Chapter 3
Prince Jacob opened the door to the bathroom within his chamber and bathed the next morning.
The crown prince's room, as the firstborn and heir to the throne, was adorned in an elegant combination of black hues, emanating an aura of royalty and sophistication. The overall ambiance was characterized by cleanliness and minimalism, devoid of unnecessary clutter and distractions. The centerpiece of the room was a magnificent ebony bed intricately carved and draped with luxurious velvet curtains in a deep shade of crimson.
Along the walls stood tall bookshelves, lined with rows of leather-bound volumes, encompassing an extensive collection of knowledge and historical texts. Soft ambient lighting further enhanced the room's atmosphere, casting a warm glow that accentuated its refined aesthetics.
In one corner, a sturdy oak desk stood adorned with quills, inkwells, and parchment, symbolizing the crown prince's dedication to his duties and the weight of his royal responsibilities. Meticulously organized, the desk held stacks of important documents neatly arranged, awaiting his attention. This meticulousness reflected his nature and commitment to governance and decision-making.
Concealed within discreet compartments throughout the room were an array of hidden weapons, showcasing the crown prince's preparedness and awareness of potential threats. These well-guarded armaments served as a testament to his commitment to protecting the kingdom and ensuring his own safety, highlighting his understanding of the delicate balance between power and responsibility.
Adjacent to the crown prince's chamber lay a lavish bathroom, an oasis of relaxation and indulgence. The bathroom boasted exquisite marble flooring and walls, adorned with glistening gold accents. At its center, a spacious Jacuzzi tub beckoned, adorned with fragrant rose petals, providing a luxurious escape for the crown prince to unwind after long days of royal duties.
Complete with a marble-topped vanity, the bathroom housed an assortment of fine grooming essentials. Precisely arranged bottles of cologne, polished silver shaving accessories, and soft, plush towels showcased the meticulous care given to every aspect of the crown prince's personal grooming routine.
As the crown prince reclined in the opulent royal tub, water cascaded gently around him, creating a soothing ambiance. He embodied the essence of regal elegance and authority, none other than the crown prince himself. The water enveloped his body, caressing his skin and momentarily lifting the weight of his royal obligations.
With a distinguished presence, the crown prince sported a subtle, well-groomed mustache, adding an element of refinement to his handsome face. Though understated, the mustache underscored his maturity and lent a touch of sophistication to his appearance.
Surrounded by the opulence of the palace, the crown prince reveled in this tranquil sanctuary, allowing the warm water to soothe his weary muscles and wash away the burdens of his princely responsibilities. His expression offered a rare glimpse of relaxation, a fleeting moment of peace amidst the demands placed upon him.
As fragrant bath oils permeated the air, steam gently swirled around him, creating an ethereal atmosphere. Flickering candlelight cast a soft glow, casting delicate shadows on the marble walls and enhancing the overall serenity of the scene.
Within this private retreat, the crown prince found solace, briefly escaping the complexities and expectations associated with his royal role. With each languid moment spent in the royal tub, he recharged his spirit, preparing to face the challenges that awaited him with renewed vigor and unwavering determination.
"Ah!" he sighed as he felt the coolness of the water. He reached for the royal towel and began to dress himself. Their attire was truly magnificent.
The crown prince's garments were meticulously crafted, showcasing the finest artistry. They were made from exquisite fabrics sourced from renowned textile mills, known for their exceptional quality and attention to detail. Skilled artisans dedicated their expertise to create garments that embodied luxury and elegance. Every stitch and seam was meticulously placed, ensuring a flawless fit and enhancing the crown prince's distinguished appearance. The choice of materials and the impeccable craftsmanship came together to create attire that served as a testament to the crown prince's elevated status and refined taste.
Dressed in an ensemble that exuded sophistication and power, with a predominantly black color scheme, the crown prince's attire perfectly reflected his regal stature and impeccable style.
"Beloved Crown Prince, you are summoned to the grand hall," an elderly servant within the palace respectfully announced. He spoke with deference. The prince nodded and gathered his belongings before making his way to the hall where his parents awaited him.
The King, Queen, a few knights, palace servants, and Prince Jacob were the only ones present at the gathering that morning. It wasn't a secret either because everyone knew...
"I'm certain they were behind the attack on you last night," the King said angrily. Prince Jacob furrowed his brow.
"Pardon, Your Majesty?"
"Someone delivered this. I'm certain it's the doing of the 'McKenzie' family," the King immediately concluded. The kingdom of Armetys. The kingdom of the McKenzies. Prince Jacob furrowed his brow as he retrieved the letter tied with a ribbon from an arrow. He opened it and read.
"My dear friends, did you like the gift I presented?"
The Prince grew anxious.
Unbeknownst to everyone, the former King, Prince Jacob's great-grandfather, and the former King of Armetys were once good friends. It had been a long time, but their friendship was severed due to unforeseen circumstances. The feud persisted and was never resolved.
Prince Jacob and Crown Prince Rolan of Armetys were also friends, but the King was unaware of this. He would surely be furious to find out that his beloved eldest son was befriending a mortal enemy.
"We will proceed with the plan, Jacob," the King said authoritatively. The Prince was taken aback.
"Your Majesty! I thought we were no longer going through with this?" Prince Jacob asked, surprised and with respect.
"That is our best card to play now. We no longer need to let it slip away."
"What? Are we endangering my sibling?" the Prince asked, angry but still respectful.
"Crown Prince Jacob!" the Queen exclaimed. "Show respect to the King."
"But, Mother! Princess Miamore is your daughter. We can't just hand her over to our enemies!" Prince Jacob shouted back, unable to contain his anger this time. His parents' hearts were hardened when it came to Princess Miamore.
What they wanted to do was put Princess Miamore in danger. By sending her to the palace of Armetys. She would disguise herself as a commoner in the village and work as a servant within the Palace of Armetys. But it was dangerous! The Crown Prince would never allow it!
"You don't understand, Jacob. We need the daughter of the beloved queen for this! This is the beginning of everything. We have to do this for the kingdom. Isn't that also the duty of a Crown Prince? To protect our kingdom!?" the King shouted. Tears welled up in the Prince's eyes.
"B-but... But... But she's my sister. What if something bad happens to her—"
"What do you want? Should we send your real siblings instead?" the King shouted, revealing his hidden intentions.
"She won't be left unguarded by the knights, Prince Jacob!" The King stood up from his throne and slowly approached the Prince. The Queen supported the King.
"This is the opportunity. An opportunity to save our palace. And to put an end to their mockery of us," the King said firmly, tapping Prince Jacob on the shoulder. The Prince remained bowing. The King was referring to the challenge conveyed through a letter, as if provoking them.
The Crown Prince disagreed with the King's plan. The Queen remained silent but seemed to be in agreement as well. Before anything untoward could happen to Princess Miamore, they had already planned it. So Prince Jacob felt an overwhelming fear. He didn't want it. He didn't want it for his younger sister.
"Good morning!" Revely greeted energetically in the morning, removing the blanket that covered her and stretching her body.
"Good morning, Archzhcery!" Revely exclaimed as the sun rose. She was wearing the beautiful attire of the Zhceryality.
"Good morning, Princess," the palace servants greeted respectfully as Princess Miamore/Revely stepped out of the room. Aliah, Haraya, and Maryana came running towards her. The princess laughed at their clumsy movements.
"Be careful not to trip."
"Princess!!" Maryana exclaimed, embracing the Princess. "Please forgive us for not immediately watching over you."
"Are you feeling better now, Beloved Princess?" Aliah asked, concerned about what Maryana had said.
"Yes-yes-Yes! I'm feeling better, Hehehehehe." Princess Miamore replied with a hint of awkwardness. It's because the three of them were hugging her. She still wasn't used to such a situation. She didn't have any friends, It's Revely. She didn't have any friends in her previous life.
She wasn't accustomed to having people worry about her, but she was happy because she could feel it now, that she was an important person, that she mattered—her smile faded as she realized... Oh right, she wasn't Miamore—she was Revely! The one who was alone and unseen.
"Really, Princess? Huhuhu, we were really worried about you! Lady Mal couldn't come because she's busy attending to the King and Queen, but she sends her concern for you." Maryana recounted in a long-winded manner.
"Well, it's good that you're alright Princess." commented Haraya.
Princess Miamore was left alone because her three attendants or rather, her newfound friends, needed to assist Lady Miamore. She smiled even though she was leaning on the balcony, alone.
"Huh? What? Hahaha, sure, take care of yourselves then."
"Oh, it's not my fault!"
Princess Miamore turned her head at an inexplicable sound. She walked and followed the sound of a man. It was Prince Ajay! She noticed the bandage on his arm. Sadness filled the Princess's eyes, and she was about to walk towards the Prince when she saw what he was doing.
He was happily chatting with... No! It's better to say... With the animals!?
Miamore furrowed her brow. What was she doing? Why was Prince Ajay talking to the animals? And... there was even a bunny! Rabbit? How cute! They all looked at the Prince! There were other unexplainable small creatures and some were even flying.
"Hahahahaha—" The beloved Prince's laughter was interrupted as someone approached him. It was Princess Miamore.
"Aha! Are you feeling better now, huh Xuji??" The beloved Prince asked cheerfully, leaning to the side.
"Gasp! What's wrong? Why can't you speak? Are you in pain? Tell me—."
"I'm fine, my dear Prince!" Princess Miamore said happily. She couldn't help but laugh at his concerned questions.
"Aishhh! Are you sure?"
"You're the one I should be asking, Hopya. Is the wound on you alright?" Miamore asked with a foolish question. Oh, what a silly question! Of course, it isn't! Tsh!
"Yes! My wound is healing, Xuji. Hehehehe." The Prince even touched the wound on his arm. The animals on the side and below made noise, causing Prince Ajay to turn his head.
"Oh, right. You're talking to them?" The Princess asked, the Prince eyes widening.
"Hehehehehe, yes, they're conveying their greetings to you, my beloved Princess. Because you're doing well." Princess Miamore's eyes widened, surprised, as she turned to look at the animals. They seemed to be smiling. She smiled and grinned in return.
"H-hehehehehe, t-thank you!" The Prince turned his gaze towards the bunnies.
"Did you hear that, my friends? Hahaha, they said welcome." Revely smiled.
How adorable.
"That's one of the powers that were given to me when I was a baby. It's said that you don't have any useful powers, so no one cares. You're the only one who asked me that. You've lost your memory, but I'm happy you're asking me about my friends." Prince Ajay happily shared his story.
"Hmm... W-why isn't anyone asking?" the Princess asked.
"Because, Princess, no one asks. They don't care about me, what I do, or my conversations with animals," Prince Ajay's eyes reflected a mix of joy and sadness.
"Well, I will ask you then," she declared, and they both smiled.
"Ah, there you two are," a voice interrupted them. They turned to face the speaker, and Princess Miamore's expression turned into a frown.
"I heard you lost your memory, Miamore," Prince Ajay looked down.
"Still, we must respect our Princess brother, Prince Rico. He can be quite disobedient," Prince Ajay shook his head, and Prince Rico blinked in response.
Prince Rico, the youngest among the boys, was only slightly taller than Princess Miamore and as tall as Princess Diana. He had a handsome appearance and exuded an air of luxury. However, he always seemed to be frowning, earning him the title of a spoiled brat.
"I heard you caused trouble again, tsk tsk tsk. I suppose it won't change, given your background," Prince Rico remarked.
"Prince Rico!" Prince Ajay shouted.
"Why, Big Brother? It's true!" Prince Rico glared at Princess Miamore, lifted his dress, and then left.
"Tsh, let it be, Prince Rico. He's just being reproachful," Prince Ajay shook his head and turned to Princess Miamore. Revely didn't question why her heart felt so warm towards him, perhaps it was for the same reason as the princesses who were sisters to Princess Miamore.
"Come on, Princess. Let
's do training at 'Kenipen,' Prince Jacob is waiting for us," Prince Ajay suggested. The Princess nodded, gathered her belongings, and followed Prince Ajay.