Here we are at Chapter 7. Who's up for a tea party with royalty? I do not own Code Vein. They belong to Bandai Namco. I only own my OCs. Here's chapter 7. Enjoy. Have a Happy Thanksgiving!
Chapter 7: Royal Drama
"Um... Carol, is this really necessary?" Yuki asks as Carol practically flies around the room, grabbing fabrics and materials to use in making her a new outfit.
"Are you crazy, Milady?! You're about to have a private tea party with the princess herself. This is no time for half measure. I said I'd make you an outfit for this tea party and I meant it!" Carol is so energetic that it's starting to scare Yuki a little bit.
"You know, I could help out with that. Eight arms are better than two. I'll even let you borrow my silk as well," Hana offers, watching this scene unfold from the ceiling.
"Oh, that would be great!" Carol says, having lost her original wariness around the arachne.
After she learned about Hana's talent and passion for making clothes from Hiei, Yuki told Carol. Suffice it to say, that may have become a mistake as the two were now partners in crime when it came to fashion. And Yuki was about to become their first victim.
"Hana, is Hiei feeling better?" Yuki asks.
After their outing the day before, Hiei stated she wasn't feeling well and said she wouldn't be able to join Yuki for the tea party. She's avoided the noble daughter since then.
Hana sighs, "Yeah, maybe a little tired. But, I'm sure she'll be fine. Just give her a little time,"
"I see. I hope she feels better," Yuki mutters.
Hana sighs again. Hiei just had to make things difficult, didn't she.
...Flashback Begins...
"You're saying you've... fallen for Yuki?" Hana asks, wanting to make sure she heard right.
"I believe so. This date... was fun. And she held my hand, and defended me from being discriminated against... and when she kissed my cheek-," Hiei counts down.
"Ooh, made that much progress huh?" Hana teases her, but when Hiei doesn't take the bait, she gets concerned. "Hey, what's the problem, Hiei? If you're saying you've developed feelings for her, shouldn't that be a good thing?"
"Normally yes, but not in this instance. I am the princess' protector. My duty is to serve and protect her, not enter a relationship with her. Besides, I'm lowborn while she's a duchess' daughter in this land and a princess back home. Our social standing is far too different. And even if that wasn't the case, what if she doesn't feel the same?" Hiei displays her worries.
"Uh, she kissed you on the cheek right?" Hana deadpans.
"Y-Yeah," Hiei blushes at the memory.
"Then I think that's a good indication that she may like you, even if she doesn't show it on her face. You think she'd kiss the cheek of a total stranger, or noble etiquette for call for something like that if no emotions were involved?" Hana asks again.
"W-Well... I don't think so," Hiei stutters.
Hana comes down from the ceiling, "Okay, look, I'm not an expert on romance. I mean, I'm an arachne who, as you know, likes both men and women, though don't tell anyone about that just yet. But, I can at least tell you this. Yuki doesn't care about social status. Hell, her mothers are prime examples of that. There's also the chance that she may have feelings for you, but doesn't realize it. She's not the most expressive person we've met; in case you haven't noticed. She might just need a push in the right direction, and you'll have to be the one to do it," Hana says, which only makes Hiei sigh and her shoulder sink. "Okay, look, I'll cover for you at this tea party. The princess doesn't seem to have an issue with me being an arachne, so that's a plus. In the meantime, you figure out your own feelings while Yuki's away. And I'll see if I can find out exactly how she feels about you. Sound like a plan?" Hana suggests.
"Yeah, that sounds like a plan," Hiei replies.
"Good. You can't dodge her forever, and she's gonna get worried if you avoid her. So, figure yourself out by the time we get back alright," Hana says.
"You're right. I can't run forever. I just... need some time," Hiei replies, her mind a little clearer now.
...Flashback Ends...
Hana finishes her recollection just in time to see Carol standing in front of them with her materials in hand.
"Alright, I have what I need. Let's get to work. Hana, I'll need your help!" Carol has that look in her eye again.
"You got it," Hana gives her a thumbs up, or down given her upside-down position, while Yuki just sighs in defeat.
...
A while later, Yuki's carriage arrives at a royal villa near the school. This is one of several properties owned by the royal family. It is here that Princess Iris scheduled their tea party. Apparently, she wanted this to be a private party, so only Yuki and her roommates were invited. She kept it as quite as possible so other noble students at the academy wouldn't make a fuss about it. The driver opens up the door and Carol steps out first, followed by Hana who is wearing a purple dress drop with black frills and white gloves. After her steps out Yuki, who is wearing an aquamarine dress with two shades of the color. The top is a darker shade while the skirt is a lighter shade. The sleeves are a light shade until they reach the shoulders and grow darker. Her hair was curled towards the end and she's wearing the hair ornament Hiei got her the day before. Finally, she has on a silver necklace and white heels. They walk up to the gate where a pair of guards stand on watch. The guards quickly get cautious upon seeing Hanazuki, which she expected. However, the tension drops when a woman in shining armor exits the gate. One whom Yuki recognizes.
"Mother Iris!" Yuki looks happy to see one of her mothers.
"Yukitsuki, I'm glad to see you doing so well," Iris smiles at her daughter. "How you've grown. You're much more beautiful than the last time I saw you. And this would be..." she turns her attention to Hana.
"This is my friend, Hanazuki. She was invited along with me," Yuki gestures to her.
"A pleasure, Ser Iris Kusanagi. I've heard a little about you from Princess Hikaru," Hana bows her head.
"I'm sure she's had plenty to say. I would say the same about her," Iris shakes her head. "You two may stand down, now. These are Her Highness' guests. You don't want to give them the wrong impression about royalty, do you," Iris commands the two guards, who holster their spears. "Come, I'll show you inside."
They head inside, they are greeted by a butler who escorts them out into the garden in the back. They find a small pavilion. Inside the pavilion is a table with sweats and tea waiting. They also spot the princess, wearing a white and green dress that looks both beautiful and expensive.
"I'm so glad the two of you could come to my tea party," Princess Iris greets them.
"We are honored by your invitation, Your Highness," Yuki curtsies while Hana bows.
"Now, now, no need for that. I want to become friends with you. We may not be in school right now, but my request remains the same," Princess Iris shakes her head.
"Um, Your Highness, are you sure it was wise to invite an arachne here?" one of the princess' maids asks, eyeing Hana with worry.
"It is fine. Besides, Ser Iris seems to trust her enough, as does Lady Yuki. Please settles down. Remember, the Dragon Alliance is our ally and a nation of many races and species. There is no room for discrimination here," Princess Iris says.
With that settled, they take their seats, though Hana stands since the seat wasn't made for her. Though, she doesn't mind.
"So, how are things with you, Yuki? Everything going well at the academy?" Princess asks while sipping her tea.
Yuki nods, "For the most part, yes. I'm learning a lot, and I've made a few friends like Hana and Hiei, and you Princess,"
"And what about you, Hanazuki? I hope you aren't having too much trouble," Princess Iris asks.
Hana shrugs her shoulders, "Eh, about as well as I expected. This nation is primarily made up of humans. There's bound to be some with the ideas that humans are superior to other species. It happens a lot in foreign countries,"
"I'm sorry you feel that way. Please understand, people like that are a minority in our country. They do not represent the majority. On behalf of them and the royal family, I am sorry for what you've both had to endure," Princess Iris bows her head.
"Raise your head, Princess. There is no need to go that far. Besides, where I come from, an apology can only hold weight if it comes from the party responsible for the crime. I doubt I'll get that from the other nobles, so it is what it is," Hana waves it off.
"How dare you brush aside Her Highness' generosity!" one of the maids exclaims.
"Enough! It's alright. The fact remains that nobles of our own kingdom have committed offenses to Hanazuki. The Dragon Alliance is our ally. We can't let old ideals and perspectives destroy everything we have built together. The war took so much from all of us. But now, we can finally all live in peace. I don't want to see that peace go so soon," Princess Iris decrees and the servants back off.
"Oh, you can look at the bigger picture. I'm impressed. I can see why the people love you so much, Princess Iris," Hana smirks.
"As royalty, I have a great responsibility. I can't falter here. But, perhaps a change of topic. Time for some girl talk. I heard you went out into the city with Hiei, Yukitsuki. Were you two on a date?" Princess Iris asks.
"A d-d-date?! Yuki, explain, now!" Iris asks, wanting answers from her daughter.
"Well, it's true that I went into the city with Hiei, just the two of us. Carol and Hana made new outfits for us respectively for the outing. I had a wonderful time with Hiei. I've gotten to learn more about her since we became friends and I quite enjoy her company," Yuki explains.
"Her? A girl?" Iris thought she went out with a boy, her mind malfunctioning upon hearing the word 'date'.
"Don't worry, Hiei is very loyal to Yuki. And she's a kitsune, not an arachne like me. She doesn't get the kind of trouble I deal with on a regular basis. Hiei told me she had a great time too," Hana shows a teasing smirk. "That reminds me, didn't you do something when you and Hiei got back to the academy?"
"Huh? What do you mean?" Yuki blinks in confusion.
"Come on, you know what I mean," Hana taps her cheek.
"Oh, you mean when I kissed her on the cheek?" Yuki remembers now.
"You did what?!" Iris freaks out a little.
It seems she might be the 'overprotective' parent in the family.
"I wanted to thank her for the fun time and that felt like the right thing to do," Yuki replies.
"Oh my, how scandalous. Perhaps a new romance is brewing right here," Princess Iris gets really interested now. "Tell me, Yukitsuki, do you like Hiei? As more than a friend?"
"Do I like Hiei... as more than a friend?" Yuki mutters as she gets lost in thought.
She thinks back on all the moments they've had together so far, even if it was only a short time. Like when Hiei saved her from falling into that mud pit, or when they talked about each other's scars, and the fun moments they had on their date. When she thought about it again, she realized that she didn't think when she kissed Hiei on her cheek. She just acted, and she felt like it was the right thing to do. As her thoughts continue to swirl in her head, her cheeks grow pink, even if her facial expression hasn't changed much.
Those around her take notice, "Oh my, perhaps you do!" Princess Iris coos.
"It seems like our little snow princes has a crush," Hana jokes.
"Yukitsuki!" her mother Iris gets flabbergasted.
"Um, I can understand your concern, Ser Iris. But, I mean, you got engaged to Ser Fuyumi at a young age, right? And she married multiple women and had multiple mistresses It's no secret in the Dragon Alliance since she married Princess Hikaru. Are you really in a position to talk?" Hana notes.
"Eh, I... Uh, I mean-well..." Ser Iris stutters.
She wasn't expecting Hana to make that kind of argument, nor did she have a rebuttal at her disposal. Hana is right after all. Though several years have passed since then, Iris was relatively young when she married Fuyumi. She became the youngest knight to get appointed to the royal guard in history. Same with Emilia. And while she may not admit it, they did more than just a few dates before getting married.
"Besides, would you rather it be a boy that she's interested in?" Hana continues.
Ser Iris grips her fists and clenches her teeth since she can't make any kind of counter argument.
"You are... not mistaken," Ser Iris admits defeat.
"What about Lady Sophia Ramona? It seems like she may be interested in Lady Yukitsuki as well," Princess Iris remembers the second year.
"Huh?!" and Iris freaks out again.
"Hmm, I haven't decided yet. I don't dislike her, but we haven't interacted much. Maybe after spending some more time with her, then I'll have an answer," Yuki taps her chin.
"B-But what about Hiei?" Ser Iris asks.
"I mean, Mother Fuyumi has you, Mother Emilia, Mother Anelia, Mother Hikaru, Aunt May, Aunt Yukio, and Aunt Elane. And you all get along so well," Yuki says.
Another point made. Perhaps because she was surrounded by so many mother figures who were together that it gave her the idea that something like that was normal.
"Well, polygamy is accepted in this country. Perhaps the apple doesn't fall too far from the tree, heh-heh," Princess Iris giggles.
"Your Highness, this is my daughter we're talking about here," Ser Iris interjects.
"I suppose I wouldn't mind having more than one girlfriend. Just like Mother Fuyumi," Yui adds fuel to the fire.
"Yukitsuki!" Ser Iris shrieks.
The rest of the tea party goes off without a hitch, though Ser Iris will probably have trouble relaxing after that with everything that was said.
...
Meanwhile, Hiei is in the academy library, doing some studying to take her mind off of things. It wasn't working. She's been staring at the same page for the last ten minutes now. Hiei sighs as her mind is still a mess.
"Hmm, a sigh doesn't suit a strong lady such as yourself," Hiei looks up to see Sophia standing in front of her.
"Lady Sophia," Hiei greets her stoically.
"Now, now, no need to be so defensive. I saw you staring at that same page now and I got a little concerned. Anything I can help with?" Sophia asks, sitting across from her.
"I'm fine. I do not require your aid," Hiei politely refuses the offer.
"Oh, that's a shame. But, let me guess, romance troubles?" Sophia says, making Hiei's ears twitch. "Ah, looks like I got close enough."
"It is none of your concern," Hiei looks away.
"You're not a very good liar, Lady Hiei. You should work on that. But, I'll retreat for now," Sophia says before standing up. She walks around the table and leans in close to Hiei. "If you don't settle your own feelings soon... then I may just steal Yukitsuki away from you," she whispers into her ear.
Hiei's body jolts and she swings around to watch Sophia leave with a wave of her hand. Hiei clenches her hand as Sophia's words linger in her head. That wasn't a threat. That was a challenge.
"Hey," Hiei calls out, making Sophia stop and look back at her. "Why are you so interested in Yuki? Most students here mock her and harass her. And you barely know her," Hiei asks.
"True, but I don't support their opinions of her. I've seen firsthand those who were lowborn have incredible power. It wasn't social standing that ended the war with the empire, it was strength. The kind of strength that the hero, Fuyumi Kusanagi, possesses," Sophia replies.
"And you believe Yuki has that same strength?" Hiei cocks an eyebrow.
"Maybe. But, I'm sure yet. However, that's not the only reason I have an interest in her. She intrigues me, and I like intriguing people. Plus, she's quite beautiful. I want to know everything about her. EVERYTHING. Like I said, if you don't act soon, I will," Sophia answers back before finally leaving.
Hiei stares at her retreating back, "I'm done hesitating,"
Outside the library, Sophia giggles, "That's the spirit. Otherwise, it won't be as much fun. I wonder what she might do when I claim Yukitsuki for myself," she then walks away.
"Hello, dear sister," Sophia stops and looks ahead to see a boy in a school uniform ahead of her.
He has the same hair color as her, but his hair is short and spikey and faded on the sides. His eyes are grey and his uniform bears a different symbol than hers, the mark of the third years.
"Oh, brother Thorsen, how nice to see you again," Sophia greets her older brother.
"Father told me about the task he gave you. I must admit, I don't see a point in trying to woo the ADOPTED daughter of a rival ducal family. She is not of noble blood. She has talent with magic, I will admit that, but that is all. Why would father have to fear her?" Thorsen wonders out loud.
"The Crystalgloves have grown in power and standing over the past several years, that's why. He wants to stand at the top. Well, the top that's still below the royal family, that is. Besides, I find that girl interesting. If you met her, you might understand why, though I doubt that would be a good idea given your personality. It would be foolish to make enemies out of Fuyumi Kusanagi's family. That family includes the Crystalgloves AND the imperial family of the Dragon Alliance. Which makes Yukitsuki an imperial princess as well. At least in the alliance, she outranks us," Sophia politely retorts.
"Hmph, only in the Dragon Alliance, and only to a certain degree. She still lacks the blood of nobility or royalty. Though, I guess maybe that's why you're interested in her..." Thorsen walks by Sophia. "Since you lack the blood of a true noble as well."
He walks away while Sophia just stands there. Her fists clench and she has a pained look in her eyes.
...
In the city, Raul is on his way back after having a meal. However, the food did little to improve his mood.
"Those damn commoner wenches. How dare they humiliate me in front of everyone, even the princess. I swear I'll get back at that little common whore, Yukitsuki. I just need to get her while her guard is down," Raul mouths off, seething.
"Oh, Yukitsuki was it?" a male voice calls out.
"Huh? Who's there?' Raul looks around.
From the shadows, a cloaked figure steps out, "Perhaps I could help you solve your problem..." the man smirks, his face hidden.
And that's the chapter. Yuki has her tea party with the princess, while Hiei tries to figure out her feelings for Yukitsuki. Meanwhile, other parties begin making their moves and they all have their eyes on Yukitsuki. Will Yukitsuki be alright? What will happen between her and Hiei? Until then, please Read and Review.