Vanieza: The Captured Kingdom

Science and Politics

The royal siblings busied themselves over tea on a fine Friday afternoon. Nathalia on her hands wore the humanized claws final version. Together with Luvelia’s adviser, the second heiress was able to customized for herself. Made of pure Alpha Canis, the materials courtesy of her trainer, first knight Irvald Koane. 

The petite enthusiastically explained how the weapon is useful in close combat. It is also a reliable last call for defense. The warrior monarch recalled how the contraption aided her in the first werewolf hunt. When a stray Omega lunged to bite, she released the claws resulting to a fatal wound on the enemy. The elder inquired if the younger ever felt scared facing a ferocious beast.

The adventurous royal stated the threat density was not high. It was really not that dangerous. The second princess shared how surprisingly the protective underwear the king gifted was comfortable. It lived to its promise, breathable light fabric but tough like steel. Thanks to it, the werewolf bites could not penetrate her skin. Bite marks could still be traced safe from being poisoned by rabies.

The hunting assignment took a month made Nathalia see Irvald in a different light. He was strong and ruthless. But gentle when dealing with the wounded. Not only knights but also strangers they met. During travelling the petite monarch discovered the heir of Koane not only treats wounds but also ailments. The villages they visited were thankful to the first knight helping them manage their health.

“That is what mother saw in him.” The crowned heiress replied. The queen since Irvald’s childhood has taught him the art of medicine. The female sovereign’s medical practice is infused with magic. One must be knowledgeable of the science and huge aura to infuse the cure. Due to the elder’s health restrictions, she can only practice medicine but not magic. It exhausts her body and can be fatal.

Nathalia continued telling the tales of the trip. How it felt to sleep on the dirt. Seeing her meal be killed, dressed then cooked. It was quite traumatic initially but has to be overlooked for survival. The challenging part was how to take a bath. She cannot do it openly with the male knights. It was very awkward, but Irvald secures the princess’ privacy.

Irvald also had humanized claws issued but has yet to use it. The last expedition is too easy , he barely got his sword dirty. But the knight commented the contraption intensified his channeling of aura. It created a direct passage for release. But it must be carefully regulated to avoid energy exhaustion.

“Glad you and Irvald are getting along.” The crowned praised. The future ruler was initially worried how the sibling will adapt. From what she heard, with Irvald’s help Nathalia is doing okay. But worry still creeps in since the worst is yet to come. Can Nathalia really be fine experiencing an all out war?

“Tell me Luvie, what have you been up to recently?”The second daughter curiously asked. “What has Lord Kaema taught you about the Volhan blossoms?” 

The destined maiden expounded about the grafted vine and Volhan flowers. In the past month, the scholastic duo made an effort to get it planted in all wall perimeters. Using advance horticultural methods, based on the last weekly survey the fusion plant has a grown average of one meter. It is yet to show buds but nodes are looking strong. Tendrils are also sprouting indicating continuous growth is expected.

“Will the blossoms from the vine be as potent as the trees?” The smaller heiress retorted. “Is it proven to push the werewolves away?”

“According to Lord Kaema, the blossoms they got to harvest has the same medicinal properties. However it is still to be tested if it can put the enemy in frenzy. We have yet to harvest a significant amount.” The taller explained. “Volhan blooms all through out the year, but having extra sources is a good idea. We are planning to expand the western area. The population is increasing and more space is needed.”

The western area was chosen since the land there is even and fit for farming. Estimating the area it can accommodate a farming community. Around twenty families can relocate there. Then the area can have two big store houses. The wall construction will commence once the new moon blood war is over.

“Tomorrow Lord Kaema and I will be inspecting the walls.” The queen to be revealed. Since starting the project, together with the flamed prodigy they have been weekly overseeing the progress. Travelling with Griffin made one whole day of travel turn to half. In the last month the feathered beast began to lighten up with Luvelia.

“They are getting too close.” Nathalia thought. Is it safe to entrust that man with Luvelia? She must find a way to judge.  

“Sir Irvald and I can help tomorrow, we can accompany the inspection.” The petite offered. “I want to see how the plant looks. Did you name the variant yet?” The elder swayed her head. “So its just Volhan vine or something like that?”

“We can say it that way Natie.” The later confirmed. “I never bothered with names as long as it serves it purpose.”

“It’s settled tomorrow where will we meet you?” The younger inquired.

“We usually leave with Griffin from the main assembly area.” The older answered. “From there we fly south. Can your stallions catch up?” The speed of flying animal and the horses are not at par.

“What time do you depart usually?” The shorter clarified. If the speed is the issue, she and Irvald would have to get a head start. The crowned confirmed that the departure time is usually after breakfast. “You exit at the south gate right? Sir Irvald and I are going to meet you there.”

“Are you sure he is free tomorrow? Its the weekend and both of you just returned.” The first daughter queried. “Father might have assigned him to do something.”

“I am positive there is one. He is my first knight now, so where I go he goes.” The second heiress replied. “And father told him to chill until Monday. Then we do terrain training to enhance my riding skills.”

“Natie, according to the stars we have the new moon blood war will come in three years.” The crowned daughter revealed. “Will we be ready by then?”

“Luvie you have always been the one with the plan. For all its worth, I will support it.”    The younger heiress reassured

                                                                                    -o-

“If you continue yawning, we are not going to make it on time princess.” Irvald reprimanded the petite female warrior. “It was your idea to get a head start and this the determination you display?”

Irvald as Nathalia’s trainer and first knight, granted by the king the right to speak casually to the second heiress. The ruler asked Irvald to make sure Nathalia be honed into the best warrior she can be.

“Well Sir Irvald in all circumstances you have always been cocky.” The lady tightened her hold on the reins. “But I will prove to you I can meet you expectations.” The male smirked and patted his steed to run faster. “Oh honestly Sir Irvald! You are such a sadist!”

 The duo arrived at the south gate as the sun rose. “The sun dominating the sky never fails to amaze me.” The maiden breathed out. “Sir Irvald, what do you know about the new moon blood war?” the knight shrugged. “Hey I am not insinuating your old. Just curious if what the Koane’s have in record?”

 “Let’s start with the common knowledge princess. That havoc comes once every fifty years. The moon is full and turns red which enhances the werewolves abilities.” The man the continued with more details. “Vanieza is closest to what is believed to be their nest. Therefore in heightened sense they would smell the humans living in the outer circle. Our walls are strong but if herds of werewolves push through together, they can climb it.”

“That is why the wall must be made inaccessible to increase our defenses.” The female warrior concluded. “How were the ancients able to win the previous wars?”

“The Ivory knights would surround the walls with soldiers. Archers are posted on top Volhan trees and the walls. We fend and kill off as much as we can. If the enemy breached the distance of five hundred meters from the wall, we drop the blossoms and eradicate what we can.” The male elaborated. “We keep on doing that till dawn arrives.”

“Was there ever a time the beasts broke through the wall?” The brunette maiden queried. Or was Vanieza’s defense always worked?

“I'm  not certain of facts, but I read in our archive one hundred years ago there was a breach.” The onyx eyed man confessed. “It was by the western wall. To keep the nemesis at bay, that area was burned.” Blue eyes widened in horror. “It was a necessary sacrifice or else more would have died.”

“Who started the fire?” the royal inquired. Nathalia could not imagine the difficult decision that had to be made then.

“According to records the noble family managing that district did. The house of Norda.” The black haired man retorted. The princess has never heard of this lineage. “They all died in the fire.” The speaker looked at the lady in the eye. “After the incident, walls were made higher. Canis was infused  to the blocks to increase its strength. No recurrence was recorded after .”

A loud flapping sound began to emerge, looking up the sky Luvelia is seen aboard Griffin with Kaema. “Your majesty, Sir Irvald thank you for joining us.” The flamed prodigy greeted. Once the flying entity fully landed, the crowned heiress was carefully assisted by the adviser.

“Milady Luvelia.” The knight knelt in respect. The younger heiress snorted. He sure acts proper in front of the future ruler. The reaction did not go unnoticed by the educator. It seems the warrior duo has some hilarious dynamics.

“Shall we inspect separately? One covers the west and the other the east, both head up north.” The taller maiden suggested.

“No, I want us together.” The smaller lady argued. “We both don’t know what to inspect. You need to teach us.” The contention made sense, then an idea popped in the genius head.

“My liege, I believe the second princess has a point.” Nathalia was relieved of receiving support. “If I my suggest princess Luvelia, we can split in two teams. I go with the youthful lady Nathalia and you can educate Sir Irvald.” The petite royal gasped. Is this guy serious? Being alone with him? “that way we can both educate and cover the land immediately.

Luvelia eyed the twosome in front of her. The suggestion is very practical, it would not hurt tor try. “Very well Nathalia, trek the east with Lord Kaema. Sir Irvald and I will check the west.” The younger pouted but had to comply. The crowned princess has spoken.

The golden orb male offered her smile and bowed in reverence. “Princess Nathalia, glad to be of service.” The petite lady cursed the scholar in her mind. “I’m going to make it difficult for you.”

 "Arise Sir Irvald let us be on our way.” The brusque male stood up and offered his horse. The queen to be nodded and muscled warrior in ease mounted her on the steed. Nathalia, share your stallion with Lord Kaema. It would be nice to give Griffin a day off.”

The younger grunted but had to obey. Well if something went right that day, at least Kaema is separated from her sister. She can evaluate him more personally. The two parties headed off to opposite directions as soon as the genius alighted the younger monarch’s  horse. “Aren’t you going to ride too Irvald?”

The knight looked away from the royal. “When we need to cover a greater distance I would do so your majesty.” The female smiled mischievously. Why is he being so formal?

The pair of knight and heiress commenced the task. The royal would write down the measurements the onyx eyed male would take. Once the first stop was done, the warrior alighted the stallion. He was instructed trek a kilometer then the same procedure will be done again.

The fighter worked diligently. But his silence was rather disturbing Luvelia. “Irvald, why are you being so distant?”

“There is nothing to say milady.” was the short reply.

“We are alone, you don’t have to treat me like that.” The princess retorted. The knight just shrugged. “Why are you doing this? What happened? Is this an order from father?”

“The king has no correspondence to this milady.” The tall brunette male answered. “My liege I should start being formal. Things are different now and I need to act accordingly.”

“Irvald, no matter what the future conspires we will always be friends.” The maiden consoled. “So when we are alone together, please make me feel normal.”

“Normalcy is not for your highness.” The knight pointed out. “You deserve the world and more.”

The lady sighed, this man is stubborn as a mule. She is most certain, he and Nathalia will have a mountain of bickering ahead of them. If he wants to play serious, then she will give him just that. “Irvald, the burnt location of Norda do you know it specifically?” The question surprised the lad, was the princess scheming through their family archive.

“Your brother, Lord Xielon, shared with the council about the demise of Norda.” The queen to be explained. “ I was curious if you have an idea of it.” The warrior nodded. “Even father was surprised, but it was vital for the war ahead of us.” The lady continued on worry oozing from her voice. “I cannot allow such a thing to happen again.”

“Your majesty, during the last new moon, the biggest loss was from infantry eight.” The fighter painfully recalled. “It is located north west, that part has low concentration of Volhan trees.”

The warrior continued with a stern face. “I investigated the area myself. The tracks of the enemies were fewer than the others .I believe the lack of repelling blossoms made it more open to stronger species.”

“We need to reinforce this area. All risks must be minimized.” The heiress replied. “How far off are we from the area?” The warrior estimated it is still about five kilometers more. “Irvald during the last battle, you rode the whole perimeter in a day while treating the wounded.” The maiden spoke out of the blue. “The next night you joined endeavor again. Continuing the cycle of fighting and healing until the situation was normalized.” There was sadness and pity in the lady’s eyes. “After instead of coming home, you headed to the Volhan grove alone.

“Your majesty that is my role to play. It is what I signed up for.” Onyx eyes with conviction declared. “I would not hesitate to do it over and over.”

“With all the chivalry and loyalty you have displayed. I don’t understand why father wanted me to brand you.” The royal confessed in a shivering voice. “It is just unfair.” Tears began to flow out of her eyes.

“Please don’t cry your highness. It is necessary to do so.” The subordinate comforted. “It is but right for ruling family to impose their authority. And I as a faithful servant shall be an example of devotion. It is the duty I will abide.”

“Irvald, how could you be so selfless? One day it may ruin you.” The crowned princess continued to sob. The tall man approached the maiden. Atop the horse he can reach up to her face. Gloved fingers clenched, he is not worthy to wipe the lady’s tears. “I am the sword that defends and the shield that protects. It will be an honor to give all I have for you milady."

The words was not comforting at all. But the beauty decided to compose herself. If she wants to have more time to inspect the weak area they must be on their way. Breathing deeply to calm she ordered the colleague to commence their inspection. “Princess Luvelia, you are no better. Your empathetic and kind self is also dangerous. Remember subjects first before self. Never try to save anything due to sentimentality. It will only bring ruin.” The Ivory knight warned. “Please keep that in mind, the new moon blood war will be unforgiving. Expect the worst.”

                                                                                             -o-

Nathalia scribbled the measurements stated by the adviser. So far the plants are growing based on schedule. The scholar was talkative with a very pleasing voice making the experience bearable. The flamed prodigy shared that Lord Xielon told the council about the west side incident.

The story deeply affected Luvelia. Knowing how empathetic the heiress is, Kaema thanked the second princess for suggesting excursion. At this rate, the crowned daughter can directly talk to Irvald about details.

The maiden answered that Irvald only knew small details from what is written in the archive. The genius smirked, the petite warrior by now should have understood the Koane heir. “Does Sir Irvald appear to be the non-curious type?”

The female began to contemplate. No, the trainer is not like that. Irvald is actually a reserved intellectual like Luvelia. So if they are alike by this time he would have research on the matter first hand. Wait, does it mean the warrior knows something that was not shared to her.

Noticing the maiden’s expression the orange haired male beamed. “I am sure Sir Irvald has done some firsthand investigation.” The intellectual stated confidently. “That is why for Princess Luvelia’s piece of mind, those two should talk about it.”

“Has Luvie been this restless when I departed?” The younger inquired. The scholar revealed that Luvelia has been overworking. The only way he can get her to relax is during the Volhan vine inspection. Yet despite the distraction of fresh air and nature, it is noticeable that the crowned is playing a million scenarios in her head. Having additional information will lessen the future queen’s anxiety.The second heiress sighed. So very Luvelia to worry about anything and everything. “You think Luvie will tell us whatever she and Irvald comes up with?” The adviser nodded, the wise beauty will definitely share her plans to expedite actions.

“Your majesty, if I may ask, how was your last excursion?”  The golden eyed male was curious on how a pampered maiden will fair in dire living conditions. To his surprise the lady enthusiastically shared her experiences. From the way things were told, the petite warrior is enjoying herself. However, the blood moon war will be different. “My liege, are you prepared to see death first hand?”

The maiden raised an eyebrow, is this man assuming she will immediately in battle? The adviser coughed to clear his throat. “Now, now your majesty. I am not saying you will die immediately in the field. What I am trying to point out is in every battle there will be causalities.” The scholar expounded. “Are you ready to see the people you communed with expire? One way or another, it will happen. So please be prepared and remember we all cannot be heroes.”

Nathalia kept silent, what was said to her is true. In actual wars there will be agony, blood and death. She is yet to see it. And when she does heavens help her to not freeze up. “Your majesty, you don’t need to be a hero but a survivor. Princess Luvelia will be broken if you are lost.” The flamed prodigy spoke in a pleading voice. “Please always manage to survive.”

Worry was plastered on the speakers face. Is he always that considerate of her sister? “I toiled in the Volhan grove aiming to support princess Luvelia. Being the first female ruler will not be easy. Behind her back if not in Vanieza, other kingdoms might underestimate the future queen.” The man’s hands clenched, even now such a situation is already at hand. The worst can be expected once the power is shifted.

“I will protect her in every way I can.” The handsome adviser declared his golden eyes burning with passion. Lips beaming with a relieved voice he spoke out, “Thank you for hearing me out milady.” The charming scholar scratched the back of his neck. “I never had the courage to express this to the madam.” Regaining his posture, the second son of Maal’s cheeks flushed under the sun. Is he blushing? “But I can always act on it.”

“I am with you in wanting Lady Luvelia’s happiness.” The slender male placed his left palm to his heart. “I will do everything to prove my resolve.”

It was a strong proclamation of words. Of course the second daughter will not be easily swayed. This man better prove it. In a challenging tone the young heiress ordered. “Then go and be branded by her majesty Luvelia Vanieza.”

Maintaining a majestic posture, hand still placed above his heart the flamed prodigy bowed. “With pleasure milady, Cor Lever!”

                                                                                 -o-

Luvelia inspected the area were infantry eight has fallen. The vicinity is indeed lacking of Volhan trees. Why did not the rulers before planted more? It is a fact the Volhan flora demanded spacing to grow, but the blank area can cater five full grown trees at least. Or is the land infertile to harness the rare flower?

The learned maiden knelt to the ground and touched the soil. It felt like normal, but she will be taking some samples to examine it. “Your majesty is there something wrong with the soil?” The knight curiously asked.

“I will find out soon.” The royal replied and headed to the nearest Volhan vine and inspected it. “Irvald, there is a small bud here, can you get it for me?” The warrior did as requested. After handing the seedling the monarch with her prized dagger, dug up the soil.

The knight knelt and halted her movements. “Allow me your highness. Your hands need not to get dirty.” The lady knew it would be useless to argue and let the male do it. Once enough depth was made, the seedling was deposited and covered with dirt. “I see your highness, you plan to check the soil’s fertility.”

The duo stood up and the monarch walked towards the path the enemy entered in. “Milady, we may be in broad daylight but going any further could be dangerous.” The knight warned. The outskirts are dark and sometimes stray Omegas hide beneath the tall shrubs.

“You are with me I have nothing to fear.” The royal continued on her way. The first daughter may be fragile but it never made her less curious. The heiress inspected a tree and thought of an idea. Maybe the Volhan vine can crawl on it and coexist. If it becomes a success then this tree can also be a line of defense. “Irvald can you get me a foot length of vine?” The knight crossed his arms, he will not leave her side. “Fine, let’s go back and get one.”

“Your highness are you planning to graft it to the tree?” The warrior inquired to which the lady confirmed. The pair with care successfully attached five. “Milady, wouldn’t these require care until the roots grip tighter?” The maiden answered she will have some horticulturist volunteers check it. The same way the walls are being maintained daily. “My liege, if you have subjects doing this, why come here yourself?”

“Every once and while it’s nice to get some sun and fresh air.” The crowned replied. “I can’t fight the battles, but I can be part of its victory.” Concluding the task the partners went on to finish the route.

It was exactly at lunch time when the inspection concluded. Nathalia and Kaema arrived first at the meet up point. The twosome seems to be talking about how to train more beast for battle. The scholar once seeing the first daughter arriving flashed a wide smile. “Your majesty Princess Luvelia, you mus be tired. I shall call Griffin now so you can have lunch.”

“I cannot leave Nathalia and Irvald here.” The future queen reasoned. The first knight retorted that the royal should not worry about him. The knight then suggested that the three go ride Griffin and he will usher Nathalia’s horse back home.

“Sir Irvald, I believe I owe you an escorting mission.” The flamed prodigy declared. “Griffin is already attached to Her highness princess Luvelia. She can lead him back home.” The golden orb male raised a whistle to his lips. Automatically as it sounded, the grand eagle soared to the sky and descended.

 The adviser patted the entity and whispered to it to take the princesses home. The huge bird gawked in agreement and bent its head so the women can alight on him. Kaema carefully assisted the royals and dabbed Griffin again before flying out. “Now shall we head home?” The genius suggested. “But if you don’t mind moderately please. I am not that skilled in riding at top speed.”

Irvald was mindful of the phase Kaema can maneuver the horse. The talkative prodigy blabbed about when he is expecting the vine to go half way the wall. The estimation is within a year and the blooms will appear in six months. It is yet to confirm if the flowers will be present all year round. The scholar also revealed that he and the crowned are formulating serums. The potion aims to make both beast and man alike more tolerant of werewolf rabies. It will be helpful in standing up against the enemy.

“In the past month, the king was being pressured by the council to pick a suitor for her highness.” the statement made the knight flinch but kept a straight face. “They are suggesting to find an outsider.” The flamed prodigy irately shared. “Hypothesizing that if the crowned princess marries from a different nation, the coupling would produce new blood where males can be born again.” The genius snorted. “Milady Luvelia is not some breeding mare. Those old cahoots have no sense of propriety at all. ”

“The king shut them all off and decided they all concentrate on the preparation of the new moon blood war.” The speaker continued in relief. “If it be possible, I want the crowned to marry for love.”

Irvald nodded in agreement and added. “Yes, princess Luvelia deserves that.” The black haired male gazed at the lithe man riding beside him. “I am sure whoever her majesty chooses, that man will undoubtedly fall for her.”

“Yes some lucky bastard will have the right to call her his.” The prodigy hissed and looked away realizing he uttered something foul. “Sorry for the language its kind of well how can I say..”

“Frustrating.” The warrior finished the sentence. “It is written all over your face Lord Kaema.”

The adviser sighed. “Between you and me, I need to set this straight…” the scholar halted his spiel. Is he really going to confront the knight? The other male is obviously invested on the heiress too. He must make it clear. “I know the house of Koane vowed not to get emotionally involved with the Vaniezan house.” Irvald’s grip on the reins tighten, does he have to rub it in? “Sir Irvald, if it happens that you manage to build up strong resolve to cross the line.” The golden eyed noble man continued. “I am just as determined.”

“Lord Kaema, do actually think I have a chance?” The knight mockingly answered. “I thought between the two of us, you were supposedly the smart one."