A Wallflower (Kingdom of Anthos)

Chapter 5: Teacher

We decided to start our travel before dawn and because the horses are well-rested we arrived at the main town of Auricu before lunch. Upon arrival, we have decided to have our lunch there while also taking a rest and to stretch our legs. After an hour we departed from the main town to travel to the mountainside. When Uncle said mountainside he literally means mountainside. Notwithstanding the cliffside and the tall walls of the border that peeks through the forest but everything I see is green, green and green. The air is too fresh you can even smell the trees, the dirt and the fresh after rain, chirping birds and other animals are the only noise that one can hear and of course the noise of our carriage. It is hard to imagine other people living here, so far away from civilization, but if one would like to have peace and self-recreation this is the best place to go.

By mid-afternoon, we arrived at a clearing where a modest log house by noble standards stands. A two-story log house, aesthetically designed to house I think more or less 10 people comfortably excluding the servants. Uncle explained that this is actually a retreat house owned by Grandfather. He sometimes goes here to relax and reminisce whenever he misses Grandmother. Currently, the log house is lent to Master Mikado and his acquaintances for the duration of his stay in Jessamine.

Upon entering the house, we were greeted by a maid, informing us that Master Mikado is in the back porch taking his afternoon tea. He mentioned, as per the maid that he would like to meet all of us as soon as we arrive, all of us not only me. The maid informed us that they will be taking care of our luggage and other stuff and refused the help from Holly stating that we are guests, much to Holly's chagrin. She (“You may call me Nia, dear guests. I am currently the head maid of this house”) proceeded to call one of the other maids to assign which luggage is which and where to put, afterward she led us to the porch. After a few short hallways, though aesthetically designed, we have arrived at our destination. The back porch in one glance you can already say that it is quite large and comfortable, complete with a swinging porch bed, many seats and tables scattered and a minibar in the corner. I am kind of already eyeing one of the corner seats which I think is a good place to relax and read.

"Welcome, I hope your trip is enjoyable," a man said as he stands up. He is wearing what one may call a dark brown fedora with a viridian green ribbon in his head, a cream dress shirt under a brown vest casually half-tucked, dark brown pants and leather boots. It is kind of weird why he is wearing a hat while relaxing indoors. Looking at him he can easily blend with the surroundings. He is somewhat in the mid-40s or late 30s, with blonde hair, skin a bit on the tanner side but still complements his blonde and he also has grey eyes. It is hard to imagine that he is friends with grandfather, he looks young as if in the same age as Father or maybe younger.

"Ah, yes. Mister Mikado, it is enjoying a bit tiring" Uncle said. “And, yes let me introduce you, this is my niece Camellia." I smiled at him as I was introduced.

"My new student! Camellia a fitting name for a beautiful lady, and the other two?" Master Mikado asked while signaling us to take our seats in front of him.

"The young man is Ash and this lady is Holly. They are Camellia's escort and maidservant respectively; I do believe you have been informed that they will be staying here" Uncle explained. Both Ash and Holly bowed their heads as they were introduced. We were all seated by this time.

He looked at each one of us, stopping with Ash as if contemplating something. "Ah, yes I remember. Hmm, but I have changed my mind" Master Mikado announced.

"Eh?! But Master Mikado-", Holly and I said but was interrupted by his hand in stopping sign.

"Young ladies, calm down a bit. I have a rule here" Master Mikado said. I was nervous because I cannot disappoint Father with this, I need to be his student "Do not call me Master. I am a Teacher. Call me Teacher, alright"

When he saw both of us nod reluctantly. "As I was saying, I changed my mind. Instead of being here to just assist this lovely Lady Camellia here, you will be my students also"

"What?!" Uncle, Holly, and Ash said at the same time. Shocked evident from their postures. I was too stunned to even react because this is something that is not normal at all. Most Guild Masters are picky with students and I do believe that Father only paid for my education.

"No need to react like that" Teacher Mikado said with a pout. An older man pouting and the pout does not look out of place at all, this is the first time I've seen something like this. "I have decided it already, do not worry it is not like Edel is paying me anyway. I am just returning a favor, might as well decide things for my own amusement. He did say I can teach you in my own way provided that you lot will remain safe"

Silence for a few minutes, then Uncle broke it by belly laugh, tears in his eyes. "Seriously old man, you never cease to surprise me," He said trying to contain his laugh. I can even see that Ash is barely restraining his laugh. 'Old man? He looks the same age as Uncle and for him to call Father by his nickname'

"Umm, excuse my rudeness Mas-Teacher Mikado, but Ash and I have duties to attend" Holly explained.

"Hmm. Your duties are to look after Camellia right, you can do it while sitting with us with lessons, learning the same thing your young mistress does." Teacher Mikado explained. "And also, here I will not care about your blood status and the like, to me you are all equals"

"Oh, Okay Teacher Mikado" I agreed.

"But Milady-" Before Holly can say her argument Teacher Mikado interrupted her.

"The duties of a maid will be done by the maids here. You may help during your free time as you wish. But you will be my student and that is final. If you do not want to you may leave"

"Holly, I believe this will be beneficial especially to you. Princess will need your help applying what she will learn you know" Ash spoke. I don't know if that was to comfort Holly or a bit of an insult with my learning capabilities. I settled with a mock glare at him and he just smiled at me with full teeth.

"Alright. Thank you for this opportunity Teacher Mikado" Holly conceded.

Clapping his hands he said, "now that is settled, may I ask if-"

"Teacher, would you like to have-" a female voice interrupted us. When she saw us fully she looked a bit embarrassed but bravely said "I am sorry for interrupting"

"No need, no need, come over here dear and I will introduce you," Teacher Mikado said. Gesturing for the lady to come near. "Everyone, this is Crysantha my lovely apprentice" Miss Crysantha bowed to us as she was introduced.

Miss Crysantha is a real beauty, with long straight platinum blond hair to her waist and emerald green eyes. She is wearing an elegant but clearly for everyday use bottle green dress that makes her eyes shine as if there are real emerald gems. Her beauty makes even a female heart flutter, like mine right now. She looks like not an ordinary woman but someone who was raised in high society, noble blood. It shows more by how she stands and bow it looks like she was trained with etiquette, ingrained in the body.

"Nice to meet you," she said with a half bow. A bow used by someone who is used to be the one in the higher hierarchy of things. ‘Hmm, who is she?’

"Now, Crysantha dear, these three young ones will be my students and will study with you, the redhead lady is Camellia, her maidservant Holly and her escort Ash" Teacher Mikado introduced us while gesturing who is who.

"Three? Teacher, I thought you said one" Ms. Crysantha asked a bit of a frown on her face.

"Well, yes. Originally it was one, but I decided with three" Teacher Mikado explained with a demeanor as one trying to say the weather is good.

Ms. Crysantha gave a sigh and with a serious face said "I already apologize for his stubbornness and inconvenience his arguments may have been" It looks like this was not the first time Teacher Mikado decides things like that.

"My dear Crysantha you wound me" Teacher Mikado whined, right palm in the chest as if gesturing she hurt his heart.

"Teacher," Ms. Crysantha said looking at Teacher Mikado with an unimpressed look. Looking at them, they look really close. "Well, excuse me for a moment, I will need to get back with what I was doing" She bowed and left.

When she left Teacher Mikado continued on what he was saying earlier. Apparently, he will ask for Uncle's help with lessons on the day after tomorrow, the same day that Uncle will leave using our carriage. Teacher Mikado explained that he expects us in the study room every morning at 8 am unless he said otherwise. Lessons are from 8 am to 12nn with a ten-minute break by 10 am, the afternoon is for free study or unless he changed his mind. We are expected to wear day clothes only, no maid outfit for Holly, no puffy and constricting dress for me, but Ash is allowed to keep his under armor unless Teacher said otherwise. The lesson schedule is the same in the Academy, first to fifth day of the week or unless he changed his mind. Also mealtimes will be; breakfast 7 am, lunch 12nn and dinner is always 7 pm and curfew is 10 pm, unless given prior permission to stay outside beyond 10 pm. I think Teacher Mikado is emphasizing the 'until he changes his mind'. It looks like he changes them frequently. I think this is what Father and Mother meant when they said he is a bit eccentric. Afterward, he excused us and let us rest and settle for the day. Although he and Uncle talked more about certain topics like the latest political issues in the capital.

0o0

Our rooms are on the second floor, a maid gave us a tour, two bedrooms on the first floor and eight on the second floor ten rooms in total. My room is facing the garden and forest in the right side of the house, by my deduction, it is above the back porch, Holly's room is beside mine, and we have a shared bathroom for the two of us. Ash's room, on the other hand, is beside Holly's but by the positioning of the room, it is facing the front of the house.

"It is good for surveillance Princess" Ash explained. "I am sharing a bath with Master Gul though"

We were informed that Teacher Mikado’s room is downstairs while Miss Crysantha’s were across mine. Among the ten rooms of the house, two are not allowed to be used by guests because one is for the personal use of Grandfather and one is for the personal use of Duke Jessamine; Uncle Varte. Currently according to the maids, seven rooms are occupied.

0o0

When we were trying to have a look and feel of the house for ourselves, we have met Miss Crysantha in one of the sitting rooms. She is knitting something using a red yarn in full concentration. Ash is the first of us who notices her and greeted.

"Ah, Madame Crysantha, hello" Ash greeted. Miss Crysantha stopped was she was doing and looked at us coolly.

After observing us for a few seconds and with a slight glare she replied coldly "Do not call me Madame, call me Crysantha, Crys or Miss if you must, but not Madame, I am only a year or two older than you"

We are a bit surprised by her tone, a bit of 180-degree turn of personality.

"Ah, well I apologize if I have offended you, Miss," Ash said awkwardly. She replied with just a gesture of hand as a sign that it was nothing and resumed what she was doing. Awkward silence enveloped the room and I can't help but look at Miss Crysantha.

"If you want to say something just say it, your staring is getting annoying" Miss Crysantha suddenly said, breaking the silence, looking up and staring at me straight in the eye.

"Um, I apologize for that," I said. "We would just like to make talk"

"What do the Grand Duke's daughter need to talk about?" she answers with raised eyebrows and a sneer. "I apologize but I can't be much entertainment to you"

"I-I do apologize if I might have offended you in some way," I said awkwardly. I felt like she does not like me at all.

"Do not apologize Milady, I feel like the Miss is being a-a.," Holly said while trying to find the right word to describe Ms. Crysantha.

And of course Ash the ever mischievous and inappropriate one said, "you mean a b***h?"

"ASH!" Both Holly and I said scandalously

"I am sorry Ms. Crysantha, ASH apologize!" I immediately said. But before Ash can say a word a laugh interrupted us.

Ms. Crysantha is laughing at us, loudly. We were stunned to see such a reaction from someone who just earlier was trying to make us feel unwelcome. When she has calmed down and dissolved to just quiet giggles.

"Oh, my you lot ARE entertaining," she said smiling. “When he said you are entertaining when together, I thought he is just biased because it is you”

‘He? Uncle Gul?’ I thought confused.

"My, I can't really understand women at all" Ash murmured scratching his head, but everyone can hear it.

"I do apologize. I am trying to not like you at all but you are proving to be not unlikeable" She explained as she sent a forced smile.

"Miss, what do you mean by that?" Holly asked. I was nodding beside her.

"You are the Grand Duke's daughter, coming here to study with your servants. Your Father asking for lessons for you from a Master who already has a current apprentice. A child borne from the blood of both Dukes, doted by your parents, doted by your older brother, fiancé to the First Prince, you are a true blood aristocrat. How much I try to look at you from different angles, you are a pampered lady. Yet you do not act like one should act when with your own servants, you treat them as equals and that is really amusing" She probably means when I let Ash and Holly speak for themselves not waiting for my permission or interrupt me when I was speaking, because generally a servant is not allowed to do that.

"Well, Princess is Princess," Ash said. I saw Miss Crysantha raise one of her perfect brows when she heard Ash called me princess, that’s a bit embarrassing.

"Yes, I think I might have been pampered but Holly and Ash are not my servants but they are my friends. And I might be pampered as you say, but I can safely say my eyes have been opened on how naïve I really am. And Miss Crysantha should not worry, we will only be students and not to be apprentice" I explained.

"Hmm, really? I wonder," she said with a tone a bit mockingly. Before I can answer Holly interrupted.

"I do know this place is a bit far and out of civilization, but does Miss Crysantha do not hear news from the Royal Circle specifically from the Royal Academy?"

"Well, I don't really care much what happens in the Capital, as long as it does not concern my well-being and my precious peoples’. I do admit it has been a week since I heard something from there." she explained.

"Well, this will be news to you then, currently the Princess being here is a part of punishment" Ash explained.

But before Holly and Ash can explain it more, I already started my story of what happened a week ago and a bit of my life story...Camellia’s story?.

"Well, a bit surprising and not with the First Prince knowing him, and about the Viscount's daughter shocking but still a mystery. I highly doubt she will get that far though that place is full of hyenas." was Miss Crysanthas's only reaction. A bit anticlimactic and anti-royalty.

"Miss, it looks like you do not like the royalty at all" Ash asked, voicing all our opinions.

"Yes, I do not like nobles especially the royals, my reasons are my own," She said closing the subject immediately.

'But, you act like a noble' I thought to myself.

"Anyway let's start again shall we" Standing up she introduced herself "My name is Crysantha, call me Crysantha without Miss because Teacher and I will not use formalities here. That is his rule sort of" she finished with rolling eyes.

Standing up myself and bowing "My name is Camellia of Strelitzia, you may call me Camellia if you want"

"My name is Holly. I am Lady Camellia's maidservant and main assistant and one of the children she picked up" Holly introduced herself

"And this gentleman's name is Ash, Princess' escort and guard origins same as Holly," Ash said introducing himself.

After the air was cleared between the four of us. We talked about different things and what to expect for the lessons. Miss Crysantha is actually kind but with a wicked sense of humor, really smart and with a sharp tongue and sarcastic edge. Observing her, I can say that she is someone who holds her secrets close to her heart, and always keeps her guards up, everyone at arms-length. Always with a blank face or a smile but keeping emotions in check as much as she can and calculating every scenario for hidden intentions. A lonely woman who thinks the world is out to get her. She reminds me of the original "I".

0o0

The morning came and with that comes the first lesson with Teacher Mikado and I am a bit excited. We had breakfast by the allotted time and proceeded to the study room with our notebooks, paper, pen, and ink. In this world they mostly use parchment paper and pointed tipped dip pens(quills), the magical world feels. Uncle bailed and said he will do a bit of training outside, Ash looks envious. The room is actually rearranged to be like a classroom. A chalkboard in the front, four tables, and chairs facing it. Bookshelves packed with books surrounding the right wall/area. Windows facing the forest and a bit of the garden on the left, tables with I think scientific equipment atop them as if in the display below the windows and like a zigzag.

Our seats were arranged in two rows but a bit of one sit apart. Crysantha is seated at the first row nearing the windows then a space in which Ash is seating in the second row then me in the first row then Holly in the second row.

"Ok everyone Good Morning" Teacher greeted. When we only stared at him, he said "What no greeting back?",

Awkwardness. I was thinking if I should greet back or not as customary in school. But Crysantha said something.

"Teacher, we are not children, this is not an official class you know, would you mind," she said gesturing for Teacher to start the lesson already.

"Fine, be that way. There is no love here" Teacher said pouting. This man really loves to pout, seriously. "Continuing, today we will learn about History and Geography~"

"Eh?! What for?" Ash said surprised. I do agree with Ash a bit. History and Geography of the Empire is something that is usually taught in primary and middle school.

"Because my dear new student, I cannot teach you other areas such as finance, administration and basic other things without you lot not knowing history and geography, what is the current climate of the political areas, what is the possible solution for taxes increasing, what is the possible effect if it is implemented in this area and such and because the answers to whys and what always start with History, Geography and how were the people before" He explained jovially. I did not get it at all, as if the explanation has no connection and jumbled words are thrown together just for the heck of it.

"Oh, really Teacher because if this is supposed to be the start why am I only learning it now?" Crysantha asked eyebrows raised.

"Ah, well~I just felt like it okay~," Teacher said grinning. Crysantha actually sighed and facepalmed.

So…the lesson topic is because Teacher just felt like it. He does not follow a set lesson plan I think and Crysantha is kind of used to it but still frustrated.

"So~ choose, smaller to bigger or bigger to smaller?" Teacher asked.

"What?" Holly said not really understanding. I can feel you, Holly, I really do. The lesson has yet to start but my brain is already confused.

"He means, smaller area as in the Kingdom first to the whole Empire or Empire first to Kingdom, I think," Crysantha explained, clearly already used to Teacher's way of saying things, but with wariness, if she is not right.

"Yes, my dear Crysantha, but we will not talk only about the Empire but this whole world" Teacher announced complete with open arm gesture.

A bit surprising since the other Empires are not really taught in the other schools. Aside from the very basic knowledge, nothing is taught about them. Information about other Kingdoms in the same Empire is scarce too. Even Anthos, it is as if there are too many holes in history, but it can’t be helped history is written by the winners.

"So, since you do not want to choose, I will choose for you. Now, who can tell me about this world's geography a bit, Hmm Holly?"

"Ah, yes this world as we know as Allo Orbis, composed of three continents govern by their respective Empires". Holly answered.

Both Holly and Ash are educated as well as most of the servants employed under Strelitzia House. All of them are provided with education in a special schedule and by tutors or educators hired by the Strelitzia House. This education, however, is only until middle school although some are encouraged to take a higher-level education. Most who have really high potential goes but they always come back to serve the House until the time they want to leave, appointed for other higher positions (ennoblement most times) or retired. Both Holly and Ash supposedly have their schooling on hold in the duration of my punishment, although I planned to tutor them while we were here, now my plan is moot and they will be studying with me.

"And the names of the Empires and location, Camellia dear" Teacher asked gesturing at me.

"The names are Empire Sora in the North, Empire La Tierra in the Center and Empire Thale at the south" I answered confidently.

"And, what do you know about the other empires beside their name? Ash?"

"Um, Nothing?" Ash answered sheepishly. His answer is not really a surprise, anything beyond the names are taught as specialization.

"Yes as expected. Now, most do not know this, only those at the other Guild, but I will share~ The Empire Sora in the north is a semi-cold continent four months of summer to cold spring, three months of autumn and five months of winter. The Empire is composed of three kingdoms separated by thick walls; the mainland in the center where the Emperor resides in the Kingdom Taiyo, on the right is the Kingdom Yue and in the left is Kingdom Byeol. They might be a small empire but they are powerful and full of colors and culture. Next, the Empire Thale is not really an Empire. They are five major countries that have a treaty for peace; Perlas, Vo, Ikan, Rumpai, and Korala. Among them, only Rumpai is a kingdom and all of them are tropical countries separated by seas, seas, and seas. Each country is governed by its own political system, but they have representatives for the Continental Council lead by a Head Council that maintains the treaties and peace in the whole continent. Trivia~there are other countries under Continent Thale-which is the right term to use, but because they were a bit smaller in size and population, they were never mentioned or studied, any other in-dept knowledge will be discussed sometime in the future. Any questions?"

Ash raised his hand and asked "Teacher, how can you say all that in one breath?"

We all faced him startled by the seemingly innocent but no connection question and I heard an annoyed groan from Holly complete with a facepalm.

"Well, if you really must know" Teacher paused for effect "it is a secret~"

Crysantha and I just looked at each other and both thought that these two will feed each other's mischievousness and inappropriateness.

"So, the last but not the least our Empire La Tierra, tell me the basic rundown, Crysantha dear"

"Empire La Tierra is the largest Empire and continent located at the center of Allo Orbis. A big mass of land in diamond shape composed of 6 Kingdoms and the mainland La Tierra; the Empire Capital. Total of 7 countries, 6 kings and 1 emperor." Ms. Crysantha answered. "Geography-wise the 6 Kingdoms are separated by mountains and forms a bit of outer diamond shape. The mainland La Tierra is located at the center of the continent and also at the center of a big lake surrounded by walls. Going from a kingdom to the mainland La Tierra requires a 2-hour journey by small boat. About the weather, every kingdom has different weather patterns but mostly four seasons of spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Although some parts of Anthos and Djur are sub-tropical and only have mild winter." Crysantha explained.

"Yes, correct. The kingdoms are Frunze in the north-west, Rovar in the north, Albero in north-east, Anthos in the southeast, Kraut in the south, Djur in the south-west. Now traveling wise it will take three months to go from one end of the continent to another using a normal carriage with very minimal stopovers. Trivia~ History says that all royals of the kingdoms are related to the first Emperor, yes it is true to an extent. Only the royals and some nobles of Anthos and Albero are from direct descendants by the first emperor, the others are relatives and siblings. Now among all the kingdoms, only Rovar have never been into war after they were conquered by the First Emperor. Djur and Frunze have their wars 100 years ago due to land properties and trade, and of course Albero, Anthos and Kraut have their three-way-war that spanned for almost 15 years and only was finished about 20 years ago. Currently in standing the three countries have their trades back in order with each other peace treaties signed but there are still lingering effects of war. Kraut has been really silent politically wise, Albero has their own silent civil war and of course Anthos have their own political war. Tell us what you know about it, Camellia?"

"Anthos politics is currently divided by three factions, the First Prince faction, the Second Prince faction, and the neutrals. It has stemmed when the current His Majesty King Fiorello has married the late His Majesty Queen Kalina who was from a Marquis house of Zinnia and breaking an engagement with a Ducal House of Aquilegia. To make amends, King Fiorello has accepted his former fiancé as his concubine and a second wife, however, she cannot use the title Queen, even with the death of the late Queen Kalina. The main reason for the ascension war is because the first prince is a child from the second wife but with a higher pedigree, while the second prince is the child of the late Queen as such should be the crown prince. Politically the current King has yet to make an announcement for that and was rumored to be still mourning for the late Queen."

"Yes, half of that is correct, while the other half is not. There are four factions, the last one supports His Royal Highness Princess Iris the first child. In the Kingdom of Anthos, it is a tradition that the one who ascends the throne or any other title is the firstborn male, however, there is no law about it. The law only states that it should be the firstborn but no genders were specified. Princess Iris is the eldest child born from the King and the late Queen, as such she should be the current Crown Princess, but many have opposed because she is a woman and pitted the First and the Second Prince for the throne. Most of the nobles do not accept a woman as a ruling monarch a stigma to all women. The opposition only strengthens because of the three-way war that happened during Queen Mother Rosa’s reign. which is not really her fault, Anthos was caught in between wars of Albero and Kraut. Anthos do need to defend its territory that is why it became a three-way-war. Currently, rumors say that the Princess and the Second Prince are both studying outside the kingdom or more specifically in the mainland La Tierra. This is the information that we currently know. Remember especially in politics; what we know does not necessary means it is what is really happening." Teacher explained. "Now we will be having our 10-minute break, but afterward we will be having discussion regarding your own questions"

As Teacher finished saying that, a knock was heard from the door. The maids have brought a bit of snacks and tea for us and were distributed. Thinking about what Teacher Mikado said, I did not know about the Princess, it was always about the First and Second Prince. It is sad to think that as if her existence was forgotten because of her gender and the political wolves.

When we were finished Teacher has once again stood in front of us.

"Now, any questions?"

Ash raised his hand, we all looked at him as if warning him not to ask nonsense questions. He just grinned at us and asked Teacher "Teacher, why does the Emperor let wars go on in the other kingdoms? Is he not worried about the possibilities that this war may lead to rebelling to the whole Empire as a whole? Or the impact of this war on the people"

"Hmm? Good question, why indeed? Does anyone know why?"

Crysantha raised her hand and answered "It is not that he does not care right. I think he just knows something. Hidden special powers possibly?" She said smiling as if joking. She really looks good with a smile. "When I was still a child there were rumors regarding the Emperor? His knowledge of everything and his longevity and still youthful appearance."

"Rumors? There were rumors like that?" I asked surprised.

"I have heard a bit about it before from Eus and Senna's conspiracy theories, but I never really paid attention to it," Holly said.

"Yes, those rumors. I cannot really confirm or deny, but the only thing I can say is that the Emperor always knows. He is not playing God per se, but as an Emperor, he has eyes and ears in every kingdom. Or~ Well he might have special powers for all we know” Teacher answered with a wink. “So~any other questions? If none we will be closing this topic and proceed to Crysantha’s assignment”

“Eh? But Teacher I thought my due was tomorrow?” Crysantha said confused and looking pointedly at Teacher.

With a grin, Teacher answered. “Well. I know you’re done anyway, so why not present?”

“Whatever. Let me just find my notes” She said as she rolls her eyes and looks for one of her notebooks. It looks good and not at the same time when a student has too much cheek and a Teacher gives back the cheek.

“What was the assignment Teacher?” Ash asked.

“It is about myths! I love myths~” Teacher answered.

“My assignment is to choose and present a myth. A myth in which all evidence gathered albeit very few they are, points it to be not real but everyone says it is true” Crysantha answered.

“Oh, like the Emperor’s special powers?” Ash asked with a contemplating tone, in which Holly nods in eagerness.

“Hmm. Yes, that sort of thing” Teacher answered as he walks to the side. “Dear Crysantha the floor is yours”

Crysantha stood up and walked to where Teacher Mikado was standing a few seconds ago. “Well, the myth that I have chosen is the myth of Travelers”

“Travelers?” I asked. I never heard of it or rather Camellia never heard of it.

“Yes, Travelers. People or souls rather who have traveled from a different world” Crysantha explained. By that statement I felt cold all of sudden, I don’t know if that is only my nervousness or another thing entirely.

“Continuing. According to the books that I have read. Travelers came from another world different from ours. They have different geography, different continents, different countries or kingdom and different languages from Allo Orbis. As per my research, there are three types of Travelers. The first one is those who were born with the knowledge of another life he/she lived before and they remember everything from their birth, a bit of like reincarnation. Next is the one who suddenly woke up knowing of another life in another world as if a soul or memories traveled from the other world to here and resided to a body a child or adult that was born here. Lastly, those who suddenly appeared both body and soul from another world. The only evidence gathered are mostly cannot be considered evidence but hearsays. Evidence gathered is the sudden knowledge of something or shift in personalities, this also happens when something major happened to the person, almost dying for example. Since trauma is one of the possible reasons, many believe the sudden change because of just trauma.” Crysantha explained. Taking a deep breath, she continued. “It is not really much evidence but everyone believes it to be true but no one can explain how they know it is true. No one has yet to admit that they are Travelers. Although according to Master Jon of the History Guild which is one of those who dedicated their research in proving that Travelers are true, is that all Travelers kept their secret close to their hearts as if they are incapable of sharing but can only give clues. And a Traveler knows that someone is also a Traveler by just a glance but also this is never proven. And that is the end.”

We clapped as she finishes her talk, it is not really a presentation but more of a report.

“Hmm. That is a good myth and personally, I believe it to be true. Myths always came from something that is true, it might have lost some of the real stories behind it but there is always a basis.” Teacher said.

“Teacher, how did you think that myth probably started?” I asked still nervous.

“Oh. Well as per Jon, it all started because of a novel. The novel came from Empire Sora and was believed to be a true to life story, but the book that was able to reach our shores is only the first book, the sequel is lost.” Teacher explained. ‘How can he just call another Master by name only?’

“Have you read it, Teacher?” Holly asked.

“Well~ Of course, I did. The only copy resides at the Empire’s Royal Library, I do have permission to read there don’t worry” He assured us as he saw our expressions of kind of horror and disbelief. Only selected people can enter and read books form the Empire’s Royal Library, whoever caught that is not one of those people is immediately executed. “Anyways the story is about the last type of Traveler. A young lady suddenly appeared, more like she suddenly fell from the sky in the middle of a lake. She spoke of going home to a place called Japan in the year 2012. The story is about her journey to our world. The book even features on how she met different types of Travelers. Since only the first book has reached our Empire, we do not know if the lady got home to her world. Some petitioned for a copy of the second book but it was rejected. It was very fascinating, albeit a bit unsatisfactory because of the lack of ending. And by the way, Crysantha dear, do not be swayed by old man Jon's researches unless you really want to. That old man is a slave driver and too eccentric, I know, been there done that~"

"Pot calling the kettle black much" I heard Crysantha silently murmured.

The questions and talk continued but I tuned them out. Traveler. I want to know more information about the Travelers, because looking at my situation, it all points to me being a Traveler, a type two.

‘What happens to a Traveler? Are there any chances of going back? What will happen to this body, to Camellia if I ever go back? Do I even want to?’

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A Partial Guide to the Kingdom of Anthos

Anthos is located in the south-east of La Tierra. The kingdom was established 500 years ago as a separate kingdom from the Empire, however, after 300 years of being independent, it was conquered and absorbed by the Empire through a year of battle led by Prince Anden and his twin, Prince Antra. After conquering the kingdom, Prince Anden was crowned by the Emperor as the King of Anthos and subsequently named as King Anden I of Anthos. His direct descendants still rule the Kingdom. The current ruling monarch is King Fiorello II, son of the former ruling monarch Queen Rosa and Duke Anton of Anthos [deceased, originally Lord Anton of Freesia, younger brother of Duke Freesia].

7 Main Territories of Anthos (all titles are hereditary)

1.    Royal Capital of Anthos-known as the largest territory of the kingdom and located at the center of the kingdom and governed by the partner of the ruling monarch (formerly by Queen Kalina, currently in partnership with Queen Mother Rosa and Lady Olivette).

2.    Grand Duchy of Strelitzia- encompasses the east and northeast of the kingdom, the farthest East of the Empire La Tierra and beside Freesia. Strelitzia is the border territory with half of Kingdom Albero and the farthest territory from the Royal Capital and known as the second-largest territory of the Kingdom. It is governed by the Grand Duke Strelitzia (Grand Duke Edel II)

3.    Duchy of Jessamine-known as the gateway to the mainland. It encompasses the west and northwest of the kingdom and the third-largest territory. The duchy is the border territory of the Kingdom to the mainland La Tierra and a third of the Kingdom of Kraut. One would have to go through the Duchy in order to travel to the mainland La Tierra. It is governed by Duke Jessamine (Duke Varte II)

4.    Duchy of Aquilegia-located at the south of the kingdom and the fourth largest territory. It is governed by the Duke Aquilegia (Duke Rhode IV). This Duchy represents the opposition side in the Kingdom.

5.    Duchy of Freesia-located at the east of Royal Capital and west of Strelitzia. It is governed by Duke Freesia (Duke Pom), also known as the oldest ruling Duke. Formerly a county but elevated to Duchy when the Duke Magnolia four generations ago (a grandchild of King Alden I) married the Countess Freesia. The elevation was a controversy but it was made official by the King at that time. The Duchy elevation was mostly only accepted when Queen Rosa, Princess Rosa at that time married Lord Anton younger brother of Duke Pom. Another controversy but it cannot be helped since they were already married (a marriage of love and convenience) when Prince Mazus the crown prince and supposed next King died, thus elevating Princess Rosa to inherit the throne as the only remaining surviving royal child.

6.    March of Zinnia-located at the north of the kingdom and the border territory with half of the Kingdom of Albero and is governed by the Marquis Zinnia (Marquis Chusi III) also known as the oldest ruling Marquis. Inline to be elevated to Duchy, however, controversies with the Duchy of Aquilegia delays it.

7.    March of Primula-located at the southwest of the kingdom and the border territory with two-thirds of Kingdom of Kraut. It is governed before by late Marquis Primula (Marquis Bian II), currently governed by the ruling Monarch through Viscount Poinse. All members of the Primula House were murdered during the three-way-war and the only branch remaining is through Viscount Poinse, however, he is too far from the family tree and will not be able to inherit. The governance of this March, as per the decision of the council, will be inherited by the prince that will not be chosen as the crown prince, meaning either Prince Lark or Prince Aster and thus elevating the March to Duchy and the title from Marquis Primula to Duke Primula.

All main territories are separated by border towns. There are five of them.

1.  Freraja- the largest border town and is in between Royal Capital and Freesia.

2.  Frestre- border town between Freesia and Strelitzia.

3.  Aquiraja-border town between Royal Capital and Aquilegia.

4.  Priraja-the smallest border town and is in between Royal Capital and Primula.

5.  Jesraja-border town between Royal Capital and Jessamine.

6.  Zinraja-border town between Royal Capital and Zinnia.

Royal Capital of Anthos is divided by 2 Duchies and 3 Counties.

1.  Royal Circle also is known as Duchy of Fiore-the largest territory under the Royal Capital and located at the center of the whole kingdom. Usually governed by the crown prince/princess and holds the title of Duke/Duchess Fiore a non-hereditary title. Currently, no one is using the title and the city is in the shared governance of the three heirs of the kingdom (Princess Iris, Prince Lark, and Prince Aster).

2.  Duchy of Magnolia-one of the three Duchies that are not considered as main territory. Located at the northeast of the Royal Circle and neighbor to Zinnia and Freesia. It is governed by the Duke Magnolia, a non-hereditary title. Both the title and the governance are usually held by the next in line sibling of the ruling monarch. King Fiorello II is an only child as such there is no current holder of the Duke Magnolia title. The Duchy is currently governed by Queen Mother Rosa since it was hers before she was elevated as crown princess and queen with the death of the crown prince at that time Prince Mazus. The Duchy is divided into three Barony: Barony of Figo, Barony of Yula and Barony of Wiesen and governed by their respective Barons. The baron titles are hereditary.

3.  County of Wisteria-one of the three counties under Royal Capital. Located at the southeast of the Royal Circle and neighbor to Freesia and Aquilegia. It is governed by Count Wisteria a hereditary title. The County is divided into three Barony: Barony of Diplon, Barony of Kraunhi and Barony of Rehso and governed by their respective Barons. The baron titles are hereditary.

 4.  County Orchida- one of the three counties under Royal Capital. Located at the southwest of the Royal Circle and neighbor to Aquilegia, Primula, and Jessamine. It is governed by Count Orchida a hereditary title. The County is divided into three Barony: Barony of Aposta, Barony of Cypri and Barony of Epiden and governed by their respective Barons. The baron titles are hereditary.

5.  County of Sorrel- one of the three counties under Royal Capital. Located at the northwest of the Royal Circle and neighbor to Jessamine and Zinnia. It is governed by Count Sorrel a hereditary title. The County is divided into three Barony: Barony of Acetosa, Barony of Arifo and Barony of Vinea and governed by their respective Barons. The baron titles are hereditary.

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