CHAPTER ONE

NEA'S NINETEENTH BIRTHDAY

I never expected something to happen that early in the morning. I was working on the farm while my brother and mother were resting, and my uncle was on duty as general at the palace.

“Christ, Mea. And you are up so early. Isn’t too cold for you, my boy!” Our mother asked.

“Not at all. I have my coat on, I am fine.” I said.

“Sure. Since we came back from the quest in the Land of the Source of Life, you are used to waking up so early.” Cal laughed.

“Classic. And nice knowing, Cal. I love to smell the spring fresh air of the meadow, river, and the oak trees.” I stated.

‘How about Nea, don’t you miss her? Would it be best if we go there right now?” Cal remarked.

“Um, you are a guard now, so you should go there. And I do not want to embarrass myself,” I laughed.

“Fine, see you around then, Mea.” He said.

We watched him climb on his horse and gallop away out of our sight.

Mea?” She said.

“I am listening, mother. And what is wrong?” I asked.

“Are you having cold feet in seeing, Nea? Besides, you are a hero in saving all seven kingdoms.” Our mother answered.

“No need to remind me that, Mother. My world and hers are too far apart. She is a noble girl soon to be queen, but I am a swordsmith common boy.” I sighed.

“Nonsense, my boy. And I am sure you two are in so much love, why can’t you see that?” She shouted.

“Mother, it’s been five days. We haven’t even seen each other, she could have fallen in love with another--!” I paused.

When we were having the discussion, we were stopped by a carriage coming to a stop. We saw the man in proper clothes coming out of it with a scroll in his hand.

“Is anyone here? Mea, are you here?” He said.

My mother pushed me as I looked at her for a moment, but I caution rushed toward him.

“Here I am. And seems to be the problem. Did I do something wrong this time?” I urged.

“None, my boy. And this letter is from the royal, they are inviting you for the princess’s birthday. And soon you will go with them for her coronation in Ziona at eve!” He said.

“Excellent. And you were saying?” She scoffed.

“Or she might feel sorry for betraying me,” I stated.

“Would you go indoors? Change into something instead of having doubt!” She scolded.

“And I will wait!” He swallowed.

I paced inside after coming out in crowny clothes Nea gave to me decades ago.

“Classic. Here I go. And see you around. Are you sure you will be all right, mother?” I asked.

“I will, Mea. Cal is going with you there, but my brother-law- will stay in Nathan.” She chuckled.

I nodded after I climbed into the carriage. I observed the man in front of it pull the reins, and we were on our way to the palace. Later, we arrived in front of the palace entrance. After the man came out, he opened the door. I dashed out of the exit after I thanked the man.

“Our princess might be in the courtyard. Greeting some important noble guests.” He said.

“Lead the way, please.” I sighed.

After the man nodded, he led the way. We paced through corridors from left to right, and we found ourselves outside the vibrating vast green courtyard that goes for miles.

“This way, my boy.” He said.

He pulled me by the hand to bring me back to my senses. After we find ourselves in front of the royal family about a few distance, Nea is sitting on a throne chair next to her mother. She was greeting some new guests as their young man kissed her hand. I burst out laughing at the way she winced at the sight of that.

“Jesus, Nea is having challenges for becoming so famous with noble boys.” I laughed.

“I see. And you do not know. “He chuckled. “We can’t keep them waiting.”

Sheba was observing the facial reaction of her daughter but felt sorry for her.

“My princess, would you love the honor of dancing with me? And I am attracted to you!” He said.

“Huh, sure, I will. But about you being charming, but we just met!” Nea laughed fakery.

I observed her mother dying of laughter. When they were out of their presence, I paced in front of them.

“Mea? And what’s brings you here?” Nea asked. “By the way, you are more charming than ever.” 

Impressum

Tag der Veröffentlichung: 28.12.2023

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