Vanieza: The Captured Kingdom

Sisters

The harsh environment isolated Vanieza. Good company is a luxury. Residents of the domain had no interactions with their other kin in different lands. The family tree is kept short. Limitation of movement is however compensated by the space. Compared to other territories, the kingdom is triple the size of any existing nation. The solidarity of the area is kept on hold by its well organized government.

The center of command is the king. The jurisdiction is divided into three, defense, economy and health. Each district of the realm has a representative. All directly reporting in the king’s court. All scholars, soldiers and doctors are distributed based on the ratio of the population. The precise calculations courtesy of Princess Luvelia.

Each ward sends a weekly report via appropriate messengers. Hawks for defense, owls for economy purposes and doves for health issues. Given a matter is of dire urgency, battle eagles are sent to do the job. Regions are equipped with at least five eagles. These assigned beast serve as surveyors for possible threats. During engagements with werewolves, eagles would scatter Volhan blossoms in the area. The scent of the flower lessens the werewolf’s sense of smell. It makes sneak attacks and snipping with crossbows easier.  

Training the messenger and battle aid creatures was tedious feat. However with Princess Nathalia’s observations skills, the entities became cooperative like pets. Using a reward system, the beasts became smitten to their masters. Rubbing a potion on the courier’s bodies it made the assigned beings attack each other less. Surprisingly the envoys sort of appeared closer to each other.

The court is fully aware of how an efficient strategist the first daughter is. Complimented by exceptional execution skills. Head and body that is what the two royal siblings represent. Some would argue whose skill is more important. But in truth one cannot survive with the other. A plan no matter how good cannot succeed with proper execution. And no matter how skilled an individual is, without direction it is senseless labor.

Observing the two heiress, it seems there won’t be any hints of power struggles. The younger extremely adores the elder. While the elder returns back the affection being showered to her. It is amusing that the two share the same physical features. The second daughter though has a petite figure while the other is statuesque. The gap in their heights is about a foot. This is how people can tell them apart. However in terms of jet black hair, mesmerizing blue eyes, luscious pink lips and pert aristocratic noses they are very identical. If one would be very familiar the elders orbs is quite intense and judging, compared to the younger who is warm and cheerful. This similarity also applies to the tone of their voices.

Keeping this in consideration, servants and noble men would comment that the second is more approachable. But the judging demeanor of the first, it is understandable. She cannot to be fooled. Especially that she will be the head of state.

Royals from the house of Vanieza are known throughout the world as people of exquisite beauty. Foreigners from long ago dreamed of marrying into the family. Majority of those who witnessed the magnificence of the monarchs claimed love at first sight. The family is very particular with candidates who are vying for their affections. They cannot be bought by expensive gifts, be blinded by power nor show interest in land area. Because it is a rule, if one wants to marry into the house of Vanieza, they have to stay. Vaniezan bloods stays within the jurisdiction of their ancestors.

As any would assume, the travels of the royals are limited. The king would only travel far if the meeting’s agenda is alliances. The queen, princes and princesses never leave the kingdom. The only way to see them is travel to the land. In order to do so, one must have an invitation to enter the territory. Vanieza despite the terrible environment surrounding it, accepts tourist, merchants and other travelers. Visitors can only access the outer circle of the kingdom.

The king, queen and crowned successor would have scheduled parades. People are anticipating Princess Luvelia’s procession debuting as crowned princess. The citizens are excited and utterly curious, if the tales of beauty will hold to its reputation.

A strong breeze blew in the garden of Spring. Nathalia finished picking the flowers to gift her sister. Arranging the colors in clusters, white stands as the centerpiece. The bouquet was inspected once again. Would this be Luvie’s liking? Is she familiar with these flowers? If yes, will she question why the orange ones were left out?

More sets should be prepared. For the dining hall and another for Luvie’s room. And an additional for the library she frequently stays in. “Gretchen, let’s prepare three more sets.”

“Rearrange the clusters. One for Luvie’s room, another in the dining hall and the final inside the library.” The mistress explained excited. “I want sister to remember me wherever she goes.” The monarch happily explained.

“Your highness, I believe the crowned princess always has you in her heart.” The aid affirmed with a smile. Nathalia has always been like this. Making ways and means to assure to get the elder’s attention.

This brought back memories into Gretchen’s head. In truth the second heiress threw a fit when the first had to move to a private room. For the first few months, the petite one would run into the taller one’s room and request to sleep there. The other would gladly indulge with the request.

The elder would read the stories to the little one. Nathalia would squeal in delight and dream of traveling outside the grounds. The later will giggle at the enthusiasm but never fails to tell the younger not to get too hopeful. Going outside the walls is dangerous. Safety is priority above all else. Occasionally the queen would join them for a night of tales. The ladies of the house would treat themselves to warm milk and their favorite pastries.

“Mother, who will Luvie marry when she becomes queen?” the second would inquire.

“That is up to your father to decide.” Queen Arha would answer. The head of state and council will review the possible suitors.

“Why Father? What does he know about girls?” The younger retorts with a frown. “He barely talks to me and Luvie, how will he know what we want?”

“It’s not about what we want Natie. It’s what is necessary and needed.” The elder would clarify the inquiry.

“That is unfair, what if you don’t like that guy? You have to live with him forever.” The younger stated in panic.

“That is the reason why the king and queen’s chamber is different.” The mother in jest answered.  Of course the joke is too deep for the innocent second heir to understand.

“Luvie should be with someone fun. Not somebody who will make her cry.” The younger insisted

“Mother, Father loved you even before you got married right?” the elder inquired.

“Yes, he actually did some informal courting before the official began.” The matriarch fondly recalled how sweet the king was trying to win her affections. “He tried really hard, I could not say no.”

“You have to find some like that big sister.” The fledgling suggested. “Look at how mother and father are happy because of it.” The petite princess insisted on the suggestion.

“You speak as if I am miserable with someone little sister.” The younger snorted. Sending a message that the elder has an idea of what she is talking about.

“Nathie, I would gladly accept whoever father chooses. I believe in him.”

“My, my Luvie is just thirteen and Natie eleven. Why we are talking about marriage? Enjoy your youth a bit more. Don’t grow up too fast darlings.” The mother would reprimanded. “The time will come that will require you to grow up. But for now, I want you to be just young, lovely and endearing. Can you ladies do that for mother?”

Both nodded enthusiastically and in unison declared. “Yes Mother.”

The memory made Gretchen stifled a giggle. The sisters and their mother are adorable.

“What is funny Gretchen?” The heiress questioned.

“Milady pardon me. I am happy to be doing this with you. It has been awhile since I have seen princess Luvelia too.” The royalty pouted and bobbed her head.

“Yes, thanks to that outbreak we had to be apart . But tonight that separation ends.” The monarch in vigor declared out loud.

                                                                                            -o-

On the other side of the castle, the crowned princess is walking towards the garden. “Milady, are you certain princess Nathalia is in the garden of spring? I can send a messenger first to confirm.” The handmaid suggested.

“No need to waste resources. She is there.” The monarch acknowledged. ”In other lands spring has come. The flowers will be in full bloom in the spring garden. That is the best place to pass time.”

As expected the intelligent heiress has scientific innuendos for decisions. The royal is barely wrong when it comes to her assumptions.

“Milady, may I ask a question?” the handmaid inquired. The monarch nodded urging the servant to continue.

“Your highness the blade you are holding. Where it is from? I don’t recall it being in the library originally.”

The royal raised the dagger. “This is Irvald’s gift.” The aid gasped. Someone came to the library to see the lady all alone? This is scandalous, the queen will have her head if it be known. How could she neglect her duties?

Recognizing the worry across the assistant’s face, the mistress pacified the situation. “Don’t worry, Irvald is my knight. He’s allowed near me.”

“But it does not equate to see the highness in an intimate way”. The servant thought but could not say it out loud. There is risk of angering her master if wrong words are said.

“In protocol it is an offense. But I trust Irvald with my life. There is nothing wrong.” The heiress defended the knight.

“My liege, I am aware he is a personal friend of yours. However carrying a weapon to meet you in a secluded place is disturbing.” The maid confessed or her heart would burst. 

“Do you see any part of me hurt?” The handmaid swayed her head in negation. “See, nothing to worry about.”

Within the castle, it is known in strict confidentiality, the crowned princess is amiable with the young knight of Koane. The camaraderie started when they were six. It was the queen who instigated it. Reasoning that it would be good for the elder to have same age friends.

There were other noble children around too. However it was Irvald who is always by the siblings side. Nathalia with her small hands would put flower crowns on his head. The lad would endure it as he exchanges stories with the elder.

Some subjects were rude at the boy. Why is he gaining favor? His family is not entitled to marry into the royal family. The Koane’s have vowed not to get involved with the ruling family. However, they are tasked to protect and dedicate their lives to whoever is in power. Why did the queen put this lad on the spot?

Adults would lecture the boy that he is but a servant. A sword for offense. A shield for defense. The child would keep silent to avoid spite. However even if others pull him away, the matriarch would call for him. The queen would jest she always wanted a son. Her two daughters also wanted a brother. Irvald is fitting for the part.

“I knew him all my life. This dagger is the best and most meaningful present I have ever received.” The servant gazed at the weapon. It does look strange its not silver in color but ivory. Could it be?

“The blade is made of Canis. From Irvald’s first big harvest a year ago.” It seems the knight has thought deeply of the gift given.

“Milady your eyes are gleaming.You favor this present.” The maid observed.

“Unlike Nathalia, I cannot fight. Small pieces like this suits me best.”

“Your highness does it mean someone has to train you to use it?” The monarch gazed at the dagger and affirmed. The wheels in the maid’s mind spun . Did the young knight intentionally gave it to have an excuse to be near the princess?

As if reading her thoughts the heiress muttered out. “Irvald won’t be able to help me. Starting today he will always accompany father’s missions.”

“My liege, isn’t the first knight of Koane still in action? Is he planning to retire and leave the post to Sir Irvald?” The aid could not hide her curiosity.

“An heir naturally is groomed for future duties. ” The servant observed the royal’s unbothered face. The man in question is going to be away for long. But her expressions area flat. Perhaps the monarch’s genuinely saw the knight as dear friend only. Romance is not brewing, it is a huge relief to the opposition.

Continuing to the garden, Aira recalled another man older than the lady. The gap is ten years. Equal to the time the scholar ventured outside the kingdom. The gentleman was an educator won the fondness of the crowned daughter. The mistress’s passion for knowledge is due to him.

He was a gentle despite the flaming orange hair and intense golden eyes. It was rumored that Lord Kaema found the king’s favor. Due to this, the scholar was entrusted on a long term project. After a decade there was no news about his whereabouts. By heavens, the educator is twenty eight by now. Same age with Aira. Both served the six year old princess when they were sixteen.

The child is now a blooming woman. Due to work dedication, Aira allowed time to pass and not consider marriage. Her family argued she need to find security by getting a husband. She promised to do after the princess debuts. She would serve as much as possible. Princess Luvelia is future queen after all.

“The breeze is getting cooler, the garden is near.” Luvelia stated. “What could you be busying yourself with little sister?”

The elder heiress entered the garden with impeccable posture. A neat braid adorning her head. Skin glowed under the sun flushing her cheeks . “How can Nathalia endure this weather?” The mistress muttered out loud.

Looking at afar, the elder caught a glimpse of the younger. Sitting directly on the grass getting her light blue dress stained. The older cannot help but sway her head. Nathalia, free loving and strong.

The petite heiress frequently gets away of breaking a few etiquette rules. All because she would not be queen. No sense in repressing, the queen would say. It might cause rebellion and remorse. It was best to keep her in the good side.

Sensing Luvelia’s presence, the younger stood up and raised her arm to wave energetically. “Luvie! What a surprise.” The petite lady trekked towards the crowned. The latter did the same to meet half way. A foot away, the smaller leaped and hugged the celebrant. “Happy eighteenth birthday!”

The excited younger forgot about the dirt on her dress and hands. “Princess Nathalia, your dress and hands are unclean.” Gretchen scolded.

Unlike Aira, Gretchen is married and is in her middle thirties. The queen choose a more mature handmaid for the younger. Due to her free spirit attitude. The aid must simmer the energy down.

“It’s okay Gretchen. I have not seen Natie for month.” The crowned hushed.

“Your Majesty, the dress you are wearing is stained..” The elder servant tried to reason.

“It’s just one dress.” The first daughter reasoned with a fierce glint. Sighing Gretchen did not speak any further. Getting on the royal’s bad side could be very chaotic. She simply did not want to experience that.

Realizing what she has done Nathalia shyly pulled away. “Sorry got you dirty.”

“When did a little dirt hurt?” Frantically the younger looked back. Did the servants hide her present? Is the surprise spoiled now? Gretchen nodded signaling the secret is safe .The petite giggled in relief. “What’s amusing little sister?”

“Luvie you took my hug while holding a dagger? That’s dangerous.” The smaller teased.

Luvelia blushed and stepped back. “I was not planning to hurt you..”

The younger swayed her hands. “Of course you would never.”

“Luvie its lunch, why don’t we have a picnic?” Pointing at a nearby tree. ”Let’s get a table prepared there.” The gleeful eyes shifted to her maid. “Gretchen go arrange it.” The servant bowed in confirmation.

“Your highness's, for the time being please seek the shade under the tree.” Eyeing a fellow servant, the woman was carrying a blanket. “My lieges, please make do of this cloth first, as we prepare the table.”

“No need.” The elder ordered. “Nathalia let’s have a picnic using the blanket.”

“Oh that sounds wonderful. Gretchen go ask the cook for food.” The senior servant bowed and proceeded as asked. “Make sure there is no soup or food with sauces. I can’t get my dress any dirtier.” The petite reminded.

“As if the dress is not messed enough.” The mature handmaid went away to give instructions to the kitchen. Two maids laid the blanket on the ground. The other two went to get fans to use to keep the royals cool.

“How did you find me?” Nathalia asked curiously.

“It was obvious you would be here. It’s spring.” The wiser bluntly explained. “It was written in the stars a week ago.” 

The lips of the younger pursed. “So you spent the whole time of isolation in studying and reading the sky.” The crowned answered with a hum. “So very you Luvie. Flexing the brain whenever possible.”

“How about you little sister?” It was the elder’s turn to inquire. “I was checking the weapon’s room for inventory. They added some new swords and armor styles. Tomorrow I plan to see again which was use.”

The older nodded. “Have you been training?”

“My saber? Yes. Sir Irvald is teaching me. He is kind of strict. For his age he is too uptight.”

The taller giggled, Irvald really has a way to put some reins on Nathalia. “I am sure he only wants the best for you.” 

“You maybe right. But he is still so stiff. He should learn to have some fun sometimes. You are of same age right?” the younger sighed and continued. “Men like him are always in the front lines. He should find ways to enjoy life. I mean we don’t know until when he can keep fighting right?” the second heiress snickered her her statement.

“Natie it’s not nice to make fun of another person’s demise.” The senior reprimanded. Being a knight is a hard job. There is no guarantee of coming back home after every task. That fact is enough for the future queen to pity the Calvary. The thought wrenches her heart. The resolve to do something better for all of them crossed her mind once again.

Noticing the sour expression on the celebrant the other felt the need to apologize. “Sorry about that Luvie. You really care a lot about your future subjects. I am sure in time they will faithfully love and serve you back.” The smaller reassured with blue eyes full of passion.

“I hope your right.” was the answer with a conserved tone.

”Tell me about the dagger.” The younger encouraged. “How did you get your hands on it?”

“It was a present from Irvald.”

The second heiress smirked. “Who actually new the cranky man actually listens.”

The statement caught the other in surprise. “What do you mean?”

“Since he already gave you the gift. Might as well tell who gave the idea.” The future queen raised a brow.

“You told him what to give me?” The other nodded proudly.

Her sister was happy because the recommendation is correct. “I am glad Luvie loved it.”

“Natie, did you push Irvald to do this?” The elder began questioned. Did her sister told off a knight to go on a dangerous feat gift a weapon?

“Now, now big sister. I did not tell him to go on some suicide mission. He said Father choose him to go on the big hunt. He had extra Canis after his armor was made.”

The petite eyed the dagger. It was exquisitely made. Why was the elder’s features sullen? Did the mood soured because it was insinuated the piece was formed from scrap? “That sounded wrong sorry. He probably intentionally saved an amount for your dagger. Sir Irvald will not give you left overs.” 

The celebrant smiled meekly. To lighten the mood the younger gave a preposition. “After lunch let’s freshen up and have a bath together.” During childhood bathing at the same time was always fun. The elder agreed. “Great, where will we get the tubs placed? Your room is bigger sister. What do you say?”

The senior bobbed her head. “We need two tubs, The two of us cannot fit into one anymore.”

“Yes right. I have a bottle of white rose essence let’s use it. They said its good for the skin.” The smaller offered.

“I have Argan oil for our hair.” the older added.

“Its been a while we did some beauty regimen together. But its your eighteen birthday so you have to look your best.” The celebrant meekly smiled. But who does she want to look pretty for anyway? No one sees her besides father, mother, Natie, the inner circle of servants and knights. It’s one thing to look presentable. But how would it feel grooming for someone you love?

Shortly Gretchen arrived with the food. It was a good as expected of the palace chef. Both elegantly ate their fill and continued to converse. “At dinner tonight, I’ll join you sister. You will be wearing the dress Mother bought right?” The braided elder nodded in affirmation. “I knew it. Might as well wear mine. Together let’s celebrate.”

“Why don’t we invite mother?” The celebrant suggested. “Her schedule might be packed since Father is leaving. But we can try right?” The older mused hoping to hear that the sibling will agree. “Yes, we should.We can actually get to come across her today.”

As tradition, before the Calvary leaves the queen oversees the departure. It is perfect opportunity. Hopefully the matriarch can spare some time to join supper. “What time will Father be leaving?”the elder whispered.

 “Gretchen, do you have any idea? Your husband is the king’s butler.” Natia asked in urgency.

 “Milady, my spouse has not shared any details of the upcoming expedition.”

“Should we wait by the main gate? They will obviously exit there.” The younger suggested.

“Father usually leaves after lunch. If that is the case we might be too late.” The older answered sadly.

“But we have to try Luvie. The gate is ten minutes by foot but if ran we can be there in five.”

“In our dresses? Natie, mother and father will not like it.” The celebrant reasoned.

“Just for today, its your birthday. We can ask of it as a birthday present.” The younger tried to convince the later.

“You know I am in no shape to do that type of running.” The elder sadly confessed.

“I will run for you.” younger declared and glanced at the garden entrance. “Consider this as my birthday present.” Lifting the hem of the clothing Nathalia sprinted in surprising speed. The maids under her tutelage gasped and in panic ran after her. Unfortunately the effort was futile.

Princess Nathalia gained the speed of deer. Her quick reflexes was able to dodge into bumping people. The royal had the agility to leap up the stairs while sprinting. The air in the lady’s lungs did not collapse. The burning desire to fulfill the elder’s wishes pushed her to go faster.

Nearing the viewing tower, neighing sounds of horses and clanking armor can be heard. “Perfect they are still here.” The lass thought in relief. It means the matriarch is her. The message can be relayed. Pumping both feet and legs, not minding the disheveled hair the princess moved towards the light.

As her eyes adjusted to the view. The back of regal woman, stresses neatly tied in a bun came into vision. The crown adorning her head sparkled in the illumination of the sun. The princess could feel her forehead trickling with sweat. Her dress is disheveled. But for Luvelia, its okay. “Mother!”

The sudden decline of the sprint caused an imbalance. Speed beneath her feet, the princess had to anchor on the tower’s edges. The force was strong she felt toppling over. As her stomach touched the ledge. The royal’s gaze was directed to the knights below all clad in Canis armor. At middle, the king’s is aghast of the sight.

A knight suddenly moved and ushered his stallion to come nearer. As if anticipating to catch her, in case she falls. But the gruesome demise was prevented. The queen managed to grab her dress and pull up the maiden. The reversed force led the two women flat on their rears. And for a few moments time stopped.

The subordinates were mortified. “Nathalia! What on heavens were you doing?” Queen Arha vehemently shouted. It was hard to keep composure on times like this.

“Mother I wanted to see you.” The daughter replied. “It’s urgent before you get busy.”

Regaining perfect posture the matriarch held out her had. The younger took it and stood up shyly. The mother ushered the lady near the edge so the king can see she is alright. Maybe some bruises underneath but she will be fine.

The ruler sighed in relief seeing his daughter safe. The knight who broke out of formation gazed up to glimpse at the heiress. As he did the maiden coincidentally looked back at him. That face, the familiar face which always invades his mind. Why is it one of the things to see before departing for war?

The monarch smiled meekly not minding her unkempt appearance. It was a message not to worry. “Nathalia! That is not how a proper lady should behave!” The king shouted out of the blue. “You could have died accidentally.” The child bowed her head. No one talks back to the king.

Witnessing the gesture of shame, the king swayed his head at the knight to get back in formation. Once all is back in place the ruler declared his orders. “We shall engage the werewolves come nightfall on all boarders. Each knight is expected to man their positions till the end. Fight or Vanieza! Cor Lever!”

“Cor Lever!” the combatants shouted in unison. The phrase has been used since the ancient times. It was said to mean “Lift up your heart”. All members of the Ivory Knights are expected to dedicate their heart for Vanieza. The noblest action of all.

Horses began to stomp and each infantry began to exit the castle gates. From the palace it will take another thirty minutes to get out of the walls. In a calm fashion the warriors started their march. They still have until sunset to prepare. Exhausting strength this early is not advisable.

Once the last infantry exited the gates. The queen redirected her gaze to Nathalia. There was suppressed emotion within the matriarch eyes. The daughter knew she had a lot of explaining to do. But for her sister, who cares if she gets punished later? “Mother can you join me and Luvelia for dinner? It’s her eighteenth birthday after all?”