Temporary Crown

14 | Few details for a bigger future

As Nesta put the last clause in the paper, Lucien had read the content of the paper over again and after a few minutes, he had signed it. Nesta followed and signed her name just below the name of Lucien as it was sealed, Nesta put the papers in a black envelop and gave it to Lucien for safe keeping.

As both of them finished, Nesta was smiling widely and happily. In Her point of View she was able to take a step closer on being able to stand by Lucien’s side. Although the future might be a little dim and even unsure, she was sure to herself that she won’t repeat the same mistake twice. The gods had given her another chance and she won’t just throw such miracle chance.

In regards to that, she needed to list the future events. Nesta knew perfectly that she already knew that her actions can either change a major or minor even of the future. No matter how big it was, the future will change and she was willing to change it in her path of course.

Just as that, she needed to act meticulously and not let Lucien have any idea about her knowing the future. She needed variables now. As Nesta thought about it, she grabbed the tea cup and sip the tea that was prepared by the servants earlier. The had gone cold however, regardless of that it was still a tea.

She then looked at Lucien who poured himself a tea and leisurely sat on the chair looking outside. “Brother, if you’ll allow it, may I ask what did you and father talk about?”

Lucien eyes observed her for a moment before speaking. “It’s nothing of a big deal sister. Father just told me his regrets and his acceptance of death. However, I am not in the same page as him. Regardless of the outcome, I would try.”

Nesta smiled even more. She agreed with what he said. “If that so, brother, I think it would be best for us to plan for the future.”

Lucien nodded without even thinking. He was clearly agreeing to Nesta’s point of View. “then, sister, do you have any suggestions?”

Nesta put down the cup and leaned down on the chaise. “The duke had issued that once he died, the temporary position of the duke would be pass down to me.”

As she said that, her gaze was observing Lucien. She knew that this whole duchy was something important to Lucien. Back in the past, he had almost kill her and send so many assassins to deal with her for he can’t accept it. However, back before and even now, Nesta was skilled, hence she was able to deal all of the assassins that came for her.

Now, there was a tacit agreement between them. Lucien’s reaction and expression might change.

After a long silence between them, Lucien opened his mouth to talk. “If that what’s Father wanted, then, I can’t do anything about it. Furthermore, I know I can trust you even for a bit since I am holding the contract that we agree upon.” Lucien’s drifted as his sharp gaze landed on her. “And all will be peaceful if you keep your words and honor what we agree about.”

Nesta felt chills all over her body seeing how Lucien’s tired eyes were piercing to her but she just shrugged it off. “I would never betray you, brother. I am a person who goes with the higher bidder. I just know that I will have more opportunity if I remain in this household.”

“If that’s your thought then, it’s good.” Lucien said quite frankly.

“Another,” Nesta continued their topic as the sound of fire coming from the fireplace reached their ears. “It would be best if we control all of the information coming in and out of the duchy. Although the duke had his whole authority in the mansion, walls can hear and rumors about his health won’t help us at all. Once the high and might duke of the duchy of Von stein was reported to have a weakness, there will be many people who’ll take risk because of their greed.”

Nesta’s voice sounded heavy. Lucien sipped his tea but his full attention was on Nesta. “ Just as I was with the duke for a few months and he was able to guide me to the path of being a heir even though it was only temporary, I was able to witness and estimate how many enemies the duke have. Furthermore, Trust is a luxury in this whole empire.”

Nesta moved her gaze and look outside where the snow had begun falling. She then glanced at the clock and looked at the time. It was almost lunch. “Please watch the servants and the vassals. I would like their lips tied. It would also be nice if we can cut the rotten ends in this matter.”

“If that’s what my sister wants.” Lucien agreed without even asking questions. He knew and he understood all of Nesta’s words like it was even more heavy than a topic that will be put on their final exams in the academy.

Nesta was happy that Lucien was listening. She added another question, “When will you be returning to the academy.”

Lucien gaze deepened. He said after long deliberation. “Perhaps, a month later. I do not have any absences before and it would be best to use it all of now.”

Nesta nodded. “That’s good. In the mean time, it would be best for us to research about the duke’s illness and highlight the points were he had gone and where he had contacted this disease. Although it might be futile, it won’t hurt to try.”

Hearing these words, again, Lucien pursed his lips. He put down the cup and stood up. “Then, sister, if you need me, I would be in the library researching.”

“Of course, dear brother. I would be there after you.” Nesta pointed the door. “Walk along and be careful.”

“I will sister. Thank you for your guidance.”