[https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53266783052_3a068508b5_w.jpg]King Henry beckoned his son. "Come near, son," he said gently.

Zet approached his father with a puzzled look. "I am fine, father, truly. There is no pain and I can move freely - all the injuries I had seem to have healed." He glanced down at his formerly wounded body in disbelief. "I do not know how this has come to pass, but I am as good as new."

Captain Aurelius found this case very interesting. He couldn't believe that princes seemed totally fine, as that didn't make sense given the circumstances. Does King have any insights into how this outcome could have occurred?

King sat in the dimly lit room, his mind deep in thought, silently processing the events that had unfolded. Beside him, the Captain was left speechless, his mind equally struggling to grasp the inexplicable turn of events.

After a moment of contemplation, the Captain finally found his voice, "Okay, I guess. What do you say, King?"

King, his thoughts still in a whirl, responded slowly, "I will think it over. Meanwhile, you can rest, Zet. I will call you when you are needed."

Zet nodded, a mixture of relief and exhaustion in his expression, "I will see you both tomorrow then. Bye. And have a good rest, Father and Captain."

As Zet left the office, King continued, "Captain, contact the academy and ask them to meet me tomorrow."

The Captain, curious about King's intentions, asked, "Understood. And what are you up to, My Lord?"

King leaned back in his chair, a determined look in his eyes, "I will prepare some compensation for the academy. The Crystal is a nation's wealth; we must pay them at least 50,000 Gold. And I will be traveling to recreate the Crystal. Look after the Mansion while I am gone, Captain. I will go in the next month after finishing my work."

The Captain, still perplexed, inquired further, "For how long, My Lord?"

King's gaze held a sense of gravity, "For six whole months. Until then, I will trust you, Captain, to care for the Mansion and Zet."

The Captain nodded, a sense of responsibility settling over him, "I will do my best. And what do you think of Prince? How can he recover so soon?"

King leaned forward, his fingers steepled in thought, "That is something I can't answer precisely. Zet possesses a unique ability that aids in his swift recovery. I believe he was protected by Nihil Flux's power, which is why magic had such a limited effect on him. Each time we attempted to use magic to heal him, Nihil Flux seemed to reject the very notion of healing his injuries, only to mend them afterward."

The Captain, intrigued, voiced his confusion, "I have never heard of such a phenomenon. How can someone harness Nihil Flux so adeptly? It has been considered nearly useless for so long."

King sighed, acknowledging the enigma that surrounded Zet's abilities, "I guess you don't know. But Sect and Lyanna's main abilities are fundamentally rooted in Nihil Flux, and Zet is compared to those two pillars of that power mastery."

The Captain couldn't help but express his surprise, "What a waste it has been all these years."

King nodded, his gaze distant as he contemplated the matter. "The enigmatic power of Nihil Flux is intriguing, though its true potential seems wasted. Rejecting reality could be impactful if used judiciously at a critical moment, even if 50% of one's mana would then drain away."

Captain Aurelius said, "Then I should get going, My King. The time grows late and I will deliver your message to the academy."

King replied, "Very well. I will remain here a while longer. You may meet her on your way, as I believe her duties are almost finished. Be sure to commend her good work today. She has earned recognition for her efforts." King smiled at the Captain.

The Captain grew embarrassed, rubbing the back of his neck with a reddened face. "Ah haha, it seems you knew, King. Hehe, I will be sure to convey your praise for her efforts as well as your understanding of this personal matter. Thank you for your guidance, King."

As the Captain left the room with a happy smile, his thoughts raced ahead of him. The flickering torchlight cast long shadows across the stone walls as he walked, his footsteps echoing in the corridor. "I can't believe King has another side too. Who would have thought the stern ruler had such understanding?" A warm feeling swelled in his chest. "To receive his blessing is more than I could hope for. What a fortunate turn of events."

His face now shone with excitement in the darkness. Eyes bright and cheeks rosy, he quickened his pace, guided only by the dim torchlight. "I should contact the academy straightaway with the King's message. Then perhaps I can meet her as she finishes for the day. I heard tell of her duties ending at midnight. I can hardly wait to see her smiling face once more in this flickering light."

In Zet Room two familiar faces waiting for him. Zet said you two haven't left for today? I mean it getting late and the maid's room is far away. Should I accompany you two?

When Zet entered his room, he was surprised to see two familiar faces waiting for him.

"You both are still here?" he asked. "It's getting late and the servants' quarters are quite a distance from here. I worry the walk back may be dangerous in the dark. Allow me to escort you safely to your rooms."

[https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53267963653_5b8b3fe2da_w.jpg]Eleanor said "No, how can we? We can go on our own and it's not like there is someone that harms us in the mansion." Violet nodded in agreement and replied "You were injured, so you need to rest. I know you said you feel fine, but we saw your condition. No more walking for now."

Zet held up his hands peacefully. "Alright, alright. There's no need to get upset over this. I'll rest as you suggested." His tone was calm and reassuring. "No sense in arguing. You both made fair points - I was injured, and it's best I take it easy for now. No need to worry, I'll stay here and recover my strength."

"I'm not angry, prince," Violet assured him. "I just want you to listen when I ask you to take it easy. Earlier when we said we'd inform the king, you didn't listen and went to see him anyway, even though you were injured. I am worried for your health. That's why I seemed upset before."

This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.

She took his hand gently. "All I want is for you to rest and recover fully. Pushing yourself too soon could make things worse. Please stay and regain your strength before taking on more. But resting now, as we've asked, is best."

Zet took his hands off Violet and sighed. "I guess I made you both worried. Eleanor, Violet, do you remember what you said this morning?"

Eleanor nodded for him to continue.

"You said this world is not as kind as I think. I experienced that truth today at the academy," Zet said. "I was treated quite poorly because of who I am."

Violet's face fell as she listened. "Prince, I am sorry to hear that. It is my fault - I gave you those plain clothes to hide your status, hoping to avoid unwanted noble attention."

She looked down, remorse filling her eyes. "But because of that deception, you faced unkindness instead of the respect owed a prince. I never wished to cause you harm. I only wanted to protect you from insincere motives. But I see now I have wronged you instead. Please accept my apology."

"Please don't worry about earlier," Zet said with a reassuring smile. "I'm feeling much better now, really. It doesn't bother me because, in that struggle, I found true friends who came to my aid without hesitation. I'm grateful that event led me to meet him."

He stretched his limbs experimentally. "As you can see, I'm moving freely with no pain. Whatever ailed me seems to have passed. I feel great."

Turning to Violet and Eleanor, Zet's expression softened. "I just wanted to thank you both for your concern. It means a lot to have friends like you. I promise I'll be more careful going forward."

His smile widened into a grin. "Now stop with those worried frowns! I think of you both as friends too, so there's no need for such long faces. I'll see you tomorrow, bright and early. Goodnight for now."

Violet's brow furrowed with lingering guilt. "I should have been more careful in choosing your disguise. This whole situation is my fault."

Zet took her hand gently. "Please don't blame yourself. You did what you thought was best to help me." He gave her a small, reassuring smile.

[https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53267967003_3b013da6ba_w.jpg]Eleanor bowed. "My lord, we are relieved to see you in better spirits. Do not hesitate to call on us if you require anything further."

"Thank you, Eleanor," Zet replied graciously. "I appreciate your support today more than I can say."

Turning back to Violet, Zet's smile widened. "Try not to fret over what's past. Get some rest and we'll speak again tomorrow."

Violet returned a faint smile, though worry still creased her forehead. "Sleep well, Prince. I hope you'll be fully healed come morning."

She and Eleanor took their leave, the latter casting one last concerned glance over her shoulder before closing the door behind them. Zet leaned back with a sigh, hoping the next day would bring less trouble for all.

Zet thought Violet had really changed a lot. He couldn't believe how much she had opened up. Now she seemed more caring and concerned. They held hands, which they had never done before, and it made Zet's heart beat fast. He was going back to the academy again tomorrow, but he felt a little scared.

Meanwhile, in the back of the mansion, I, Delacroix, could feel the exhaustion seeping into my bones. The long hours on my feet had taken their toll, and all I yearned for was the comfort of my bed. But the night still stretched out before me, relentless and unyielding. With my next shift looming in just a couple of hours, I pondered my options.

Should I tough it out and stay awake, risking the consequences of sleep deprivation? Or should I take a chance and steal a few moments of rest, even if it meant lying on this unforgiving floor? The thought of closing my eyes and surrendering to the pull of sleep was tempting, but the fear of being caught lingered in the back of my mind.

In the end, weariness won over caution. I sought out a secluded spot, away from prying eyes, where I could steal a moment of respite. As I found myself in the dimly lit corner, the flickering candle casting dancing shadows around me, I couldn't help but feel a sense of relief and anticipation. The air was heavy with the scent of aged wood, and the distant murmur of conversations added to the ambiance.

Carefully, I lowered myself onto the hard floor, feeling its unforgiving surface press against my weary body. The sharp edges of the stone dug into my muscles, but the promise of sleep drowned out the discomfort. I closed my eyes, my lashes brushing against my pale cheeks, and let myself drift away.

As sleep claimed me, my face relaxed, the tension of the night melting away. Shadows played across my features, casting a gentle glow upon my face. A small smile tugged at the corners of my lips, a silent testament to the relief I felt in this stolen moment of rest. The rise and fall of my chest, accompanied by soft snores, was the only sound in the secluded space.

Delacroix's bleary eyes widened as she saw Captain Aurelius emerge from the shadows. She was startled, struggling to fully comprehend his presence. The exhaustion that had enveloped her dulled her senses, making it difficult for her to register his arrival.

"Captain Aurelius... What are you doing here?" she stammered, surprise and panic lacing her voice. She scrambled to her feet, her body still heavy with sleep, but the captain's gentle touch on her arm halted her movements.

[https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53267675015_fe45c3b117_w.jpg]"Rest, Delacroix. I'm not here to punish you," he replied in a sleepy tone, concern evident in his words. "You might catch a cold if you continue to sleep on the floor like that."

Delacroix hesitated, bewildered and unsure of how to respond. The captain's unexpected leniency left her momentarily speechless. Slowly, she sank back down onto the floor, her gaze fixed on him as he settled himself nearby. With one hand pressed against the ground, his posture relaxed yet composed, he gazed up at the moon, its soft glow casting a serene light upon his face.

"What brings you here, Captain?" Delacroix asked, her voice filled with curiosity as she watched him intently. The moon's gentle rays seemed to illuminate the captain's features, accentuating the lines of weariness etched upon his face. His eyes, usually sharp and commanding, now held a distant and contemplative expression, as if lost in his own thoughts.

"I needed a moment of respite," Captain Aurelius replied, his voice carrying a hint of vulnerability. "The weight of our duties can be overwhelming at times. The moon's presence brings me solace, a reminder of the world beyond our responsibilities."

Delacroix nodded, an understanding passing between them. "I feel the same way. The exhaustion can be suffocating, but in this stolen moment, I find a sense of calm."

They sat in silence, the moon casting its gentle light upon them as they shared the burden of their weariness. The world seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them in their quiet sanctuary.

"Thank you, Captain," Delacroix finally whispered, her voice filled with gratitude. "For this moment of respite, for understanding."

Captain Aurelius offered her a tired smile. "We are in this together, Delacroix. We must find solace where we can, even if it's just for a fleeting moment."

Delacroix looked at Captain Aurelius, her eyes filled with excitement. "You know, Captain, the three full moon days are coming up next month. I really look forward to watching them."

Aurelius nodded a hint of nostalgia in his voice. "Yes, it's hard to believe that another year has passed already. The three full moon days only occur once a year, and they last for just three days."

Delacroix sighed wistfully. "I hope that next year brings me good fortune and an easier life. It's been quite challenging lately."

Aurelius raised an eyebrow, a playful smirk on his face. "Are you hoping for an easy life, Delacroix? I can't believe my Knights are becoming lazier and lazier. Perhaps I should punish you to set an example."

Delacroix chuckled, shaking her head. "What's wrong with hoping for an easier life? And please, Captain, go easy on the punishment this time. I still remember the incident with the slime on my face."

Aurelius laughed heartily, his stern demeanor softening. "Very well, Delacroix. I suppose a little leniency won't hurt. But remember, challenges make us stronger. We must embrace them."

Delacroix nodded, a determined look in her eyes. "You're right, Captain. I won't shy away from challenges. But a little break every now and then wouldn't hurt, would it?"

They engaged in conversation for a while until Delacroix's shift was soon approaching. The Captain bid his farewell to Delacroix, who appeared visibly happy. The Captain thought to himself, "I should get some sleep now, considering the day is about to begin."