The Two Sides of Prince Atta
Two days later, the long-awaited moment arrived. Prince Atta was preparing for his departure to Saint Athepia—the most elite magic academy in the world, located in the Angel Kingdom.
In his chambers, Atta stood shirtless as he dressed for the journey. He was fastening the buttons of his black shirt when a knock sounded on the door.
"Come in," he said casually.
A middle-aged man entered, bowing stiffly.
"I am the chief of market security, my prince. I was told you requested me."
Atta didn't glance at him, continuing to button his shirt. His tone shifted, low and commanding.
"On your knees. Now."
The man froze, startled. "M-my prince… did I do something wrong?"
Atta finally turned, his crimson eyes sharp.
"Yes. Two days ago, in broad daylight, I witnessed a robbery in the marketplace. And you—its chief protector—stood by while civilians suffered."
The man's face went pale. He stammered, "My prince, the bandits… they're strong. They have connections. Sometimes mistakes—"
"Excuses." Atta cut him off, turning to the mirror to tie his long red hair back neatly. "Your job is to keep the people safe. You failed. You're suspended for one month. Leave."
The man bowed, trembling, and hurried out. Atta adjusted his collar one last time, his reflection staring back at him with an unreadable expression.
---
The marble halls were quiet as his footsteps echoed toward the palace gates. Waiting for him were his Two Sisters
Atta smiled faintly and hugged his sisters.
"Don't miss me too much."
Princess Izza ruffled his hair with a laugh.
"Take care, kiddo. Don't argue with everyone you meet, eat on time, and behave."
"Hey! Don't mess up my hair—I just fixed it!" Atta pouted, drawing more laughter from her.
Then Fiza leaned close, whispering in his ear with a teasing grin.
"Guess what? I arranged it so your first two classes will be with Princess Isha of the Elves." She gave him a sly thumbs-up.
Atta groaned, exasperated, but said nothing more as he turned toward the shimmering portal ahead.
Stepping through, he entered the Angel Kingdom for the first time. His eyes widened.
The skies stretched endlessly, golden sunlight bathing a kingdom of white marble towers. Angels with radiant wings strode past, taller and more graceful than any human. Waterfalls cascaded around the city, sparkling like liquid glass. And at its heart stood Saint Athepia Academy—a grand fortress built atop a waterfall itself, magnificent and imposing.
Atta walked through its garden, where students of every race gathered. Elves with pointed ears, dwarves with heavy axes strapped to their backs, and angels in gleaming robes—all mingled together. Humans, however, were scarce. Most looked at him with either pity or disdain. Atta ignored the stares, his steps steady.
Then, ahead of him, he noticed a girl. She was slightly shorter than him, with long white hair and striking green eyes, dressed in a flowing green outfit. Graceful and confident, she walked toward the academy gates.
She's… beautiful, Atta thought. But who cares? She probably has six or seven boys chasing after her already.
Suddenly, the girl stopped. She turned, meeting his eyes with a warm smile.
"Hello. You must be the Human Prince, Atta," she said, her voice melodic yet sharp with confidence. "It's a pleasure to meet you. I'm Princess Isha of the Elf Kingdom… a mind-reading mage."
Atta froze, his face instantly turning red as the realization hit him—she had heard everything he just thought.
To be continued…