Season 1; Let's Speak Our Thoughts Out Without Limitations.

"I called you here to ask if you had any interest in studying in Hesperia. Although you aren't in your adolescence, I have the authority to give you a seat."

Lawrence stopped. Estella got it right. Leighton must've called to give Lawrence a reward or a gift. But why? Lawrence thought. "I am honoured, your majesty. But 'tis I, your humble son, may not be able to comply with their high standards. Why go all this length, your majesty? I'm unfit, after all." he asked, voice concerned.

"It isn't a major gift for an Emperor to gift his son the opportunity to attend one of the prestigious schools of Hesperia."

Lawrence looked away, "But a few of my brothers and sisters do not have that opportunity. What's to differ between us? We are your offsprings, after all." bitterly, he spoke.

"Hmm." Leighton stopped to think. "You're right. If that is what you wish, I'll send you all to Hesperia. Do you want anything-"

"That is not what I meant, your majesty." Lawrence interrupted. "Why? Why me? And why all of a sudden?"

Leighton gloomed, "I'm sorry. I may not have the right to say sorry, but I am sorry. I know it has been too many years, and I've longed departed with you, but I've honed my eyes to level yours. I can look at you now without feeling any sadness, contempt, nor remember my memories."

"Your majesty. No.... Father. It is not that it's been far too long for you to act in your role. If you think it's been eight years since you've neglected me, you're wrong. I am still but a three-year-old.

"My life without your protection, wealth, and status had made me live my life at its best. What I'm saying is, with or without you, I wouldn't care. If you force yourself to me, I wouldn't like it. I'd prefer you neglect me than forcing yourself to acknowledge me. It's tiring, correct? It hurts you, right? So stop."

Lawrence paused. His intense gaze directed at Leighton now shifted towards the window, almost disappointed and used. He spoke without making eye contact.

"But if you are willing to go this far just because of my abilities, my capabilities, then fret not. As I come to age, I will serve your Kingdom. I will be whatever you want me to be. A sword? A shield? Whatever you want, just not now.

"Let me hone a power, my status, experiences, and until then, will I be most fit to serve your Kingdom. Use me as a tool but don't use your emotions. You know far better than anyone how it'll lead. Didn't you lose Viola because of the same reason? You were emotionally weak when it comes to Viola. So, don't make another mistake that will lead to your weakness."

Lawrence stood. "Thank you for inviting me, your majesty. And for assigning an admirable service. But I must decline your offers." he walked towards the door.

Before Lawrence could open them, Leighton spoke. "Xavier... I'm sorry. But please, at least accept Chas Prowess Stone as your teacher. He can help you with whatever you want. Just that, and I will do what I want to do. I won't force myself nor make an effort."

Lawrence sighed, "I guess I have no choice then, your majesty. Thank you for your kindness, but I must take my leave."

The doors opened, "I'll stay afar from your direction during your stay to the palace. I hope you'll have a nice rest." Leighton added.

Lawrence closed the doors behind him and let out a deep sigh. 'What did he mean by my stay? Will we have to stay here for more than a few hours? Perhaps days?' he thought worryingly.

There was a maid in front of Lawrence, making Lawrence jump from fright.

"I-I'm sorry, your highness!"

Lawrence held out his hand and stopped the maid from approaching, "It's okay. I was just a little startled. Why were you standing there?"

"M-madam Estella ordered me to guide you to her. My name is Ibelina, your highness," she explained, stuttering. She fidgeted her fingers and stooped.

Lawrence fixed his collar and hair, "I see. Then Ibelina, will you guide me to her?" he fixed his gaze at Ibelina.

Ibelina nodded eagerly, "Yes, your highness."

The corridors had some whispering maids and guards on their posts. It was oddly quiet as soon as Lawrence was sighted, and many of the ladies started murmuring at each other. The walk was long, too uncomfortable. He was nearing his limit and wanted to ask, "how much further?" he sees a figure in the distance waving in his direction.

His confusion left him still. He wondered who it was and what was on its mind. But the closer he gets, the more vivid the figure becomes.

"Hello, Lawrence." he greeted.

"Prince Clarence." Lawrence greeted.

"I did hear you would be here," Clarence spoke his thought. "Is Grace with you?" Clarence asked.

"No, she isn't."

Clarence's face turned bitter and upset. His smile face turned to a grimace. "I see," he spoke and passed Lawrence.

Lawrence smiled at himself. 'A genius like me. Prince Clarence Leo Asquith. Although he acted friendly and naive on my birthday, he isn't. Those fooled that day were inexperienced with such things. The bright young Prince of the Asquith Duchy, not as kind, cute, and innocent as he seems. They've got through lengths to hide his capability, so they would be bitter if I were to reveal they're true nature. Plus, I don't indulge in those trivial matters.'

"We're here, your highness," Ibelina announced.

Lawrence raised his head and faced toward the doors of the room. They were on the upper floor, where most of the chambers are. Ibelina led Lawrence to Estella's room. The doors opened. Estella sat on a single sofa reading a book. She flipped the page but suddenly noticed the door, thus, closing her book and putting it aside.

Estella stood from where she sat and went close to the door. She welcomed Lawrence with a smile but a worried one. "Welcome back." she greeted.