Astrana's POV:
"You know what? My brother does have a point."
"Can you give it a rest?" Purple eyes shut with a hiss as she runs her temples. "He's The Prince. He is always correct."
Not always.
I position my body so my head lays on the pillow next to her. "But it's true though. Your not as confident as before."
"And whose fault is that?" She scoffs with a wave. "If he wasn't so indifferent towards me, did you think my self-confidence would tank like this?"
"Um… I-"
"I swear to god," Her left eye twitches a bit. "If that man does one more thing to set me off," Her fingers clench as a murderous aura seeps throughout the room. "I'll-"
"You'll what?"
The two of us jump as a voice suddenly rings through the air. What the?!
"You!"
A figure wearing black jeans and a black dress shirt leans against the doorframe with a tiny smirk. "Miss me?"
Where did he come from?
"Miss you?" My sister rolls her eyes pointing her index finger at him. "I thought I made myself clear that you are banned from this room. What are you doing here?"
"Simmer down, darling," He walks towards his desk and elegantly plops himself in his chair. "Wouldn't want to attract a crowd, would we?"
"And besides, this is my sister's room. I'm pretty sure as the older brother, I'm allowed in here." He raises a brow at me. "Aren't I?"
"Yes, but I have to ask, I thought you were meeting someone,"
"Oh that?" He waves a hand. "I took care of it a little while ago. Nothing for you to worry about."
I wonder what was it about…
"Is there a reason why you came here?" The individual next to me voices glaring at him. "Shouldn't you be hanging with Katherine?"
Jealousy is radiating off her right now.
"Yeah," My brother casually stretches his legs as he rises. "I guess I should be but she's at the orphanage currently. I don't want to be a bother."
Is she poisoning kids?!
"Brother! You let her go to a place filled with kids all alone?! Are you mad?!" I shout as he blinks blankly. What's with that look? "You have to rescue them from her wicked grip!"
Knowing her personality… All the color drains from my face. She's probably commanding the children as her slaves… forcing them to do things against their will!
"Wicked grip?" He raises a brow stifling a laugh. "What do you think she is? I know you have a grudge against her but honestly, she's not inherently bad."
"Not inherently bad?" I place my hands on my hips with a frown. "What about her isn't bad?"
The guy sitting on his chair shakes his head with a sigh. "Trust me, she just had a poor upbringing. Once you get to know her, you'll realize under all of that manipulation, she's really not all bad."
What on earth?! Did she put a spell on him or something? Or did this just turn real?
The one next to me narrows her eyes. "Well, it's certainly nice to know you're enjoying her company so well."
"I know right?" His hand runs through his pale blue hair. "I never would've thought that I would actually enjoy spending time with her."
She glares at him as a smirk flashes upon his lips. Tell me once again, why am I always the one in the middle when these two fight?
"No need to be so jealous, Princess."
"As if I would waste my energy to be jealous." She waves a hand rolling her eyes. "I'm The Princess Consort. I have more important duties to attend to."
"For now anyway."
My eyes widen as he whispers that under his breath. For now?! Don't tell me he still wants to sign those divorce papers!
"You won't get rid of me that easily, Prince." Purple narrows into gold and silver. "Just try and see for yourself."
A murderous aura fills the room as I glance back and forth at them. Once again, it's up to me to divert this situation.
"Just curious but where are the guys?"
"Oh, they took a day off. Their parents called them back." My brother replies with a yawn as I nod.
"So… why are you here?" I ask after a moment as his gaze drifts out the window. "I mean you don't normally visit these days."
"Funny story." A laugh escapes his lips. "I was settling everything and wanted to return to my office to grab something. What did you think I saw when I stepped into the room?"
"Uh…" Hm… "I don't know."
"I knew you wouldn't have guessed it. I saw a lady laying on my desk with practically nothing on her body."
"What?!" The being next to me suddenly shouts as she hops off the bed and pulling my brother by his shirt until their faces are inches apart.
"Why so loud?"
Uh-oh… should I call for backup?
Her grip tightens on his shirt with a scowl. "I was very tolerant with you for the past few weeks but now I have to deal with this?!"
"Hey, it's not like I wanted to see her like that. Besides, why are you so angry?"
He's kidding, right?
"I. Am. Your. Wife!" Purple eyes narrow as she shoves their faces closer. "I am done with you treating me so indifferently."
"Indifferent?" He raises a brow. "How so?"
"You think I don't anything about you and Katherine? You slept with her. How could you do that to me?! I am currently bearing your children!"
Gold and silver eyes stare blankly into hers not uttering a single word. How on earth did she learn that?
"Where did you-"
"I have my sources." Her grip tightens as she pushes him to the wall. "Tell me, what did I do wrong? Why?" She shakes his shoulders aggressively. "Tell me why are you being like this?"
His face doesn't change from the indifferent expression. "Get your hands off me."
"Why have you changed like this?" She blinks as tears drip down her cheeks. "You weren't like this before so why?"
My chest clenches as I curl my fingers. Why can't he just tell her his plan? I don't understand why she can't know this.
The figure who is being pinned to the wall suddenly hisses as he shuts his eyes. My eyes widen as my sister-in-law loosens her grip a tiny bit with a concerned look. He seems to be getting many headaches these days.
"Lily," Gold and silver eyes open to meet hers. His eyes soften dramatically as he raises a hand to wipe her tears. "I'm doing this so you can be happy."
"Happy?!" She screeches furrowing her brows. "What part of me looks happy right now? I'm your wife yet you dare sleep with that witch? You act all indifferent towards me and don't show me an ounce of affection anymore. I get this is a part of your plan but really? Was sleeping with her apart of your well devised plan as well?! While I was sick with a cold, you didn't even bother to check up on me. You were beside her all day and neglected your sick wife all alone in her room." Her voice grows louder as I can hear whispers coming from outside the door. "What did I do to deserve this treatment from you? Why are you so cold? Why are you like this?!"
"Then sign the papers." My brother's expression flickers into an impassive one as her eyes widen. How can he change his expressions so fast? "If you hate me that much, why don't you just sign it and-"
"Ha," A dark laugh radiates from her as her shoulders shake. "So that's what it is." Her amethyst eyes meet his. "You want a divorce so you can be with her? Not a chance that will be happening, Prince." Her eyes narrow into slits ad I gulp. "If you are unhappy in this marriage, you can do whatever you want but you will never and I mean never able to get me to sign those papers. I don't care if you have an affair with hundreds of people to try to provoke me but," Her tone switches to a whisper. "If I can't have your affection, might as well have your body beside me."
It's official… I never thought I would be saying this but… I gulp as a creek from the door opens revealing my parents. She's scary!
"Why is it so tense?" My dad whispers as he looks at the two beings. "We could hear her shouting all the way across the palace."
"Let's just say my brother is an idiot."
"Astrana!"
"Mom, it's true." I lean closer to her ear. "If he would tell her the truth, then this wouldn't have happened."
"I told you would end up regretting this." My brother voices with a straight face as she chuckles.
"Regret?" A scoff escapes her lips. "The only thing I regret with this is I didn't keep a closer eye on you the past few weeks. I trusted you. I trusted you when you said you weren't going to cross the line but you know how that went."
Gold and silver eyes drifts to me then our parents. "Mother, father, what may I do for you two?"
Purple eyes widen as she immediately lets go of his wrists. My mom frowns at my brother. "We were just coming here to remind you about the event later this evening." She lets out a breath as golden eyes slightly narrow. "Imagine our faces when we learned less than stellar things about our son from his wife."
I gulp as as he smiles brightly. "Oh? I apologize, mother but I believe my personal life has nothing to do with you."
What?!
…
…
…
My eyes widen as I look at my sister who is equally shocked. Her jaw dangles a bit as all is silent. Did he really just say that?! Is he insane?
"Excuse me?" She places her hands on her chest sporting a look of disbelief. "Young man, you did not just say that to me."
He tilts his head innocently to the right. "Is there a problem?"
Stop it with that innocent look! It's going to get you in more trouble!
"You-"
"Ah, I apologize mother, father," He bows with a tiny smirk. "I must get ready for the even tonight." He defaults to his neutral expression as he glances to the being next to him. "And I suggest you dress nicely as well. Try not to embarrass me, Princess."
I blink as he strolls out the door. "What the…"
What is wrong with him today?!
Maria's POV's
"Thanks,"
"So," Green eyes look into mine. "Any reason why you're visiting me?"
I raise a brow as I sit down on a chair. "Do I need a reason to visit you?"
"No but…" His eyes drift to my white-haired friend who is currently staring at a jade pendent with fascination. "There definitely seems like a reason for you two to be here."
What on earth is she doing?
I facepalm my forehead with a sigh. "Star, what are you doing? Put that pendent down."
Her lips form a pout as she places it down. "It's such a pretty piece though."
"Still, you shouldn't be touching other people's things." I glance at the room. "Especially when we are not in the palace."
"It's fine." A voice rings out from across from me. "I know for a fact that my father doesn't mind beings touching the artifacts so it's all good."
"Yes but-"
"Derek, you're speaking for me now?" My friend stiffens as a tall man walks in light green eyes and light blond hair. Uh-oh…
"Father, when did you return?"
My feet immediately rises as I begin to curtsy. "Your Grace,"
A hand touches mine as I look directly into his light green eyes. "Don't." A smile curves onto his lips. "How can I let such a pretty girl curtsy to me?"
W-What?
"What the-"
"Father!" My friend shouts as The Duke chuckles focusing his eyes on his son.
"Son, I'm just complementing her. No need to get so worked up."
He lets go of my hand as my face heats up. "Thank you for the complement, Your Grace."
Green eyes wander around the room as they settle on my friend who is absorbed into looking at the artifacts. Seriously? What's so great about them?
"You like looking at them too, right?"
She jumps and swerves around to meet him walking up to the display. "Your Grace," My friend curtesy. "I apologize I was so rude. I did not notice you came in."
"It's quite alright." A laugh escapes his lips as he focuses on an emerald jade pendent. "Tell me, why are you so fascinated by these?"
She blinks placing a hand under her chin. "Your Grace, I believe artifacts can tell the way beings have lived throughout the ages. They can tell us a lot about a being's way of life and the time period."
"Oh?" His eyes narrow as he carefully picks up a small porcelain bowl decorated with blue flowers around the edge. "Can you guess which period this came from?"
"Hm," Her eyes narrow as she observes it closely. "If I had to guess, it came from the 15th century."
"Why?"
"Judging from the floral print and the fact that it's a porcelain bowl, it's pretty much a given. No one in today's world uses that design anymore." Her hands cautious hold the bowl examining it from every possible angle. "Your Grace, if you would just look here," A finger points to the side of the bowl as the paint chips off. "This shows that it's from the 15th century. All up until the 16th century, beings couldn't figure out how to stop the paint from chipping. The designs after a period of time started to fade. The 16th century is when they figured out how to get the designs to stay so that fading would not be an issue."
"Even I didn't notice that," He mutters to himself. "But how can you be so sure it belonged to the 15th century?"
"Well, the design first of all and because before the 15th century, there had been a period where flowers were forbidden throughout this world. So this bowl couldn't have been before or else the potter would be risking his life to sell these."
Even I didn't know that. How on earth can she know such a thing? I glance at the one sitting across from me as he shrugs. That's really impressive.
The Duke's eyes widen as he starts to clap. "I certainly underestimated you. To think that such a young girl could know about this and successfully identify an artifact… good job."
Her cheeks turn pink as she curtesy once more. "Your Grace, thank you for the compliment."
"What's your name?" He asks after a moment of looking at her as green eyes blink.
"My name is Star."
"Star?" Green eyes narrow as a calculating look flashes on his face. "That's… an intriguing name…"
Intriguing? Well… I guess he's right. There aren't that many people named Star in this world.
My friend smiles, her eyes drifting back to the round jade pendent. "If I may ask, where did you get this pendent from?"
He blinks as his eyes land on it. "Ah, this pendent," Fingers delicately pick it up from the gold string as it shimmers within the sunlight. "It was from a friend of mine."
"A friend?"
He nods pursing his lips together. "Yes. His life was taken years ago. When news finally got around about the attack," He turns away shaking his head placing the pendent back on the display. "This was the only thing I found."
Oh my…
I glance at the guy sitting across from me. His head nods as a hand places a cup in front of me. "Yup."
"Oh, I'm so sorry." Her lips curve into a frown. "I had no idea that asking that would-"
"No, no," The Duke waves a hand with a small smile. "Don't apologize. I'm actually glad that you asked that question." He glances at his son then back to my friend. "It's nice to know that someone is into artifacts like me."
"Hey!" He whines as I stifle a laugh.
"Maria, are you into artifacts as well?"
My eyes widen as he looks at me. "Your Grace, how do you know my name?"
"My son mentions you-"
"Father!"
I raise a brow as at my friend's outburst. Why did he… He avoids my gaze with redness creeping onto his cheeks. Huh?
A laugh rings through the air as he approaches his son patting his shoulder. "Aw, Derek, no need to be embarrassed."
Huh… embarrassed? What is he embarrassed about?
Estrella's POV:
"Lily,"
I look in the mirror as I place the finishing touches on her makeup. "I really think you should tone it down a bit…"
Purple eyes stare at her reflection with a straight face. "Why?"
Why? Well… I bite my lip as I do her brows. "Don't you think it's a bit much? For example, you're wearing a full coverage foundation and a bold red lipstick. Not to mention you also want false eyelashes and a black winged liner." I mutter as the being I'm talking to ignores me. It's too much for this party!
"Estrella, just do what I asked for."
A sigh escapes my lips. "I just think this amount of makeup drowns out your natural beauty."
"Are you saying I don't look good with this on?"
"You look stunning actually." I place down the beauty blender to pick up a black eyeliner. "It's just the amount of makeup on your face currently… it's a bit um…" How should I say this?
"A bit what?"
"Intimidating." I said after a moment. "Don't get me wrong. It looks really beautiful on you but when I look at you now, it's like you're going to murder or seduce someone."
She shuts her eyes as I spin the chair around tracing her upper eyes. "Personally, I don't think it's appropriate."
"How so?"
"Because you'll scare all of the beings away. Look," My teeth clench as I place down the eyeliner. "You said it yourself. You want people to respect you so tell me. How exactly is this intimidating look going to get individuals to warm up to you?"
Honestly, this makeup style is so cold. I wouldn't be surprised if the beings all steer clear of her path. Wait… if people fear her… that could be… nah… that's fear not respect. Also…
The woman stays silent as I pick up the liner once more. "Speaking of which, why are you getting all dolled up? You don't usually do this for other events."
"He said I should look presentable."
Presentable? What is she, a gift? Doesn't she look presentable enough as she is?
"I don't think putting on this much makeup will make you look more presentable if I'm being honest." And I'm pretty sure this isn't what he meant.
"You sure have a lot of opinions today."
"I'm just giving you my point of view." What is up with her today? "Lily, are you feeling alright?"
"I am fine. Thank you for asking."
There's no way you're fine! First it was the makeup. Now it's that cold tone of yours. What's going to be next? You're going to ask about my sister?
"How has Katherine been doing?"
…
I can't believe it… she's really asking about her…
"She's doing quite well." My hands pick up a curling iron and start to curl the section of her hair. "I found out she's volunteering at an orphanage near by." Why and how has she changed so much in this short period of time?
My friend stays silent as I shake the bottle of hair spray and spray it lightly coating each strand. "All I can say is I'm pleased by this change." I pick up a lip gloss and apply it onto her lips. "Never in a million years I would imagine her taking care of anyone but herself but I guess miracles do happen."
I still remember that poor little boy. To think she has changed so much over a little period of time… Astral, you could definitely be a therapist.
"Did you get the information I read?"
"Hm?" My eyes widen as I place the finishing touches in her hair. "Oh about the Marquess? Yea. He's a very influential man but is very cold like your husband." I stifle a laugh with the back of the palm. My friend says nothing as I sigh. Is she really going to be okay? "But I found his weakness."
"Which is?"
"His wife, The Marchioness."
"Of course,"
"I even found out he'll listen to whatever his wife tells him to do." My lips curve as giggles come from my mouth. "What a lovely husband, am I right?"
…
…
…
Geez… okay then. Someone's not displaying emotion today.
She tucks a piece of hair behind her ear. "Thanks."
"No problem," My eyes widen as a thought flies into my brain. "But why did you ask for me to conduct a search on him? Is something going on?"
"No," Her red lips curve into a tiny smirk with a glint in her amethyst eyes. "Nothing's going on."
What… is it weird that I feel scared right now? Since when does she involve herself in others affairs?
Astral's POV:
"Daddy," Purple eyes look up at me with a pout. "Can I come too?"
"No."
"But why?"
"You weren't invited."
A hand swings mine back and forth with a mumble. We've been doing this for ten minutes now.
(Pulse)
"Need me to sort things out?"
"Right. Like I would let you in the presence of my daughter. No way."
A scoff rings through my ears. "Remember, I'm the one who is supporting to be in control right now. You should be recuperating."
"I know but regarding how you can't pretend to be me…"
"Hey! I can totally act like you! Remember this afternoon when I-"
"They were suspicious and asking if I was okay or not."
…
"That was because someone didn't tell me you had to go to a baby shower!"
"My bad but I can't afford you messing up once again. Not to mention, we're going out in public and I have a reputation to uphold."
He smacks his lips together in distaste. "So you would rather expend your energy to uphold a reputation rather than recuperate?"
I stay silent as a sigh rings through my ears. "Look Astral, I promise I will try my best not to mess up again. The way things are looking now, you need all the rest you can get and personally," He pauses for a minute. "I want to have some fun while in your body so stop trying to resist and just let me take over for the time being."
…
…
…
"Fine but if you dare harm anyone and I do mean anyone, I'll revoke back your control."
A snicker rings through my ears. "Not even your worst enemy?"
"I don't have any enemies."
"Or so you remember anyway," A mutter escapes his lips. "Ok, I promise not to go overboard with anything and act like you."
"And most importantly, take care of my wife and daughter for the time being. If they even have so little as a scratch on their bodies, I won't hesitate sealing you back into my body."
"Possessive much?"
"She's my wife."
"Says the guy who signed the divorce papers."
"Actually, you know what? You're not even allowed to touch her."
"Come on, that's going too far. Astral, I'm going to pretend to be you. It's only natural for a husband to touch his wife."
"Regarding recent events, I don't think I should be concerned about such matters but if the occasion does arouse, I expect you to push her away and leave the room."
"And what happens if she forces herself upon me? Or touches me first? Then what do you want me to do?"
"Simple. Just excuse yourself and get away from her. It's not that hard."
(Pulse)
Dark's POV:
Drat. Connection interference.
A little being shakes my arm back and forth as I snatch my hand away with a grunt. "Stop shaking me."
This little girl is nothing but trouble. Because of the interference, I'll be having a headache all night long. Plus, he just had to attend the baby shower. Why couldn't he had refused? A place filled with beings and a headache is a bad combination.
"Daddy?"
My eyes drift down to the young toddler. Her purple eyes stare at me with a confused look as she suddenly wrinkles her nose. "You…"
Now I have to be nice to her just because she's Astral's daughter? Great. What did I get myself into?
My lip muscles twitch a bit. Smiling is so hard. "Yes?" It better not be that question again or else. "What is it my wonderful daughter?"
The kid in front of me blinks slowly removing her hand from mine. What is she… Her feet inches back with a scared expression. "You… are not my daddy."
Could she know?! Wait… how could she have sensed my presence when I masked it so well? Could this little girl be more powerful than I initially thought?!
"Melody," I plaster on a fake smile. "What are you saying? I'm your father."
"No." She shakes her head rapidly with a frown. Her arms cross in front of her chest. "You are not my dada."
She runs to the woman walking into the room and hides behind her dress fearfully. "Grandma,"
Gold eyes glance at me raising an eyebrow and she looks at the being furrowing her brows at me. "Sweetie pie, what's the matter?" A gentle tone rings from her lips. "Did your father bully you?"
As if I would go bully her. Your son would kill me if anything happens to her.
"Grandma, daddy is not daddy."
The Queen blinks blankly at her words directing her eyes to me. I shrug sporting a clueless expression as she turns to the kid once more. "What exactly do you mean by that?"
"He is not my daddy." She points an index finger at me. "He is different."
My left hand covers my face with a sigh. "Snowflake," Must not get exposed by a two year old girl. "Are you saying that because I said you couldn't go to the party? If so I apologize but it's invitation only."
"Nu-uh, you are not my dada."
A soft sigh rings out between us as the woman kneels on one knee. "Melody, that's very hurtful to say." She glances at me as I blink. Astral should be the one hearing this, not me. "How about this, if you really want to go to that party, I'm pretty sure the Marquess and Marchioness won't mind."
"So I can go?" Her eyes light up hugging her tightly with a beaming smile. "Grandma, you are the best!"
No! Then I'll have to look out for another being. A really hyperactive little two year old whose attention span isn't fully developed. Oh man…
"Hey, I don't think that's a good idea." Two set of eyes look at me blankly. "It's just…" Got to come up with an excuse… "It may be dangerous."
They look at each other for a moment then back to me. "How?"
How? Uh…
I shrug. "I don't know but I'm already looking after The Princess, I can't afford to take care of her as well."
The Queen folds her arms with a disapproving look. "Astral, I'm pretty sure Lily can take care of herself. Besides, it's a baby shower. Who in their right mind would cause a disturbance at a baby shower?"
"You never know."
"I'm starting to think if you even want her to tag along."
"Isn't it obvious? I don't." A nagging headache, an overbearing wife, and an annoying kid… can this get any worse?
An indignant little huff escapes as her lips curve into a pout. "I still wanna go."
"Why?" My eyes roll crossing my arms across my chest. "What's so great about a party? If I were to pick, I would stay home all day and not attend these sort of things."
"You're so antisocial," A female voice chimes in. Heels clack against the floor echoing in my ears as my left eye twitches. "Honestly, wouldn't you get bored staying inside the palace all day long?"
"How dare you say that to me you-" I swerve around to find an 18 year old woman wearing a stunning off the shoulder purple dress that ends near her thigh. Her long eyelashes flutter with each blink she gives me making her amethyst gems stand out. Woah…
Her bright red lips curve into a smile. "Did you really forget the sound of my voice, my husband?"
I never knew his wife would look so… I mean, I saw her using through his eyes but… seeing her in person is a whole different thing.
"Mommy!" A young kid hugs her legs. "Guess what?"
"What is it, sweetie?"
"Grandma said I'm allowed to come to the party!"
"Really? That's amazing!"
"I'm going to eat all the food!"
The woman in front of me pats her on the head with a loving gaze then turns to me. "It will be your responsibility to look after her."
"Why?"
"You are her father."
"And you are her mother." I raise a brow at her. "Also, where would you be?"
"Where I am will be none of your business." Her eyes switch to a cold look. "You're her father so you look after her. That's the least you could do."
That cold gaze… man, wow. Why does she look at her with so much affection and look at me so… oh yeah… the divorce.
"Mommy," A hand tugs her dress as she glances down. "I don't want him to look after me."
"Wow," I roll my eyes folding my arms. "Nice to know you don't like your father."
"You are not my daddy!" She shouts filling her cheeks with air.
The Princess Consort blinks at her daughter then direct her gaze towards me. "What did you do to get her so upset?"
"You're blaming me?" My eyes widen as I cross my arms. "You don't know the full story yet you are blaming me?"
"Yup!" She beams showing her pearly whites as I blink. What… what is going on here?
At the party:
You have got to be kidding me.
I lean on the wall for support as a throbbing headache pounds my skull. The beings around me mingle with each other as the sounds of laughter fills the air. Occasionally, their eyes would lock into mine and they bow/curtesy for formalities. I'm so bored… why do I have to be here again?
My eyes scan the crowd as I see a young toddler grabbing food with the help of a brown eyed teen. Thank goodness for Astral's servant. I believe his name is Waltari, right?
"Your Royal Highness," A voice calls out as my eyes drift to his. A gentleman in his 30s with silver hair and hazel eyes bow at my presence. "It is my honor to have you at my celebration. I cannot thank you enough for taking time out from your busy schedule to attend this."
Ah great. He didn't tell me I have to interact with beings.
"Please, it was my pleasure." He lifts his head as I stand up straight. "I got to admit. I never knew this many beings would gather for a baby shower of all things."
He chuckles. "Me neither. I guess they enjoy parties."
Tbey enjoy parties? Puh-lease. Even as a stranger I could tell that they are trying to climb the ranks. The Marquess is the most influential man there is and is obtainable because of his status. Of course they will seize this opportunity.
"Yes," I said after a moment. "Perhaps that's the case." Is he just acting clueless or is he really clueless?
"Oh," His hazel eyes widen. "If you don't mind me asking, where is Her Highness? Did she not come?"
How am I supposed to answer that? Even I don't know where she is.
"She's somewhere in the crowd." I reply after a minute. "Also, my daughter came as well. I hope you don't mind."
"Not at all," He waves a hand glancing at her who is sitting at a table happily eating her food while a certain brown eyed teen picks up a fry from her plate. He's probably contemplating if he's allowed to eat with her or not. "My wife and I absolutely adore young children."
"Hence the baby shower."
His eyes widen as a pink blush dust his cheeks. "You jest, Your Highness."
Hey! This is pretty amusing… it's not everyday I get to make a guy older than me blush.
I wince at a sudden headache as I try to keep my face neutral. Ow! Now if only this nagging thing could vanish.
"Out of curiosity, where is The Marchioness?"
"Oh," He rubs the back of his neck with an embarrassed look. "I don't exactly know. My wife isn't a fan of crowds. She's probably at the garden as we speak."
If she's not a fan of crowds, why invite so many people?
(Slam)
"Help!" A guy burst through the door as all is silent. He breathes in and out very fast taking gulps of air. What the..
"James," The Marquess rubs his temples with a sigh. "Why the frantic look? Did you do something wrong again?"
"No, My Lord. Someone fell in pool!" He exclaims with a shout as I blink.
"Who?" I ask tilting my head as he bows in front of me.
"I-I don't know, Your Highness."
"Quick, send people to help immediately."
"Yes, My Lord!" An army of men races out the door as my headache gets even worse. Why is it getting worse?
I clutch my head shutting my eyes with a hiss. What on Astral World is going on? "Your Highness?" A voice rings throughout my ears as I crack one of my eye open to meet a concerned face.
"What is it?"
"Are you alright?"
"I'll be fine." My eyes drift to the guy who is kneeling on the ground. "You. Who fell in the pool?"
"I-I honestly don't know, Your Highness."
"Was it a woman or a man."
He gulps looking at The Marquess then looks at me once more. "A-All I can make out was a purple dress."
A purple dress?
(Flash):
"How dare you say that to me you-" I swerve around to find an 18 year old woman wearing a stunning off the shoulder purple dress that ends near her thigh. Her long eyelashes flutter with each blink she gives me making her amethyst gems stand out.
(Flash)
I wonder…
Liliana's POV:
No!
My vision blurs as I thrash around trying to stay afloat. A woman's voice rings through my ears as I can make out an army of people running towards her. My chest hurts. It's like a huge rock is laying on it slowly suffocating me. I… I can't… breathe…
No!
I have to stay afloat! I have to… My eyes snap shut as I feel myself sinking deeper and deeper under the water. Astral… I…
(Pulse)
(Flash)
"Selene!"
A voice shouts as a splash of water rings through the air. The woman reaches out to grab his hand as her vision zooms in and out like a camera.
Majestic silver hair shines brilliantly as their hands brush past each other. Blood oozes out from her stomach wound as her eyes slowly shut making her body go limp.
"Endymion…"
(Flash)
Endymion?
"Don't, Your Highness!"
(Splash)
What…
Suddenly, I feel as if I am weightless. A pair of arms envelopes my body firmly. Who…
Dark's POV:
"Out of the way." My arms tighten around The Princess as everyone moves away. What on earth happened? Has she decided to take a swim or something? Either way, this is foolish that's for sure.
My hand slap her face gently as I hold her close. "Hey, are you alright?"
Gorgeous amethyst eyes open at my calls as a groan escapes her lips. "Endymion?" A whisper makes my eyes widen. What… what did she…
"What did you just call me?" There's no way she could remember…
Her eyes slowly shut as her body goes limp. "Hey," I shake her shoulders gently as a kid suddenly runs up in a frantic. "Wake up."
"Mommy!"
"She's fine. Don't worry so much."
"Your Highness," A woman with blonde hair and blue eyes curtesy in front of me.
"Marchioness, care to explain what happened?"
"Your Royal Highness, it's my fault."
"You mean you were the reason she fell into the water?" A teenager snaps at her as I cast him a neutral look.
"Waltari, let her finish."
"Continue."
She gulps lowering her gaze to the ground. "The Princess Consort saved me. There was an attacker who wanted to kill me and she was the one to fend them off. Without her, I would've been dead by now."
Whispers start to accumulate around us. Hm… My eyes drift to the one in my arms once again. So this is how you do it huh? Not bad but… "You're such a fool." I whisper in her ear as I lift her up in my arms.
"Please excuse me, Marquess, Marchioness, I'm afraid I can't attend anymore of your party."
Their eyes widen as the kneel. "It's quite alright, Your Highness. If it weren't for Her Highness, my wife probably would have been severely injured. We owe her our lives."
Star's POV:
"We're back!"
My friend holds up a bag with a bright smile. "And we bought some food just in case you all want…"
…
What is going on here?
My two friends stare at each other without uttering a single sound as I blink. Uh-oh… silence is not a good thing.
"You're such a fool."
The one on the bed narrows her eyes at her husband. "Excuse me?"
"You heard me." A hand picks up a cup from the table nearby. "You are always too reckless for your own good."
"So you would rather me not do anything to protect The Marchioness?"
Protect? What did we miss?
"Yes," Gold and silver eyes bore into hers as she widens in disbelief. "Or better yet, you could've assessed the risk factor then calculate your move."
A laugh escapes her lips as her eyes roll. "Typical." She lets out a breath. "Why would I be surprised at this point?"
"Why should I expect any less from you." His wife shakes her head. "So you tell me that if you were put into that situation, you would let her get attacked without doing anything?"
"Correct."
How can he say that with such an impassive look? I glance at the individual next to me as she twirls her index finger next to her temple. Hahaha!
"Are you serious right now?"
He nods with a curve of his lips. "Yes but I'm glad you didn't let her get injured."
My friend raises an eyebrow. "But I thought you didn't-"
"Don't get me wrong," He puts up a hand. "If it was any other being, I wouldn't have saved them but it was The Marchioness. She is married to The Marquess so she's equal in power as him."
She blinks for a few minutes. "I… you thought I saved her because I had a motive?"
"Wasn't that why?"
"No! Of course not!" She groans placing a hand over her face. "True. I had a plan to speak to The Marchioness to hopefully get on her good side but I would never hire someone to attack her so I could be a hero."
…
…
…
"Huh…" He places a hand under his chin with a calculating gaze. "Why wouldn't you?"
Is he kidding? There's no way he's being serious right now…
"If it were up to me, I would have totally done so. Not only I would become a hero in the eyes around me, I would gain the respect I deserved and essentially I could build from that."
"W… What…?" Purple eyes widen at the man before her. "So… so you would deliberately harm someone to benefit yourself?"
"Why so shocked?"
"You would harm an innocent being to-"
"Correction, I wouldn't use the word harm per se," His tongue clicks. "But rather the word exploit. I would exploit them and yes, manipulate them if they serve a benefit to me."
Has he always been like this? What happened to the kind Astral? Why has he turned so… calculating?
"You," An index finger points at him as she lets out a breath. "You know what? Forget it. I don't care anymore."
He shrugs folding his arms across his chest. "Suit yourself. But you got them to respect you. Good job."
"I don't need praise from such a cruel being." She snaps with a glare as he chuckles. "Seriously, you weren't like this before."
"It's more like you never knew me in the first place." He mutters beneath his breath as I look at him. "Let me tell you something, the world is a disgusting place. The less you care the better."
What is he… what would trigger him to think like that?
"Why would you say something like that?" His wife whispers staring at her husband. "The world is a place filled with beauty and life. It's not disgusting."
He scoffs. "I could give you a hundred reasons on the spot why this world is disgusting but you probably don't want to hear them."
My friend leans closer to me. "Hey, what's wrong with him?"
I shrug. "Don't look at me. I'm not a detective."
The woman on the bed clench her fist tight. "Why are you like this?" A whisper rings from her lips. "Tell me, why are you thinking like this?!"
He locks his gaze with hers not saying anything.
"Why would you have such a depressing view on life? On this world?" Her voice raises a few notches. "Do you really hate this that much? Why have you changed so much? Tell me! Why-"
"Beings change, Princess. Get over it."
Well I don't like it. It's like he's a different person. I can't even recognize him anymore.
"Mommy," A young girl points her finger at my friend furrowing her brows. "That's not dada."
Huh?
All eyes focus on him as The King and Queen enters along with my golden eyed friend.
"Melody," Her father frowns with a hurt expression. "Why do you keep saying that?"
"Because you are not my daddy."
"Did I do something wrong?" He raises an eyebrow stepping closer to her. "Whatever it was, I'm sorry."
Her eyes widen as she pushes me in front to use as a shield. What is she doing? Why is she acting like this in front of him? A tiny whimper escapes her lips. "No. Stay away from me."
I glance at The King and Queen as I can see them visibly tense up.
"Come on," Her father's arm open with a tiny smile. "Give daddy a hug."
Her head turns in the other direction as she grips my dress tighter. Perhaps… My green eyes narrow. Considering her reaction and his odd personality shift lately…
(Chuuuu)
"Who are you?" Purple eyes narrow as she suddenly stands in front of me. Her sword points towards his chest.
He blinks multiple times. His gold and silver eyes drift down to the sword then to his mother and father. "Mother, are you seeing this?" His lips curve into a pout. "Your precious daughter-in-law is aiming a sword at me. She wants to murder me."
"Can it." The woman tightens her grip on the sword. "Who are you and what have you done to my husband?"