"Louise," His attention turned to me in full at the instant I called his name. I sighed, holding back my need to tell him to relax. My gradual seclusion was fading away after my talk with Mr. Reinhardt, but it seemed Louise was still worrying greatly. I feel bad for putting such pressure on him, but now it was starting to grate on my nerves how he still believes any of his actions could trigger me. But I withheld my tongue. "When father called me in that day," At this, he tenses even further. "He told me everything about my condition, but I feel like it was supposed to lead up to something. Was it about Alistair academy?"

I had time to revise what was said in my head and father had stated, "When a child turns nine, we would begin preparing for them to attend Alistair Academy." What's the point of saying that? The conversation was nothing about the Academy.

Louise's shoulders stiffened and he stayed quiet. Only when I took my eyes away from my book to look at him did he respond, "Ah... The purpose of the conversation was to tell you about yourself that you need to be aware of. More importantly, that because you are of a special case, you would lead a drastically different path than that of Prince Elias and Prince Avery."

I frowned and pressed on, "A different path?"

Louise closed his eyes and let out a calming breath, letting the tension leave his being. When he opened his eyes, they were solemn. I feel as if everyone was starting to show their pity towards me. "Once those of royalty and aristocracy reach the age of nine, they are prepared to enter Alistair Academy. As you would know, there is an entrance exam. To pass, you must have firm knowledge and skill in certain criteria's."

"Oh, no wonder we began tutoring young."

"Yes, but at this age, it is drilled into you in full in order to get full marks on the entrance exam. At Alistair Academy, the next generation builds relation and reputation there, so it is very important for everyone there to do their absolute best. Failing the entrance exam can ruin your future."

My frown grows deeper and my brows furrow. "That's rather strict."

"It is necessary. Almost all those who attend may one day come to lead and continue the prosperity of our Kingdom after all." Louise pauses here and I wait for him to continue, "But you, My prince, are not allowed that chance. You will not be allowed into Alistair Academy."

"Oh...I see." Hearing about my situation was a hundred times harder to take. Not being allowed to enter a school didn't affect me, I had my experience done and over with. However, I can't deny that I'm a little disappointed. I was looking forward to experiencing the people and the way schooling system works in this world. Then again, many have already called me to be one of the future leaders of the kingdom. Was that only for show?

Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there.

"My prince?" Louise looks to me in confusion.

"What? Did you expect me to be angry? Well, I am disappointed. Either way, I can still live my life."

Louise mouthparts to say something but not a word comes out. Unexpectedly, he starts to chuckle. "My prince, you are indeed one of a kind."

I gasp mockingly, "What is that suppose to mean?"

"No, no." He smiles warmly, "I mean well My Prince. You are truly someone I am proud to serve." The words hit me from a blind spot and I feel my cheeks growing hot. It must have shown since Louise chuckles more and his eyes sparkle amusedly. "You are simply marvelous."

"Quiet you!" I tell him in my embarrassment, hiding my face behind the cover of the book I am finally close to finishing. 

Being childish was new to me. Even in my past life, many told me I was more mature than most. What can I do, my lover was a very rambunctious man, getting into trouble left and right. It was up to me to watch him. I remember a time when he had gotten into a fight against a teacher after the teacher had unjustly suspended me for a matter I had no part in. For me, he had risked his own expulsion. I did all I could to fix the situation and thankfully, the dean understood and withdrew the matter of expulsion to a few days of suspension. My own suspension was neutralized.

It would have been really bad. We had been in our senior year and Daniel had a full scholarship to college. Being suspended was highly risky in itself. I had been enraged at his recklessness, but more so, I started loving him even more. 

Even my brother had been hard to deal with. Rebellious and followed after Daniel as if he were an idol.

At the memories, my embarrassment died down and I was left feeling a bit homesick.

"My prince?" I shake away from the memories at Louise's call. 

 "No, nothing," I tell him. "So what is it that I will do in the coming future?"

Brother Elias is the heir to the throne, becoming King is his set path. Brother Avery already has plans to join the Kings Guard and serve his future king. As for Izzy, she still has time to decide as to what her path will be. 

"There are many things, My prince. But you shouldn't worry as of now. Gain knowledge, learn more, and then we will see." Louise reassures.

I smile. "We? So you're sticking with me no matter what I become?"

"That is absolute." 

"Oh jeez, Louise, don't make me fall in love," I say jokingly.

Louise looks surprised at my words before he shakes his head in amusement. "It's only a matter of fact."

Not going to Alistair academy leaves my future goals unclear. Before, becoming an author had always been my path. Bringing characters and their stories to life with words were my pleasure. For some reason, that path seemed unattractive in this life. Was it because that was the old me, Elliot's, path? I am a new person despite my old soul, so do I subconsciously feel to do something different?

I am left unsure.