The carriage finally arrived at the palace, which shines bright like a beacon of wonder. The majestic palace was crafted from gleaming stone, adorned with carvings that dance across its facade like constellations. No doubt, the palace was beautiful and looked magical like how the fiction books would describe.
Fanaza had never seen such a huge place. She wondered if she would fit in perfectly or would be sent back home. As she got down from the carriage, expecting to be greeted by the royals, she saw no one, wondering if anything could be wrong.
What exactly was she getting herself into? The palace was so quiet, you could hear a pin drop. It was like a graveyard. She was lost in thought until a little boy ran into her, and he fell.
"Are you okay, sweetie?" She asked,
The boy started crying out loud.
"I'm so sorry; you were the one who bumped into me, Sweetie." She tried to defend herself. Sally could only look and shake her head.
Fanaza carried him.
"Don't cry, sweetie."
A maid ran towards her.
"Prince Felix!" The maid stopped halfway and greeted Fanaza with a bow.
The maid was about to carry Felix, but he held onto Fanaza's arms; he seemed attached to her. The poor kid couldn't resist her beauty.
"Guess I'll see you around, sweetie." She pulled the prince's little cheeks and walked straight into the palace with her guards. Lots of gifts and luggage were behind them.
The door to the courtroom opened wide, revealing Queen Lisa and King Loban, who sat on their throne. The atmosphere that surrounded them seemed tough as they both looked unwelcoming. Their faces looked flat and expressionless. Oh dear Fanaza.
"Good day, King Loban, good day, Queen Lisa," she greeted with a bow, followed by a lot of head bows from Sally and her men.
"I am Fanaza from the Dragonseed clan of the North Region."
The kingdom of Macabre was made up of six geopolitical regions, and Fanaza was from the North Region, where the people were known for their gift of natural resources and the only gold and coal mine in the whole kingdom.
"It is a great opportunity to stand before the King and Queen of the great Macabre. I have brought gifts." She clapped, and some guards brought in various goods and boxes.
"You are the one to marry my son," Queen Lisa said, staring at Fanaza, a head-to-toe assessment. "You look prettier in person; I guess the paintings did not do some justice to your beauty. Are you sure you can handle my son and produce good and healthy sons?"
Fanaza didn't know what to say, but she kept calm.
"Yes, my Queen, my body is healthy, and I will produce healthy sons for His Highness, the King and Queen."
The queen laughed loudly.
"I see." A sarcastic voice from the queen.
Fanaza noticed something: throughout her conversations with the Queen, the King never said a word or interfered; his emotions were hard to figure out, and his expressionless face was too serious to access. She wondered if he was a mute or maybe he just didn't like her. Oh God, the family was scary, she thought.
But if the king and queen are this scary, what about the crown prince? She knew she was walking into the hands of Mr. Doom.
"You'll be going through various tests and trainings to make sure you are fully ready to be the crown princess. One of them is how to properly satisfy the crown prince."
Satisfyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy!!!!!!!!
Fanaza became scared, and her cheeks flushed red. Satisfy?
"I'll leave you to enjoy the palace, have fun, and make yourself at home," the queen added before she walked away with the king.
"This is really bad," she said to Sally, who gave her a huge thumbs-up. She was about to start living in a crazy nightmare.
----------
Fananza laid across the plush, velvet bed; her sleep was a mess. Her hair, a wild mane of blonde locks, scattered across the pillow, with a few stray strands stuck to her forehead. A soft, gentle snore escaped her lips, and her chest rose and fell with each peaceful breath.
But the serenity was short-lived when Sally crept into the room, a mischievous glint in her eye.
"My lady, you have to wake up," she whispered, her voice barely audible over Fanaza's snores.
Sally gently shook Fananza's shoulder, but she didn't budge. Fanaza was deep asleep . Sally shook her again; this time it wasn't gentle, and she still didn't budge. The maid had no other choice than to trick her.
"My hand is in my nose, and it's about to enter into your mouth."
Fanaza's eyes opened wide, and she jumped off the bed.
"Don't you dare!" she screamed at Sally jokingly, and they both laughed.
She was finally awake after so many hours of sleep. As Fanaza sat at the edge of the bed, a group of maids rushed into the room, carrying an assortment of dresses, hairstyles, and makeup.
"We're assigned to the upcoming crown princess," they said in unison, bowing low.
Fanaza looked at Sally, who shrugged.
"I guess it's official now."
The maids quickly got to work, transforming Fanaza into a vision of royal loveliness. They dressed her in a stunning gown of silk and lace, with intricate embroidery that shimmered in the morning light.
Her hair was styled in an elaborate updo, with delicate tendrils framing her face. A subtle application of makeup enhanced her natural beauty, with a soft blush on her cheeks and a hint of sparkle on her eyelids.
"You look stunning, my lady." Sally adored her.
Fananza gazed at her reflection, hardly recognizing the elegant, poised woman staring back at her. She felt a surge of excitement mixed with nerves. She was one step closer to becoming the crown princess. She was an epitome of beauty, and every man would look twice at her. Her beauty was out of this world, with skin smooth and fair.
----------
The sun beat down on the lush green field, casting a warm glow over the princes as they played a game of soccer. Little Prince Felix, his blonde hair mussed back as his face flushed with excitement, chased after the ball with his brothers, who chased after him.
The game intensified. Prince Sage kicked the ball too far, sending it soaring over the field. The prince seemed frustrated with Sage's loss of control, by the way; that was not his first time.
"Sage, go get the ball," Prince Kael said, but Lyon had already raced after the ball.
Lyon reached outside the field and spotted an old servant walking towards him with trays of food and drinks balanced in his hands. In his haste, he didn't notice the old servant and immediately collided with him, the trays flying and a stream of purple liquid splashing onto the prince's white shirt and breeches, with leftover food and oil pouring on his golden boots.
His face fell as he stared at the stain, his eyes widening in disgust.
The servant, horrified, dropped to his knees and apologized profusely.
"I am so sorry, my liege. I am so sorry, I am so so ----."
A strong, loud slap landed on the old man's face.
Fanaza seemed to pass by as she was going for her morning training; she saw the horrific scene and made her way towards them.
"You ignorant fool," Prince Lyon said, raising his hands to slap the man again, but he halted in motion, a little hand held him in place.
"Enough!!" Fanaza said with a commanding tone.
"Who the hell are you?" with rage Lyon wanted to hit Fanaza, but Kael held his hands.
"Only an animal would hit a woman; Mother thought you bette'r. Kael said softly. He was a quiet and calm prince who did not speak much, but when he did, he had a voice that commanded authority and captured everyone's attention. He was popular among the maids and court ladies.
"Please get up!" Fanaza said to the man on his knees before she pulled him up.
"Are you not ashamed, treating an elderly man this badly? Apologize now."
The word apologize rang in everyone's ear.Who is this thing asking a whole prince to apologize to a servant?
"I am the prince, the son of Stormizard. How dare I do such a taboo?"
"Either you are a prince or the king; you have to apologize." Fanaza spat back at him.
Fanaza never tolerated inequality and bad treatment of maids or workers around her. She loved them all. Even though their rank might be different, they are all still equal to her.
"I won't repeat myself; apologize, you insolent brat," she said.
"Who the hell are you?' Prince Lyon shot her a deadly glance.
"I am the future crown princess," she said. "You shouldn't speak to me rudely."
The princes laughed and mocked her.
"Just know you will be sharing him with thousands of women . Guess you'll only be good for children, a breeder," Lyon said, smirking.
"What did you call me?" She said, almost fuming and about to explode.
God knows she would cause a scene and ask the ground to swallow everyone up.
"A breeder," Lyon repeated right into her ears.
Fanaza's eyes flashed in extreme anger before launching herself at Lyon. Even though he was a prince, he has no right to speak to her that way. There is something called respect, and it should be reciprocal, or whatever they call it. Who cares? She wanted to teach him a lesson and didn't even think of the consequences.
"A breeder," Lyon repeated. Fanaza was engulfed in anger.
The two clashed, their fists flying. Fanaza's skirts tore as she kicked Lyon, but he retaliated with a punch to her jaw. She stumbled back, her eyes watering, but refused to back down. The courtyard erupted into chaos, with the princes shouting and laughing.
Queen Lisa appeared, her eyes flashing with anger.
"Enough!" she shouted, storming over to Fananza.
"My Queen," Fanaza said, adjusting her scattered dress. She was a mess, a whole noble woman.
"What type of animal are you? Fighting the princes" irritation filled the queen's eyes.
Fanaza stood tall, her chest heaving. Did this woman just call her an animal? Let's leave that aside, please.
"He was disrespectful," replied the Fanaza, her voice firm.
Queen Lisa's face turned red with rage.
"You haven't spent two days in the palace, and you're already creating a ruckus.
"You are a fool sweetheart, I won't blame you but your parents who lack the wisdom of child training and upbringing.?" The Queen attacked her with her hurtful words.
Fanaza kept quiet. She was pissed; she hated it when anyone spoke badly about her parents or family, and the Queen just did. If not for her status, she would have really done something bad.
"I'm sorry, my queen," she apologized with a bow.
"Dismiss everyone." The queen commanded.
"My Queen, the prince has to apologize for what he did to this old man here."
"You are quite an animal," the Queen shot her a deadly glance and walked away with the princes.
"Thank you, my lady," the old man bowed.
"I will send my maids to attend to you and treat you if you might have sustained a wound."
"That won't be necessary, my lady; I am more than healthy," the old man replied with a forced smile.
"Sally, speak to Rose to attend to him after I leave for training."
"Yes, my lady,' Sally replied.
Prince Sage approached, his eyes apologetic.
"I'm sorry for my family's behavior. We don't usually treat guests this way."
"You do not have to apologize. What's your name?" Fanaza asked with a bright smile, hoping to make friends.
"Sage," he replied.
"Brother is lucky; he was given a handsome wife."
"It's beautiful, dear," she corrected him softly.
"If you need someone to talk to and know more about the crown prince, you can always reach out to me. I'll see you around, sister-in-law," Sage said and walked away casually.
Sage seems nice to her, and she liked him. He was welcoming, cute, and sweet and he looked sane unlike the others.
"I heard one of the maids saying his IQ is so low all his teachers quit, so he is literally uneducated," Sally whispered.
"At least he knows what respect is; that is a rare gem. Fananza forced a smile.
She doesn't like the palace.
Fanaza walked into her training room and stood before the mirror, adjusting her posture as instructed by her tutor, Lady Victoria.
"You are late, future princess."
"My apologies, let's begin the training," Fanaza said,running her hands through her hair.
"Remember, a queen's demeanor is key," Lady Victoria said, scrutinizing Fanaza's every move.
"Shoulders back, chin up, and a gentle smile."
Fananza practiced the smile, feeling awkward.
"How's this?"
Lady Victoria nodded.
"Better, but not quite regal enough. Try again."
As the training continued, Fanaza grew frustrated. She struggled to master the intricate curtsies, and her attempts at royal etiquette felt stiff. Just as she was about to give up, Lady Victoria offered words of encouragement.
"You're doing well, Fanaza. Remember, you will be the future queen, and it takes time to become a queen."
Fanaza smiled; it was a fake.
-------------
The grand dining hall shimmered with candlelight, the long table set with fine silverware and crystal glasses. The King and Queen were in their seats. Before them, a feast fit for kings unfolded: steaming platters of roasted meats—venison, beef, and lamb—savory pies filled with fragrant herbs and spices, and delicate pastries adorned with intricate designs.
Golden-brown bread, freshly baked from the palace ovens, wafted a mouthwatering aroma, accompanied by an assortment of cheeses, fruits, and nuts.
The soft clinking of silverware and the murmur of conversation filled the air as they both prepared to indulge in the sumptuous meal.
The four princes entered—Sage, Lyon, Felix, and Kael—their presence commanding attention. Prince Sage led the way, followed by Prince Lyon, Prince Kael, and Prince Felix. They took their seats, and their movements were well practiced. The seat next to the right-hand side of the King was empty, indicating his right-hand man is not at the dinner, Prince Percival.
As they were about to dig in and savor the delicious meal, a cold voice halted their action.
"Where is Percival?" The king's voice echoed throughout the dinner hall.
"He is probably tired from his duties and mission." The Queen quickly stepped in, trying to defend her son.
It was true the prince went on a mission, but he was to arrive before nightfall, and he is not back. The Queen, who knew who his son was, probably knew he was after women in skirts or gowns.
The Queen's Court lady ran close to the Queen, whispering to her; she nodded and shoved her away.
"He's on his way, my king," the queen assured.
Sage digs into his food, waiting for no one.
The sound of clattering hooves echoed through the palace courtyard, growing louder with each passing moment.
A majestic black stallion, its coat gleaming in the fading light, walked into the courtyard, its rider commanding attention. Prince Percival, his dark hair windswept, sat tall in the saddle, his piercing gaze scanning the surroundings.
Maids curtsied, their skirts fluttering, as they stepped aside to let the prince pass. Guards were at alert, their hands resting on the hilts of their swords. The sound of jingling armor and the creaking of leather accompanied Prince Percival as he dismounted, his movements well practiced and confident.
With a final glance at the people around him, Prince Percival strode toward the palace entrance, his boots echoing off the stone walls. The maids and guards parted, allowing him to pass. He walked straight to the dinner with his war armor; his aura seemed cold.
"Good day, Father, Mother," he greeted.
"Why do you still have your war armor on?" The king asked rudely.
"My king, he just arrived from a deadly mission; you should ask about his well-being?" the queen said, heartbroken by the king's action towards his son.
"He seems fine to me," he replied.
"Fine?" Percival mocked and removed his helmet. His face was scarred and wounded.
Everyone was in shock.
"Percival!" the queen called after seeing the huge cut and blood dripping on her son's face.
"Since you only care about the armor and the mission." Percival spat back at the king.
Everyone was worried, even the expressionless king had a look of worry etched on his face, but he was talented in masking it before anyone found out.
"Call the doctor!" The queen screamed.
"Do you even care about me or any of the princes sitting before you?" Percival asked.
He was frustrated; he had just returned from a deadly mission, and the king didn't show any care for his well-being all he could do was force him to marry a stranger.
The king stared at him.
"Call the doctor," he said, walking away quietly.
A loud groan escaped Percival's lips as he held his mother's hands that were on his face before he walked away.
Percival entered into his room with Stefan, one of his guards of honor. He rushed to take off his armor, scattering it on the floor. He was furious, and his rage was unmatched. He kept on scattering every item on his tables.
"Sire, you need to calm down!"
Percival said nothing; he kept on destroying things.
"Sire, please be calm!!" Stefan repeated,
"Calm down!!' Percival said his face was red, fuming in anger, and he looked like a demon.
"CALM DOWN, PERCIVAL," Stefan shot him a deadly gaze and stared straight into his eyes.
The two have been best of friends since childhood, and even though their ranks could be different, they still trusted each other and respected each other. He was the only one who could confront the dark side of Percival.
Percival laughs crazily and hysterically.
"Calm down! Of course I will. Isn't that what you want?" he spat back furiously at Stefan.
"Get it together. I will call the maids to attend to your wound, Sire.
Stefan walked out, and at the entrance of the door, he met the royal doctor, gave him a bow, and the maids who accompanied him.
------
Meanwhile, Fanaza stumbled through the palace, her legs trembling. The grueling crown princess training had drained her, leaving her weak and vulnerable. Her vision blurred, and her footsteps echoed through the deserted hallway.
As she climbed the royal stairs, her small feet dragging on the cold marble floor, she felt like she was ascending into a nightmare, and she had no choice but to sit on the stairs panting heavily. She was exhausted and drained. Who knew training would be this hard? Plus, the fight she got involved in—her jaw still hurt so badly, and she missed home. She could see the full moon from the nearest window; her gaze lingered on its silvery light, which cast an ethereal glow on her face. The moon, which was a perfect orb of white, hung low in the sky, making dew-kissed grass shimmer in the light.
As her gaze became stronger, she felt a deep sense of peace wash over her, the world slowed down, and her worries melted away. In that instant, she felt connected to something greater that soothed and lifted her spirit.
She was in her peaceful realm but noticed a loud commotion outside. She saw a group of maids and servants gathered in the courtyard, their faces upturned to the moon. They whispered and smiled; they couldn't resist its beauty. Curious, Fanaza pushed open the window and leaned out.She saw the servants who stood in a semi-circle with their faces filled with wonder and beauty; some held hands while others just stood in silence enjoying the beauty of the moon.
Without thinking, she rushed outside, her feet bare and her skirt fluttering behind her. She made sure she was at the center and found her way through the group of servants who looked up at the moon. The servants parted to make way for her, their faces filled with a mixture of welcome.
"Legend says, if you stare at the full moon for hours and make a wish, your wish comes to pass." The old servant whom Prince Lyon disrespected whispered to her.
Perhaps she could wish the arranged marriage was canceled and to get a better life where her birth of nobility wasn't a hindrance for her to chase her dreams. But nothing came through her mind at all; all she could say was
"Phenomenal"
------
The hidden prince, Rwaine, on the other side of the kingdom, sat by the waterfall staring into the moon. He whispered,
"Phenomenal."