Jewel | XiaoJin Fanfic

𝓒𝓱𝓪𝓹𝓽𝓮𝓻 4

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Yujin

"Come on, Princess, you can't keep sulking like this." Chaehyun comforts me.

I can't help but purse my lips further in frustration. "Father never shuts me out. He was the one to always remind me that I should learn of every workings of the kingdom. And for something as monumental as Fernweh signing the accords, I'd presumed he'd insist my presence more." I sighed. "Although I do understand that the Fernwehs are on guard and would only want father to be present at something so important."

"Since you do understand, stop pouting and enjoy the occassion." Dayeon lightly pushes my shoulder.

I reassured them with a small smile. "Don't worry, I won't let this ruin my mood. I just can't help but feel something... odd from them. Like this weird energy that radiates their being."

Shiro chuckles from behind me. "I see you still haven't let go of your dream to be a mage."

I grinned at the reminder. I used to dream of becoming a high-level mage who would have the power to create whatever element I could think of. However, reality was a harsh friend as I was told that my body consists of magical force close to nil. Besides, studying spells would take years and most mages who were at least able to procure fire from nothing were already close to my father's age. I was certainly better off being a princess of a kingdom.

"Nonsense. Don't get me wrong, I still admire mages, but I've let go of that dream years ago. My royal tutors are a witness to the fact that my patience can only be stretched if it involves eating." I laughed.

At that moment we passed by the closed doors of the throne room. My eyes glanced at the wooden placard beside it.

I swear my kingdom's fealty to all inhabitants of Ilanpek. No man, or woman, or any intellectual creature shall interfere with the peace and prosperity that is the right of all born to life.

Signature after signature scrawl across the bottom of the document. Each one represents a king or queen who agreed to uphold the core tenants of this agreement. And, for the most part, the accords have been effective. Small skirmishes have broken out between kingdoms over petty things like land and crops, but the other kingdoms force them to settle the disputes quickly and quietly.

There has been no true war since the accords were signed. No death en masse to haunt the people who live outside the safety of the castle walls.

"What are you thinking about?" Yeseo asks, breaking my trance as I scan the words of the document again.

"I just—" Before I could answer her, I was cut off by a voice from behind us.

"Hello," The Princess of Fernweh greets. "I was hoping to find you, Yujin, and I was told you were coming here."

"Hello, Princess Cai Bing. Is there anything wrong with your quarters?" While both rulers of our kingdoms went to have a private discussion, she was escorted to the quarters to rest after a long journey. I was worried that anything was amiss as I personally designed the setup of every room for the guests.

"No, no. The room was lovely. I was just hoping to have a talk with you. Exchange ideas and culture as we both are new to each other's lands." She smiled.

I hesitated for a bit but I was truly curious about Fernweh. There were books written about their kingdom but what's a better source than a native, right?

"That sounds lovely." Understanding the implication of the way she emphasized 'you', I ordered for some refreshments to be sent to the gardens. We would be alone, but not confined to a room which would hopefully help me relax.