Chapter IV-IV:

First Prince of H'arkin

Royal envoys that accompanied Rafael were to stay in Pearl Palace for a few nights before heading back. As Rafael was loved thoroughly and thought highly of by his servants, they all hid outside the door and was eagerly expecting a positive experience when he came out.

If all went well, Rafael’s servants imagined the prince and princess hanging around the royal palace and frolicking happily together.

But while the ministers and Eilane’s servants also hid outside with the H’arkin royal envoys, they knew better and had anxious expressions while keenly staring at the door.

As soon as the allotted time of their playdate ended, the two came out of the room looking thoroughly drained.

Rafael’s royal envoys paled: They’re 8 and 10 year old children right? So why do they look like working adults who don’t get along and are being forced to work on a project together?

“Well, this was nice, Rafael.”

“Certainly, Eilane.”

“Well then…Have a good day…”

“See you tomorrow…”

It’s like two coworkers forced to hang out outside of work! Wait, this means they’re not going to even talk until the mandatory excursion tomorrow!?

Eilane’s servants as well as ministers A and B couldn’t look the royal envoys in the eyes.

The next day was as blue and clear as the Erst family’s eyes - a good omen for the people of Liberny.

In the backyard of the palace grounds, there were thick woodlands teeming with life. Thus their family tradition was to hunt during important visitations, it was also proper recreation for nobles.

Eilane was wearing a dark navy blazer adorned with a matching silk ribbon tied onto a white collar shirt. Her hair in a ponytail, white pants, and knee length boots finished off her hunting garb.

The prince was wearing an outfit that almost matched her own, except being maroon in color and tailored for boys. The head maid was probably going all out in weird ways again.

Rafael looked at the crossbow in his hand with apprehension. Since the princess remembered how he seemed partial to animals, she decided to tone it down for today. Not even carrying a weapon, she thought it best to just ride and watch this excursion.

A huntmaster set out two bloodhounds and rode ahead first. The princess and prince followed after him as he set his sights on wild deer.

As time passed, she could see Rafael look more and more uncomfortable. Eilane was thankful that they couldn’t talk while hunting, because she really didn’t know what to say to someone who hated this type of thing. The trio rode in silence.

After two hours, the huntmaster, Harvey, made a signal to stop. They halted as Harvey closed his eyes and listened to the wind. Abruptly, his eyelids flew open and he pointed northeast. Eilane and Rafael nodded in confirmation before the three galloped towards the indicated direction.

The bloodhounds had surrounded a doe, encircling it slowly. Harvey looked at Rafael, indicating that the prince could have the honour of killing the game.

Rafael grimaced before resolutely looking at Eilane, which surprised her. Once his resolve was set, he no longer hesitated. Setting his gaze on the doe, he held up the crossbow, took aim, and fired.