Liliana's POV:
…
…
…
"Mommy, daddy, what were you two doing?" Her eyes widen with curiosity as she repeats the question.
There's no way this is happening… no way. I must be dreaming. Wait, how did she come in? Didn't he lock the door? Ahhhhhh! What am I supposed to do?! How will we explain this to a little girl?
A gasp escapes her lips as she rushes to separate the two of us, holding my hand protectively. Huh? Her brows furrow with a pout, staring at her father.
"Daddy, don't hurt mommy!"
Does she think that he's…
My eyes drift to my husband who displays a neutral expression as he waves an arm to clothe us properly.
"Aren't you supposed to be asleep? Why are you up so late?"
"I saw the light still on so I wanted to see if I can sleep with you and mommy."
I knew it! I glare at the man beside me. This is all your fault! If you didn't insist keeping the light on, none of this wouldn't happened!
"Of course you can," His gold and silver eyes shifts to mine as a hand grips mine tightly.
"Don't worry, mommy." Big eyes look at me with a determined expression. "I'll protect you."
Awwww! So cute!
My lips curve into a smile as my husband sighs. "Melody, I wasn't hurting her."
She blinks. "You're not?"
"Of course not! How could I ever hurt her?"
"But… those noises-"
"Ok," I force a giggle interrupting her sentence. "Honey, your father would never do something to harm me."
I follow his gaze as it drifts towards the restroom. Why is he…? My head tilts in confusion as he signals me again. Ohhhhh…
"Sweetheart, I'm going to the restroom real quick to freshen up." I hop off the bed as he follows in suit.
"But… what were you doing?"
I freeze at that question as my husband pushes me in the restroom. "We will answer that after. Right now, your mother and I are in need of a talk."
(Slam)
I wave an arm to soundproof the room as I glare at the man in front of me. This is all his fault! "If you didn't keep the light on, none of this will happen!" I seethe as he puts his arms up in surrender.
"Ok, ok, no use in pointing fingers." The man in front of me calmly states letting out a breath. "What are we supposed to do now?"
"You're asking me?!" I shout crossing my arms. "Who knows how she would interpret it." I'm dying a thousand parental deaths. Just kill me now.
"She thinks that I was harming you." He mutters with a sigh.
What to do? What do I do? Should I lie? She's two so she doesn't know what we were doing… if I could come up with a reasonable lie…
"That's right!" My legs pace around the restroom rubbing my temples. "I-If we can come up with a believable lie then-"
"Lily,"
"Hm?" I turn my head towards the voice as a pair of lips meet mine. My eyes widen as he pulls away. "Wha-"
"Don't get so worked up." A hand brushes my lower lip as my heart hammers. "We'll figure this out." How is he so calm about this?
"How? I mean, she saw us…" I trail off looking away from him. I can't believe this is happening. Ahhh!
A pair of arms envelopes my waist pulling me closer. "We could say that we were wrestling. I doubt at her age, she will know what we were really doing."
True… looks like that excuse might work. A flicker of silver catches my eyes. Eh? Is that… "Hey, what should we do if she doesn't buy it?"
That… is…
"I guess we could come up with another lie to counteract her suspicions… hm… what do you think, darling?"
Is that what I think it is?
"Darling?"
My hands tremble as I carefully touch his left hand. This is…
(Flash):
"With this ring, I pledge my love and life to you,"
(Flash)
"Lily?" A hand touch my stomach as he looks at me with a tender gaze. "Are you alright?"
"You're wearing your wedding ring…" I whisper as he blinks.
My husband pulls me closer pecking my neck. "We are a married couple after all."
The fact that he chose to put it on now… does that mean that he's over… her? No. Who am I kidding? You can't forget about your first love no matter how much you try.
"Are you sure you're okay?" He chimes in once again as I turn towards him wrapping my arms around his neck. "You look sort of pale."
"I'm fine, baby." I peck his lips as my face grows warm. "We shouldn't keep her waiting."
"Wait, wait, wait," My eyes widen as he grips my waist with a smirk. "One more kiss, honey."
My face heats up as I place my hands on his chest. "Babyyy," His grip tightens. "Our daughter is waiting for an explanation…"
"Come on, my sweet, kind, lovely wife," A hand cups the side of my face. "Just one more."
"Haven't you had enough for tonight?" You almost suffocated me with kisses.
"I went months without tasting your delicious lips." His hand starts to slide past my waist towards my thigh as I gulp. Uh-oh… "So how can you expect me to resist when you're here in my arms?"
"I…"
My husband backs me towards a wall with a seductive gaze. "Especially," A shiver shoots up my spine as he undo the string holding it to my body, sliding his cool hands down my back. "When you're dressed like this."
Looks like she's right. Men are visual creatures after all.
"Now's not the time." I bite my tongue as his breath hit my lips.
"But beautiful," My breathing grows ragged as he caresses my breasts. A rush of heat flows in between my legs making my body burn. N-No. I can't… not now. "Don't you want to finish what we started?"
"Y-Yes," His lips trail my neck nicking my collar bone. A soft groan escapes my lips as he pushes against me. "B-But our daughter…"
"She can wait." The nightgown slips from my body as my husband leans back licking his lips with a lusty stare. "Right now," A hand trails towards my stomach rubbing it with a smile. "You're my top priority, my beloved."
Should I ask? Will it kill the mood? Of course it would kill the mood. But I really wanna know…
I place a hand on top of his locking eyes with my dear husband. "May I ask you something before we continue?"
"You know you can ask me anything."
"I was wondering if… you…" Perhaps it's best if I don't ask. Not only will it be an instant mood killer, it will also reopen a wound.
"N-Nevermind. Forget I said anything." I look down with a frown. No matter what I do, I can't replace her. She was perfect. Graceful, pretty, smart… they complimented each other so well.
A hand cups my face. "What's wrong?" The man in front of me looks into my eyes with a concerned gaze.
"I-It's nothing." If she didn't pass away, My chest clenches. If she was still alive… maybe in my place would be her.
"What were you about to ask me?"
(Flash):
The coast is clear.
(Creek)
I turn the doorknob into his office to reveal my husband resting on the with his head on the desk. Why are the documents so scattered?
"What on earth happened here?" I mutter in disbelief as he stirs in his slumber with a whimper.
Ay. What has he been doing these last few days? By the looks of it, overworking himself again.
My fingers start to pick up the papers scattered across the room as a sketch of a girl makes my heart leap from my chest. This is… A stab courses through my veins as I bite the inside of my cheek. Of course. Haha. What was I thinking? Of course he wouldn't forget her.
I blink rapidly as I approach him, placing the papers on the desk. It's been forever since I last saw him so… afraid… his expression…
I wonder… My fingers cautiously touch his hair with a frown. "Just what are you dreaming about?"
He stirs as I promptly take my hand away. Black shirt, black shoes, black pants… the color of darkness. I glance at the wall clock as my eyes widen. His break is almost over. I gotta get going before Waltari catches me!
My eyes drift back towards the man who is whimpering in his rest. "I wish I can stay with you but," I lean down to peck his head. "You probably wouldn't want to see me right now."
He definitely doesn't want to see me currently. Who would after I kept that secret for so long?
I lean back and start to carefully walk towards the door when a hand grips mine tightly making me freeze. Huh?
"Don't leave me…"
My head snaps back to him as he holds my hand tighter. "Please," He mutters in desperation. "Don't leave me again."
I use my other hand to cup his face gently staring at his sleeping figure. "Are you… really not mad at me?"
Wait, he's asleep. So he can't answer me. Plus, My face grows hot as I stare at my handsome husband. How can a being look so… beautiful?
His eyes shut tightly holding my hand tighter. "Don't you dare leave me ever again…"
My heart hammers in my rib cage as a smile crosses my lips. "I have no intentions in leaving you, my husband." I whisper as tears fall down my cheeks. "I lov-"
"Astraea."
The blood in my body runs cold as my beloved grips my hand muttering in his sleep. W-What… did he just… say…?
"Stay with me… Astraea…"
Astraea… I take my hand away from his cheek as it curls into a fist. "Even when you're asleep, you think of her?" I gulp biting the inside of my cheek. Darn it. Why am I crying? Ugh! Stop it. There's no use for tears.
"Let… go…" I try to wiggle my hand free but his iron grip prevents me from doing so. "I'm not her."
I'm not a replacement.
My breathing labors as I grit my teeth. "Let go of me,"
"Never."
Tears blur my vision as I snap yanking my hand from his grasp glaring at the man who is still asleep. My throat locks as my mouth dries up. "I… am… not… a… replacement," An audible whisper escapes my lips as I cover my mouth.
"I'm not a replacement for her, Astral!" My vision wavers as I sniffle. "I'm your wife that you legally married."
What was I expecting? For him to say I love you after all this time of lying to him? For him to forgive me? For everything to go back to normal? Hahaha!
(Flash)
"It's nothing." I push him away forcing my lips to curve upwards. "We shouldn't keep her waiting." I wave my hand to clothe myself properly.
Even if I did ask him about it, I doubt that he would remember anyway.
Astral's POV:
Did I do something wrong?
(Creek)
"Sorry to keep you…" The woman in front of me trails off as my eyes drift towards the bed to find a sleeping princess laying near the side of the bed fast asleep.
"Looks like we took too long talking."
"On the bright side, we won't have to explain it."
"I wish but I doubt that she would forget it anytime soon. Which means, we still have to explain it tomorrow."
She shrugs covering a yawn as she climbs in bed. "Whatever, I'm tired."
My lips curve upwards as I climb into bed next to her. "True, it's a very tiring day."
I snap my fingers, turning off the lights and turning on the orange lava lamp, making a beautiful hue span across the room. My wife turns away in the opposite direction as I blink. I definitely did something wrong but what did I do? Nothing comes to mind…
"Baby," My arm carefully wraps around her waist.
She moves a bit tossing off my arm as my mouth parts. What the…? She never rejects my touch. Why now? Did I unknowingly do something to offend her? Is that it?
"Don't touch me." A muffled voice said as her body moves to the other side of the bed. "It's hot."
Its hot? Really? "Want me to turn on the AC?"
No response.
I'm going to assume that's a yes. My hands grab the remote resting on the bedside table and turn it on allowing the cool air to circulate throughout the room.
"Better?"
"It's late." My wife states not looking back. "Good night."
A stab pierces my chest as I clutch it blinking at her back in disbelief. Ow… I got to admit, that stings. Was this how she felt when I ignored her a whole month? Guess I got a taste of my own medicine.
But… what did I do? Why is she giving me the cold shoulder suddenly? It must've been something I've done but what?
"Darling," I cautiously touch her hand as she ignores me. "What's wrong?"
"What do you mean?"
My lips curve downwards as I wrap my arm around her waist. "Why are you ignoring me?"
"I'm tired."
"Did I do something wrong?" I ask shifting my body closer to my wife's. "If so, I'm sorry okay? Please, don't be angry, my beautiful, stunning wife."
"How can I possibly be mad at His Royal Highness?" She said after a moment. "It's been a long day and I'm tired."
His Royal Highness?! She'd never and I mean never referred to me by my full title. Most importantly, what did I do?! I did something to offend her that's for sure but what? Was it something I said? Something I did? Why are women so confusing?
"And I recalled that I said I don't want to be touched."
Of course. A sigh escapes my lips as my arm retracts to my side. "Baby, I don't know what I did to offend you but I really am sorry."
"Who's your baby?" My eyes widen. "My name is Liliana and nothing else."
Looks like this is pretty serious. Even my sweet talking skills aren't going to make her budge anytime soon. I bite my lip. "Ah, sorry. You must be stressed out from this day. I'll let you get some rest."
A thought clicks in my mind. I wonder… My eyes drift towards the unfinished dessert plate on the table. Was it because I didn't compliment her baking skills? Is that it?
"One more thing," How should I go about this? "The tiramisu was delicious."
My eyes narrow as she lays unmoving from her spot. Was she really mad about me not complimenting the dessert?
"I don't know how you did it but let me tell you, that was the best thing I have ever tasted. You should bake more often, love."
Hopefully that will- "What did I just say?" Anger rises in her voice as I stiffen. Did I go overboard with the compliments? Nonsense! You can never go overboard with compliments.
"Call me by my name, Astral."
Oh lord… how can that slip my mind?! Uh-oh… "Of course. Sorry, force of habit."
I gulp as the constant ticking from the wall clock irks me. Why is that ticking so loud? "Goodnight… Liliana."
"Night." My wife moves closer to the other side of the bed as I stare at her back. What do I do?
Looks like it wasn't because of the dessert. If not then what is it? Why is she acting this way? Calling her by her full name is so odd. Especially when I remembered everything. Argh! Just what is up with her today?
Astrana's POV:
In the morning: (Around 7am)
"Your Highness, please just let me-"
"No need. I can do this myself."
"But you-"
"Got it!"
"Watch out!"
"What the-"
(Thump)(Crash)
I flinch as I walk near the kitchen. Is my sister-in-law using the kitchen again? What is she trying to make this time? I rub my temples closing my eyes for a brief second. It's too early for this racket.
"Lily, how many times do I have to say it?" I sigh starting to open my eyes. "If you want to make something, leave it to…"
"Astral?!" My eyes widen as my brother hops off the floor dusting his clothes off with a sigh. What on earth is he doing in the kitchen?
"Your Highness, are you-"
"I'm fine." He winces as he holds his wrist. "See? I told you I could get it."
"But your arm-"
"It's fine. I'm fine."
"Astrana," He shoots me a smile as he walks over to the table filled with food fit to feed about fifty people. "What brings you here today?"
Whoa… I look at the cooks. "Are we having some sort of banquet that I'm not aware of?" Did my parents forget to mention it in the last meeting?
"Your Highness," One of the cooks bow then glances at my brother. "Erm…"
"Hm?"
"Did I really make that much?" My brother mutters looking at the table laid out with food. My eyes widen as I glance back at the cooks. They nod and my mouth hangs open.
He made all of this?! "What time did you get up this morning?"
My brother scoops the pancakes onto the plate with a smile. "Hm… if I remember correctly, it was around 5 something?"
"Five?!" I shout as he jumps with a startled expression.
"Yes," He places the croissants on a plate meretriciously adjusting it. "And simmer down will you?"
He's been awake for two hours making this whole table of food. "Um… brother?"
The guy in front of me plates the avocado toast on the plate as he pours the orange juice. "What is it?"
"Who are you making this for?"
"Oh man," He smacks his forehead. "I forgot to make the miso soup."
Miso… soup…? "Um…"
"I knew I forgot something!"
"Hey, can you pass me a bowl?"
My brother chops up the scallions as I hand him a small bowl. "Here."
"Thanks."
I glance at the cooks as I lean closer to them. "What's up with him today?"
"Your Highness," She whispers glancing at my brother. "His Highness has been up since five in the morning making breakfast."
"I can see that but what I mean is why?"
He doesn't normally do things like this. "His Highness is-"
"Astrana, can you pass me the ladle?"
"Sure." I hand it to him as he tastes it with a minuscule smile.
"What were you saying?" I turn back to the cooks.
"Ah yes, His Highness is cooking for Her Highness."
…
…
…
I glance at the table of food then back at my brother who is putting in the scallions bringing the soup to a boil. "Don't tell me you're making all of this food for your wife?"
"Do you have a problem with it?"
…
"Do you think she can consume all of this?" I ask in disbelief gesturing to table as he places his hand under his chin. "Honestly, the fact that you can make all of this for your first time baffles me."
He summons up the trays, assembling each item to their designated section making eight full trays of breakfast selections. "Of course not but I don't exactly know what she likes."
"You're her husband though…" How does he not know her likes and dislikes?
"Her cravings have been odd lately so I made a variety hoping one of them will please her palette."
Hm… did something happen? "So… is everything good between you two or…?"
"Well, my fate depends on these dishes. Lets just put it that way for now."
Huh? "What do you-"
"Your Highness," A man walks in bowing as my brother waves a hand.
"Yes?"
"You have a meeting in 5 minutes."
My brother blinks as he places the tray down with a sigh. "Of course I do." He mutters glancing at me then at the trays.
"Can you do me a favor, Astrana?"
Liliana's POV:
"Mommy,"
A voice calls out as I stir from my rest. "Mhm?"
"Are you awake?"
I wasn't but now I am. A yawn escapes my lips as I blink a few times to adjust my vision. "Did you want something, Melody?"
"Where's daddy?"
Eh? My eyes drift next to me to find a being missing. "He's probably busy in a meeting or something."
(Flash):
"Baby, I don't know what I did to offend you but I really am sorry."
"Who's your baby? My name is Liliana and nothing else."
"Ah, sorry. You must be stressed out from this day. I'll let you get some rest."
(Flash)
Was I too harsh? After all, it's not like he was conscious… A sigh escapes my lips as I sit up looking at the spot next to me. But… does he really see me as a replacement?
A tug on my nightgown causes me to look down at those beautiful eyes. "Mommy, what were you and daddy doing last night?"
Oh yeah… she saw… My fingers stroke through her blue locks with a smile. "It's nothing. I was just practicing wrestling."
Her eyebrows raise. "Wresting? Did you get into an argument?"
"No no. Nothing like that, my sweetheart." I stifle a giggle with the back of my hand. "Your father wanted to test how good my reflexes were that's all."
"Why?"
Thankfully I had all night to think this through. "Because I wanted him to." I place a hand on my stomach. "I wanted to see if my reaction time was depleting."
The girl in front of me nods. "But why weren't you wearing any clothes?" She asks innocently as my face heats up.
Ah great… how am I supposed to explain this?
(Knock)(Knock)
Saved by the door. Thank goodness.
"Who is it?"
"Lily, may I enter?"
I glance down at my nightgown. "Just a minute." No way that I can let her see me in this nightgown.
My feet walks over to the closet opening it up. Hm… what should I wear today?
With a wave of my arm, my nightgown transforms into a light blue button down blouse and a black skirt ending at my knees. I tuck the shirt into my skirt and couple it with a black belt. This should be good enough.
I sit at the makeup vanity brushing through my locks as my daughter comes up to me. "Mommy, I wanna brush too."
"Of course," I start to work through the tangles in her hair.
"Enter."
(Creek)
My sister-in-law opens the door carrying a tray of food while seven more people follows her. What on earth…?
"Princess Consort." They curtesy as they proceed to leave the trays on the table then close the door.
"Astrana," I glance at the tray in her hands as she plops herself on the couch. "What's with all the food?"
"It's your breakfast."
My eyes widen as I glance at the table then to her again. "Pardon?"
"It's your breakfast." She repeats with a sigh as my daughter runs up to the table staring at the delicious variety of food in awe.
"Oooo! Auntie Astrana, mommy, look!" Her index finger points to the rice porridge. "That looks yummy!"
"Indeed." I walk up and sit myself on the couch next to my sister-in-law. "It all looks very appetizing but why so much?"
Isn't it just breakfast? This table is enough to accommodate fifty people let alone one individual. "N-Not that I have a problem with it." I said hastily staring at her. "Thank you for making this."
The woman seated next to me blinks with a laugh. "You think I made this?" She snorts. "I wish I had the skill to do this but no."
What? "You didn't prepare these lavish meals?"
She waves a hand dismissively. "Of course not. I have never cooked anything in my life. Let alone cook for other people."
If she didn't, then who on earth would take time from their day to prepare these amazing breakfast options for me?
"If it wasn't you, then who was it?" I place a hand under my chin as my daughter picks up a strip of bacon nibbling on it happily.
A curve crosses her lips as she shakes her head. "You must be hungry. Pick a dish and try it."
I blink. "But who is-"
"I'll tell you once you try the food."
Weird… I raise a brow as I glance at the table in front of me. How am I even supposed to chose when there's such a wide selection?
Hm… "What's this one?"
"If I remember correctly, he said it's Asian Vermicelli noodles topped with fried mushrooms, scallions, bell peppers, peanuts, carrots, and a hint of lime juice for flavor."
He? So it's creator is a guy. I summon up a fork and tasted it. My eyes widen as I pick up the plate from the table. Interesting… what is the sauce he used to flavor this?
"How is it?"
"Astrana, who's the guy that made this?" I place another forkful in my mouth.
"Why do you ask?"
"This is simply delicious. The combination of flavors. They go so well together and not to mention the sauce." I look up to meet her gold eyes. "I need to get the recipe." With food tasting this good, I can learn a thing or two from him. That way, I can hone my cooking skills and make a decent meal.
"Is it really that good?" She summons up a fork eating off my plate as her eyes widen. "Oh wow…"
"I know right?"
My sister-in-law places her fork down with a smile. "I never knew that breakfast can be so flavorful. I gotta have him make that for me everyday."
"Just who is this person?" With breakfast being this good, I might hire him to be my personal chef.
"He's your husband."
I stop eating looking up at her blinking. "Say what now?"
"I don't believe it either." She shrugs. "But apparently, my brother was the one who made all of these meals."
…
He made these?
"He woke up at 5 in the morning to make all of them."
"Five?!" We went to sleep at like 1. So that means he barely got 4 hours of sleep!
"Yup. He woke up at five." She sighs with another head shake. "Look, I know it's not my business and I shouldn't interfere with these things but we all have arguments now and then. I don't know what happened but since he made all of these incredible dishes, don't you think that you should forgive him for whatever he's done?"
(Flash):
Tears blur my vision as I snap yanking my hand from his grasp glaring at the man who is still asleep. My throat locks as my mouth dries up. "I… am… not… a… replacement," An audible whisper escapes my lips as I cover my mouth.
(Flash)
Was I too cold? My eyes drift towards the delicious plates and bowls on the table. He wasn't technically conscious while referring to me as Astraea. But it still hurts. Then again, why would he make me a bunch of food if he doesn't want to apologize?
(Flash):
"Baby, I don't know what I did to offend you but I really am sorry."
(Flash)
"Where is he right now?"
"I believe he's in a meeting."
Astral's POV:
What did I do wrong? Will those dishes make her forgive me? Argh! This is driving me insane! And not to mention, I feel like I'm forgetting something important?
"Your Highness!"
I blink snapping from my thoughts as two pairs of eyes focus on mine with concerned expressions. Oh no. I did it again.
"I apologize." I clutch my head shutting my eyes for a second. "What were we talking about?"
She shakes her head with a soft sigh. "Your Highness, if you're feeling unwell, we could-"
"For the last time, Athena, I'm just tired that's all." I sip my water as they look at each other. "Go ahead to Princess 0."
"Here are the files." He hands them to me as I raise a brow.
"Raphael, is this all?"
He gulps bowing. "Yes, unfortunately we are unable to retrieve more about her."
Hm… Princess Starlight. Code name: Princess 0. An anomaly amongst anomalies. There was a time she went missing around the age of 8… her family was ransacked by Don Thousand and nothing was heard from this little girl ever since then. Just what happened all those years?
"Don't we have a photo of her?" I ask looking up from the documents as he shook his head.
"I'm afraid not. I tried to search for a photo but it seems like someone wanted to erase her from the system."
Erase her from the system… how intriguing.
(Flash):
"This is going to sound crazy but I think I was royalty."
I raise an eyebrow leaning forward a bit. "Royalty… as in a princess?"
She nods fidgeting with her thumbs. "It sounds unbelievable, I know but that's what I saw in my memory."
"A princess huh?" I mutter as my expression morphs into a smile. "Is there more to the memory?"
"Yea… my father was carrying me in his arms while a guy chased us with a sword." She said after a moment as my eyes widen.
"How old were you when this happened?"
"I don't remember but I'm assuming around 7 or 8."
(Flash)
Hm… around 7 or 8. Why am I remembering that? Come to think of it… Star, Starlight. Is it just a coincidence?
"Athena, where did Princess 0 go missing again?"
"Um… I believe she jumped off a cliff."
"Yes, but which cliff?"
A blank expression morphs into a gasp. "I believe it was the cliff that separates Barian World and this world."
That cliff. If she jumped from there… there's no way that she could be alive since a barrier is placed. No Barian can cross over it unless they possess an incredible source of magic from an astral being.
"If that's the case then there's no way that she can survive."
"The investigators said that there's no body so do you think she could've been pulverized?"
"That could be the case but I don't really know."
(Flash):
"I found her at the bottom of a cliff," I said turning to my parents as I walk to the couch.
(Flash)
That cliff…
"Your Highness, If you really want to know about her whereabouts, I think the king would be of assistance."
"No need to bother him with such a petty matter." I said after a moment of silence. "Raphael, Athena," My eyes pierce into theirs. "Don't let anyone know that we are finding Princess 0."
"If I may ask, why?"
I run my fingers through my hair. "Considering what you said earlier about someone trying to erase her file, I fear that if people know then she would be in even more danger."
"But we're not even sure she's alive."
"Yes, but better safe than sorry."
If Princess Starlight really is Star then… she could be the key to unlocking a portion of my memories.
(Ring)(Ring)(Ring)
I pick up the phone on my desk. "Hello?"
"Your Highness," A panicked whisper followed by a baby's cry rings out on the other end. "Help!"
What?
"Natalia?" I raise a brow. "Is that you?"
"Quick, find them and that baby!" A masculine voice rings out as I furrow my brows.
"B-But we searched the whole house-"
"Are you a fool? The Mistress ordered us to kill the beings in this house." He growls. "Now go!"
I stand up suddenly startling the two people in my office. Kill?
"Where are you three right now?"
"We're locked in a room. T-There are men with swords trying to kill us." She whispers fearfully as my eyes narrow. "P-Please help!"
"Listen to me," I clutch the phone as tightly as I can. "Stay in that room. Do not make a sound until I get there. Got it?"
"P-Please hurry."
(Click)
The line disconnects as I rub my temples letting out a breath. Good grief. What a day this is.
"Athena, Raphael, the meeting is adjourned. Please don't mention any of this to the others."
"Yes, Your Highness."
"Waltari!" I holler as the door creeks open.
"Yes, Your Highness?"
My eyes drift to the two council members as they bow taking their leave shutting the door.
"They're under attack."
His eyes widen with a gasp. "You mean-"
"Yes,"
"I'm assuming you want me to fend off the intruders?"
"Correct,"
"As you wish, Your Highness."
He hastily walks out the door as I quickly follow in suit. I was too lenient. If I added security, none of this would happen.
(Flash):
Every bone in my body shakes violently. The scent of blood fills the air as my breathing labors. A blue hared 16-year-old female lays limply in my arms. "A-Astral," A blood-stained hand cups my cheek weakly as her shining pink eyes open. "I... love you..."
(Flash)
No way. I'm definitely not going to let history repeat itself!
"Astral, where are you going?" My body freezes as I pause mid-step. What is she doing here? No. Calm down. I need to act natural so she doesn't suspect anything.
"Ah," I swerve my head towards her gorgeous purple eyes. "I was just going to meet a client. Do you need something?"
"Oh," Her lips curve into a frown fidgeting with her fingers. "Is it important? When will you be back?"
"It's hard to say. Depends on how long it takes." My hand rubs the back of my neck as I glance towards the palace gates. I'm wasting precious time. Hopefully he can stall. "I really have to go but I promise," My feet back away from her as her frown deepens. "I'll make it up to you later."
"Remember to be back early!"
Sorry. I'm sorry, my wife but I can't tell you just yet.
Five minutes later:
A guy in a mask runs up to me with a sword in hand as my eyes narrow. "Die!"
(Thrash)
"Who's giving you orders?" I dodge his sword as he attacks again.
"None of your business."
(Clang)
"If you know what's best for you, speak." I said as I twirl his sword interlocking mine with his.
He growls escaping my move jumping back a few steps. "You're not going to get anything from me."
Even if he doesn't say it. That symbol on your sword… so it's her. She's the culprit behind this attack.
It hurts my conscious to do this but… if I let him live, she'll know that I caught on. "Looks like you have chosen death."
(Stab)
My lips curve into a smirk as blood pools on the grounds staining the grass. His eyes widen as I pull my sword out. He fell limply onto the cold, hard ground.
Sorry but you left me with no other option.
"Your Highness," My butler runs up to me handing me a handkerchief to wipe off the blood. "I'm sorry. I should've arrived sooner so you didn't have to soil your hands."
"This is bound to happen sooner or later so it's not your fault."
"Are they hurt?"
"No. They're alright."
"Good."
"Waltari, keep a close eye on Katherine for me." I whisper as his eyes widen. "She's most likely the reason of this attack."
"How can you be sure?"
"The symbol-"
"Your Highness," A feminine voice interrupts me as I rush to her.
"Astrid, are you hurt anywhere?"
"Natalia, I thought I ordered you to-"
A hand touch mine as my eyes drift back to hers. "It's not her fault. They caught us by surprise. Oh, and who were they?"
Um… "Don't worry so much," I pat her hand with a smile. "They're probably just a bunch of bandits that's all."
The rustling wind makes my senses tingle as I glance at the bushes. Are there more of them? How many did she send? My eyes narrow as a guy pulls back an arrow. Gotcha.
(Zoom)
"Your Highness, watch out!"
(Clang)
There goes another one.
"Waltari,"
"Yes, Your Highness." He runs off to dispose the body as I sigh yet again. Katherine. Just why are you doing this? What is your motive?
Maria's POV:
"Did it work?"
"Yup."
"Where is he now?"
"Meeting a client."
…
…
…
"And you just let him?!" I shout throwing my hands in the air as whispers from nearby costumers cause me to gulp.
"What was I supposed to do? Tell him to not go?" My friend sips her water as I smack my forehead.
What am I going to do with this couple? Ugh! "Ok, Lily," I grip her hand. "Who is he meeting up with?"
My friend shrugs. "A client."
"Yes but a guy or a girl?"
She blinks blankly. "Oh… I didn't ask him."
"You're kidding, right?" My face defaults to a neutral expression. "Your husband meets up with a client and you don't even know it's a guy or a girl?"
"Why does it matter that person's gender? Isn't it just a conversation?"
I blink dumbfounded at my friend. Huh… why is she so calm and indifferent about this? Her husband could be meeting with another woman for lunch as we speak.
"Are you not worried that he might be meeting with another woman as we speak?"
"Who said that I'm not?" She gives me a slight smile. "There's no point in worrying though."
"Uh…" I scratch my head in confusion at her statement. "I don't… understand…"
Her hand gently lays on her stomach with a smirk. "As long as I'm bearing his child, I have the upper hand on any women he might be interested in."
"I guess… but are you really not a least bit curious who he's meeting these days?"
"Well, when you put it that way, yes. I am intrigued but it's not like I can force him to tell me if he doesn't want to."
"Besides, I doubt that he's pursuing any one else during this time."
"Props to you, my friend. I never knew you trusted him so much."
A giggle escapes her lips as she leans closer. "Of course I trust him but that's not it. He's still getting over her."
My eyes widen. Her… "Lily," I bite my lip as a hand interrupts me.
"No need to ask, Maria. I'm fine."
"But-"
"I'm serious," A curve crosses her lips. "I'm fine."
Really? My eyes narrows as she avoids my gaze looking at the birds flying in the distance. "Hey look at that crow!"
Crow? I turn my hand to see a little black crow landing on the banister near our table. It's beady eyes stare into my friend's.
"Why is it looking so intensely at you?" I ask as she shrugs.
"Beats me but it's actually the first time I've seen a crow so up close."
But the way it keeps staring at her… A thought clicks in my brain as my lips curve into a smirk. "You better be careful, Lily."
"Huh?" Her head turns back to me. "Why you say that?"
"Some say that crows symbolizes death and bad luck."
She scoffs waving a hand dismissively. "Like I will believe that. You're too superstitious, Maria."
"I'm just warning you." My arms fold over my chest leaning back in the chair. "Don't come running to me when a streak of bad luck suddenly hits."
A laugh escapes her lips as she sips her water. "I'll keep that in mind but remember, death comes in many forms. Sometimes it could be a good thing."
Mhm. Sure.
I nod with a sigh. "Sure. Whatever you say."
We glance back at the banister as the bird locks eyes with my friend's for one last time then flies away. Is it odd that I find that crow a bit unnerving?
Astral's POV:
"Ok, that should do it."
I step back as I form an impenetrable barrier around the house. This way, if someone tries this again, it will not only alert me but also protect them against all attacks.
"Astral, you didn't have to-"
"Don't worry about it." My hand guides her to the chairs. "It's the least that I could do."
She sits as I pour her a cup of tea. "I'm serious though. You've already done way too much." A hand grips mine. "How am I going to repay you in the future?"
My eyes widen. How cute! "Repay me?" I shake my head slowly. "Astrid, you don't have to repay me anything. I'm doing this because you're my friend."
If anything, I should be the one repaying you. "I'm your… friend?" The woman beside me utters in disbelief as I blink.
Why does she seem so shocked about this? "Why would you think otherwise? Do you not think of me as such?"
Her eyes slightly widen. "T-That's not what I meant, Your Highness. I um…" She looks down in her lap. "I-Its just…"
"Just what?"
"I never had a friend… before."
She's joking right? How can a gorgeous woman like this not have any friends let alone any suitors?
"You expect me to believe a beautiful and kind woman such as you don't have any friends?" I ask in disbelief as a pink tint appears on her cheeks.
"Thank you but you flatter me too much."
"All I'm saying is the truth. Not only do you look stunning but are also very kind. I mean, you took an abandoned baby home with you. Not many people will do that."
"I only did what made sense at that time. I couldn't leave him all alone in that alleyway."
"My point exactly." I state looking at her. "How did you have no friends before?"
Were people blind? They have such a cute and kind girl in front of them yet they won't befriend her. Wow…
"I think it was because of my disability." Her fists clench as my eyes slowly widen. "I may not be able to see but I can still hear. They often avoid interacting with me because of it."
What on earth?! Seriously? It's not that I'm surprised or anything but this is discrimination. I shake my head letting out a sigh. And to think beings would stoop this low as to not befriend this young woman because of her disability. What has the world come to?
"People nowadays are really something." I let out a breath looking at the woman next to me. "Well, I won't let anyone bully you again."
Judging a person by their cover. Seriously?
"Astral, I thought I told you that-"
"Make no mistake," I hold back a laugh with the back of my hand. "I'm not pitying you. I really want us to be friends."
She blinks turning towards the sound of my voice. "Why? Don't you think that you've done too much for a stranger?"
A stranger? You're anything but a stranger. "Because the first time I saw you, you reminded me of someone."
"Really?"
"Yes," I pause to think though my words. "A person that I loved dearly."
Her eyes widen slightly as my lips curve upwards. "She was a lot like you. Kind, beautiful. She had a heart of gold. She would work day and night to support her family neglecting herself in the process."
Astraea… if it wasn't for me…
"Your Highness…"
"Anyway," I clear my throat snapping from my daze. "The point is that I want to be friends with you. Forget what anyone had told you over the years. You're wonderful. Not only a beauty to be admired by others but also fun to be around."
Her cheeks flush as the corners of her mouth curves upwards a bit. "W-Will you really be my friend?" An audible whispers escapes her.
"Of course I will but the main question is, do you see me as such?"
"O-Of course, Your Highness!" The woman next to me stammers hastily. "I always saw you as a savior and friend."
Savior huh? That's a new one. If she only knew the truth, I bet she wouldn't think so highly of me.
"Astral?"
"Hm?"
"This may be overstepping a bit but can I hug you?"
"Sure, of course you can." I rise as a pair of arms wrap around my chest pulling me closer.
"I'm sorry, I'm just glad that I have a friend." A whisper escapes her lips as my arms envelope her.
An unexplainable warmness flows through my being as I pull her closer to my body. Astraea…
"No need to worry… Astrid."
That's right. She's not her. What am I thinking? I have a wife and daughter but… how can I forget all about her?
Near the palace:
Evening:
"Your Highness, I have a question."
"And I have an answer."
He bites his lip. "Um… I know I shouldn't be asking this but are you sure you're okay after knowing…" My butler trails off as I let out a puff of air stopping in the middle of the streets.
"Waltari," My gold and silver eyes looked into his brown's as he gulps.
"I-I shouldn't have asked that. I apologize-"
"Is this the first day you've known me?"
He blinks. "P-Pardon?"
"No need to look so flustered." I let out a chuckle. "I'm fine."
"Your Highness…"
"I'm serious," My legs start walking as he trails behind me. "Has anything kept me down before?"
"Well, no but-"
"Exactly." My lips curve upwards patting his shoulder. "Now don't worry so much. You're starting to sound like my wife."
A laugh rings out next to me. "I've been your butler since forever. Of course I would worry."
What did I do to have such a faithful butler? "Oh and one more thing." He looks at me curiously. "Did you and Her Highness get into a fight?"
"Is it that obvious?"
"I mean," A hand rubs the back of his neck with a sheepish smile. "Considering you made all of those dishes…"
"Yup." I replied a moment later swinging my arms back and forth. "I don't get women at times. One moment they're all nice and happy then the next, they're sad and don't want to talk to you." I have still yet to find out the reason why she was mad. Perhaps it's the hormones?
"Did you do something to offend her, Your Highness?"
"That's the part I don't understand. I reviewed all of my actions yesterday and if I did, I should know but I don't think I did anything wrong."
It would've been better for her to tell me why she was upset in the first place. I wonder if she forgave me. Did my dishes work? I need to think of a backup in case that… I narrow my eyes as the silhouette of a young woman stands near a pole not far from my where I was standing. That woman… why does she look so familiar?
"That's women for you. They are so complicated."
Have I met her before?
"Waltari,"
"Hm?"
That woman…
In the mind link:
"Astral,"
"Sapphire?"
"Yes, it's me."
"I haven't seen you in so long. Where have you been? Have you been doing well?"
"I promise that I will explain everything later but for now," She pauses a bit. "I need you to do something for me."
"It depends on your request."
Outside the mind link
No wonder she seems familiar. But what has she been doing for a year and a half?
I meet her pleading gaze as I glance at the guy walking next to me. Is she trying to…
"I just remembered that I have some unfinished business to attend to."
His eyes widen and stares at me. "This late at night?"
"Yeah."
An eyebrow raises in suspicion. "Are you sure?"
"You doubt my words?"
"It's not that I doubt you, Your Highness." He bows interlocking his fingers. "How will I explain to Their Majesties and The Princess Consort?"
Hm… My eyes drift back to meet her dark blue eyes. Her gaze bore into mine with desperation. Why do you bear that look? Just what request are you going to ask me?
I look at him placing a hand under my chin. "I probably won't take long so just notify my parents that something came up. As for my wife," I doubt that answer would appease her. "I will think of something. If she asks, tell her that I should be home shortly."
"Got it, Your Highness," His brown eyes meet mine. "But, what business are you attending to?"
She probably doesn't want him to know about this.
"Since when did you get so nosey?"
"I need to know where you are headed and what you will be doing. Your safety is of the utmost importance."
Great. The perks of being royalty. Sometimes I forget that he's also my bodyguard. "Relax you will? I'm just going to find some clues on Princess 0 and Katherine."
"But couldn't they wait until tomorrow?" He raises an eyebrow. "It's awfully late and-"
"You of all people should know how serious those two situations are." I countered as he closes his mouth. "The sooner I can find evidence, the more it will benefit us in the long run."
A puff of air escapes him as he reluctantly nods. "Be careful, Your Highness."
"Of course and did you forget I know martial arts?" A smile crosses my lips. "I'll be fine."
2 minutes later:
I glance around as the street lights illuminated the surrounding area. No one's around.
"You wanted a favor?"
A young woman with blue eyes and long dark blue hair appears. Her dress sways with the cool breeze as she carries a bundle in her arms.
What is she carrying?
"Astral," A voice rings throughout my ears as she kneels in front of me
"What are you-"
"Please, help me."