Tan laid all of his troubles at Casimir’s feet, who then wondered if the royal princes turned dumb in front of the person they liked. He only raised a hand to stop the prince from blabbering further.

“You didn’t let him put any input regarding your news breaking announcement to your older siblings, of course he'd be mad at you.” Casimir said. “The only way for you to fix this is to court his forgiveness.”

“But I'm at a loss as to how…”

“Haven’t you been friends for a while? I don’t see why you’re having trouble knowing what he likes or prefers.”

Tan rubbed the back of his neck, making Javi side eye him for a moment. “Well, we haven’t really…talked for the past three years and–”

“I’m surprised you didn’t get rejected outright, if that’s the case.” Casimir said bluntly. “I presume you assumed that you wouldn’t get rejected because he didn’t ask for the blind to be lifted?”

“Erm, yeah…in a way…”

Casimir finished the pudding he was eating and reached for another one, ignoring the rest. “I can’t say for certain that I can help you since I’m not well acquainted with Lord Mikael compared to the crown princess, but going out on a date or giving a gift and apologizing sincerely might save your engagement.”

Tan’s eyes widened as he repeated two words, “A date…”

What kind of dates do guys like? If it were him, he’d go on a boating trip, or a long horseback riding, just the two of them. Or if he’s feeling a little adventurous, maybe shop for their engagement rings?

But would Mikael like those? He’s an esteemed gentleman, and wouldn’t be caught dead doing jewelry shopping with the prince before their public announcement, so surely horseback riding would be a nice idea? He doubts Mikael is into boating…

“Feel free to eat the rest, Father Casimir. Indeed, my brother is wise to keep in contact with you as his friend.” Tan said as he sprung up and went to his desk. “Javi, go and eat too.”

He sat down on his chair, pulling out a pen and paper, drafting his letter in asking Mikael out on a date.

•×•×•

“Young Lord, a letter from the Second Prince has arrived.” The butler announced, carrying a letter tray with the said letter and a simple letter opener, as he approached the Duke’s heir in the training ground.

Mikael has his hair tied up high, his shirt drenched in sweat as he puts down his wooden sword and wipes his face with a towel. His arms bore defined muscles that he hides underneath his usual long sleeves, and his combat trousers bore some dust and dirt on them. 

Lying on the training grounds were a few handful of knights, severely and soundly beaten single handedly by their young liege.

Mikael only frowned as the butler approached. “What does he want now?”

He took the letter, scrutinizing it before taking the letter opener. Once he flipped it open and read the contents, he scowled further.

“Does he seriously think that I’ll be appeased by a simple horseback riding?” He scoffed as he threw the letter and the letter opener back onto the tray.

“Shall I get a paper and pen for your reply?”

“No, let him suffer for a day or so.” Mikael said, looking over at the still tired knights. “Training’s over, get up and wash yourselves.”

“Yes, my lord.”  They said in unison. Once Mikael had left, followed by the butler, they looked at one another with bewildered expressions.

“Our young lord is an Omega right? How is he stronger than our Vice Captain, who's an Alpha?”

The Vice Captain, who's laying down with them, only chuckled painfully. “Our young lord is greatly influenced by the crown prince and princess, who do not rely on secondary traits to define them. It’s about time that our kingdom look past that old thinking and embrace the new era.”

•×•×•

Siane sat in her parlor, still stunned by what the doctor had said.

Pregnant. She’s pregnant with Calisto’s first child!

She gently caressed her belly, her expression softening.

Her little one has been conceived, and Fran has already sent word to Calisto, who's having a meeting with the Royal Court in place of the King.

Little did she know, a devious smile appeared on Calisto’s lips when the message reached him. He would have gone straight to see his wife but a more pressing matter has his attention.

He turned towards the Royal Court, who was looking at him a little apprehensively, wondering what kind of news that would make him smile like that.

“Maybe it’s time that I ascend properly, don't you think so?” He asked them casually, propping up his chin on his knuckles. “Father basically handed everything to me anyway, except for the crown. We could start the preparations once I convince my Father later. Surely he wants to enjoy an early retirement.”

The Royal Court couldn't muster up any courage to speak up as they were being slowly dominated by his aura.