Long time ago, all evil in the world was purged by one wandering warrior. No one knows his real identity, nor his whereabouts. But one thing is for sure, he solely defeated all the evil forces invading the East and West continents.
The story has bee...
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The heir of the Dukedom of Eirlys. A dashing young man nearing his 20s. Ebony black hair and charcoal black eyes, he is quite a beauty. Yet, he is also a man of a few words, like his father. Despite that, Roux has built himself a name in the Academy, as the Silent Sword. Due to his quiet demeanor yet exceptional swordsmanship skills.
Now that he is back, I couldn't help but feel at peace. With my brother here (and my mom coming home soon), my family will be complete, after a long time. They're my everything.
Despite, me being "abnormal", they never said anything about my condition. Never once was I pressured to do something to be able to manifest mana. Instead, my father made sure I was trained like normal using the sword.
"We love you for who you are. Whatever you decide on doing in the future, we will have your support."
Those were my father's words after calling me in his office to inform me that the preparations for my coming-of-age ceremony are almost complete.
Representatives of the other 5 territories will be attending. Aside from them, high ranking officials of the kingdom and the academy will be present too. As a Duke's daughter, this is to be expected. This is an official announcement of me, officially being an adult and of what I will do to contribute to the kingdom.
My father, knowing the pressure it will put me in, assured me that he, my family, and the whole Dukedom got my back.
"You are a Del Vaughn and whatever happens remember, we love you and we are proud of you."
Since our location is very far up north, the ceremony will be held 3 days after my birthday. It is customary to hold the official birthday banquet on the coming-of-age ceremony day.
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When the Duchess had finally arrived from the East, she had asked for my presence immediately.
"Zen, look at these fabrics and accessories."
The fabrics and accesories she brought were so majestic looking, ideal for a member of the Imperial family.
"But mom, aren't those too grand for me?"
My mom shook her head. "I know what you're thinking dear. But did you forget you are also of royal lineage?"
Ah.. yeah. I had forgotten about my maternal family. As much as I don't like standing out there is nothing I can do. It is in my blood. Nobility and royalty are not only social standings or positions but also of pride and legacy.
It is useless to argue against the First Princess of the Eastern Empire. I showed her my defeated smile.
"Now now... that's my girl. Anyways..." She gestured for her maids. "Let's take your measurements now. We only have a limited time to prepare your dresses."
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Days before the ceremony, my daily routine stayed the same but with more intensity. The problem was my personal time. Instead of reading, my etiquette and dancing lessons, alternately, extended their time just before dinner. No more 'me' time. I was so drained.
But three days before the ceremony, is the day I have been looking foward to, my birthday.
I woke up to the warmth of a brightly litted room. Looking at the window, I knew the sun was high up. On my birthdays, I was allowed to sleep in and not do anything. Before, I was just happy to be able to have rest. Now, I am overjoyed. Rest is an understatement. Today is like an oasis in the desert after days of traveling without breaks. That is how I felt.
I opened my balcony doors and met the cooling breeze. My room is on the backside of the mansion, facing southwest. Though I can't really see the sun during mornings, I am always greeted by the bright surroundings. And beyond my balcony is the south garden full of flowers and trees. It is a lovely day.
Going back inside. I glanced at the clock behind me. It was 10 o'clock. I grinned knowing what I will be doing for the rest of the day.
I called for Ruth.
"Good morning, my lady." She bowed deeply. Today, she is alone. On my birthdays, I gifted all of my maids a one-day leave. But Ruth didn't want to go.
"Happy Birthday my lady." She handed me a small package.
I looked at her suprised.
"My lady... please accept my humble gift as my gratitude to you."
