Vanieza: The Captured Kingdom

Reunited

The torches were ignited to illuminate the open assembly area as darkness ate up the sky. Griffin stood majestically behind Kaema and Irvald. “ Lord Maal and Sir Koane, come forth with your feathered friend.” The ruler invited with intrigued filled eyes.

Nodding in agreement, the two men alighted the beasts back. Patting the entities head, the scholar ordered it to fly. Spreading it wings the huge eagle headed to the observation deck. In full elegance, it descended on an unoccupied space. The  dismounted passengers knelt before the royal family in reverence.

“Arise.” The ruler ordered to the two men. “Lord Maal step upfront and report.” The flamed prodigy bowed. The lithe figure framed his clothes perfectly. He may not be the full definition of manly, but his flawlessness exudes a charm. Intense golden eyes showcase a sense of maturity. The small smile curving his lips indicate the joy of being back home.

“Your highness, it has been a while. Thank you for summoning me home.” The scholar first greeted. “Sire, today, I come with my friend for years Griffin. He took refuge in the grove and we grew close ever since.” The genius explained. “My liege, For know he only answers to me, I have been somewhat his foster parent.” The prodigy revealed. “However, I do not mind retraining Griffin to be an asset to Vanieza milord.”

The learned man raised up both hands to showcase his invention. “Your majesty, here is the latest device from the grove. We call it humanized claws.” The scholar further displayed the claws. “Milord, this is made of Canis, the appendages from an Omega and the claws from a Beta. I have bought a few more for final completion. Fortunately, I have some Alpha bones to use for the next pieces.”

“Based from what it looks, that humanized claws is for close combat.” The king commented. “If one is to use it, one must be flexible and agile. It cannot stab like a sword but with enough strength can cause damages.” The king expressed his opinion. “It will be difficult to use when one’s built is heavy. I am afraid no one in the Ivory Knights can wield that.”

“May I speak my liege?” The young lord of Koane brazenly spoke. Subjects around whispered at how rude the second knight was. Nevertheless the king encourage him to continue. “Thank you milord. It is true that lord Kaema’s weapon in not fit for big framed men. However, with proper training speed and stamina lithe males can wield it. In my honest opinion, they can be an asset in fending off Omegas.”

“Are you suggesting Sir Irvald that we can have a new formation with these inventions?” The ruler clarified. The second knight bowed in agreement. “But we do not have men qualified for it yet. And who will train them?”

“Father, may I speak?” The petite princess spoke. The crowd was surprised the second heiress showed interest with the weapon. Receiving permission Nathalia held out her hands asking Kaema to hand over the contraption. The scholar promptly removed the invention and presented it to the female royal.

The weapons enthusiast observed the piece. The size is too big for her small hands. Even so observing the structure it seems like a perfect fit with hands. It will work like an extension. Staring at the knuckle part an idea came to her head. “Father, I think we can redesign this. Instead of claws on the finger tips, it can be placed on the knuckles.” The younger daughter suggested. “If a knight loses his sword, the last defense will be these pincers. It could make the enemy back away with a strike. In a dire event, the fighter can have extra leverage of doing close combat.”

“You are suggesting it as a back up plan when in a pinch.” The king clarified with the petite royal.

“Yes father, that is right. Most of the injuries obtained by both soldiers and knights is when their swords are taken away from them.” Nathalia reasoned. “By having a secondary hidden weapon, security for one’s life can increase.”

Hearing the explanation, the prodigy was impressed with the younger princess. For someone with no battle experience, that perception is very wise.

“It sounds feasible. Do you agree with Princess Nathalia Lord Kaema?” The sovereign male inquired “Would you be willing to do the redesigning as soon as possible?”

The scholar bowed with a satisfied look on his face. “Your highness, It will be an honor to execute the princess’s idea into fruition. I shall work on it first thing tomorrow morning.”

The king concluded his conversation with the scholar and ushered him to step back. The ruler shifted his gaze towards the knight. “Sir Irvald, you have accomplished your mission. Tonight get some rest and after the rooster crows, meet me in my study. We have private matters to discuss.” The king then straightened his posture and shouted “Cor Lever!” To which the crowd replied in unison “Cor Lever!”

As the male sovereign is to exit the young warrior called out. “My liege forgive me but I must speak.” With a raised brow the crowned looked back. The fighter dropped to his knees. “Sire, the matter might be trivial but the war horse I rode is still back in the grove. I seek permission to retrieve it.”

“Don’t you think Braun need you more here? Your stallion has been injured and barely made it back.” The king questioned. “Why would one go through the trouble of recovering a steed?”

“Your highness, that steed is from one of our fallen comrades. I… I just wanted to return it to his family as a memory of valor.” The warrior explained.

Luvelia’s heart constricted at hearing the news. She knew people died usually in expeditions. But hearing it first hand, such a terrible thing it is indeed. “Father, can you grant Sir Koane's request please?” Princess Luvelia as crowned heiress and member of the council received permission to freely speak to the king. She barely uses the privilege. Doing so now made jealous subjects spite the young knight more.

The king sighed, Irvald’s intent was noble. And it is but right to console a grieving family. He had to consider the options. “Tomorrow, we can talk about it. For now go home and rest.”

The ruler not rejecting the idea openly gave the knight hope of a positive response. He kept the kneeling position until the royals vacated the area. Once the monarchs are gone the opposition started whispering about how brazen the young knight is.

The royal family decided to gather in the king’s solar chamber. The handmaids were dismissed and only the butler Theo would wait on them. The male ruler requested for some pastries and tea served in the room. The ruler wanted to extend their family time. Once settled in the high class upholstered chairs, the sovereign male suddenly let out the laugh. Nathalia understanding what the patriarch found funny joined in.

The queen in disdain swayed her head. Her husband and second daughter always had the same wavelength in humor. As they continued their amusement the elder daughter spoke. “Please don’t laugh at someone being earnest.” Always being kind, so Luvelia. The two chuckling royals halted.

“Luvie, its just hilarious that someone so huge like Sir Irvald could be so sentimental.” The younger sibling explained. “And he was so bold expressing it out in the open.”

“He was very sincere and brave Nathalia. People are barely considerate.” The crowned defended. Hearing the elder call her sister by full name is an indication of being upset. The king decided to intervene before a quarrel ensues.

“Now, now girls. It was just a short moment of amusement. No need to get worked up.” The ruler explained and gazed at the taller. “Luvelia, I did not reject his request. However I cannot say yes out in the open people might say I am favoring Irvald too much.” The king sighed. “The house of Koane should always be strictly business.”

“I don’t understand Father. For centuries that lineage served and protected our family. Don’t they deserve favors?” The celebrant inquired. “People around often speak lowly of Irvald as if he is some opportunist. But he never is and never was.”

“Luvelia, don’t throw frustrations on your father.” The queen reprimanded. “You may have the right to speak, but it does not equate to thoughtlessly saying the unnecessary.” The elder clenched both of her hands. “Anyway, Keith darling aren’t you going to tell the girls some updates? Specifically  training related?”

The king’s face became stern and straightened up. “Yes, thank you Arha it is time to get to business.” The two daughters eyes widened and anticipated what their father has to say. “Luvelia and Nathalia, you both shall undergo more rigorous training. Nathalia will continue to learn from Irvald. This time instead of small scale medicine trips, you will go in small clearing operations.”

The petite heiress felt a mixture of nervousness and excitement. She always wanted to get into action. “Father, Nathalia is only sixteen. Its too dangerous.” The crowned daughter argued.

“Luvelia, you read the library documents right? At age sixteen Vaniezan combatants begin the hunting.” The king expounded. “It is a necessary rite of passage for someone who will venture in the battle field.”

According to tradition, the future Vaniezan commander has to harvest their first werewolf kill at sixteen. “I know that our predicament is quite different, but we have talked about this before. Luvelia will be in charge of governance and Nathalia for military. Your roles have always been clear.”

It was true, things have been settled ever since the second child exhibited hints of fighting prowess. The younger held out to the elder’s hand. “It’s okay Luvie. Sir Irvald is with me, he won’t let any harm near.” 

"Wasn’t Irvald supposed to be the first knight of the crowned?" The queen questioned.

“We have to be unconventional with the first knight being by the ruler’s side always.” The king expounded. “In the past the ruler and commander is the same person. But know it is different, the order shall follow based on what the job requires.” The first daughter held a solemn expression. “Luvelia, I know Irvald and Nathalia has been a comforting presence for you. But it is a part of growing up to be independent.”

Duty before self. A mantra Luvelia always kept into mind. Even so the reality of it is beginning to weigh more each passing day. She has to see the two people constant in her life less. Sacrificing themselves everyday for the safety of the kingdom. While she sits in the council doing something for everyone except protecting those in battle.

The patriarch continued speaking. “Luvelia you won’t be alone. Your mother and I will be here. If we are both busy, that is the reason why I called back Kaema. He will be your official adviser and tutor as your studies progress. He will teach what he learned in the Volhan grove. I am sure you can create more solutions with the new knowledge.”

Kaema Maal is finally back. The heiress heart beat erratically. After all these years he still has that effect on her. However, is he the same person? Does the scholar have a special person now? Will he be considered a suitable suitor for her? Or all of this is going to be purely business?

“After speaking with Irvald, I will brief Kaema of his assignment. Lord Maal will now be involved in state affairs.” The crowned elaborated.

“What about Lord Xielon? Can two members of Maal be in the council?” Luvelia clarified.

“Xielon is a council member, Kaema is your advisor. Therefore he has no voting power but can guide you in making decisions.” The king explained.

“Father if I may speak.” The younger interrupted and received a nod of approval. “ Wouldn’t the council think the house of Maal has too much influence? I know they are the most prestigious scholar clan for centuries. But is that really necessary? Luvie is just as smart or if not better than everyone else.”

“Luvelia’s knowledge is extraordinary. But one must also be experienced to be wise.” The male sovereign retorted. “Due to Luvelia’s weak physical condition, she cannot gather all the needed experience to judge certain things. That is why I think a man wise above his years will be a fitting adviser for her.” The younger still looked dissatisfied with the answer. “Kaema is not only intelligent but a skilled fighter too. He can both advise and protect your sister.”

What their father said might be true. But in reality Nathalia is more concerned about the flamed hair man. The second daughter is aware of Luvelia’s infatuation. What if that person takes advantage of it? Or if the elder’s judgement will be clouded because of those emotions. Of course Luvie is better than that, but nothing is set on stone. Specially that she won’t be around to keep an eye on the elder.

“I can assure Kaema Maal’s loyalty. And since he and Irvald will be sworn to protect both of you, they shall be branded.” The king said with finality shocking the three women.

“Father, shouldn’t you ask for their consent first?” Luvelia argued. Branding a person is similar to slavery. “Lord Max Koane was never branded. Why does Sir Irvald and Lord Kaema be subjected to it?”

“Simple, even if I am gone. There is assurance they will not go against this house.” The patriarch defended. He will protect his daughters even from the grave.

“Father wouldn’t that push people to rebel?” The tall daughter questioned. “The two houses might assume we are subjugating them. This could push into a civil war.” That type of situation is something the future queen wants to avoid.

“If they do it willingly there will be no problem.” The king rebutted. “I can assure you Luvelia, Irvald and Kaema will agree.”

“Kieth darling, if they will agree why brand them? Shouldn’t we trust them?” the queen questioned. “Are you planning to use them as an insurance? To assure their houses will not go against the girls?”

The matriarch always understood how the male sovereign thinks. “Yes Arha, that is my intention. If they are sincere, those two will agree in order to protect my daughters.”

“You think someone from these houses will betray the crown?” The female sovereign clarified. The king will not think of this if there is nothing peculiar.

“Let’s just say that the council and governance is male dominated. I am not sure if the atmosphere will change once I abdicate. To keep the balance, it is best the two dependable and respected gentlemen is by Luvelia and Nathalia’s side.” The king gazed at each member of the household. “I assume the plans have been clear.”

“For everyone’s sake I shall repeat it.” The crowned directed his eyes to the petite heiress. “Irvald will be Nathalia’s first knight. Their first expedition will be on the next full moon. While waiting for that they shall train together.”

Then he looked back at the taller daughter. “Luvelia will have Kaema as an advisor. I am expecting fast implementation at whatever knowledge he will impart. As for his mythical beast, he can keep it for now. It could be a convenient way to assure Luvelia’s future travels.

“The decree shall be set on paper tomorrow after speaking with the two men. The day after that, I will announce it to the council and the memorandum will be shared to all the districts.”

Nathalia raised her hand and his father gestured her to talk. “Father, the humanized claws. I need to remodel it so can I be granted some time with the scholar?” Of course besides developing the weapon, the second daughter is also curious if Kaema Maal deserves the right to be near Luvelia. She is no longer young and naïve. Surely working with the so called prodigy can give an inkling of who he really is. She will make sure to raise her judgement and push for changes if necessary. That orange haired man will not make Luvelia cry again

“Your request is reasonable Nathalia. I will grant it. After training you can remodel the weapons with Kaema.” The king sighed out of weariness. “If there are no further questions, then we should all retire for the night.” The two princesses exited first an gave the royal couple some privacy. “Arha, may I visit your chambers tonight?”

The queen smiled knowingly and nodded. “You are always welcome.”

                                                                                      -o-

The next day Irvald came early and waited to be called to the king’s study. As he was summoned to go in, the knight knelt in respect to the king. “Raise Sir Irvald.” The tall muscled man did as told. Despite his battle body form, Irvald had soft compassionate eyes. It probably is a reflection of his true self influenced by his healing skills. It made the onyx eyed man more amiable and charismatic. “I have spoke to my daughters about your assignment. Today, you shall be Princess Nathalia’s first knight.”

“The second princess?” The warrior in surprise questioned in this mind. Was he not groomed to be the crowned princess’s protector? “Why was the assignment like this?” He internally wondered, did he do something wrong making him unfit to by Luvelia’s side?

“As you know, Nathalia is the daughter capable of fighting. Therefore it fitting she be the one trained. When the day comes , she will lead battles. I want you to stay by her side. Like your ancestors have done for the house Vanieza, you shall continue this tradition.”

He was in no position to refuse. The king does have a point, skills wise the younger is more adept. Not as strong as a Vaniezan royal male, but her chances of survival is higher than the elder. “It will be an honor milord.” The brunette bowed and acknowledged.

“Irvald, besides that, I have a request you can freely decline .” The king continued on. “Will you allow yourself to be branded by Luvelia?” Being branded would mean, with a metal stamp in extreme heat the crowned princess will mark his chest. The location will be above the heart as a sign of dedication. An incantation shall be performed. Once completed the master will have power on cursing him to death by touching the brand. It would lead to instant death once judged.

Is the king questioning his devotion and loyalty for Luvelia? Is he assuming one day there will be a power struggle? Is the branding an assurance that the house of Koane will remain true to the crown? “My liege if I may speak?” The young warrior inquired to which he was given permission. “With all my heart milord, I pledge to defend and protect the royal house of Vanieza.” The knight expressed in full passion. “And if it brings relief to the crown, I will gladly accept the mark Princess Luvelia will brand me with.” The fighter spoke in full determination. “Cor Lever, Your majesty.”

Thee king nodded at the young heir’s response. He was in a way expecting a positive response. Recalling what his wife said as they lay in bed with limbs intertwined from their coupling.

“Irvald cares deeply for Luvelia.” The queen whispered while leaning on the king’s chest. “Since childhood he had those eyes solely focused on her. He may not speak of it because of their family oath. But I know those orbs and gestures, it is the actions of a fully devoted man.”

“Do you think he will do anything for her? Even if I place him under Nathalia? When worst comes to worst he will choose Luvelia?” The ruler queried as his fingers ran across the matriarch face.

“I don’t just believe, I know so.” The female sovereign answered back. “There is no need to brand him.”

“If he cares as much as you claimed to be. Irvald will accept willingly without question.” The ruler concluded. “Trust me, it is necessary for Luvelia to have power over the people she needs.” He sighed and leaned in to kiss the queen’s temple. “It is the best way to keep both our daughters safe.”

Breaking out of his reverie the king’s handsome features adorned a smile. Relief can be noticed written across his face. Irvald understood how much the royal house regarded their family. And in return he promises his undying loyalty. “Sire May I speak?” The knight once more inquired.

“You have my permission to fetch the stallion. Be back in four days.” The king ordered.

The knight knelt in gratitude. “Sire thank you for trust in me.” 

                                                                                     -o-

Nathalia from the main viewing deck watched Irvald gallop away. “Looks like I will be training alone for a little while.” Serving her saber the young royal decided to practice some sword forms.

“Impressive, your stance is impeccable your highness.” A friendly voice greeted. Looking at the source, glistening golden orbs and orange locks blinded the monarch’s eyes. The man bowed and continued to speak. “Milady, I was tasked by the king to see you and work on the invention together.”

“Father just finished talking to Sir Irvald a little moments before.” The petite heiress argued. Did it mean the king only sent the scholar a message scroll?

“His majesty sent a messenger hawk this morning milady. He demanded that I assist you immediately since there is another task lined up for me.” The lithe prodigy expounded. “Based on how you judge my contraption yesterday, I am surprised to know you’re a weapons enthusiast.”

“Honestly Lord Kaema do you agree with my recommendation?” The monarch with a challenging tone uttered.

“Milady your experience with the knights are duly noted. And the king agreed who is the most experienced in all battles. For the betterment of all I concede.” The genius proclaimed.

“Whatever, where did you place the humanized claws? The earlier we get to work the better.” The second heiress ordered. It seems his assignment with Luvelia is not yet received. Maybe it will commence when Sir Irvald comes back.

“It is in the weapons room milady. Allow me to accompany you.” The flamed prodigy with a smile offered. Without expression the princess signaled him to follow suit. She already knows where the weapon room is. “Milady you are indeed an enthusiast to know exactly the location of that room by heart.” Was this guy trying to get on her good side by flattery? Is this how he got the elder so smitten? The petite decided not to mind the talkative lord.

Arriving in the weapons room, Nathalia immediately went to work. She noted that on the knuckles of three extendable claws Must be installed for each pair. Then for the finger appendages, the thickness must be increased to guarantee more damage.

Kaema took the young maiden’s hand measurements stating he will make one for her too. Surprisingly the educator has very smooth hands. Did he really toil and fought while being in the Volhan grove? “Milady, it seems due to training your hands have been rough. Would you like me to treat it? The callouses are not yet deep. It can be cured easily.”

So that is the secret of flawless skin, immediate healing. “Body imperfections are a warriors badge of honor. I would not change a thing.” The petite brunette declared.

“Impressive, this princess sure has spunk.” The elder man thought. “Milady, you’re an impressive woman, defying stereotypes. A fitting image for the ruling family of Vanieza.”

“Flattery will get you no where.” The princess in irritation replied.

“I only speak the truth.” The scholar knelt on the ground. “Forgive my insolence and allow me to introduce myself again.” The man spoke as his head is bowed. “I am Kaema Maal the scholar, pleased to be of your audience milady.”

He was very graceful and eloquent. Nathalia following etiquette rules held out her hand. Kaema boldly reached out gently and placed a kiss atop the back of her hand. The gesture made the heiress stomach churn. Her cheeks felt flushed. Its the first time someone has ever knelt and treated her like a lady.  “Cor Lever your grace.” The attractive orange head with shimmering eyes declared.

“This redesigning project needs to end fast.” Nathalia thought. This man is dangerously charming.

                                                                                         -o-

Luvelia read the note inside the library for the third time that day. There was no hidden meanings, just a direct message that he will be gone at most for four days. Irvald just returned last night now he leaves again? Sighing the crowned princess inserted the written message in her notebook.

Did their father tell Irvald of his assignment? The lady recalled the promise he made in this room on her birthday. The Koane heir was supposed to take her to the meadows, on the outskirts of the kingdom. The knight promised to escort her outside the walls. But because of the reassignment things will be different.

Her thoughts wondered back to the flamed prodigy. Attractive as ever. The tone of voice did not change. How can he kept himself impeccable? Lord Kaema mastered the art of self care judging his appearance. Luvelia’s head swayed to remove the distraction in her mind.

Diligently working, the royal was disturbed when the door creaked. “Your highness, Studious as always.” That playful gentle voice, its no other than..

“Lord Kaema, it's too late for lessons.” The heiress rebutted. The visitor kept his head bowed.

“Apologies milady. This morning, I was tasked to commence redesigning the humanized claws with Princess Nathalia.” The flamed prodigy explained. “If it will please you my liege, allow me to give a short but productive lecture.”

Luvelia gazed at the speaker. Learning a thing or two was something she loves to indulge in. “Tell me Lord Kaema, what should I be hearing from you?” The heiress questioned and continued. “Or rather I would like to know how to increase a person’s survival when gravely injured. The Volhan blossoms have that ability to quicken healing right? Has a level up of its potential available now? It it topical or oral in nature?”

The questions just kept flooding in,  Luvelia is curious as always. “Your highness, one at a time please.” The genius chuckled. The way the maiden’s eyes sparkled when inquiring is irresistibly adorable. The crowned princess stared at the scholar expectantly. Pink lips looking plump and healthy. Her skin is fairer possibly due to not being able to go outside. The lady’s complexion can rival the purest Canis in the land. The braid adorning her hair is perfectly in place. She shares the same face with the younger heiress, but crowned princess Luvelia’s demeanor is absolutely goddess like.

“She’s eighteen now.” The man thought. “I envy the future king consort. Having the honor of marrying an intelligent beauty like her majesty.”

“Lord Kaema are you listening?” The lady impatiently asked.

Kaema smiled finally feeling happy to be back home. “Yes your majesty. As promised, I shall feed your interest to maximize the Volhan flowers.” The educator stepped closer. “May I take the seat beside you?”

They have always sat side by side during lectures. Its not a big deal if they do now too. The royal tried to compose herself. It is just a lecture not a courting ritual. Calming herself with a straight face on Princess Luvelia answered. “Of course, it has always been your place.”