Read Enchanted Paths: Luxana's Rise to Empress :: Chapter 5

Chapter 5 - Silver Blade

-In the Imperial Sun Palace's Throne room of Elmir- In the grand Throne Room of the Imperial Sun Palace in the Empire of Elmir, an advisor rushed in, his breath ragged from running. He approached the imposing figure of the Emperor, who sat upon the ornate throne, his regal presence commanding attention.

"Yo-Your-Your Majesty, I have something to report!" the advisor exclaimed, his voice trembling slightly. The Emperor raised a hand, "Catch your breath first, Mondale," he remarked, his deep voice echoing through the cavernous chamber.

After a moment, the advisor regained his composure and continued. "It concerns Valentine's Prince's mission report. He is reported to have successfully exterminated the individuals who had fled with the information." The Emperor sighed in relief. But the advisor hesitated.

"Don't hesitate and relay the information you hold," the Emperor stated, his eyes narrowing.

The advisor took a deep breath. "Th-the prince has...raised suspicion in the eyes of the King of Domino."

"WHAT? HE WAS SUPPOSED TO TERMINATE THOSE CONVICTS BEFORE THEY REACHED DOMINO!" the Emperor roared, his voice thundering through the room.

"H-he terminated them in-in ft-from-front of the King himself," the advisor stammered, his hands trembling. The Emperor's eyes bulged in disbelief. "That INSOLENT SON OF THE DUKE! I order the presence of the Duke of Valentine IMMEDIATELY!" he yelled furiously.

"Y-Your Majesty, there's more. In retaliation for his negligence, His Highness also stumbled upon one of the King's secrets. However, we're uncertain if it will be advantageous to us."

"Secrets? What sort of Secrets?" the Emperor inquired, his anger momentarily replaced by curiosity. The Emperor listened intently. "Princess? What Princess? And what kind of secret is that?" The Emperor questioned after listening.

"I feel the information is incomplete. There must be more to this. And His Highness is still investigating. And yes, the first Princess of Domino, who has been abandoned by the Royal Family," the advisor explained.

The Emperor let out a heavy sigh. "Why the HECK is he entangling himself with her? He knows well he can handle situations on his own without interfering with the royal family! What if that abandoned princess turns her back onto us? What will we do then? OH GOD, someone please inculcate some solemnity into that child! *Sigh* I mandate the Prince to return from Domino immediately!"

"As you wish, Your Majesty," the advisor exclaimed, bowing deeply.

"You may leave now," the Emperor ordered, dismissing the advisor with a wave of his hand.

"Yes, please take care, Your Majesty," the advisor said, turning and exiting the throne room.

The Emperor leaned back on his throne."That child. He's still sensitive. I wonder when he'll grow up from that state," he mused.

Cillian, born with low survival odds, miraculously became one of the Empire's best swordsmen, earning the title 'Silver Blade' for his unmatched skills and determination. Despite his abilities, he lacks understanding and should not mingle with the abandoned Princess, as he has a fiancée and responsibilities that require his loyalty and focus. As Emperor, I take pride in our resilient children, and it's critical for Cillian to prioritize his current duties over distractions in Domino.

-In the Court-

As the Judge's voice echoed through the court. "So, the case is closed. Everyone may leave," he announced, his gavel striking the sound block decisively.

*Sigh* Fortunately, I destroyed the evidence. Oh? You must be wondering who took the accusation of my nanny's death, right? Well...

-Yesterday Night, Amoria Palace; Garden-

Hah...I've been waiting here for the past hour. Guess he isn't coming...I thought, resuming my stroll.

Suddenly, I heard rustling in the leaves nearby. Huh? "Who's there?" I called out, my voice barely above a whisper.

"PLEASE, PLEASE KILL ME!!" A man’s voice pierced the night, filled with desperation. He stumbled into view, clasping a dagger in his trembling hand. "I can't live without my wife. Please, please, I beg you wailing PLEASE..." I took a step back, my mind raced with the implications. "Ah, ah, what are you doing? I can't kill you!" I stammered, shock coursing through me. "Please, you have to! I can't survive!" he blubbered, tears streaming down his face. "Please...please..."

Wait....wife? He's her husband? Then......

"You want to be dead, right? Not particularly killed by me, right?" I asked cautiously.

"Yes, yes! Anything but I want to be dead and join my wife, please...*weeping* My family won't let me commit suicide! *bawling*"

I took a deep breath. "I shall grant you the dispensation to take your own life, but only on the condition that you confess to being the assassin who attempted to murder my beloved nanny, following a grievous dispute with her. You must carry out this act behind the tree in the presence of my trusted butler and myself."

"I'll do anything. Anything at all to be dead!!!! Please, please let me die just pleasee *blubbering*" he begged, desperation etched on his face.

"For the sake of discretion, I implore you to take refuge behind the nearby tree and maintain absolute silence," I instructed.

*5 minutes later*

"You called for me, Princess?" my butler questioned as he entered the garden.

"May I inquire if there has been any development in the investigation regarding the perpetrator responsible for the incident involving my nan..." I began, but the man interrupted.

"Huh? Who's there? Come out right now!" my butler ordered, cautiously walking toward the tree. "Princess, please stay behind me."

I held my breath, praying the man would maintain the charade successfully.

Then, suddenly, the man’s voice rang out, filled with anguish. "Lord of the Heavens and Hell have called upon me! I WAS THE ONE WHO KILLED THE PRINCESS'S NANNY! HER HUSBAND!!!! AND...*weeping* I will join her, join her, join her in a place where she is resting in peace."

In a swift motion, he plunged the dagger into his heart.

"AHHH!" I screamed, stepping back in horror as tears streamed down my face. "Princess, Princess, it's okay!" my butler comforted me, his eyes wide as he turned to the scene before us.

Oh well, so that's how it was presented in court; it said that after a altercation, her husband killed his own wife and committed suicide as atonement for his transgressions.

-Night in Amoria Palace; Luxana's Room-

*Kock Kock*

The sound echoed through the stillness. Is it from the balcony? I thought as I turned around.

Cillian stood there, waving his hand with a smile.

So he came like he promised. I wasn't really expecting to keep his promise since he broke it yesterday. I thought as I got up from my bed.

As I unlocked the balcony door, the cool night air rushed in.

"Hello, have you been well?" Cillian inquired, his eyes sparkling with mischief.

"..."

Cillian hesitated, his smile faltering slightly.

I tilted my head, in question.

"Umhh...nothing. So shall we head out?" Cillian asked, his smile returning, filled with an infectious enthusiasm. I nodded in approval.

"Hehe, you're gonna enjoy this!" he exclaimed, his excitement palpable.

Suddenly, we were engulfed by a black mist, swirling around us like a living entity, and in an instant, we descended into the Night Market.

"WOAH!" I exclaimed, my eyes widening in awe.

"I told you, you'd like it," Cillian said, his smile brightening the scene around us.

I pursed my lips, feeling a mix of joy and uncertainty.

"I wonder if it's your first time in the Night Market," he continued.

I shook my head in approval. It’s honestly pretty gorgeous out here. It must be great not to be a noble...The freedom and anonymity must feel liberating. The Night Market's buzz and bustle contrasted sharply with the tight limitations of nobility. I thought, admiring everything.

As I chewed on a skewer, I noticed Cillian wasn’t eating anything but was instead buying me whatever he saw. I wondered if he was fine with doing just that.

"Want a bite?" I asked, offering him a piece of my skewer.

"Sure," he replied, taking a bite. "Hey! I had two, why'd you munch the one I was chewing?" I exclaimed, feigning indignation. "Cause, I wanted to," he said, a playful grin spreading across his face. "Eh?" "Hehe." "Honestly, I presumed you'd have something valuable to share with me," I said, raising an eyebrow. "I do, but how about we enjoy the evening first?" he suggested, his tone light and teasing. "..." I stared at him, caught off guard by his carefree attitude.

*Sigh* I guess I should stop being stuffy and cold for a while and enjoy myself while I still can. I thought.

I really thought she'd be happy if I brought her here, but it seems like she's more focused on hearing what I have to say than enjoying it here. Cillian thought.

"Oh! Look over there! They're doing a cultural dance!" I shouted, excitement bubbling within me.

Cillian grabbed Luxana's hand, dropping the skewers in the process.

"Would you mind joining me for a dance, My Lady?" he asked, his eyes shining with anticipation. I smiled softly, feeling my heart flutter at his invitation.

We danced the entire evening, lost in the rhythm of the music that enveloped us. We ate lots of street foods and sweets together, the flavors bursting on our tongues. The music was infectious, and we couldn’t resist moving to the beat. Laughter filled the air as we enjoyed each other’s company under the twinkling lights. It was a night to remember, full of joy and carefree moments that brought us closer together. The memories we made would always hold a special place in our hearts. The bond we shared that evening was unbreakable, solidified by the shared experiences and genuine connections we made.

It had been a while since I’d enjoyed so much. I was getting caught up with everything going on inside the Kingdom, and I had forgotten what it’s really like down here. But...Cillian didn’t seem to be enjoying it as much as I was. But who really cares? As long as he’s with me, I have...

Huh? Wait, what? Why did I have such a thought! Ew, NO! I-I-I don’t need him.

Luxana, why're you pale?" Cillian asked, concern etching his features.

"Pale? I feel fine though," I replied, forcing a smile.

"If there's anything bothering you, you can tell me," Cillian said anxiously, his gaze searching mine.

"I'm fine," I assured him, my smile becoming more genuine.

"Haa...I enjoyed so much tonight! Thanks to you, Cillian!" I said as we finally sat down on a bench near the fireworks, the brilliant colors lighting up the night sky. "Cleal!" he suddenly exclaimed. "Hmm?" I asked, tilting my head in confusion. "Call me, Cleal," he said earnestly. "...Thank you, Cleal," I smiled happily.

As I stood in the vibrant Night Market, surrounded by the lively chatter and enticing aromas, Cillian's voice suddenly pierced through the festive atmosphere.

"Luxana...I have...something to tell you..." he erupted, his words laced with a sense of urgency.

I tilted my head, my curiosity piqued by his uncharacteristic seriousness.

"Look, some people just rub me the wrong way, and even the ones I vibe with seem to keep their distance. It's kinda messed up when I think about it, but times like these remind me that real connections are the ones worth putting my energy into. It's not about how many friends you have, but how solid those friendships are. So, I'm focusing on the individuals who lift me up and cut out the negative vibes. Life's too short to waste on toxic relationships. It's all about surrounding yourself with people who push you to be better, and you know what? Living that way is far more joyful and healthful. Don't you agree?" he continued, his words flowing with a newfound clarity.

I couldn't help but feel a sense of unease creeping up within me. "Pray tell, am I the one with whom you have been forming a bond, yet I appear to maintain a distance from you? Furthermore, you seek to utilize my assistance in removing the individual who has merely vexed you?" I interjected, fixing upon him a gaze that pleaded for enlightenment before I compelled him to reveal all.

She's acting all formal again....guess there's no way out of here. Cillian thought, narrowing down his eyes.

"Oh umhh...seems like I can't win when it comes to you...haha..." he said, his voice tinged with a hint of miff. "Your response fails to address my inquiry," I exclaimed, determined to uncover the truth.

"Yes, you're right. I have to return to Elmir as earliest as possible and...meet up with my fiancée," he said, his shoulders slumping as he let out a heavy sigh.

The realization hit me like a ton of bricks. "HAHHAHAHAHHA...Oh GOD, Cleal...did you only find me to help solve your problem?" I burst out laughing, the absurdity of the situation dawning on me. "Huh? Oh, Wow...you were so formal all of a second, that really caught me off guard. But...*HMPH* I really thought you'd help me," he said, his face twisted into an unamused expression.

"There's a saying 'Don't expect to get what you give. Not everyone has a heart like you,'" I said, snickering at the irony of the situation. "..." "Oh, Umm...I'm sorry...but Elmir is a serious matter, and you are the Prince of Valentine, one of the most prestigious households. I think it's best if I don't get involved and I don't want to make things worse," I said, my voice laced with regret. "..." "But! I'll be your friend!" I exclaimed, forcing a smile onto my face, hoping to lighten the mood. "..." "Umhh...I'll send you letters every day asking about your well-being?" I suggested, grasping at straws.

*Sigh* "I vehemently refuse any such notions. The mere implication of my involvement would jeopardize my reputation and put my position at risk. I will not be party to such a proposition, nor will I entertain further discussion on the matter." He said, his face devoid of emotion as he avoided my gaze.

I felt a pang of heartbreak.

His mood was already bad, and now I've made it worse. I didn't want to help him with his fiancée issues because if I did, not only Isabella, but also the nobility of Domino and Elmir, would be affected. And my father could force me to marry before I'm of legal age. Furthermore, he was a Prince of an Enemy Nation. If I assisted him, wouldn't I be charged with treason? I thought.

"Good day to you, and may you find someone else more gullible to assist you in your folly," he said as he disappeared into the black mist, leaving me alone in the Night Market.

"Huh? Hey Cillian! Get back! CILLAIN!" I screamed, but he never came back. That night, I felt immense anguish, fearing I'd regret my words to him forever. Only then did I realize his importance to me. It's true—you never know what you have until it's gone. The pain of losing him was unbearable, and I wished I could turn back time to make things right.

To be Continued...