Imperfections of a Royal

12

"In two days time, we can visit the new bakery you built for Noah, dear." Dad said as he places the books back on the shelves.

We just finished our afternoon lessons. This time, it was about the people's characteristics. He taught me how to communicate with the people and how to earn their trust. He said that what matters most to the people is our relationship with them and how we see them as humans.

I gathered the papers in my table then handed it to him. "That's nice. I can't believe it's already done."

"You said you didn't want it to be too grand or too simple, so the engineers really did their best this time."

Suddenly, there was a knock on the door.

"King Andriego?"

We turned and saw Queen Josephine by the door. I stood and curtsied.

"Yes, Queen Josephine?" Dad answered as he straightened his coat.

"If I may so, I would like to request for something." She started.

"Of course. What is it?"

She took a deep breath then smiled at us. "As you know, it will be Brylle's birthday tomorrow."

My heart pounded. I almost forgot. Prince Brylle was Queen Josephine and King Ricardo's eldest son. He was a year older then Thomas and Althea. 19 years ago, when Wierxia was still young, they had a baby which the country rejoiced in. One night, when they were celebrating Brylle's 2nd birthday, there was an invasion. Queen Josephine and King Ricardo were separated from their children when the guards tried to control the situation. A few hours later, when they were getting back together, Thomas and Althea were the only ones to be found. Brylle was taken that night. Queen Josephine locked herself in their room for a week. She went out only once a day to eat. Their family suffered for 5 years, before finally accepting the tragedy.

"Is it okay for us to celebrate it here?" She softly asked.

"We would be delighted to prepare a feast for Brylle." Dad beamed. Queen Josephine thanked us then left.

I sighed then laid my head on Dad's shoulder. "I'm glad Queen Josephine is finally getting the hang of it."

Dad patted my head. "It's difficult, but she's getting there."

Dinner went on in a flash, Mom was teaching Althea how to sew dresses this past few days and Thomas was having sword practices every now and then with King Ricardo. I guess Keith is getting bored already.

I immediately excused myself after eating then headed to the kitchen.

The chefs and maids bowed at me as soon as I entered.

"Is Noah here?" I asked.