turned a random event into a showdown with the Order of Diabolos, even if just in his imagination and, it seemed, in Alpha's too.
'If what my father's book says is true, I'll just be chasing some slavers or bandits along those routes,' thought Cid with a hint of a smile.
Alpha nodded, her own face hardening with determination.
"Then I'll stand by your side in this fight," she declared.
Cid nodded, and in that moment, they forged a silent pact. Against the threat of the Order of Diabolos.
If they did exist, as the evidence suggested, Cid would finally have the adversary he so craved for his story and could weave his own shadows to counter the Order's forces in a dance where he would set the rhythm.
The mansion, which they were restoring with such care, would become much more than a beautiful, luxurious home in the capital; it would be their stronghold in the looming shadow battle.
Cid turned and stared out the window long after the raven had departed, as if he could see beyond the obvious, through the dancing shadows lurking backstage. Eventually, he turned to the desk and took his seat.
"I think it's time to make some preparations," he murmured, more to himself than to Alpha.
Alpha, always ready to follow Cid wherever he went, knelt down and bowed her head.
"I will always stand by your side; give me your orders."
Cid nodded and then began to smile. An ominous purple aura began to emanate from his body. At first, just a shimmer around his silhouette, but it gradually expanded to fill the room before spreading throughout the mansion.
Alpha, her head bowed until that moment, looked up, captivated by the display of magical power. She had never felt such overpowering energy before, even the air seemed to have become heavier, as if nature itself bowed to him.
'Very few beings have the capacity to manifest their magic this way,' thought Alpha.
Finally, the aura faded as quickly as it had appeared, leaving behind a gentle gust that swept across the room.
"This place will be our sanctuary," said Cid, rising from his seat. His black slime suit covered his body entirely, and he extended his arm toward Alpha. "Are you ready for a little trip, Alpha?"
Alpha's face lit up, and in an involuntary motion, she tried to reach for Shadow's hand. But just before she could, she pulled her hand back and placed it over her chest.
"I am always ready for anything, especially if it's with you."
Then, with bright red eyes that ignited like two flames from the shadows of the hood covering his face, Cid, now fully immersed in his identity as Shadow, smiled in a way that left no room for cordiality. He walked over to the window behind him, each step accentuated by a palpable aura that seemed to make the air itself tense.
With a simple push, he flung the window wide open, but not before a ray of sunset light pierced the glass pane. It was already late afternoon, and from his position, one could see the sun beginning to set.
From their mansion, the view was majestic, as the sun hid directly behind two oaks that framed the large window at his back.
Cid had chosen this room for his study, keeping a moment like this in mind. The sky adopted an increasingly opaque orange hue as the sun slowly sank below the horizon.
Finally, the perfect moment had arrived.
"Let's eclipse the sun with our shadows," he exclaimed just as the sun was about to disappear behind the two oaks, making it seem as if they had swallowed it in a scene choreographed down to the last detail.
Cid smiled, relishing Alpha's reaction, pleased to have maintained his stature as a luminary in the shadows, even if the only foe he faced that evening was a blank piece of paper.
XXXXX
The forest branches broke under the stealthy march of Alpha and Shadow. They had left the mansion behind to follow the trail of what seemed to be a bandit caravan.
According to what Shadow had told her, this particular band was more than just outlaws; they were connected to the Order of Diabolos.
'They are not just criminals,' Alpha thought as they moved forward. Her focus was split between maintaining silence and listening for any noise that would reveal the caravan's presence. 'Shadow knows, and if he's concerned, then the threat is real.'
Dressed in their black slime suits, both Alpha and Shadow blended into the forest darkness. It hadn't been long since Shadow had introduced her to this fantastic suit. Yet, Alpha had managed to master and control it in no time. Even Cid had congratulated her for it.
Alpha recalled an afternoon in the mansion's courtyard. The sun was setting, painting the sky in shades of orange and red, when Cid, or rather Shadow at that time, watched her from the other end of the yard.
She was wearing the black slime suit, and at the time, she still struggled to keep it adhered to her skin. Although she had demonstrated effective control over her magical power, and Cid had taught her to properly manage its flow, she was still a novice in that field which Cid had mastered in a few years.
"Try to shape it, let the magic flow through it, and control it," he had said, his voice as calm as always but with an expectant tone.
Alpha closed her eyes for a moment, recalling the sensation she felt the first time she wore the suit, feeling it cling to her, like an extension of herself. As if they were one. Then, when she extended her arm, a thin and sharp blade sprouted from her palm.
Opening her eyes, she saw Cid's smiling face. It wasn't one of his broad smiles or even one of his rare smug smiles; it was a simple, genuine smile of approval.
"Excellent! You've controlled the suit much faster than I imagined. I'm genuinely impressed," said Cid, crossing the courtyard while clapping slowly.
Cid's words meant more to Alpha than any compliment she had ever received before. The way Cid said "genuinely impressed" resonated with Alpha in a way that few things had. For her, it was a recognition that went beyond mastery in an art or skill; it was an acknowledgment of her worth.
After congratulating her, Cid gazed at her with an enigmatic expression, as if his mind were miles away. Alpha couldn't help but think that he was contemplating some plan for the future, some strategy that might change the course of their secret war against the Order of Diabolos.
'He must be thinking of something truly significant,' Alpha thought, feeling both intimidated and thrilled to contemplate the ingenuity of the person to whom she had chosen to dedicate her life.
However, Cid, who had shifted from an enigmatic expression to a slightly amused one, was thinking that the suit needed some pockets.
"We're close," murmured Shadow. That warning pulled Alpha out of her memories and thoughts.
Shaking her head to clear her thoughts, Alpha nodded and took a deep breath to calm her nerves. She needed to prepare her mind and body for combat, as this would be her first mission. Her first step to put an end to the Order of Diabolos and to show Shadow that she could stand by his side, though with each passing day together, Alpha felt the gap between them growing wider and wider.
The air in the forest was thick, humid, and filled with the diverse sounds of nocturnal life. But as they approached their target, an echo of distant voices reached their ears.
Following the noise, they finally arrived at a clearing where a caravan had set up camp. Unsavory-looking men surrounded a bonfire, laughing and celebrating their most recent loot.
But what captured Alpha's attention the most was a box, carefully guarded by two guards in the center of the camp.
"There it is, that's our target," declared Shadow, observing the scene alongside Alpha, concealed in the forest's darkness. "Are you ready?"
Alpha nodded, her face remained calm, but her blue eyes shone with a hint of uncertainty.
"Then prove it to me. This is your first step as the premier member of Shadow Garden," Shadow cast her a glance before disappearing into the forest's shadows.
Alpha knew this was the moment she needed to prove not just to Shadow, but to herself, that she was worthy of the path that Shadow had already carved. Taking a deep breath, a black sword, shaped by her will, appeared in her hands.
She glided into the clearing like a specter, silent and deadly. Her gaze fixed on the first bandit that stood before her, and in the blink of an eye, her black sword slashed the bandit's throat with lethal precision. Before he could make a sound, the bandit was already on the ground, lifeless.
'Those who ally with the Order of Diabolos don't deserve to live,' thought Alpha, her face lightly speckled with droplets of blood, her sword leaving a faint red trail as she advanced.
The bandits, caught off guard by the surprise attack, barely had time to react before Alpha struck again. Her sword was like a black lightning bolt, cutting through flesh and bone with every swing. Screams of pain filled the air as the bandits fell one after the other, exterminated by Alpha's blade.
In the blink of an eye, Alpha moved. Her sword became a black blur, cutting through the bandits as they fell one by one, leaving only the stragglers behind, their faces pale with terror.
However, as she advanced like an unstoppable arrow in the night, she hit a wall. A bandit, much stronger than the others, managed to stop her attack with his own sword.
"Who the hell are you?!" he shouted.
Alpha stepped back and lifted her hood, revealing her emotionless face.
'An elf girl?' thought the bandit, 'What is an elf girl doing attacking our camp? And how has she acquired such power?'
"I am the fate you've chosen," declared Alpha, her voice as cold as a sheet of ice. Her tone didn't reflect the same brutal experience as the bandit's, but it carried a deadly certainty.
The bandit laughed, a bitter sound that came from deep within his chest.
"Fate?" he scoffed, underestimating her.
Without giving him more time to speak, Alpha lunged at him with almost supernatural speed. But the bandit was quicker than she anticipated; he dodged and counterattacked, wielding his sword with a skill that could only come from experience.
The bandit's blade halted millimeters from her neck. Alpha managed to dodge just in time but not enough to avoid a slight cut on her cheek. The difference in their strength and experience was evident.
Aware that Shadow was watching from the dark depths of the forest, Alpha tightly gripped her sword's hilt, her stance signaling an imminent thrust. As she advanced, the cold edge of her weapon aimed directly at the bandit's throat, as if she could already taste the metallic flavor of her impending victory.
However, in a flash of movement that almost made her doubt her own eyes, the bandit evaded her attack with a grace and agility unexpected from someone of his size and rough appearance. Before she could react, the bandit spun on his heels and launched a fierce blow towards Alpha.
In that instant, a sudden surge of adrenaline coursed through her body, pushing her reflexes to the limit. But even with her senses heightened, she could only move enough for the bandit's blade to cut through the air inches from her back, tearing part of her outfit but sparing her skin.
Both warriors remained motionless for a moment, the echo of steel clashing against steel ringing in the air. It was a brief pause, almost imperceptible, but enough for Alpha to recognize the gap between them. The bandit was not only physically stronger but also possessed the dexterity and experience that came with years, years that Alpha lacked.
Alpha focused, causing the slime sword in her hands to appear even darker, almost like a void shaped as a blade. She thrust swiftly toward the bandit's neck, confident that her skill and the element of surprise would be enough to finish him off.
However, the bandit, in a flash of intuition and experience, raised his heavy sword with both hands, deflecting Alpha's strike. Not only that, his strength was such that the slime sword snapped, dissolving as if it had never been solid to begin with. The bandit then completed his turn, thrusting violently toward the exposed back of Alpha.
A chill of panic surged through Alpha. She had underestimated her opponent, and now she stood exposed, vulnerable. The gap in experience and power was wider than she had imagined. Her slime sword would take crucial seconds to reform, seconds she didn't have.
She had no time for further thoughts. The bandit's counter-attack came fast, too fast for someone she had misjudged. In that fatal moment, a black flash emerged from the shadows, so swift and lethal that the bandit didn't have time to utter a sound. He collapsed, his body cleaved in two by the overpowering, invisible force.
Shadow caught her before she could fall, helping her regain her balance.
Alpha stepped back, wiping the blood that was trickling in a thin line down her cheek. She looked over to where the bandit lay, his body in a grotesque and unrecognizable position. A wave of emotions washed over her heart: relief, shame, anger, gratitude. She felt each one as if they were sharp blades, cutting her inside.
Shadow stepped forward, staring intently at her. His eyes bore a reddish hue that showed no emotion.
"You acted bravely," said Shadow, breaking the silence. "But bravery without judgment is simply recklessness."
Alpha lowered her head, grappling with the words she wanted to say but couldn't. In her mind, a whirlwind of thoughts swirled ceaselessly. She had believed she was ready, that her training and determination had made her strong enough, but she realized the power gap between her and Shadow. She had done her best, fought with all her being, but still, there were limits she couldn't yet surpass.
The moment reminded her of her own vulnerability but also strengthened her resolve.
She closed her eyes for a moment, taking a deep breath. 'I need to be stronger. For him, and for myself. I must put an end to the Order of Diabolos,' she thought, her mind as sharp as the sword slowly dissolving in her hand.
Then, Shadow and Alpha turned their gaze toward the center of the devastated camp. There, subtly lit by the campfire, stood the box that had caught their attention.
"Let's get what we came for," Shadow said, his cloak dancing with the night breeze.
Shadow moved toward the box, each step echoing in the stillness of the night, accompanied by the crackling of the dying fire slowly dimming in the darkness. Alpha followed closely, always two steps behind.
Finally, Shadow stopped in front of the box and observed it, as if pondering the repercussions of getting involved with the order again. After a moment, his hand slid over the wood's surface to the cloth that covered it. He could hear muffled sobs from inside. With a firm motion, he removed the blanket, letting it fall to the ground.
In doing so, he revealed what was hidden beneath: a humanoid figure draped in tattered clothes with reddened, blackened skin glowing under the moonlight. However, what caught both their attentions was that amid the deformities caused by Diabolos' curse, they could partially discern the face of a young elf. Half of her body was overtaken by Diabolos' curse. A curse that Alpha knew all too well, having suffered it herself until Shadow freed her.
Alpha closely examined the elf. Half of her body had transformed grotesquely, her skin covered in dark scales and warped flesh.
Shadow held his breath for a moment, his eyes fixed on the elf who appeared so fragile, yet with such overwhelming and dangerously potent magical power.
"It's like looking into a mirror of the past," Shadow whispered, recalling the night he met Alpha.
"There's no time to hesitate. We have to save her, now," said Alpha, looking at Shadow with her piercing blue eyes.
Shadow paused, feeling more like he had received a command than a request. However, he decided to let it slide and assess the situation.
On one hand, he didn't want more people to worry about. Sneaking out of the palace with enough food for Alpha was already a challenge, and he didn't plan to spend more than necessary given his meticulously budgeted daily allowance.
But, on the other hand, Alpha had made it clear she wanted to save more girls like her from the moment they met. And truthfully, they needed more hands at the mansion. So if this girl proved as loyal and useful as Alpha—or at least as manipulable—then he could bring her into the fold without spending a single Zeni.
Yet, he couldn't forget about the Order of Diabolos. He still wasn't sure if it was real. Or rather, he wasn't entirely convinced. But he had followed the routes in the book, and voilà, another possessed being.
Shadow rubbed his chin, thoughtful. 'If we keep finding girls like her, it could mean that the Order of Diabolos is more than just a legend.'
His eyes met Alpha's, and in that instant, he knew, whether he wanted to or not, he would have to help the elf. He couldn't turn his back on the girl in the box, not with Alpha watching.
"Alright, we'll save her," he finally said.
Shadow approached the semi-elfish mass before him, extending his hand to her. A purple aura began to surround him, gradually enveloping his body before focusing on his palm. He had perfected the way to undo the curse after his experiments with Alpha. All he had to do was perform it with the same precision.
He concentrated his magical energy on his fingertips and forced entry into the elf's magic circuit. He knew the curse of Diabolos caused magic power to grow tremendously fast, leading to the distortion of the magic circuit, and subsequently, its vessel. Fortunately, in the elf's case, her magic circuit still seemed resilient. Proof of this was that her appearance hadn't changed as drastically as Alpha's once did. Perhaps because her original magic power was below her true potential.
Alpha watched closely, the sight of Shadow extending his hand toward the box reflecting in her eyes. It reminded her of when Shadow finally freed her from her curse after many failed attempts. But her attention shifted to the elf in the box as the deformities caused by the curse of Diabolos began to fade before her eyes.
After a brief but intense moment, the magical energy flowing from Shadow's fingers, enveloping the elf's semi-deformed body, dissipated. He lowered his hand and stepped back.
Behind him, the transformation was astonishing. The elf had been entirely freed from the curse of Diabolos, returning to her original appearance. She had waist-length silver hair, eyes as blue as Alpha's, and pristine white skin, as if she had never been under Diabolos' curse. A beauty spot adorned her face below the corner of her left eye. Her blue pupils blinked in confusion and weakness, trying to focus on the figure moving away from her before exhaustion took over.
Just as she was about to collapse, Alpha moved quickly, catching her in her arms before she could hit the ground.
"Take care of her, Alpha. She's your responsibility from now on."
Alpha nodded determinedly, carefully cradling the elf on her back. She briefly watched Shadow's retreating back before they both vanished into the night's shadows.
XXXXX
The morning sun shone brightly through the large windows of the mansion's study, bathing the entire room in a warm, golden light. Cid, seated at his desk, toyed with custom chess pieces, all finely carved from ivory and ebony. However, his face displayed more boredom and annoyance than interest.
When Alpha and he brought the new elf to the mansion, they settled her in one of the rooms. For his part, Cid decided to wait hidden in the shadows of the room, preparing for a dramatic entrance. He already imagined the words he would say when she awoke: "Your chains have been broken. Will you seek revenge on those who bound you?"
However, the elf showed no signs of waking. Hours dragged on, and his initial determination faded with each passing minute. Finally, the sun rose in the sky, dispelling the darkness he had planned to use to his advantage. The soft footsteps of Alpha heading to his room signaled his cue to withdraw.
Of course, Cid didn't need to sleep. He had perfected his magical control and his body to points where a minute's rest would feel like eight hours. However, Alpha had been quite insistent on his self-care, even beginning to frequent his room in the mornings to check if he had slept.
Well, it wasn't something he cared much about, since Alpha usually came with breakfast. Free food that you didn't have to prepare yourself always tasted the best.
Before leaving, Cid cast a glance at the elf who slept peacefully in bed. He observed her for a moment.
"This should be the last time I try to emulate such an overused presentation. It has its charm, but they never tell you that the person might not wake up at the right moment," Cid thought, leaving the room without making the slightest noise.
Then, with agility, stealth, and incredible speed, he glided through the mansion's renovated corridors to his room. Alpha's footsteps echoed in the mansion's empty halls, so Cid hurried to bed, closed his eyes, and adjusted his breathing. Everything was perfect; there was no way Alpha would know he was awake, so he just needed to wait for the right moment to "wake up."
Cid remained motionless in bed, keeping his breathing steady and calm. He could hear the morning birds chirping, and the sunlight filtering through the curtains made it a bit hard to keep his eyes closed.
Suddenly, he heard Alpha's footsteps approaching his room, her walk light and soft, as if she wasn't walking on limestone. The door opened gently, and Alpha entered with a silver tray in hand. She approached the bed, looking at Cid with concern. It was clear she knew he hadn't slept all night.
"Cid, are you resting well?" Alpha asked softly, placing the silver tray on the bedside table.
Cid slowly opened his eyes, feigning surprise at seeing her there. He yawned exaggeratedly and stretched before replying with a sleepy voice, "Oh, Alpha, isn't it a bit early?"
She smiled tenderly before shaking her head. It was seven in the morning, and the sun was fully illuminating the mansion.
"That's the exact time you usually wake up."
"I see..." Cid said, adjusting himself in bed and glancing at the bedside table.
He sat up, thankful for the meal Alpha had prepared. As he ate, Alpha began talking about the elf they had rescued the night before.
"Cid, about the elf we brought in last night," began Alpha, her expression suddenly serious. "I don't think I need to tell you, but our guest hasn't woken up yet. However, when she does, I'm sure she'll have many questions."
Cid nodded as he chewed on a slice of bread. He knew Alpha was good at assessing people's states, and if she said the elf was traumatized, it must be true. He chose not to delve into the topic at that moment, not wanting to spoil his breakfast.
After finishing his meal, Cid got up and began dressing for the day. Alpha watched him in silence. Finally, Cid left his room and headed to his study, located in another wing of the mansion. Alpha knew that, once there, Cid would immerse himself in studies and research beyond her comprehension.
In reality, he just allowed himself to pass the time, pondering new ideas or perfecting his control over the slime suit. At the moment, he toppled a tower decorated with the flag of Midgar using his bishop. Chess was an intriguing game, a representation of two sides and their moves on a battlefield. But he didn't want to be a part of that board; he wanted to be an external piece that broke the game's scheme and diverted it in his favor. A true shadow eminence that could move with the agility of the queen, the strength of the rook, and the speed of the bishop.
Suddenly, a soft knock on the door snapped him out of his reverie. Alpha entered, holding a sealed envelope bearing the royal palace's emblem. In an instant, Cid rearranged all the chess pieces scattered haphazardly across the table.
"There's a letter from the palace," announced Alpha, handing him the envelope.
Cid broke the seal and quickly read the message, his eyes narrowing slightly. Then, raising an eyebrow, to Alpha's eyes, he seemed as if he were contemplating a crucial move on his mental board. However, a different chain of thoughts crossed Cid's mind.
'Ah, just what I needed to brighten my day. More lessons on how to use a spoon at a formal dinner and reminders about the royal family tree. Who could resist such an offer?' Cid thought, tossing the letter into the fireplace with a sigh.
Alpha remained silent, watching as the letter was consumed by the flames. She hadn't been mistaken when she first judged Cid. He was different, not seeking external recognition when he could easily attain it. His strength and skill were astounding, yet in all the rumors about him, he was described as a mediocre man unworthy of the Midgar name.
"How would you like us to proceed, sir?" Alpha asked, maintaining her formal stance, though she could sense Cid's displeasure.
"Alpha, pack my things. I'm returning to the palace immediately. I might not like it, but there might be some utility in these lessons," said Cid, rising from his chair.
The gears in his head were already turning.
'The palace... the true center of power in the Kingdom. A perfect place for a real shadow eminence,' he thought, almost smiling at the idea.
"Understood. I'll prepare everything for your departure," replied Alpha, hiding a budding concern. She had heard rumors about Blaz Midgar, Cid's father. A womanizer, a waster of royal fortune, and, most infamously, even after his death, an abuser of his royal authority.
As she was about to leave the study, he paused.
"If you hear anything at the palace, anything that might be relevant to... our endeavors, you'll let me know, right?" she asked.
Cid flashed a half-smile.
"Always one step ahead, huh, Alpha?"
"Yes, don't worry. If I find out anything interesting, you'll be the first to know," he affirmed, giving her a smile that, although forced, carried a spark of the determination that Alpha so admired in him.
Comforted but not fully at ease, Alpha nodded and exited the room. However, in her heart, a seed of worry continued to sprout.
Cid was left alone, watching as the last embers of the letter turned to ash.
He had his own game to play, a game much larger and more complex than any royal ball or chessboard.
And as always, he would play to win.
XXXX
The time to leave came quicker than Cid would have liked. Alpha, always efficient, had organized everything for the journey.
"Everything is ready, the coachman is waiting for you at the main door," Alpha reported, her voice slightly tinged with a worry she tried hard to hide.
"Good. Keep things in order and continue to keep an eye on our guest," Cid commanded. His tone was casual and bored, perfectly designed to make any casual listener dismiss him as the useless noble he portrayed – a mask he had worked hard to construct.
They both walked down the corridor towards the main entrance of the mansion. Along the way, the fruits of their restoration labor were evident. Newly varnished wood panels, freshly painted walls adorned with paintings they had seized from unsuspecting bandits, and a few small sculptures as well.
Finally, they crossed the mansion's massive wooden doors. Alpha always a few steps behind Cid, who couldn't help but feel a twinge of excitement for what awaited him. There, an elegant black carriage bearing the emblem of the Midgar house awaited them. The coachman, an older man accompanied by a small entourage of soldiers, nodded towards Cid.
Yet, his face showed nothing more than the bored indifference he had cultivated in his other life.
The coachman, seeing Alpha standing next to her young lord, had a fleeting thought: 'It must be true what they say. Just like his father. Such a waste.'
With a barely perceptible gesture, Cid nodded to Alpha before climbing into the carriage.
"If any issues arise, you know what to do," Cid said, maintaining the mask he had perfected over the years.
"Yes, I will be on standby," Alpha replied, formally.
The carriage door closed with a gentle creak and the horses began to move at the coachman's cue. Cid leaned back in the upholstered seat, his eyes drifting towards the window. In his reflection, he saw the character he had carefully built: The good-for-nothing bastard that was a pain for the entire royal court.
As he pulled away from his mansion, he could see how his property was beginning to regain its former glory thanks to the tireless nights and days of work and planning between him and Alpha.
Seizing the carriage's isolation, Cid mentally reviewed some fencing poses he had perfected.
'Only those with true sword talent deserve my attention,' he reminded himself.
In the capital, there were excellent swordsmen, though very few had caught his attention. And in that small group, Iris stood out, his cousin and the likely future queen of Midgar.
A trace of an impatient smile slid across his face, the desire to communicate with the sword lightly stirred his heart.
'It would be deliciously ironic, and perhaps even refreshing, if this predictable journey were interrupted by bandits,' he thought.
That thought flowed seamlessly with his growing desire as he neared the city, the carriage navigating increasingly crowded streets. He could finally see the Royal Palace in the distance. The palace guards, dressed in pompous uniforms, lined up in impeccable formation as the carriage approached.
Cid noticed a small entourage of the Royal Guard waiting to the side.
'Always so ceremonious, yet I have no time for pointless formalities.'
The carriage stopped, and Cid descended. A servant approached to guide him into the palace.
'And now the real game begins,' Cid thought as he crossed the imposing doors of the Royal Palace. He brought a hand to his mouth, hiding a discreet smile, his thumb and forefinger covering his lips in a gesture that looked more like a bored yawn than anything else.
Nearby maids, polishing the hallway's gleaming lamps, paused to whisper.
"Look, there goes Lord Cid, always so... peculiar," one of them said, laughing softly.
"Oh, please, we use that word when we don't want to be mean. You're young, but haven't you heard the rumors about his father? I wouldn't be surprised if the apple didn't fall far from the tree."
Cid overheard the comment but showed no reaction. If anything, he was pleased. Such remarks meant his efforts to fade into the background were working. He only needed to rid himself of the court's and king's attention, and he could finally focus on becoming a shadowy eminence. He walked through the palace hallways, flanked by statues of ancient Midgar kings and tapestries that narrated the royal family's mythological origins.
Upon arriving at the throne room, the guards greeted him with a courtesy he knew was feigned. They were polite because they had to be, not out of respect for him.
"Entering Cid Midgar!" one of the guards announced as they opened the enormous wooden and metal doors.
Beyond the doors was the imposing figure of his uncle, King Klaus Midgar. A man with red hair and penetrating eyes radiating unmistakable authority. He wore a lavish uniform, adorned with several military medals.
'So here we are,' Cid thought, his face maintaining its mask of bored indifference.
"Cid, you finally make an appearance," King Klaus said, his eyes sharp as a blade. "I've heard some interesting rumors about you lately."
"One should never trust rumors, uncle," Cid replied, stopping at a prudent distance from the throne, his tone laced with a hint of irony.
The king sighed, a sign of exhaustion in his expression before returning to his serious demeanor, dismissing his nephew's constancy.
"I know how you are, and I won't waste any more words trying to reform you," he said, but his eyes narrowed, which didn't go unnoticed by Cid. "I've heard you have company at the mansion. An elf, to be exact."
"So you've found out, huh? It seems I've underestimated just how capable the kingdom's informant network is."
"It's true. I have a companion in the mansion, but I have reasons for her to be with me. Reasons, how should I say... humanely necessary," Cid said, the latter with a genuinely sarcastic tone.
Klaus furrowed his brows, his gaze intensifying.
"Your father also had his 'humanely responsible reasons,' and we both know where all of that led him."
Klaus stood up and approached Cid, his imposing figure could intimidate anyone. Looking at his nephew, he couldn't help but remember his brother. The similarities were unsettling. The idea of Cid following his father's reckless footsteps was something Klaus couldn't overlook.
"And don't think I haven't noticed what might be happening between you and the elf. So, I warn you: don't get recklessly attached. I don't want you following in your father's footsteps and tarnishing the Midgar name again."
Cid looked up to meet his uncle's gaze.
'Warnings about my future and my relationships. Uncle Klaus, you really have a knack for complicating my life more than it already is. Plus, the family legacy, how original. As if this surname hasn't already brought me more problems than I need.'
"Uncle, I promise you my reasons are entirely different from any fantasy you might have about following in the footsteps of the old man... my father."
Klaus stopped right in front of Cid, leaning down slightly to look him directly in the eyes.
"Your mother has endured enough because of our family's follies, and I bear part of the blame for not stopping your father before it was too late. I won't allow you to add more pain to her life. If I'm willing to tolerate your... recent experiment, it's for her."
'Ah, the family sins. The only thing that useless old man left me.'
"Warnings, Uncle? Always so considerate. I simply offered shelter to a girl in need. And well, I need some help at the mansion. After all, it seems no one wants to work for the 'family bastard'. So, you know, I have to be a bit... creative."
"You better be," Klaus replied, returning to his throne. "I'm sure you wouldn't want to see me disappointed. It would be... unpleasant for all involved."
The air grew tense around uncle and nephew. Silence took over the room, and just when it seemed neither would speak, the sound of footsteps broke the silence. A guard entered, standing tall with a serious expression.
"My lord, Count Lorenzo Marquez has arrived," he announced with a firm and resonant voice.
Klaus nodded, not taking his eyes off Cid. He was worried about his nephew's future and him following the steps of his reckless brother.
"Our talk is over, Cid. But I command you to stay in the palace for a few more days. There are matters to settle, and your presence will be required."
Cid gave a short bow, though his posture betrayed his discomfort.
"As you wish, Your Majesty," he replied.
It was then that the hall door opened, and Count Marquez entered. He was a man of average height, with brown hair slightly graying at the temples. The perfect example of what Cid aspired to be: a background character, that silent corner of a painting.
As the Count moved through the hall, his gaze met Cid's. There was something in the count's expression, a mix of curiosity and calculation that put Cid on alert.
"Young Cid," greeted the Count with a slight nod of his head. "It's rare to see you at the palace."
"Count," Cid simply nodded.
Count Marquez extended his hand in a friendly gesture towards Cid, but with no response from the young man, he slowly withdrew it. Although aware of the Midgar's personality, he had never experienced it firsthand. After his unsuccessful attempt to please the young prince, he continued on to the King. Cid, on the other hand, left the throne room wondering what his uncle was scheming now.
XXXXX
The palace hallways were quiet, save for the subtle footsteps of servants and guards moving from one room to another on their errands.
In contrast, Cid moved like a shadow hidden in daylight, with the clear intention of going unnoticed.
Despite having grown up near the palace, he had never felt entirely comfortable in it. The tall walls were adorned with tapestries of ancient battles and portraits of ancestors he never knew.
As he turned a corner, he passed by a series of closed doors, behind which he could hear laughter and murmurs of conversation. These were the rooms of diplomats and courtiers from Midgar and neighboring kingdoms who had come for some celebration or political discussion. Cid avoided these gatherings as much as possible; for him, court games and palace politics were a tedium.
He finally arrived at a familiar corridor and stopped in front of a window. Without hesitation, he opened it and leaped out, gracefully landing on the palace roof. From this height, the palace and its surroundings spread out symmetrically.
He sat on the edge, swinging his feet over the void below. In the courtyard, the guard was in full swing of activity. Guards practiced with their swords; the sound of steel against steel echoed loudly. Instructors shouted orders, and dust rose with every movement.
Cid watched from a distance, his expression one of pure interest, not emotion. He analyzed every move, every decision, every mistake. He sighed when he noticed a guard making a basic mistake.
That's when gray clouds quickly overtook the sky. The first thunder rumbled, jolting Cid from his thoughts. In the courtyard, guards began to scatter, seeking shelter from the first raindrops.
Sitting on the roof, Cid let the rain soak him. The water was cold. For a moment, time seemed to stand still. But even moments as fleeting as that didn't last forever. Soaked by the rain, Cid decided to head back inside.
However, as he was about to leave, his gaze subtly shifted to the courtyard. Despite the rain, one figure persisted on the training field, unfazed by her surroundings. Mud puddles formed around her as the downpour intensified.
'Iris, as stubborn and persistent as ever,' Cid thought. The girl's red hair, bright even in the rain, like a torch refusing to go out.
Iris Midgar, the king's eldest daughter and heir to the throne. But she wasn't just known for her status. Her skill with the sword was commendable, and at a young age, she surpassed the kingdom's best swordsmen, earning her the title of "The Sword Princess."
Cid remembered their spars. Bouts where, of course, he had deliberately lost. It was part of his game, his choice to live as a background character. And what kind of background character would he be if he bested his cousin, "The Sword Princess," in combat?
No, that wasn't in his plans, nor would he question his cousin's skill. He knew she was good. But he also knew that if he ever fought with his true power, no one, not even Iris, would be a match for him.
For him, being a mere spectator in a main character's development was best. Also, thanks to Iris, he could gauge the skill level of the swordsmen in the Royal Capital, allowing him to play his background role even more accurately.
He could already imagine the future if things continued on the path he was carefully plotting. A gala in honor of Iris, where he would be amidst a poorly defined crowd, undoubtedly just another noble barely worth remembering.
Then, something caught his attention. Despite the rain, Cid wasn't the only one watching Iris. Right below him, partially hidden behind a tree whose thick leaves offered some rain protection, was a girl. Her silver hair, wet from the rain, subtly shone in the lightning's light. Her eyes, as red as rubies, were fixed on Iris with palpable intensity.
She held up her skirt with one hand to keep it from getting too wet, while with the other, she tightly held a small wooden sword. It was clear that Iris meant something special to her. The way she followed every move, every gesture, every rehearsed jump or parry, she was someone who not only admired the skill of a swordsman but also the essence of who they were.
Cid understood this; after all, wielding a sword wasn't just swinging a piece of metal, it was a dance. A series of coordinated steps where the goal was to overcome the opponent.
"Behold the budding seed of a swordsman," he declared, extending his hand towards the girl as he reached out to the sky.
And as the wind tousled the girl's hair, who had just sneezed from the cold, Cid vanished from the palace roof, oblivious to the idea of ever meeting that girl again.
XXXX
After leaving the girl in the rain, Cid moved swiftly through the corridors of the palace. Though he preferred to keep his distance from royal affairs, the palace was rife with spots where one could overhear interesting tidbits without being seen.
As he walked, he passed two noblemen whispering to each other. Deciding to eavesdrop for a moment, driven by his own curiosity and the prospect of relaying news to Alpha upon his return to the mansion, he stealthily tucked himself into a small nook, concealed by a grand red curtain that draped a window.
From there, Cid could hear clearly:
"What about young Alexia?" asked one of the nobles, his voice betraying peculiar interest.
"The second princess was out in the courtyard earlier. But with this rain, I can't fathom why she'd want to get wet," responded the other disdainfully.
'The second princess? In the courtyard?' Cid pondered, his gaze drifting. 'But I was there. And I don't recall seeing any princess.'
The first noble, oblivious to the fact their conversation was being overheard, continued:
"The plan to obtain the Royal Blood is underway. We can't approach the eldest princess with so many guards and swordsmen loyal to the king. But Princess Alexia... In a few years, she'll be the perfect target. We just need to ensure she's distanced enough from her sister."
Upon hearing the name "Princess Alexia", something clicked in Cid's brain.
'Ah, the silver-haired girl,' he thought, recalling her soaked figure in the rain. 'So that's Princess Alexia. Interesting.'
Cid, by both choice and courtly convenience, had avoided any contact with the second princess. Seen as a bad influence, they kept her away from him, a decision he wholeheartedly endorsed. He had his hands full with his occasional interactions with Princess Iris. While many regarded her as a prodigy, Cid always found ways to outsmart her easily. He couldn't fathom why his uncle insisted he train with her, suspecting it was another attempt to "reform" him.
'Well, if my uncle insists on dragging me into his games, he should at least make it interesting. Though... a secret plot against a princess... Ah, palace life never ceases to amaze me.'
His imposed relationship with the royal family felt more like a whim than genuine caution. Avoiding any real connection with the royal family had always been his preference. However, Princess Iris had been the one exception, all thanks to his uncle's attempts to "reform" him. And while he had no intention of getting directly involved with the second princess, he couldn't deny his piqued interest. After all, he needed some amusement while at the palace.
After a pause, the second noble spoke up, his voice filled with anticipation.
"If all goes according to plan, the Order will have everything ready to proceed."
The first noble chuckled, full of confidence.
"I've always been impressed by the Order's ability to infiltrate seemingly impenetrable places. And do you know which plan they've chosen to execute?"
"That, my dear friend, is still none of your concern. You need to trust in the Order's preparation and resources. But I can tell you, we've planned every detail," the noble replied assertively.
From his hiding spot, Cid briefly thought of the silver-haired girl. Not that he particularly cared about her fate, but knowledge was power, and power was something he couldn't resist.
A sly smile formed on his lips, the idea of the young princess being a pivotal piece in the ongoing power game intrigued him.
Perhaps, after all, his palace visit wouldn't be as dull as he had anticipated.
The noblemen's footsteps echoed down the corridor as they moved away. Cid, making use of the curtain that concealed him, took a swift glance. He watched as both men, dressed in lavish attire with emblems of their nobility, headed towards one of the palace's side exits.
'Celebrate? Are they so sure of their success?' Cid mused, his eyebrows raised in amusement.
He didn't waste time trailing them, keeping a safe distance. His familiarity with the palace's intricate corridors, combined with his refined skills, allowed him to move without raising any suspicion.
The noblemen, engrossed in lively conversation, were completely unaware of Cid's stealthy pursuit.
The drizzle had lessened, leaving a fresh, damp scent in the air. The streets were bathed in an orange hue.
After a few minutes of walking, the nobles reached a grand mansion, its massive gates adorned with a family crest in the center. A couple of guards awaited them at the entrance. Following a brief greeting and a nod of recognition, the guards let them through.
Before the gates fully closed, Cid vaulted over one of the walls that protected the mansion with supernatural agility, then slid back into the shadows. From his hiding spot, he could hear the nobles' laughter and the clinking of glasses, likely toasting to their "victory".
Thinking quickly, Cid searched for a possible entry point. He spotted a partially opened window on the third floor, probably left ajar by a maid for ventilation. Without wasting a moment, Cid leapt up, using the mansion's carved stones as makeshift steps.
Once inside, he found himself in a richly decorated library. Shelves full of ancient books, rugs of exotic origin, and a pair of velvet couches surrounding the room.
'If I weren't here on business, I'd borrow a couple of these beauties,' Cid thought, letting his guard down for a moment.
Then, as he tested the comfort of one of the sofas, he heard footsteps approaching. Swiftly, he propelled himself to the ceiling, hanging above two maids who entered, chatting animatedly about recent events in the mansion.
Seizing a shared laugh from the maids, Cid dropped down and began to explore the mansion in search of information about this plan that seemed to threaten the kingdom. He had no doubt that within these walls, he would find answers and, with some luck, something he could use to his advantage.
Cid walked through the mansion's hallways, his steps muffled by the vast carpets covering the floors. Finally, he found the study door, where he hoped to find valuable information.
Once inside, the room took his breath away: tall oak wood shelves filled with books, a grand desk with fine details, and an opulent lamp illuminating its surface, with various maps and documents scattered upon it. Clearly, the mansion's owner wasn't expecting unwanted visitors.
He hurriedly checked everything, looking for something that could give him a clue about what those two nobles were plotting. The first documents he found seemed to be simple lists. Upon reading them closely, he realized they were lists of possible candidates for marriage to the second princess. They were detailed, mentioning family backgrounds, fortunes, alliances, and everything one might expect for such an event.
Sighing with frustration, Cid murmured, "So all of this was just about a wedding... How disappointing."
He was about to leave the study when something caught his eye. A sheet of paper, semi-hidden beneath other documents, displayed a detailed scheme. It was a plan to kidnap someone, and what brought a bit of excitement back to him was the mentioned name: a member of the Oriana royal family.
Cid's eyes lit up with a reborn spark of interest. He quickly tucked the document into his jacket. That information was too valuable to leave behind.
He swiftly moved to the nearest window to exit the mansion. Once outside and with night almost upon them, Cid made his way across the rooftops and alleys of the capital until he reached the palace.
He headed to one of the less frequented rooms in the palace, where he knew he could find a moment of peace. It was a white room adorned with simple paintings, portraits of prominent figures linked to the royal family, and a large sofa inviting rest.
Lying on the sofa, he spread out the paper, trying to decipher every detail of the plan the nobles had conceived. The handwriting was fine and precise, easy to read. Cid was engrossed in the details of the plan when a noise made him look up.
A man in the Royal Guard uniform entered the room. His eyes widened in surprise at seeing Cid there, lounging as if he were in his own home.
"Mr. Cid," began the guard, giving a slight bow despite his evident surprise. "We've been looking for you all over the palace. The King requests your presence immediately."
Cid sat up slowly, masterfully hiding the document behind him.
"The King? What could he want with me at this hour?" he murmured, although he already suspected that his absence hadn't gone unnoticed.
"I don't have that information, sir. I was only told to find you and bring you to His Majesty," the guard replied, clearly uncomfortable with the situation.
With a mocking smile, Cid stood up, stretching his back and adjusting his jacket.
"Very well," he replied with a tone of resignation, "let's not keep the king waiting."
The guard, relieved, nodded and led Cid to the royal hall. As they walked, Cid couldn't help but wonder what his uncle now desired.
XXXXX
King Klaus, from his throne, wore an expression mixed between exhaustion and concern.
"Cid," he called firmly, examining his nephew from head to toe. "Where have you been all this time?"
Cid smirked, a playful glint in his eyes.
"Where have I been? Sorry, uncle, but I got lost in the palace. It's surprising how vast this place is."
Klaus sighed, not appreciating his nephew's sarcastic demeanor.
"This is not the time for your games, Cid. There are serious matters to discuss. I need you here and to stop causing trouble with your distractions…"
Cid raised an eyebrow, his ironic smile unfazed.
"Distractions? You mean Alpha. Oh... Uncle, you're making up a story all by yourself."
However, Klaus, oblivious to his nephew's thoughts, continued.
"I need you to put your tendency to disappear behind you, to assume your responsibilities as a member of the royal family. I can't keep protecting you if you don't cooperate."
"Please don't. I draw more attention with this surname than I'd like," Cid thought.
"But let's put these issues aside," Klaus sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I've made a decision regarding your future. You have duties as a royal family member, and this is one of them."
Klaus motioned for a guard to hand an envelope to his nephew. Cid looked at the letter with a furrowed brow before taking it.
'Ah, arranged marriage. An initiation rite for nobles of any world, I suppose.'
"And who is the unlucky girl you've chosen in your attempt to tie me down?" said Cid, his sarcastic tone vanishing for a moment.
Klaus looked at him with an expression mixed between concern and resolve.
"I'm not trying to tie you down, Cid. It's my attempt to protect you from your father's shadow."
Cid closed his eyes momentarily. Though he never met his father, Blaz Midgar's shadow had haunted him his entire life.
"People still talk about your father every time you come to the palace," Klaus said, his voice gentle yet firm. "His death, the scandal surrounding his last days, his reputation as a womanizer and his abuses of power... It's not something I want overshadowing your future, Cid. Count Marquez has proposed a very convenient marital alliance that I hope can bring you some stability in the future."
Cid recalled Count Marquez from their earlier meeting that day. It wasn't a long conversation, but long enough for Cid to realize the count seemed to know how to navigate the intricate noble circle.
"You were supposed to depart with the Count to his lands today to meet your betrothed and understand the territory that might someday be part of your responsibility. But your little excursion today has delayed those plans."
Cid felt irritation growing within him.
"And what's the name of this betrothed?" he finally asked.
Klaus paused.
"Nicoletta Marquez."
A mischievous and defiant gleam crossed Cid's eyes as a smile formed on his face. 'So, Nicoletta... Get ready, Nicoletta. I knew this day would come, sooner or later. I have at least a thousand ways to be the worst fiancé and I'll make you reject this engagement with all your might.'
A/N : And that's all for now. I know I've been inactive for a month, but between working and studying I don't have much time. Furthermore, I am very picky about what I write and I end up redoing parts or correcting others, in short a whole crusade to publish something.
A/N 2: As for the story, starting in chapter 3 we will make the long-awaited time jump to the Academy, I have a lot of twists and ideas that you may like. Also, what do you think of how I'm writing? It's the first time I'm using internal thoughts and touches of comedy, my weakest points. So I would like advice from you.
Thank you for reading.