Chapter 2

I groggily opened my eyes and was greeted by a magnificent bed. Ah, I must be dreaming… Not even the bed I had before my mom passed away compared to the sheer comfort I was feeling at this moment. It contrasted even more against the more recent chilling touch of my closet and the forest floor. I resisted the temptation to fall back asleep and tried to move. Surprisingly, I felt little pain, and while I could sense my overall condition hadn’t improved much, I was grateful for the respite. Even if It was just in a dream. I once again tried to slide out of the bed but noticed a weight on my legs. A waterfall of blonde hair was falling over my legs as I looked down, shining in the orange light of the sunset. It was captivating, and my hand reached out to touch it, drawn in by some mysterious power. Brushing the soft hair aside gave way to a cute visage. Long eyelashes closed in slumber, and her arms were tucked neatly under her face, acting as a pillow. Panic started to set in as I registered the sight. The facade of the dream shattered, replaced with vivid urgency. W-Who is this?! Where am I?!

I glanced warily around the room. Nobody else was in sight; the white walls had an elegant blue and gold trim, and the rest of the furniture seemed to follow the same white, blue, and gold color pallet. A low coffee table sat between two sofas situated off the foot of the bed. I sighed in relief as I realized my family hadn't caught me; they would never have allowed such luxuries, even as a pretense. The silky, comfortable nightgown I wore accentuated that even further, but I still needed to find out where I was. As I spaced out with these thoughts, I felt the weight holding me down move. The hair, I mean… the girl, sat up slowly. She rubbed the sleep out of her eyes, but as they locked onto mine, they opened in shock.

"You're awake! How are you feeling?” She asked, her emerald eyes brimmed with worry.

“O-Oh, Um… I feel okay, I think. Better than usual, at least.” I stammered. What’s going on? Why is she so concerned about someone like me? “Sorry, but where am I? Who are you?” The more I thought about it, the less sense it made. It must be a trick.

She cleared her throat. "Sorry about that; I haven't even introduced myself. I am Princess Lydia Venyth, the first princess of Venyth.” She performed an elegant curtsy as she introduced herself. The politeness with which she spoke reminded me of the princess in one of Sasha’s storybooks. Wait? A Princess…? My mind raced as I struggled to comprehend what she had just said. Then, the words struck like a bolt of lightning.

"You're royalty?!" I shouted unintentionally, and it seemed to surprise her. I took a breath to calm down. "Sorry about that, Your Highness.”

“It’s not a problem. I understand you must be utterly disoriented right now. Do you need anything? Are you thirsty?”

“N-No… I’m fine.” I am thirsty… but accepting anything could be dangerous. I have had servants at the manner slip things into my food and drink before, just for the amusement of watching me succumb to illness while still struggling to maintain my workload. However, she seemed to see through my hesitation and poured me a cup of water from the nightstand before holding it out to me.

“Please, you don’t need to feign ignorance. It will be better for your health to have some, but drink slowly, okay?” When I didn’t reach for the cup, she seemed confused before a sad smile appeared on her face. “Is it that you don’t trust me? I guess that’s unavoidable, waking up in a strange place with a stranger.” She took a sip of the water before dramatically sighing with a hand on her cheek. The movement absolutely captivated me before she spoke again. “See? Totally refreshing and free of anything that might harm you, I promise.” I carefully took the cup as she offered it again, still a little hesitant. Still, my thirst became unbearable staring at the liquid, and I began to drink. It took everything I had to go slow, like she had asked.

When I finished, I returned the cup and shook my head when she offered more. “Thank you… for the water. It helped a lot."

“You are very welcome. To answer your earlier question, you are currently in a guest room at the royal castle. Can you tell me who you are?”

“I see… Um, I guess I can tell you my name as well. It’s Audrey.” I replied. It was a common enough name, and she was unlikely to make a connection to a noble house without a last name. I’m not confident in my acting skills either, to go by a different name. I thought wanly.

"Audrey? That's a nice name." She smiled to herself as she said my name, the expression on her face indescribable, before explaining how she found me on her way to the castle, detailing my condition in the carriage and during the medical exam. As well as what my recovery is going to look like. She took my hand before slowly extending the other one to my forehead. Naturally, her whole body came closer. Her eyes seemed to shift into a deeper green as they became shrouded in shadow, filling my vision, and her scent washed over me. Roses… ironic. Yet, it made me want to relax for some reason.

"Good. Your temperature went down. Can you tell me what happened to you?” Even after pulling away, her hand still help mine. I was frightened by how natural it felt. I shook the thought and slipped my hand out of hers, hoping not to offend, and she readily let go after she realized. “Sorry about that… I didn’t realize…” Red tinged her cheeks, highlighted by the orange sunset about to disappear behind the horizon.

“I-It’s ok, I was just worried, I’m probably incredibly dirty. I can’t imagine touching such filth’s suitable for Your Highness.” She was looking at me as if she were in pain herself and opened her mouth to speak, but I cut her off. “And… if it’s okay, I’d rather not… speak about what happened. And now that I’m awake, It’s probably best to take my leave.” I moved to make my escape, but Lady Lydia pushed me back down onto the bed.

"Weren’t you listening? You shouldn't be moving. The Royal Physician treated you with healing magic, which only helped alleviate the pain and some of your minor wounds. You are in no state to move, let alone stand.” The reality of the situation finally clicked, and the blood drained from my face. I could feel the tremors in my body.

"I don't have any money to pay you. H-How can I possibly repay you? I responded. I finally found freedom from my family, and I’m already indebted to someone else, the royal family, no less… The fear of what they would do to me had a chokehold on my thoughts.

"There's no need for payment; I made the decision while you were unconscious; I couldn't possibly hold you responsible." Her soft, clear voice cut through the terror. Maybe she could see my shaking? Or the fear in my eyes? Either way, her words immediately affected me, leaving only confusion at the urge to trust this girl absolutely.

"A-Are you sure?” I asked timidly. I learned the hard way at home that malice was more often than not concealed in sympathy. Yet her eyes held no deceit or contempt, and her voice… her touch… her scent… It all compelled me to trust her, and it was terrifying. But a part of me wanted to give in, to allow her into my heart, even if it was a ruse.

"Please. I said, don't worry about it!" Her smile seemed a little strained, but I couldn’t bring myself to argue anymore. So I closed my mouth. Talking to Her Highness seemed to put my mind at ease, but I remembered she was a princess, which meant she had ties to the Rose family. I couldn't stay here; there was a chance that I could be discovered if I stayed where I was. I knew the Duke made frequent trips to the castle for business. The princess continued, unaware of the whirlwind of thoughts in my head.

"You may rest here until you have recovered. Do you have anywhere to go after you heal?"

I shook my head, and something flashed in her eyes, but when I looked again, it was gone; I must’ve imagined it.

"Do you want to work for me, then?" Her suggestion took me aback, and I was gripped with sudden anxiety about the whole situation. The irrepressible trauma of faux kindness from the mansion's servants, only to be beaten down afterward, surfaced, and I couldn’t help trying to find a reason to protect myself. To reject the kindness before it could betray me.

"You don’t want someone like me… I’ll only be a burden to the rest of the staff.” Echoing some of my unspoken doubts aloud. I could never earn approval, even when I worked to the point of unconsciousness. “I… was never good enough.” The whisper came out unconsciously, quietly. I snapped my head up. “Um… How long would you want me to work for?”

“Well, I thought you’d stay until further notice.”

I see. This is what she was after. I’ll have to repay the debt with my body. I couldn’t puzzle out her intentions, so my mind returned to the reliable choice. She’s tricking me. She almost had me fooled, and I wiped my face of all expression. I had been too trusting and showed too much of myself already. I should be grateful I hadn’t already been punished for my previous outbursts.

“If that is what you wish, Your Highness. I’ll do my best to repay my debt.” The monotone of my voice came naturally, but it stung even more after meeting Aurora. I’m sorry, Goddess… after all you did for me…

***

I stepped out of the room, closing the door softly behind me to avoid disturbing Audrey. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath. The earlier interaction left me reeling. I had been so close to earning her trust, to her opening up. I berated myself, bemoaning my impulsiveness to recruit her. Yet, the idea just seemed… right. Being with her, even for this brief conversation, ignited feelings that I’d never experienced before… and it excited me. It hurt immensely that she didn’t seem to feel the same, and her resigned visage wouldn’t leave my memory. Shaking the despair away, I mentally pumped my fist in resolve. If she couldn’t trust me, then I’d change her mind slowly. Though it feels a little… underhanded to keep her like this. I ruminated on the little I had gleaned from the conversation. Wherever she came from, she had been subjected to a severe abuse of authority. Unfortunately, that didn’t narrow it down, as most nobles were haughty individuals. As I fought mentally with myself, the knight Abel promised me appeared, startling me out of my reverie.

"Your Highness, I am Lucia. The Vice-Captain has sent me as you requested." She explained with a salute. Lucia had light blue hair tied into a ponytail and piercing brown eyes; she gave off a strict air but seemed pretty capable.

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"Thank you for your service, Dame Lucia. You'll be under my command for the foreseeable future, but it shouldn't be too much work. I have a guest in this room; I simply need her to stay put for a while. So I need you to keep an eye on her." Lucia saluted again in understanding, then took a position by the door. “Also… I give you permission to peek into the room occasionally to ensure her safety. Help the maids if the need arises as well.”

“I will, Your Highness.” The surprise was evident in her face and voice. Knights and guards generally don’t intrude upon their charges. Still, something had inspired Audrey to escape her situation once already, and I didn’t want it to strike twice.

I flagged down a passing maid and requested some light porridge to be delivered to the room. It was unusual for me to be unaccompanied, but I had sent the maids away before I had dozed off, and Simon was tracking down leads on Audrey's situation. I walked through the gilded halls of the castle. The left side opened up in a courtyard garden, allowing a warm breeze to flutter through my hair. Stopping to admire the flowers, I returned to my thoughts on Audrey.

"She's definitely hiding something," I murmured to myself. Her reactions were fearful, especially at the end; however, there was something before that happened, a hope of some kind. What is she striving towards? Pressing the issue hadn’t been an option after she shut down… She doesn’t seem to have ill intentions, at the very least. I wanted to stay with her longer, but my presence put her on edge. I want to know more about her… but I can’t rush. Take it one step at a time… Sadly, even I’m aware of my tendency to charge into things that interest me.

“Whatcha thinking about?” Rugged hands clasped my shoulders, causing my heart to leap into my throat.

“Ah!” the shriek that escaped caused my face to flush red. “Don’t do that, Brother! If this is how you treat a lady, I understand why you don’t have a fiancee.”

“A lady? Where? Are they in the room with us?” Abel smirked, and I punched his arm, which hurt my hand more than anything. Unfair… “And for the record, I am extremely popular. I just don’t have time for romance. Gotta keep up my training.”

“Spoken like a true meathead. Do you need something, Brother?”

“Not really. I was just on my back to HQ from Luke’s office when I saw my cute little sister lost in thought. You would’ve sensed me coming otherwise.”

“In other words, you’re just being a nuisance.” He smiled dumbly at my retort, and we continued walking through the flowers. “Actually, I could use your advice. You earn trust and respect no matter where you go despite your… carefree attitude. How do you do it?”

“Are you asking me for relationship advice?! Is the sky falling?” He scrutinized the sky, pretending to look afraid.

“I’m being serious, Brother!”

“Alright, I’m sorry!” He dodged my playful barrage. “I guess I just be myself? You know I’m not the sharpest sword on the rack.” I eyed him dubiously. That’s only what he wants the court to think; he does his best not to create conflict for Luke, after all. “What I’m trying to say is, you have the same charism you see in me. You just guard yourself way too much, making you unapproachable.”

“You don’t have to say it like that! I’m just discerning in who I associate with.” I puffed my cheeks out, and Abel poked them playfully. “The truth is, that girl woke up. Her name is Audrey, but she closed herself off. From what I can guess, she’s been through a lot, and I feel I may have pushed too hard.”

He smiled wryly at me. “You have that habit, but you also treat everyone respectfully. The servants basically crawl over themselves to be in your service. You’d have a whole army of attendants if you would allow more than Simon and Leah.”

“Those two perform the same as ten people each. I don’t need any others.” Though… I hope Audrey joins them soon.

Abel only smiled at the statement. It was well-known how much I valued my attendants. “Just reach out earnestly. You’ll get through to the girl.” He ruffled my hair. “Even if it takes a long time, you’ll do it. That’s just who you are, right?”

His words inspired me. I nodded and brushed his hand off me. “Thank you.” His voice and touch were brimming with brotherly affection, and the teenager I was found it embarrassing, however much I appreciated it.

“So, were you just wandering around to think?”

I gasped. “Right! I was on my way to Luke! I have to keep him updated. Then someone distracted me.”

“Ha ha, sorry about that! I’ve gotta get back to HQ anyway.” He patted my shoulder, then continued across the courtyard. I watched him go, then turned back to head to the office.

When I arrived, I filled my lungs with air and exhaled slowly. How am I going to make this work? I’ll have to convince not only Luke but Mother and Father as well. I walked in with a quick knock and, surprised, found my father enjoying a cup of tea while Luke was still seated at his desk. This is convenient. I can talk to them both simultaneously, but… My father has green eyes and black hair with a complete set of facial hair; in public, he gives the impression of a regal king, but in private, he is nothing more than a doting father. He turned to look at me as I walked in.

"Father, what are you doing here? " I asked. "The poor ministers are probably looking all over for you." He smiled at my question.

"I’m Hid— I mean, I came to discuss some things with Luke. Abel also wanted help tasting some products of the kingdom. It is part of a king's duty, my daughter.” I looked over at Luke, and he just shook his head.

"That smells like Matcha... That's an imported product from the Yamada Islands."

My father froze at the words, the teacup halfway to his mouth. "Diplomatic relations, then?"

I sighed and moved the conversation forward. "Audrey woke up." Luke looked up at me with a questioning look before recognition bloomed across his face.

"You mean that girl you found? how is she?" He asked.

"She's doing better. I had the Royal Physician look at her, but she needs time and rest."

"Did you speak with her?"

"I did, but all I really got out of her was her name. She shut down on me. It seems she’s got some trauma…" I said, disappointed.

"Audrey, huh?" Luke looked deep in thought for a second.

"Ah! Is this the girl Abel told me about?" Father cut in. “He mentioned that you seemed smitten during our tea party— our product tasting.”

“I am not smitten. It’s just…” What is it exactly? I thought. Ever since we met, I’ve wanted to stay close to her. But why?

“Lydia?” worry filled my Father’s gaze.

“Sorry, I’m fine. I just can’t put into words how I’m feeling right now, is all.”

Father and Luke froze, wide-eyed at my statement, and looked at each other. “Doesn’t that sound like…” Father asked.

“Yes, it almost does…” I tilted my head in confusion at the unspoken words between them.

“Like what?” I asked. “What are you guys talking about?”

“If you don’t realize, then it’s nothing to worry about.” Luke laughed. “Anyway, what do you need then?”

"I want her as my servant. Can I have your permission?"

"Are you sure? The court won’t look kindly upon a stranger suddenly becoming your attendant. You could be putting her in more danger than she already is. More than that, though… you just met her. Can you trust her?” he asked.

"Yes, she is. I have a pretty good judge of character, you know. And I can handle the court; they already look down on me. They only have a passing interest in my activities anyways." I answered without hesitation. I didn’t mention the inexplicable draw to her I felt. It would only earn me teasing.

Luke stared at me for a moment before saying. “That may be the case, but if she doesn’t trust you, it breeds potential problems.”

“I’m aware, but I plan on doing everything I can to earn that trust. I’m confident I can. Just allow me some time with her.”

Luke folded his hands together in thought.

"Hey!" interrupted my father. "Why are you two making decisions without your king!" Luke and I just glanced at each other. I was about to retort when the door to the office flew open, and in walked a beautiful woman with long blonde hair and icy blue eyes.

Father shot up. "D-Darling! How'd you find me?!" he tried to hide behind Luke, but my mother grabbed him by the collar.

"How? Because this is one of the few rooms the ministers can't enter without permission, and they kept getting turned away!" She smiled, but it didn't reach her eyes. "How can a king disappear in the middle of work, leaving everything to his subordinates?" she then turned to Luke and me.

"You two shouldn't be indulging your father like this either!" Even Luke shirked back a little under Mother's glare

"I'm sorry, Mother." We apologized in unison.

Mother smiled warmly at us, the cold aura she had been exhibiting gone. "I know you both do your best." She began dragging Father out of the room by his collar, Her blizzard back in full force. She’s really putting her ice magic to good use… Father was slumped over in defeat, mumbling, "But I've been working all day... I just wanted to take a little break..." Mother turned around right before leaving, saying. "Your Father has some work to get done now, but we'll see you two at dinner. Keep up the good work."

“Please wait a moment, Mother!” I called before they left. She turned her head over her shoulder, eyebrow quirked. Even this simple gesture brimmed with the elegance of a Queen. “I have to discuss something with you two.”

She smiled, her eyes lighting up. “Really? It’s not often you ask for something. What could it be?” She sat down on the couch, placing Father beside her, who seemed a little out of it after being manhandled. I know I’m the one who asked, but she’s all too ready to slack off, especially after getting after father…

“I rescued a girl on the way home from the villa. I’m looking for permission to take her in as an attendant…” I hesitated, asking Mother. She can be incredibly cautious in both administration and personal matters. She would be the hardest one to convince. She folded her arms and closed her eyes after I explained the circumstances.

“I understand, but taking a stranger in as your attendant…” I smiled in amusement at the statement. Like mother like son…

“I have an idea, if I may, Mother,” Luke spoke up. “What if we allow a temporary contract? It would enable Lydia to build a connection with Audrey, and we can determine if the girl has what it takes to stay.”

“Hmm…” Mother contemplated it. “It could work… how long would the term of employment be?”

“Lydia is heading back to the academy in about a month, until then.” I didn’t have any particular thoughts on this idea. It sounded like the best way to go about it, actually, and I had faith I could win Audrey over in that time.

After thinking about it some more, Mother opened her eyes. “I find that agreeable, but what should happen if it doesn’t work out?”

“I’ll work it out in the interim, Mother. It was my request, so I’ll take responsibility in that case. It won’t come to that, though.” I cut in.

She smiled at my confidence. “That’s my girl. Then we’ll go with this plan, but don’t hesitate to come to me if you need anything. I’d also like to meet the person that’s captivated my daughter so, but it can wait until things settle down.” With that, she left with my father, still dragging him.

“Ah. I didn’t get Father’s permission… He knows what’s happening, so I guess it’s fine.” I turned to my brother, who just shrugged in exasperation. I stayed for a bit, helping with some documents and enjoying tea. Luke and I then left for dinner. And I couldn’t help but ask my family. “D-Does it really look like I’m that e-enthralled with Audrey?” Which received a chorus of resounding agreement. I burned in embarrassment for the rest of the meal.