The Royal Banquet (4)

Symphony of sounds dances across the hall,

the tempting smell of the buffet.

Chattering of the crowds,

with the red wine down on their throats.

The blinding chandeliers, and ornaments; 

Fancy dresses and suits.

The Royal Banquet.

All of these were all new to me. From the extravagant foods and places to the number of humans gathering inside this large room. Also, all of the people were gazing at me and Papa. Though they hid it, we could feel it and sometimes we caught them staring at us. I don't know if I should be embarrassed or they should.

"OH MY GOODNESS BRIELLE! THE FOOD IS HEAVEN!" exclaimed Max as he returned from the buffet. Some nobles looked in our direction, which made us embarrassed.

"We didn't know you," Papa said. 

"Who are you?" added Halley.

Poor Max. He was treated as a stranger.

"Brielle they are bullying me," told Max, hugging my arm.

"Don't take them seriously. They were just joking."

"Hey, Brielle is mine. Take off your hands," argued Halley, clinging at the other side of my arm.

"You're making the situation worse," Papa said as he carried me in his arms. I noticed that most of the nobles were staring at me; some were whispering, and some were adoring our father and daughter relationship.

"I worry that you would be uncomfortable in attending the banquet but it seems that I worry for nothing," said Sir Helden as he approached us. I saw the Imperials waving at us. They were on guard at the banquet.

"Worry my ass," Papa snarled.

"Master Helden!" called Max.

"Max you're here also," answered Sir Helden.

Sir Helden accepted Max as his disciple even though he just accepts a disciple if it is a royalty. Max deserved it because he really trained hard every day to prove himself even though he doesn't have mana like the nobles.

"Oh, Lady Halley is also here," said Helden. "Sorry for my rudeness. Greetings to the daughter of the Marquess, Lady Halley."

"I-It's o-okay," Halley replied.

It was surprising how Halley reacted. Normally she would confidently answer but now she stuttered. Perhaps she was just shy around others. 

"It's a good thing that the Lady makes friends," Helden mentioned, smiling. "I would not prolong this conversation. I have to return to my duty. Enjoy the banquet."

Sir Helden left. And, Halley was blushing.

"So, you're a loner without me and Brielle," Max chuckled.

Halley's blushed face turned into a frown face. "I'm going to pluck all the strands of your hair!" she exclaimed, chasing Max in circles.

"Don't fight, Max and Halley," I said but it didn't work.

While Max and Halley were chasing each other, a sound of trumpet suddenly played. It was loud that made Max and Halley stop, and even the nobles. The man in black suit stood at the center and announced, "Good evening, honorable and distinguished guests. Tonight, we are celebrating the birth of the first prince of the Ronian Empire, Prince Ethan Aestos Callis. I know that you're all waiting for this moment so let's skip the introduction and welcome the foundation of the Ronian Empire- THE IMPERIAL FAMILY."

Clap, Clap, Clap.

The Imperial Family. Emperor Ian, Empress Helena, Brother Ethan, and Brother Kye were all dressed magnificently, and were all emitting a powerful and elegant aura as they entered. I realized at that moment why they were all praised and looked up by the citizens of the Empire. The title is befitting to them.

"I want to express my gratitude to all of you who celebrate with me today as another year added to my life. Let's enjoy the banquet!" said Brother Ethan, raising his wine glass in front of all the guests.

The Emperor and the Empress began to entertain the nobles, while Brother Ethan and Brother Kye waved in our direction and walked towards us. Again, the eyes of the nobles directed at us. Stop making us the highlight of this banquet. PLEASE!

"We greet you a happy birthday, Your Highness, the first prince," chorus by Max and Halley.

So, they didn't always fight with each other huh. They agreed this time. 

Oh, I forgot to pay my respect. I whispered to Papa to let me down and after that I greeted Brother Ethan, "Greetings Your Highness. Thank you for inviting me to your birthday. May the moon grant all your wishes."

"The moon huh. That's an old saying for your age," giggled Brother Ethan. "But may I ask you, young Lady, why are you addressing me as such? Do you not like to call me Brother Ethan anymore?"

"Perhaps Brielle didn't like you anymore,'' teased Brother Kye.

"That's not true, Prince Kye."

"Prince Kye?!" blurted Brother Kye.

"Hah, looks like you're the same as me," grinned Brother Ethan. " Who told you to call us like that? Did he order you to do that?"

What should I say? I looked at Max and guess what? He was acting innocent. Where was Max who was advising me as my friend?

"I did," Papa claimed. "If we keep calling you in such a way, it would cause confusion to other people, especially the nobles. You wouldn't want to get us in trouble, right Your Highness?"

"…Yes. I agree with your decision, Atlas."

"Uhm…Your Highness, thi-this is my family's humble gift for you. I hope it suits your taste," said Max, presenting the silver quill.

"Thank you, Max."

"It's my pleasure, Your Highness," replied Max. Then, he whispered to Halley who was next to him, "His Highness knows my name!"

"Can't you stop whispering at me?!"

"Halley, Marquess Lucien and Marchioness Elowen were searching for you a while ago. You disappeared without their permission," informed Brother Kye.

"Uh oh! I'm going to go. Brielle I'll be back, wait for me," Halley said. "Prince Ethan and Prince Kye, I will take my leave." She then ran off and went to find her parents.

"Papa, did you bring it?" I whispered.

"Yeah, it's right here." Papa searched for that thing in her suit, and give it to me.

"A flute?" they asked.

I nodded. "My birthday gift for His Highness."

"But Brother Ethan doesn't know how to play the flute."

"Shut up! Then I'll take a class to use Brielle's gift."

"No, no, I'm going to play the flute not Brother Ethan," I cleared up.

I placed my hands on the flute and positioned my lips on the embouchure plate. I started playing the flute.

The stream of air flows, making a vibration.

Sweet melody escaped from the flute bamboo.

Frees the souls, bringing joy.

Oh, sweet melody, sweet melody, you attract the empty souls.

A girl with red hair and golden eyes watched me afar.

Beside her is the noble man who is filled with hatred. 

Head Priest Drystan Elizalde staring at me with his eyes set on fire.

And, a young boy. Alone.

The empty souls.