Our Demonic Spawn

23

Third Person POV

Nael leaned against the railing as he watched the sparring matches. He cracked a smile when Onyx chased Cal around with a sledgehammer. His eyes then found Ken sparring against Zeli and Ash. This peaked his interest to the point that he intently watched Ken fight them off. Nael grinned and pumped his fist in the air at the action.

Ken had noticed it out her peripheral, so she turned and stared at him. Nael looked down and backed away until she couldn't see him anymore. Ken sighed before going back to fighting the others. Nael crossed his arms while leaning against the wall. Nael then peeked over the railing to see Ken freeze Zeli, making him chuckle.

"I consider that to be cheating actually." A voice spoke.

Nael jumped and turned to see the Queen. His eyes widened and he scrambled to stand up straight. He then assembled his hands correctly before bowing to the Queen.

"Your majesty." He spoke.

"At ease." She spoke resulting in him standing properly. "Not many follow that bowing technique." She commented.

"I can perform another bow for your approval, your majesty." He offered.

"Not required." Adira smiled. "Will you walk with me?"

"You don't even need to ask, your majesty." He followed her.

"I was occupied when you and your friend were detained here, so I haven't had the opportunity to properly question you. Or question you to my satisfaction. How long have you lived in Astoria?"

"19 years, your majesty."

"What about your friend?"

"18 years, your majesty."

"Is the palace to your liking?" She asked.

"My opinion doesn't matter, your majesty."

"It does. I take public opinion seriously."

"It's beautiful, your majesty."

"You were formally raised." Adira shook her head in amusement. "You're one of the few that follow the proper royal protocol."

"It was something I was schooled on-"

"Did you feel that you had a normal childhood?"

"I think I've misunderstood the question, your majesty."

"It just seems that you're stiffer and not as relaxed as your friend. That you constantly overthink before speaking in an effort to filter your words. And your eyes are typically downcast when addressing the princess of the light realm." Adira eyed the nervous guy.

"I...I don't-"

"I know birth status can bring on a lot of pressure. So I hope you weren't forced to succumb to it."

"Not at all, your majesty. My parents provided me with a lot of love. It was my decision to pursue my life more rigid?"

"I understand." They stopped once they were outside a private room. "Thank you for the chat."

"Your welcome, your majesty." Nael bowed and turned to leave.

"Enjoy the rest of your day, Yu." Adira smiled and entered the room.

"Wait!" Nael turned around and followed Adira inside.

"Is there a problem?" Adira sat at her desk.

"What did you just call me?"

"You dropped the formalities." Adira smirked.

"What did you call me?" Nael repeated.

"Yunael." Adira sat back. "My, my. You sure have grown quickly."