Chapter 10 - Sibling Dynamic
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-In Yuria Palace; The Queen's Room-
Daleyza's chambers were a once-pristine sanctuary, now reduced to a chaotic mess of shattered porcelain and scattered treasures. The ornate vase lay in pieces on the floor, its delicate floral design marred by the violent impact. Daleyza stood amidst the destruction, her chest heaving with each ragged breath as she surveyed the carnage around her. Rage burned in her eyes, a fiery intensity that matched the fury of her words. "Damn them all! My own position, once unshakable, now throws a vase, shattering it against the wall as it teeters on the brink of collapse! How could fate be so cruel, bestowing the Dragon Flames upon someone who slams her fist on a table, causing dishes to crash to the floor, illegitimate brat Luxana?!"
It should have been *kicks over a chair* Isabella's birthright!" With a swift motion, she slammed her fist against the polished wooden table, causing the dainty teacups to crash to the floor in a cacophony of shattering ceramic. The sound only seemed to further stoke the flames of her anger, and she lashed out, kicking over a gilded chair with a frustrated growl. Daleyza's gaze darted around the room, landing on the tapestry that adorned the far wall. "And now, as if the gods themselves mock me, rumors of Isabella's trysts rip a tapestry from the wall, tearing it in half to sully our name! How *hurls a jewelry box, scattering precious gems across the floor* could she be so foolish?!"
With a vicious tug, she tore the intricate fabric in half, the threads unraveling as the precious artwork was desecrated. Precious gems scattered across the floor as she hurled a delicate jewelry box, the impact shattering the mirror within. "The High Society's favor shifts like sand through my fingers, and Luxana basks in their adoration as if she were *smashes a mirror with a candelabra* legitimate heir! How dare they even consider her worthy of the throne?! Even the King, that insufferable man, plans to hold a grand banquet in her honor!"
She sweeps her arm across a table, sending crystal glasses and silverware clattering to the ground. "Does he not see how this undermines Isabella's position?!" As the Queen surveyed the destruction she had wrought, her expression twisted into one of bitter resentment. The book she had thrown into the fireplace cracked and burned, the pages curling as the flames consumed them. "Now, the title of Flower Princess slips further from her grasp!" Throws a book into the fireplace, the pages curling and blackening as they burn. "My daughter's future is crumbling before my very eyes! This cursed turn of events shall not stand!"
Stands panting amidst the destruction, fists clenched, "I will find a way to restore our rightful place in this kingdom, even if I must burn it all to the ground!" she shrieked, her voice laced with a determination that bordered on madness. Amidst the chaos, Daleyza stood panting, her fists clenched tightly at her sides.
The Queen's chambers were a scene of chaos, with the Queen's rage echoing through the room. Countess Lihanera entered, her voice a calm contrast to the Queen's fury. "Your Majesty Please calm down," she shouted, trying to soothe the Queen's temper.
The Queen's eyes blazed with fury. "WHAT DO YOU MEAN GET HOLD OF YOURSELF? THERE MY REPUTATION IS BEING DAMAGED, AND HERE YOU'RE ASKING ME TO CALM DOWN? HOW CAN I..."
Countess Lihanera interrupted, her voice firm yet soothing. "Your Majesty, I have an idea!" The Queen's eyes narrowed, her anger still palpable.
"WHAT IDEA?" she demanded.
The Countess smiled, her plan unfolding. "How about setting a scene at tonight's Royal Family Feast by extending an unexpected invitation to Princess Luxana? She's been mysteriously absent all day, her whereabouts unknown, and this could be the perfect stage to subtly probe into her clandestine activities."
The Queen's eyes lit up with a wicked gleam. "Ah, yes, that's a brilliant idea!" She grabbed the Countess's shoulders tightly. "I knew it I knew you had it in you grabs the countess's shoulders tightly You are the perfect pawn, I've ever had!"
The Countess's smile faltered, but she pressed on. "Moreover, whispers of Princess Isabella's covert rendezvous with an unidentified man have been circulating in hushed tones. You could artfully weave this into the conversation, making it seem as though Princess Luxana is the source of these scandalous rumors, her actions driven by a bitter jealousy of Princess Isabella's flourishing happiness."
The Queen's laughter was maniacal. "I will ruin you LUXANA DE CARNA MERA DOMINO!" she bellowed, her rage now directed at Princess Luxana.
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-In Emberforge Armory Shop-
The weaponsmith's shop was a bustling hub of activity, filled with the clanging of metal and the hum of enchantments. As Luxana stepped through the doorway, the proprietor greeted her with unbridled enthusiasm. "Welcome! Welcome! How may I help you today, Miss?" he asked excitedly.
Luxana's expression was calm and composed as she stated, "We are seeking weapons that are both effective and convenient for self-defense purposes."
The weaponsmith's eyes lit up with understanding. "Ah! So I believe the best option for a weapon is...given your need for effective and convenient self-defense, I recommend an enchanted dagger. Not only is it lightweight and easy to conceal, but the magic imbued within it provides an extra layer of protection. We have several with unique enchantments, such as a fire dagger or a frost dagger. Would either of those interest you?"
Luxana considered the options for a moment before responding, "Yes, I'd like a fire dagger please. Do you have any more recommendations?"
"Indeed, the fire dagger is an excellent choice, Miss. As for further recommendations, I would suggest pairing your fire dagger with a vial of elemental oil. When applied to the blade, the oil amplifies the fire enchantment, granting your dagger increased potency against foes particularly vulnerable to heat or flame," the weaponsmith explained.
"Oh, then I'll take one of those as well. I was actually asking for another recommendation for a weapon," Luxana clarified.
"Oh, my Deepest Apologies. Another option to consider is a Runic Armband. This enchanted armband can project powerful runes that act as both a shield and an offensive attack. With a simple gesture, you can unleash magical energy to repel enemies or strike them at a distance. It's a versatile choice that allows you to keep your hands free for other tasks, making it both effective and convenient."
Luxana nodded, pleased with the suggestion. "Alright, I'll buy 2 of these."
"Perfect choice, Miss! I'll wrap it up immediately," the weaponsmith said, quickly gathering the items.
*5 minutes later*
"Your fire dagger along with the elemental oil and runic armband is now safely sealed and ready for your use, Miss. May it serve you well in all your adventures!" He announced, handing Luxana the package.
Luxana smiled graciously at the weaponsmith. "I am grateful for your assistance in this matter. Kindly forward the invoice to the Royal Family, as they will be responsible for settling the payment. Additionally, I kindly request that you omit the specific names of the purchased items from the invoice, and instead include only the total cost of the transaction. Your discretion and cooperation are greatly appreciated."
"Understood, Miss," the weaponsmith noted, bowing slightly as Luxana turned to leave the shop.
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-In the Carriage-
The carriage ride was coming to an end, and the tension between Myla and Mylo was palpable. Luxana, sensing the discord, intervened to prevent further arguing.
Luxana said firmly, "Here, take your runic armbands." She handed out the matching accessories, and Myla and Mylo began to bicker over the blue one.
"Hey, I want the blue one!" Mylo protested, while Myla insisted, "I'm talking the blue one!" The quarrel escalated, with each of them trying to assert their claim.
Luxana had enough. "Enough!" she exclaimed, interrupting their conversation. "Myla, take the green one and Mylo take the blue one. They match your eyes, that's why I chose them for you." They accepted the armbands and thanked Luxana.
"You're welcome!" Luxana smiled, feeling relieved that the issue was resolved.
As they stepped out of the carriage, Myla noticed something unusual. "Huh? What's that paper underneath your dagger, Princess?" she asked, pointing to the parchment.
Luxana looked down, picked up the paper, and began to read. Her eyes widened in surprise as she read the message aloud.
"May the Gods watch over you and guide your steps as you embark on your journey. Tread carefully, for danger lurks in the shadows, and the path ahead may be treacherous. Yet, with wisdom and courage, may you emerge victorious, overcoming all obstacles that dare cross your path. Your Highness, Princess Luxana."
Myla and Mylo were shocked by the ominous message. Luxana sighed, reminding them, "Let's leave this aside for now. No good comes from overlapping things."
Mylo added, "There's a saying: When mysteries pile high, the road ahead winds ever more treacherous."
Myla asked, "What's that supposed to mean?"
As they stepped out of the carriage, the coachman informed them, "We've reached the destination, Your Highness." The group got out of the carriage, while Myla's question remained unanswered.
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-In Amoria Palace-
The grand halls of Amoria Palace were a sight to behold, and Mylo couldn't contain his excitement. "WOAHHHHHHhh! The place is sooo huge and beautiful. It's my first time seeing something so big! Who knew nobles were so wealthy!" he exclaimed, rushing in with unbridled enthusiasm.
Myla, ever the voice of reason, chased after him. "Hey! It's called a Palace. And it doesn't belong to you! So what're you running like that for?" she questioned, trying to rein in his antics.
Luxana couldn't help but giggle at their sibling dynamic. "They never stop, do they?" she mused, amused by their lively interaction.
Suddenly, a commotion caught her attention as the head butler came rushing towards her. "Your Highness! It's urgent!" he exclaimed, his voice laced with alarm.
Mylo, ever the observant one, whispered to Myla, "Who's that?"
"The head butler," Myla replied, his eyes wide with curiosity.
The butler's words sent a chill down Luxana's spine. "The-the Queen! She's invited you to tonight's dinner with the Royal Family!" he exclaimed, his voice trembling. As he thought to himself - This is a bad sign yet the Princess doesn't seem shocked or anxious. She's truly magnificent.
Luxana remained composed, her expression unreadable. "What would you like me to do, Your Highness? Should I send a polite letter declining your presence or do you plan on accepting the invitation?" asked the Butler.
Luxana's voice was calm and steady as she called out to her companions. "Myla! Mylo! Come here."
They rushed to her side, eager to assist their Princess.
"I will gladly accept the gracious invitation that my dear step-mother must have extended with an abundance of affection and consideration. I must personally convey my appreciation for every single bit of her generosity and kindness, once and for all." Luxana smiled, her words dripping with sarcasm.
The butler, sensing the underlying tension, quickly responded, "Uh...oh-ohh okay, Your Highness. I will send an acceptance letter immediately." He rushed back into the palace, eager to carry out Luxana's instructions.
Luxana turned to Myla and Mylo, her expression serious. "Myla, Mylo. Do me a favor."
They stood at attention, ready to serve their Princess. "A-anything at all, Your Highness!" Myla exclaimed, her loyalty unwavering.
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-In Luxana's Room-
Luxana's private chambers were a flurry of activity as Myla laid eyes on the exquisite dress that had been prepared for the princess. Her eyes widened in awe as she took in the intricate details and the way the fabric cascaded to the floor.
"WOWWWWWWW! The dress looks absolutely stunning!" Myla exclaimed, her voice brimming with admiration. "The intricate detailing on the dress and the way it cascades down to the floor make it an absolute showstopper. The color really compliments your complexion, too. You're going to be turning heads all night, Princess!"
Luxana couldn't help but smile at Myla's genuine enthusiasm. "Thank you, Myla," she replied, her expression softening. However, her tone quickly turned serious as she added, "But be careful and don't get caught."
Myla nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "I'll keep that in mind. Please be careful as well, Princess," she requested, her concern for Luxana's well-being evident.
Luxana's smile returned, and she reassured Myla, "Don't worry, I will!" With that, she turned and made her way towards the grand Helia Palace, the stunning dress accentuating her every graceful step.
As Luxana departed, Myla couldn't help but marvel at the princess's poise and confidence, even in the face of the unknown. She knew that the evening ahead would be filled with challenges, but Luxana's unwavering spirit gave her hope that the princess would navigate the treacherous waters with the same elegance and determination that she carried herself with.
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-Helia Palace; Dining Hall-
The grand dining hall of Helia Palace was filled with an air of tension as the royal family gathered for their dinner. The King, always the gracious host, spoke up first. "It's frantically good to have dinner with family once in a while. It's all thanks to you, My Queen."
The Queen, perpetually the diplomat, responded with a smile. "Haha, you flatter me, Your Majesty. And yes of course, it's a good habit we must incarnate in ourselves to meet up over dinner."
However, the Queen's gaze soon shifted to her daughter, Isabella, who had remained silent. "Isabella, why don't you say anything?" she questioned, her tone laced with a subtle hint of coercion.
Isabella, sensing her mother's displeasure, stammered, "Oh, yes. Ummmh...daddy, I wanted..."
The King, consistently the stern patriarch, interrupted her. "Please refrain from calling me with inappropriate titles inside the Helia Palace," he said, taking a sip of his wine.
"Of-of course, Your Majesty. My apologies," Isabella replied, her eyes downcast as her mother's glares bore into her.
The Queen, perpetually the opportunist, tried to interject. "You-Your Majesty, you should forget about what happened yesterday. I understand that it was...."
"Silence!" the King exclaimed, cutting her off. "Isabella must prove herself in order to be acknowledged by me. And we shall not discuss this topic any further." The Queen's glare at her daughter was a clear indication of her displeasure.
Suddenly, a knight entered the dining hall, announcing, "Your Majesty! Princess Luxana is here. Should we let her in?"
The King's expression shifted, his fury evident. "Is that a question to ask? If my daughter wants to see me, does she need my permission? GET HER IN IMMEDIATELY!" he shouted, his voice echoing through the chamber.
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To be Continued...