Author's Note:
A few things before you read:
The Index was updated to match the new information in this chapter.
There's a new side story up that happens between chapter 16 and 17 (coming up to a total of 5 side stories until now).
I plan to post 2 side Halloween stories Oct. 31st, so please check it out then as well (they'll be alternative universe stories, so it doesn't affect the main story) ^^
A small warning: from now on the story will have a more heavy language, such as sexual and violent language and even a bit of mentions of blood, death, etc. I don't want to make specific warnings for every chapter so please be aware of this moving forward.
Have a nice time reading :)
Song recommendation: Can't Go to Hell by Sin Shake Sin
❥
"This game we're playing as flawed humans is rigged from the start, once you take one step forward you'll go two steps back, and after a while you'll end up where you began."
Night befalls quicker than Lowe would have wished, after he left Nikias bedroom to speak with his brother he still wasn't able to do so immediately, as once Hannah found him, she dragged him along to learn about wedding preparations as part of his training. It was chaotic to say the least, as everyone is on edge about the engagement of the Crown Prince, during everything he even spoke to the Empress herself, something he was never allowed to do before, as Hannah said he wasn't allowed close to her chambers for being a commoner.
What he learned through the few words he exchanged with the woman was that all she wants is her son to be well, asking Lowe to take good care of him, everything sounds so beautiful as the Empress herself, yet he, as a long-term servant of the Second Prince, knows the truth. How her wishes were empty of actions and the boy suffered for a long time the neglect of his parents.
After a long day, now the servant is walking to his room, massaging his neck, worries piling up the more he thinks about everything. Half-way he encounters his brother, it's been a few days he has seen Raphael for more than night-greetings and a short conversation, so he considers asking him to go out for dinner, but his younger brother's expression is so glum he immediately gives up.
''Brother'', Lowe says, catching the attention of Raphael that was leaning against the corridor's window, the bright moonlight of the Exos Empire's night reflecting on his brown eyes. ''Are you ok?'' He asks but his brother doesn't answer for a few seconds, not even looking at Lowe.
''Why didn't you tell me?'' His voice is hoarse and just then Lowe notices his brother's red eyes, as if he's been crying. He didn't need to ask 'what about?' or question the meaning of Raphael's words, as he knows exactly what would make him look so broken like that.
''Because I knew you would be hurt, and that would distract you from your goals'', Lowe answers with a sigh, ''Raphael, as your older brother-'' he doesn't get to finish his sentence as his brother interrupts him.
''I had the right to know!'' He yells, for a man that is usually composed, everytime Raphael loses his temper, Lowe can't seem to know how to act.
''You're right'', the man says at last, focusing on calming his younger brother down. ''I should have told you, I just wanted to protect you, I'm sorry'', he's sincere as he never will wish to hurt his brother, every action he takes, every choice he makes is to make his brother happy. Although he isn't sure if that's the truth anymore as earlier today he made a choice that might not please his brother.
Raphael stares deeply into his brother's eyes, in moments like these they don't feel like identical twins, they feel so fundamentally different that saying they're similar even in appearance would be stupid. When they were children maybe people mistook them frequently, after all they're a carbon copy of each other with some small differences, but as they grew up it was easy to see that Lowe was the more composed and polite one, while Raphael was most of the time considered a failure.
Everything he did was always behind Lowe, always taking a step into his shadow for his own preservation and safety. But now their paths are finally diverging, their future is no longer bound. And while Raphael is embracing this difference he can see in his brother's eyes that this is difficult for him, to accept that his younger brother isn't as weak and fragile as before.
''You need to stop trying to protect me!'' Raphael answers, still altered, ''I'm not a kid anymore, Lowe, even so, we're the same age, although you always seem to forget this''. He's right, of course he is, and the man knows that he's suffocating his brother, that his actions trap the man more than he wished to. But he can't help it, after years of sacrificing himself for his brother, how can he stop now? ''When will you start living for yourself instead of me?'' Raphael asks, his tone is tired and his expression is sad. ''I just want you to see me as your brother, not your child.''
What's the difference? Lowe wonders, from day one he was always the more responsible, so it was natural for him to take care of Raphael as he was more sensible, trapping his emotions inside a box in his heart was the logical choice when his brother was being whipped for crying. Grabbing the attention of their captors to protect his brother, taking in the punishments in his stead, it all was natural.
He will never regret what he gave up so that Raphael can keep all of his emotions and sanity, even if he gave up his own.
''I do see you as my brother'', he responds in a low tone, his head pounding.
Raphael sighs, putting his head on his hands, trying hard not to blow out again on his brother. He raises his head to stare deeply into his older brother's eyes, Lowe may think he hides everything oh so well, but Raphael can see it, how lost the man is now that he isn't glued to his brother all day. ''Lowe, when it was the last time you ever acted selfish?'' His question resonates deeply with the man. ''You're living for me, it's time to stop''.
Lowe stays silent for a moment before speaking, his eyes are frozen in place and as he moves his mouth he can taste a metallic flavor running through his tongue, as if those words are so weird to him, as if they were never supposed to leave his mouth. ''Today, that was the last time. Raphael, you don't know everything about me as well'', his words sound ruder than he wished for, yet they're true, and the truth behind his words surprise Raphael.
''What?'' He sounds more hurt than he wished to convey. ''What do you mean?''
He never wanted to speak about this so soon, nor he wanted to speak about such matters in an open place, he lowered his voice, taking a step closer to his brother as he looked around to make sure the hallway was empty and that there are no empty places people could be hiding in. ''I got a lover'', he whispers. Raphael's face could be described to be one of complete surprise or shock, but that even isn't enough to convey how much he didn't expect Lowe to say those words.
Sure the man was sleeping out more often than not, but all Raphael assumed was that his brother fell asleep reading books as usual in the Palace's Library, not that he was meeting someone for some secret rendezvous, of course Raphael doesn't share everything with Lowe, but he thought at least they were close enough to share when they someday fall in love.
In response to his brother's absurd words, Raphael grabs Lowe's wrist, pulling the man towards the room they share, not speaking a word until the door is closed and locked behind them.
''Who?'' Raphael asks, breathless.
''Rainier Bauldry'', his words are low and he seems slightly ashamed of them.
Just when Raphael thought he was shocked enough, he takes a step back, scratching his head, unsure on how to interpret everything. ''Lowe, you don't need to lie to make me feel better'', his words are careful, there is no way his brother is having a relationship with the Captain of the Silver Crows, especially what that relationship would entail.
''I'm not lying'', this time his tone is louder and his expression is as serious as it could be, it takes a moment for Raphael to completely understand.
''He's a noble''.
''Yes''.
''We're commoners''.
''Right''.
Raphael pauses for a moment. ''Lowe, you could get killed for this''.
Lowe shakes his head in response, ''It won't happen, Rainier has a plan''.
''Rainier? Are you calling him by his name already? Since when has this been happening?'' He asks, incredulous.
''Three months'', his answer further drives his brother madder.
''Why didn't you tell me?'' He's hurt, surprised, shocked and mad.
''I didn't think it was relevant'', his answer is way too true to his personality that Raphael can't even argue.
''You should've told me if you were in love, would you like me to hide such things from you?'' His question makes Lowe reflect, of course he would like to know if his little brother had someone he fancied, but that situation and this aren't similar at all.
''I don't love him'', he answers with a frown. ''Our relationship is complicated, I just didn't want to trouble you, that's all''.
''Why are you dating him if you don't even love him?''
''Because it made sense'', Lowe shrugs, unsure on how this conversation became an interrogation, not ready to talk deeply into why he accepted that absurd proposition from the future Duke.
Raphael stops, staring at his brother's troubled expression, deep in thought. Something about this situation doesn't feel right, as if Lowe is still hiding something, or maybe he doesn't even know what he's hiding, Raphael just feels deep inside his gut that maybe his brother's situation isn't that different from him and Frode, maybe he's feeling the need to succumb to Rainier Bauldry's threats, differently from Raphael, who's escaping the future Margrave the most he can. After all, Lowe never showed any interest in anyone before.
Especially men.
Sure he never showed equal interest to women, but in Raphael's perspective that was the obvious path for his brother, to become the head of a household, have brilliant children and a wife that balances out his cold exterior.
In his mind, his brother being with a poised noble never crossed his mind. After all, nobles are the origin of a good portion of their misfortune, and even if Prince Nikias is an exception to their distaste of nobles, he never thought that Lowe might make other exceptions.
Being able to read his brother to perfection isn't something only Raphael is able to do, Lowe can read his younger brother like a book, so now he can tell exactly what's crossing his mind.
''Raphael, our situation isn't similar. You're right I suffocate you sometimes, as I just want you to stay well and safe'', Lowe says, wrapping his arms around his brother, embracing him, trying to convey his feelings of worry and affection properly. ''I respect you and the fact that you want to build a future for yourself that doesn't include me in your life everyday for the rest of our lives'', he continued, taking a deep breath. ''It's hard on me to know what life is beyond being your brother'', his words make Raphael's eyes fill with tears, as he knows just how much Lowe sacrificed for him. ''I am truly trying to build a life apart from you as well'', he pauses before continuing. ''Being with Rainier is part of this, he's not forcing me. Even if I can never come to love someone, my choice to enter a relationship will never be rooted in threats'', he is sincere.
''I love you'', Raphael whispers, choking on his never ending tears.
Lowe nods as he tightens his embrace on the man, ''I love you too, brother''.
❥
The first thing Rainier does when he wakes up together with the sunrise is to go run around his property, watching as the golden rays kiss the flowers that bloom as he releases a bit of his mana with every step he takes. His days are always similar, waking up with the sun, running a few laps around his property, greeting his servants, eating breakfast with his father that is visiting for business and then going to the Palace to work.
There are moments that you stop and think, this will change my life, and to Rainier his relationship with Prince Nikias' servant is that moment, just like when he saved the Crown Prince from drowning all those years ago. His mind that was in constant turmoil for the last three months now feels clear, as if he just transcended by letting go of what was ailing him.
And just as he reflects about his decisions, the main source of his constant ailment is there, standing near the Palace's entrance, waiting for him.
Evangelia's dark black hair is being kissed by the sun, her eyes that are closed as if she's meditating make her look like a porcelain doll, she's stunning even while using clothes that aren't meant for nobility, yet her pose and actions are always as elegant as her position requires. After admiring the woman for a few moments, Rainier, who just found a new resolve, slaps himself across the face, the tingling feeling of his hand helping him to snap out of it. He closes his eyes, taking a deep breath, trying to think about Lowe's caramel eyes every time he falters as he looks at Evangelia.
When the woman spots him she opens a bright smile, a smile that now feels more like acid being poured on his heart than a blessing. ''Rai!'' she yells, running towards the man, once she reaches him she tucks her hair behind her ear before getting closer to hug Rainier, something they always did since they were children, but for the first time the man takes a step back.
''Hi Evangelia'', he smiles softly, trying to focus his thoughts on his new lover, attempting to not fall for the woman's disappointed expression or her sweet obsidian eyes.
''Why' did you back off?'' Her question is followed by a weak smile, her eyes faltering at the sight of Rainier's smile.
''Sorry I made a promise to someone, so I can't let you hug me'', his words are a mix of truth and lies, he's sure Lowe wouldn't care if Evangelia hugged him, but a promise is sacred, and he promised to let go of his feelings for the woman, loving the servant instead.
''To someone?'' She asks, laughing softly before speaking again. ''A lover?'' Her question is clearly a joke, as she doesn't expect the man that has been in love with her for 13 years to suddenly have a lover, yet that's exactly what it is.
Rainier's face becomes red as the woman is spot on in her guess. ''Yes, a lover'', his answer shocks the woman, who blinks slowly before noticing how she's letting her emotions leak beyond her controlled expressions.
''Who?'' Their conversation has been catching the eyes of the servants going by, just the mention of Lord Rainier Bauldry having a lover is enough to bring them all into bustling bubbles of whispers.
He's aware of the rumors that will surface soon, but when he decided to bring his relationship with Lowe to the light in order to heal himself from this pained love, he never intended to pay a mind to those who'll speak ill of him for such. But as he hasn't spoken to the Emperor about his request yet, he decides to simply lean over, to whisper in Evangelia's ear, being mindful to stay a few centimeters away so that his mouth doesn't even seem to touch her skin. ''Prince Nikias' butler in training, Lowe'', the name of the servant rolls off his tongue sweetly, he might even become addicted to saying his name at this point.
To say Evangelia flipped off at the mention of the Prince would be an understatement, Rainier can see in her eyes, the anger, the disbelief, yet the woman doesn't yell, she simply whispers for their ears only, her voice firm. ''Have you lost your mind?'' She takes a glance around them, checking if others are listening to them. ''You know how Nikias is, Rainier, those that surround him aren't much better''.
Sure, Rainier hates the Prince just as much as Evangelia, he never could stand the man and his actions always infuriated him. And he would never associate with those surrounding the Second Prince in normal situations, but his relationship with Lowe wasn't normal. In other parallel lives they might have never even met, much less date. ''Evangelia, there are things we must learn to let go in order to love someone properly'', he says, and that's the truth, the only thing he wouldn't do for Lowe is to betray the Crown Prince, other than that, he's willing to even bow his head to the man he hates the most, he might even be willing to pretend to respect and obey him if necessary to keep Lowe next to him.
A sacrifice Evangelia will never understand.
''He's evil! And isn't Lowe the one that made the poison for Alkaios?'' Her words make sense, sure do, but just like Rainier would try to kill Nikias if Alkaios ordered, he's sure Lowe did the same because of Nikias orders. Even if he's guilty by association he isn't the one deciding on such, therefore Rainier can show leniency, especially when the Crown Prince himself forgave his own brother for the poisoning.
''Evangelia, I can understand why you're upset, but please avoid speculating over my lover'', he speaks, his eyes are cold, an expression the woman never saw before, and at the end of the day the only ones that know that Lowe was truly the one that made the poison for Alkaios was him, Prince Nikias, his brother and now Rainier. All Evangelia has are guesses, sure her gut is mostly right, and she's right in her speculations right now, but if Rainier admitted to it, it would only harm someone he's willing to protect at any cost. ''You know very well I'm a loyal person'', he says, Evangelia's expression falters, as if she's thinking he knows I know he loves me, again, all Rainier has are guesses, just like the woman, but he is correct in his assumptions. ''Right now, above my lover it is only Alkaios, I hope you understand that''.
You're no longer my priority, is what he meant to say, but he doesn't need to explicitly say it, as Evangelia understood it, loud and clear.
Before she marries Alkaios, Rainier will never prioritize her over his lover, her opinions, her thoughts and her orders are now not second nor third, she's no longer in control of one of the Empire's strongest knights.
Slowly her foolproof plan is falling apart.
The path she forged to survive past Vremes rise is crumbling down.
And from now on, she will need to fix her plan and fix the mistakes Nikias existence brings.
❥
On the other side of the Blue Sea, Nikias never slept so well, devoid of any nightmare or memories hunting him down, he simply fell asleep and then woke up the next day fully rested. The darkness of the Morke Kingdom is somehow calming to him, but the lack of the sun still makes him feel weaker, I think I must be lacking vitamin D, he thinks, getting up from the bed. Differently from the Empire, the rooms at the Morke Kingdom's Castle are smaller and less extravagant, most of the decorations are old and religious and the bed makes noises that showcase it's an old frame, not that Nikias minds much, sure he got used to sleeping with silk sheets and waking up to a lighten up room, but compared to the pods at the homeless shelter, he doesn't really care about the difference in luxuries.
Being warm and comfortable is enough. He changes his clothes slowly thinking about how his day will go, he'll only have breakfast and another small meeting with Lyor before going back to the Empire. He wishes he could stay longer as they had planned before, but because of his brother's engagement, he can't stay as long as he wishes. His fingers linger on his lips as he stares beyond the window, he can see the bustling people laughing and working on the Castle and the dark sky looming over them. Soon they'll be my people as well, he thinks with a soft smile, I need to work harder to be a good Queen.
After his private kiss with the King, they had dinner together, the man surprising him with his favorite dish he mentioned in one of his letters, and allowing all of the knights to eat with them, making a good feast of commemoration. Nikias couldn't even hide his smile as Lyor sneakily grabbed his hand during dinner, or when the man made a speech about how happy he was about their partnership.
When those in the Exos Empire speak of caring about him, he always feels like their affection is misdirected, that they don't care about him, they care about the former Nikias. But with King Lyor is different, his affection, his words, his actions are directed at the person he met, not the one that previously resided inside this body.
Of course, although Nikias knows this is to be a fact, he still has a voice at the back of his mind saying that if he ever revealed to the King that the soul inside this body isn't of the person he thinks it is, he might feel angry or betrayed by Nikias.
A relationship purely based in trust is still hard for him to completely feel safe in. His thoughts are interrupted as a faint small yellow light catches his attention, he turns to the small side table next to the bed where he puts a few handkerchiefs for the fairy to sleep on.
He knew the fairy was close to their birthday, but as he didn't know exactly when it would be he was just carrying it along everywhere. Petal's eyes open slowly as the light fades, her eyes are now the same color as the petals surrounding her body, she stares slowly at Nikias, as if registering him inside her brain, after a few moments he feels a burning sensation on his chest, he pulls down his shirt to see a yellow symbol of a tulip on his chest.
She imprinted in me, he thinks with relief, even if the protection of the fairy isn't enough to protect him from a god, he still feels safer knowing he isn't completely vulnerable or dependent on Lyor. He touches Petal's head, stroking her yellow hair softly as the fairy rubs her face on his fingers, clearly overjoyed.
Then she just flutters her wings around in the air, flying around instead of just floating, she flies around the room, exploring the place. Nikias feels conflicted now, at first he wanted to just put the fairy in a locked room, safe from any harm, yet after being exposed to its presence and spending so long near it, he can't bring himself to do so.
The clear joy in Petal's face when she looks outside the window, makes his chest hurt, if he trapped her would he be just like his father? Would he just be the evil he always thought he thought he was or even was told he was?
''Petal'', his tone is soft, a contrast to how he usually speaks with his subordinates, the fairy turns to stare at Nikias, her eyes bright with excitement. ''Do you want to leave or do you want to stay with me?'' He asks, fairies can't speak human language, by what he read they usually communicate by gestures or small sounds. Petal stares at him for a moment before making a soft sound that reminds Nikias of wind in a fall evening, she then flies close to him, rubbing her face against his cheek and then resting on his silver hair. ''I'll take that as you want to stay with me'', he says with a sigh. It crossed his mind a few times, what would he do if he wanted the fairy to stay along with him, what should he do.
Just like when someone adopts a dog or a cat, fairies have a shorter life span than humans, accepting to take care of Petal and let her stay with him, means that he'll also need to someday witness her death. When fairies die they become a star, reminiscent of the love the Moon goddess has for the creatures, even so, he can't bear the thought of seeing someone die all over again.
But as the fairy is a living being, it should have the right to make its own decisions, so in the end he just decides to accept its decision.
A soft knock on his door, makes the man divert his gaze to the door, ''Enter'', he says, slowly the door opens to reveal Lyor, the man is standing at the door frame, staring at Nikias with his usual sweet gaze. A gaze so different from the first night they met, to see how far they came with just letters makes the man wonder how far they'll go once they're officially married.
The man's casual clothes just bring Nikias' eyes to his bulging muscles tight under the black long sleeved shirt he's using, and his hair is dripping wet again, as if the man keeps running towards him after showering, his eyes are shining with a glint Nikias can't quite identify, the contrast of his black eye and white one make him shiver, not like those that usually look into Lyor's heterochromatic eyes shiver, it was more of a oh my god, he's so fucking gorgeous, type of shiver. ''You look gorgeous'', the man comments, beating Nikias to the compliment, his face turning slightly red when he notices that Lyor's comment was because his shirt was still unbuttoned, showing the fairies' mark. ''It seems that she's two now'', the man says, walking towards Nikias, entering the room, his eyes going to the fairy in the Prince's head for a moment. ''She'll stay with you, I assume?''
Last night during their conversation, Nikias also laid to Lyor his plans, his conversation with Evangelia and his relationship with Alkaios, especially so that the man isn't caught by surprise when he arrives at the Empire and feels the hostility of the Crown Prince. Talking about the fairy and his goals with her were also part of their conversation.
''Yes, it was her choice'', Nikias answers with a nod, his eyes fixated on Lyor's.
''Do you really need to leave today?'' The man finally asks, his hand softly brushing Nikias' cheek.
Nikias closes his eyes, leaning against Lyor's cold hands, letting the cool refresh his mind. The man's touch tingling his skin, he feels at ease when they're this close, differently from how bothered he used to feel when it came to physical contact with others.
''Alkaios engagement party preparations include the complete isolation of the Royal family'', Nikias answers, blinking slowly as he watches Lyor frown.
''Is the risk of assassination that big?'' His question makes the Prince ponder for a few moments, he knows for a fact that there will be an assassination attempt that night, because it was a big event in the original novel. He already told Lyor that he knows the future, so it'll be okay if he shared that as well, right?
''Yes'', he answers softly, enjoying how Lyor's thumb caresses his cheek bone and then his ear. ''They will try to assassinate my brother, but it'll all end well'', he answers, barely noticing how non-challant he sounds while speaking about his brother almost dying, as if he's detached. But that doesn't go unnoticed by Lyor, who pauses his movements, staring deeply into Nikias' golden eyes.
''Can't you prevent it?'' His question makes sense, but Nikias never considered stopping those canon events, after all they have nothing to do with him, Alkaios isn't even his real brother. Even if he changed his eye and hair color he wouldn't even come close to looking like Zerah, even if Vahe and Nikias share their appearance and even Emperor Magnus is similar to their old man, Alkaios and Zerah only share their age. So it's hard to think of Alkaios as his real brother, sure he got used to referring to him as brother and acting as if he cares, but deep down, he doesn't truly care about the man.
''I don't think I should, it's an important event'', he answers, ''It is something that'll help him grow as a ruler'', he continues, ''He won't be hurt and no one will die, so…'' The more he speaks the more Lyor realizes how detached Nikias truly is from his family, as if he's speaking about strangers, even if your memory is gone, would you still not feel the familial bond they share?
''I see'', the King says, knowing that if he probed more he would only make Nikias worried. His gaze goes down to the man's hand, interlacing their fingers, also noticing the silver bracelet he gave the man, the day prior he hadn't noticed as the accessory was hidden under Nikias coat, but now knowing how he's wearing his gift makes a smile appear on Lyor's lips. ''You're wearing it'', he comments, making Nikias also look at the bracelet.
''Yes, it's beautiful, thank you'', the Prince says softly.
''Did it help you with the other artifacts?''
''Somehow, one of them I wasn't able to trigger it'', Nikias comments with a sigh, his thumb playing with Lyor's fingers.
''Some artifacts require a Saint's mana to open it, while others need a specific circumstance'', Lyor says, using his other hand to touch the sword earring he carries at all times. ''My sword only responds to my mana, for example''.
Nikias nods, he didn't think about that possibility. However he doesn't remember about the God of Love having a saint, if he isn't mistaken the god doesn't even have a blessed nation.
''I didn't think about that,'' he sighs, ''I'll just keep trying and if it doesn't work out I'll donate to the Empire's museum.
''You'll find a way'', Lyor whispers, placing his forehead on Nikia's, closing his eyes to inhale the man's sweet scent of spring. ''I'll miss you'', he says slowly, opening his eyes to find two golden irises staring deeply at him.
''You'll see me in a week'', Nikias whispers back, holding his breath as his gaze falls on Lyor's lips.
Lyor laughs softly, his breath tickling Nikias' nose. ''I can't wait for our marriage'', the King says. ''The fluttering leaves that fall when you walk by are lucky to be in your presence, and I'm jealous of the wind that caresses your skin when I'm not there, as your existence is a miracle for those who witness it'', Lyor whispers, quoting one of his philosophy books before placing a soft kiss on Nikias' nose.
''Which book is that?'' Nikias asks, breathless, his heart pounding strongly inside his chest, his nose burning because of the man's kiss.
''The Movement of Love'', the King answers, but none of them continue talking, their breathing unstable as their lips intertwine again, this time a soft kiss, this isn't their goodbye kiss, as that one must be made in people's presence, this is more of a morning kiss, meant to engrave their taste in each other's mind while they're apart.
❥
Nikias arrival back at the Empire is supposed to be uneventful, his plans were to take the rest of the day and train alongside his knights. Yet the moment he, Jiwon, Fleuri and Dacre arrive back at the Exos Empire, they're met with the presence of a headache. A man Nikias only spoke once at his birthday, a man whose snake eyes bring shivers to his spine.
''Margrave Larchier'', the Prince says, his eyes that were soft and joyous at the Morke Empire are now back at their usual expressionless and cold gaze. ''What do I owe the honor of being welcomed by you?'' His words are carried by sarcasm and anger, his golden eyes glowing strong as he can feel his mana threatening to leak. After Nikias learned how to use his mana, he has been able to notice even the small subtleties of when his mana leaks or when the mana moves inside his body every so now and then.
The blonde man smiles, his long blonde hair is fluttering against the wind, and his blue eyes are mysterious, his white magician's robe further completes his shady image. Nikias mind goes to the novel, where Nicholas Larchier's presence in the second arch of the story was followed by a legion of followers that constantly fawned over him on the internet. A mysterious blonde man, a clear contrast from Alkaios and Rainier, Nikias thinks, Nicholas was clearly introduced to shake Evangelia and Alkaios' marriage, after Rainier's death as the second male lead. However due to the nature of Alkaios and Evangelia's marriage and their mutually obsessive relationship, not a single reader bought that she would have second thoughts or want to be with someone else, even after the fallout they had in the third book.
''Your highness, I was looking for you when I heard you were at your fiance's Kingdom'', Nicholas' voice sounds like the hiss of a snake, his whole presence makes the Nikias uncomfortable. The man's blue eyes rest on Nikias' knights and aide. ''I would like to request an audience, unless you don't mind me spewing your secrets to your subordinates'', just like that night at Nikias coming of age ball, the Margrave's tone is one of superiority, as if he sees the Prince as inferior to him, as if he can threaten him and leave unscathed.
Per usual, Dacre opens his mouth to fight the Margrave, but this time Jiwon is quick to put his hand on the boy's mouth, stopping him from insulting a noble that could and would kill him for his insolence, also dragging the angry boy away from the conversation, being the firsts to leave. Leaving only Fleuri there, Nicholas looks at the half-elf that is hiding his ears again, his blue eyes reflecting the sun as if he knows something but rather not to speak. Of course he's also signaling for the man to leave, however Nikias instructions are for Fleuri to always stay near him unless he tells him otherwise, no one should order him around besides the Prince, as he is his aide and right hand, if he falters over someone else's orders, it'll reflect badly on Nikias. So he stands still even when the magician looks at him with a threatening expression.
Nikias steps out of the magic circle, ''You may speak while we walk to my office'', he says as he walks, not waiting for the man, Fleuri follows next to him.
Margrave Larchier seems troubled by the Prince's stance, but he follows him either way. ''Are you sure? It's quite sensitive''. His words don't scare him, Nikias is sure that his deepest secrets aren't known to no one but him.
''Yes, and if you won't start talking please leave as I find my time to be precious.', his tone is harsh as he isn't enjoying the man's company nor his gaze looking down at him.
''As a person destined to rule, you sure have a terrible reputation'', Margrave's words make Nikias stop on his tracks, to turn to look at the man, his eyes glowing in a dangerous tone of gold, darker than usual, yet just as glimmering.
Golden mana for a person destined to rule, that's what Lowe told him, of course although he ended up deciding on taking the role of one as Queen of the Morke Kingdom, he can't help but feel anger towards those words, as if his future was decided by the color of his mana, something he never even had as Vahe.
''Don't speak of destiny as if you're acquainted with the God of Destiny'', Nikias answers, starting to walk again.
''But that is what all the books say about your mana, your highness'', Nicholas continues, not cowering in the face of a powerful predator as Nikias, of course because he's a skilled hunter himself.
''Books can be wrong if their writers don't have all the facts'', he retorts, opening the door of his office. Fleuri is the last to enter the room, locking the door behind them and going to his desk to check his overdue documents while he also pays attention to the conversation between the two nobles.
''In your case I don't think the assumption is incorrect'', Nicholas states sitting on the office's sofa without being asked to, which ticks Nikias off ever further.
''Margrave, I think you're a bit behind on the facts, everyone is already aware of my mana'', at first Nikias wanted to hide it, but after his little demonstration at the dinner room when Alkaios provoked him, made everyone aware of the Second Prince's new found mana, being even the cover of a few sensationalist newspapers.
''Are they aware of the divinity behind it as well?'' His words make Nikias blood boil, and the smirk on his face makes the Prince punch his desk, which he's leaning against. The wood breaks under the pressure of his mana.
''Be careful about what you speak, margrave, you might be a high-ranking noble, but even you can't get away with angering a royal''.
Nicholas raises his hand, still smirking. ''Sorry your highness, I have no intention in angering you, rather I am very interested in studying your mana, that's why I'm here'', after hearing his words Nikias scoffs. ''Especially regarding the divinity of saints, you see it's a subject I'm quite enthralled by''.
With the word saint, Fleuri stops his pen and gazes at the Prince, who is clearly about to start a fight with Margrave. The half-elf praises himself for being smart, however he never thought that the man he serves now is a saint, but it makes so much sense, his words, his actions and his powerful mana.
''I advise you to stay quiet'', Nikias says, getting up and walking towards the Margrave, his mana now leaking on purpose, a shining glimmer taking over the floor of his office. ''I can stand a lot of things, but being crossed isn't one of them''.
Even with the threats, the man doesn't falter. ''I just want a few samples of your mana, I have no intention in insulting the God of the Sun by picking a fight with his saint.''
Just with those words, everything clicked, why he and Aelius shared a mana property, why he felt weak in a nation with no sun and why he felt more energized in the Exos Empire, the nation of the Sun God. How Nicholas Larchier knew that before him is something that even if he wished to ask he doesn't wish to know the answer.
''Even if I'm a saint'', Nikias says, ''You have no business studying me or my mana, so what do you have to offer in exchange? Because your silence isn't worth much''.
Of course that's a bluff, if the Temple found out about his divinity, Prince Nikias might get trapped in the Empire forever, but he can still find ways to fight the Temple, especially considering how strong Lyor is.
The Margrave stays silent, thinking about what he has to offer. There is a lot Nikias could ask of him, he was the biggest ally for Evangelia regarding information and resources, especially when they had to find relics to help fight the God of Time. But Nikias doesn't have much use for relics.
''I can provide you information'', finally the Margrave says, ''As a gesture of goodwill I'll give you a freebie'', he continues, his blue eyes muddy as he smiles mysteriously. ''The one you seek to break is involved with what the Crown Princess is seeking to extinguish'', and there it is, the riddles, the annoying way of passing down information, assuming the one receiving will understand everything.
But Nikias won't stand for that disrespect for much longer, just like Irene told him about it, he focused his eyes on Nicholas' neck, imagining as if he's reaching the man with his mana, choking the man in his mind, and it doesn't take long for him to actually start seeking for air. His face reddening and his blue eyes opening in surprise. For someone so well-informed he probably assumed the Prince was still with the same meek personality, a crass mistake on his end. When Nikias releases the man, he's coughing and grasping for air, Fleuri simply stares at the beautiful trace of the glimmering mana of Nikias that fades in the air like stars in the dark sky. ''Do not test my patience any further, Margrave''.
The man nods, his usual eyes of superiority and smirk now gone. He's starting to understand why the Imperial Knights were so worked up about the Second Prince. ''Duke Sawdon is using one of his houses to connect the Whisperia Kingdom and the Exos Empire, so that he can smuggle mana stones there''. He speaks clearly this time.
Nikias nods. ''You can leave now, Margrave, if your information comes to be true, I'll contact you again''.
❥
Lowe is unsure why he and his brother were called over Nikias office as soon as the man arrived from the Morke Kingdom, especially with the urgency they were, Fleuri being the one guiding them, the half-elf is silent, as if something happened that made him lost inside his thoughts.
As a butler he should have greeted Nikias when he arrived, but as the man arrived at an earlier time than informed previously, Lowe wasn't able to, he is sure that the Prince doesn't care about such things, however right now he has a lot that could anger Nikias. His relationship with Rainier and the fact that he read his secret scribbles about the future, but as he is being dragged there alongside Raphael, the topic at hand is probably something else.
When they arrive at the office, Fleuri is quick to lock the door and sit at the sofa, his eyes unfocused, Nikias is standing next to the window, also just as deep in thought as his aide. Lowe and Raphael greet the Prince and sit next to Fleuri at the sofa.
Nikias stays silent as he sits in front of them, his expression dark, it's not unusual for the Prince to be deep in thoughts, but the tone in his golden eyes today feel more dangerous than usual.
''I do not enjoy changing my plans so quickly'', Nikias starts speaking, his voice deeper than usual. ''However I'll need to request my brother's help to deal with the Duke'', he says. ''As his fiance will soon get involved with this, I can't keep them in the dark or this might backfire on us'', he continues, his eyes unfocused as if he's thinking as he speaks. ''Margrave Larchier was here moments ago, claiming to know the origin of my mana and asked to study it, in exchange he offered a piece of information on the black market mana stone trade and Duke Sawdon'', Nikias then looks at Raphael. ''Mobilize everyone, this is a priority, I want this to be done before my engagement party'', he says. ''After I speak with Alkaios we'll plant spies at the mansion and try to shut down their operations, with their help or not''.
''And how should I separate the knights?'' Raphael asks with a nod.
''Fleuri will contact Cypress to request the data on Lyor's spies in the Empire, we'll use them to infiltrate the mansion, as our members are too recognizable. Put Dacre and Jiwon on stake out after Alkaios' engagement, have them report any disturbance at the mansions, so that we can identify the specific location. Ask Gutierre to search the local markets, as he was a previous mercenary and merchant he probably knows where to go, I'll probably put him with one of my brother's knights for this, Tove is a good choice.'' he takes a deep breath as he thinks. ''I'll talk with Irene about making the tracking devices quicker, we'll need them for this… And you partner up with Miyuki to investigate the Duke's ledgers and transactions, put him to follow him if necessary'', he continues, then his gaze moves to Lowe. ''If you could speak with Rainier, we'll need to convince Evangelia to cooperate, not only my brother''.
''Why would he listen to me, your highness?'' His question is cautious, he started dating the noble yesterday so there's no way for the Prince to know.
''I know you have a relationship with him, I do not care about the origin or nature of it'', Nikias says, his tone is serious, Lowe gulps as his eyes seem to scan his very soul. ''But by what I saw of you two, he might listen if you speak with him.''
''I'll try'', Lowe answers simply, his gaze on his trembling hands, his mind going back to the scribbles he saw on Nikias table. He needs to talk with the man about it, but will that lead to the Prince not trusting him anymore? The lack of response of the mana pact mark on his wrist means that he should follow his gut and tell the Prince, but since he started opening the box of emotions he shoved down, he's beginning to second guess his own instincts.
''What about Scarlet?'' Raphael asks.
''Ask her to investigate inside her own home, her parents must have some information on the Duke as they were partners in some business in the past'', Nikias states, he stays silent for a moment, thinking before speaking again. ''I'm a saint'', he says, at first he was unsure, he didn't hear god's voice, nor did he have a light befall him as he was blessed, but deep inside him he knows it's true.
Lowe and Raphael are shocked, of course, but just like Fleuri, they aren't that surprised by the information, it makes complete sense.
''The Sun God's saint'', Nikias continues, ''And this information must be kept a secret at all costs until my engagement to Lyor is complete'', he says, his tone is more of a threat. ''Do you understand?'' He asks. ''If anyone threatens to speak about this, you must stop it''.
Of course he is referring to Margrave Larchier as he is the only one not in that room that knows this. At least that Nikias is aware of.
A sigh leaves his lips, he wants to write a letter to Lyor, asking for advice just to read the man's sweet words, when he said he would miss him so early, he didn't understand, but now he does, as he misses the man as well. It's almost as if when he's around Lyor the world becomes so… uncomplicated.
''Of course, your highness'', Raphael answers, nodding.
''Yes'', Lowe says as well, his mind somewhere else.
''Well, get going, let's end this as quick as possible'', Nikias says, getting up, Raphael is the first to leave, followed by Fleuri that is going to send his letter to Cypress, leaving Lowe behind at the Prince's office with Nikias.
''Your highness'', he speaks slowly, his eyes focused on the floor, unsure of how to start talking about the subject at hand.
''Yes, Lowe?'' Nikias answers as he takes a seat at his desk, ruffling his documents to find his paper for letters.
Before he speaks, Lowe locks the door, so that they aren't overheard or interrupted. ''I know about you knowing the future'', his words are calm, Nikias doesn't flinch or even raise his head. ''And I saw the notes you made on Lord Rainier's death'', just then the Prince looks up, his eyes don't show anger or a hint of danger as Lowe expected.
All Nikias eyes show is surprise and sadness, as if he can imagine how the servant came across that information, recalling his own mistake.
''I don't expect you to tell me all that happens'', Lowe continues, feeling more confident after the Prince didn't resort to anger. ''And it's probably due to your divinity that you even know those things'', he says, taking a deep breath, thinking about how to continue. ''But I would like to be so bold to ask, why are you allowing those things to happen? Why not change it?''
Nikias blinks slowly as he stares at Lowe, the servant's eyes are hesitant and he seems unaware of the fear he's letting it show. The Prince never really intended to hide that he knows the future, after all Lyor knows that and he knew one day he would have to say that to his servants as soon things will become trickier and convincing his man about something that is to happen is harder without the evidence to back it up. However it wasn't supposed to happen this soon, and he assumed Fleuri would be the first to find out as they spend the longer time together, but he didn't calculate that even if the half-elf knew he would never confront the Prince about it, differently from Lowe or even Raphael.
''Because some things are meant to happen regardless of my interference'', Nikias answers, ''And others must happen so that the world doesn't come to an end''.
''Your highness…'' Lowe says, his hands trembling as he does something he would never in the past, the memories of the times he was whipped, beaten and tortured for speaking his mind coming to the surface, but either way he continues to speak. ''If I said I would like to save Lord Rainier, would you share what you know to help me achieve that?''
''Why would you want to do that?'' Nikias question carries only curiosity.
''Lord Rainier and I are lovers'', Lowe states, ''And I wouldn't be happy if he died'', his words are simple, he doesn't lie, he doesn't say he loves the man or something like that, because even if he wanted to, he can't lie to the Prince.
Nikias nods, sighing. ''Rainier will die in two years protecting Alkaios from a mana stone mine collapsing, this will be orchestrated to kill my brother, Rainier sacrificing himself is the only way for him to survive''.
''What if he just doesn't go to the mine?'' Lowe asks, but the Prince shakes his head.
''It's a fact that can't be changed'', Nikias says, as in every timeline Evangelia tried different things to change that fact from happening, however she never succeeded, as if it was destiny itself interfering. ''His death might be able to be changed'', he continues, as Evangelia only tried to stop the mine from collapsing or Alkaios from going there, never Rainier's death by itself.
''How?'' Lowe asks.
''That isn't for me to think about, Lowe'', Nikias says, ''I'll answer your questions and provide you the information you need, but it's up to you and Rainier to change the future'', he continues. ''Do you even know if he would change it if given the opportunity?'' His question makes Lowe flinch.
The duty of a knight is to die for their lord, maybe Rainier won't care if he dies to save Alkaios, but the slim possibility of being able to keep the man alive still makes Lowe want to try to do so, regardless of what Rainier might say about it.
''I wouldn't let him die regardless'', he answers sincerely, making Nikias smile with sadness in his gaze.
''Lowe, you and Raphael can move your lives and request my aid when you need it. As I always tell you, as long as you don't betray me I'll do my best to help you as well.'', He's honest, after all he is their employer at the end of the day, it's not just because he's a Prince that he'll use his status and force his subordinates to do his bidding. All relationships must be of equal transaction, or one day Nikias will wake up with a knife at his throat.
''I understand and appreciate it, your highness'', Lowe says with a bow, lost in his own thoughts, leaving right after.
For the first time in a while, Nikias is left alone with his thoughts, the actions of the servant surprised him, he never took Lowe for the emotional type, even when he was prone to anger it all felt rational. Maybe Nikias truly shouldn't feel so detached from what will happen in the future, the deaths, threats and assassination attempts, maybe just like Lyor asked, he should attempt to stop it.
But when he isn't sure of the ripple effect if he intervenes too much with the main story of the novel and changes canon events, he can't be confident enough to do so. Not when him being alive is the biggest ripple yet.
If his existence fastens Vremes arrival or causes more deaths than necessary then he'll never be able to forgive himself, so all he can do is give the cards to someone else, and let them decide on how to act with it.
❥
Chapter Curiosities:
A few symbolisms I used in the last chapters:
Peaches are mentioned a lot when I write on Nikias and Lyor's relationship, the fruit symbolism is diverse depending on what region you come from, but the symbolism I was going for was: 'protection from evil', 'romance' and 'longevity', a bit of a mix of symbolisms, but I do enjoy mixing a few things up to build my own.
Tulips is also being mentioned a lot, especially regarding Petal and Nikias, the symbolism I use can vary in the situation, but mostly is: 'hope', 'renewal', 'happiness' and 'resilience'.
On the new characters introduced after Chapter IX (the last chapter curiosities)
Miyuki is a feminine name of Japanese origin, and it means 'beautiful fortune', and yes I chose a more feminine name for a reason although he is a man.
Clara is a name of Latin origin and it means 'bright' and 'clear'.
Also on Nicholas, since he didn't have one yet, his name is similar to Nikias in its Greek origin and meaning, as Nicholas means 'victory of the people', also inspired by the goddess of victory, Nike. Their names are similar yet they couldn't be more different hahaha.
The Priests:
Saurav is a name of Indian origin and it means 'divine'.
Cessair is a name of Irish origin and it means 'sorrow'.