The Scholar and The Crown

25

Maude

After the opening of the festival two nights ago, I hadn't returned to the town square to enjoy the festivities further. Although Mavis and Mavien stayed for the entire duration, I didn't get the chance to see them again. There was still work to finish, and I needed to ensure the ladies had their papers right after the festival.

But today was different.

"Maude..." Father called my name while I was sipping my tea. We were at a quaint café in the town square. Father, Mavis, Mavien, and I were enjoying a rare moment together. Father had finally managed to get a day off after being busy with festival duties.

"Yes, Father?" I set my teacup down and looked at him.

"Did you know that some of the employees have said they always see you and the prince together?" he stated, nearly making me choke on my tea.

"It always happens to be coincidental encounters," I reasoned out, trying to keep my voice steady.

Father raised an eyebrow, clearly not convinced. Mavis and Mavien exchanged curious glances, and Mavis, ever the mischievous one, leaned in closer.

"Coincidental, huh?" Mavis teased, a sly smile playing on her lips. "Seems like an awful lot of coincidences, don't you think?"

I sighed, feeling the weight of their scrutiny. "Yes, coincidental," I reiterated. "The prince and I just happen to cross paths often. It's nothing more than that."

Mavis chuckled. "If you say so, Maude. But you have to admit, it's quite the gossip around town."

I rolled my eyes, trying to dismiss their playful jabs. "People will talk about anything," I said, attempting to steer the conversation away from this uncomfortable topic.

Father nodded, though a hint of concern lingered in his eyes. "I just want to make sure you're not getting yourself into any unnecessary trouble, Maude."

"I assure you, Father, there's nothing to worry about," I said, offering a reassuring smile. "Plus, I hate that guy," I added, which made my father look confused.

Mavis burst into laughter. "It seems we don't have to worry about her, Father. She's still Maude who dislikes the capital people."

"How can I not? They are overprivileged and lack manners. Father, you should suggest to the king to recruit a manners tutor. It's not good if this kingdom is ruled by leaders who lack decorum," I declared.

Mavis laughed again. "Says the lady who didn't even address the prince correctly," she revealed.

"He started it," I shrugged.

Father chuckled, shaking his head. "Maude, your bluntness is refreshing, but you must be cautious. The capital has its own way of doing things, and while I appreciate your honesty, it can get you into trouble."

I sighed, knowing he was right. "I know, Father. I'll be careful."

Mavien, who had been quietly listening, chimed in. "So, what exactly did the prince do to earn your dislike, Maude?"

I rolled my eyes. "He's just... he lacks manners. He acts like a child."

Mavis grinned. "Sounds like someone we know. Who could that be, Mavien?"

"Definitely sounds familiar," Mavien agreed, looking pointedly at me.

I groaned. "You two are impossible. I am nothing like him."

Father smiled softly. "Maude, just remember to keep your wits about you. The capital may be different, but you're capable of handling it. And who knows, maybe you'll find a way to teach them a thing or two about manners."

"Nah, they can handle themselves," I lazily said.

"So, Lady Sia was really the one?" Father asked.

"I guess so, since among the ladies in selection, she's the one whom the prince spent the most time with," I commented.

"White-haired royal heir is such a refreshing sight to see," Mavis stated.

"This is going to be a conflict since the palace sees Lady Eulalia as the right crown princess," Father held up his chin.

"I snickered. "That brat? Oh, maybe because of her family?"

"Maude," Father called out. I sighed. "There are always two sides to a person, the one they hide from the favored people and show to the 'don't matter at all people'." I sipped my tea.

"But the bad side doesn't matter, right? As long as you can help the kingdom?" I added.

My father sighed in disbelief. "After the selection, I would like to send you to your brother Magnus," he suddenly dropped the bombshell. Then he looked at Mavien. "You too, young man. You should hone your skills as a scholar," he added.

"But Father, I don't want to study anymore," I protested, feeling like a child again who hated school.

He sipped his coffee. "There's a major at Magnus' school about farming..." he trailed off.

God, Father really knows my weaknesses.

"Is Maeve going too?" I asked, trying to gauge the situation.

Father nodded. "Yes, Maeve will be going as well. It's important for all of you to receive a good education and training for your futures."

So, that's why I was tagged along, huh?

Mavis chuckled softly. "It sounds like a good opportunity, Maude. You might enjoy it more than you think."

I sighed, feeling the weight of the decision. "I suppose if it's about farming, it won't be so bad. And it's not like I have much choice in the matter."

Mavien looked contemplative. "I guess it's time to start taking our studies more seriously. If Magnus can do it, so can we."

Father smiled approvingly. "That's the spirit. This will be a valuable experience for both of you."

I nodded, resigned to my fate. "Alright, Father. I'll do it. But I reserve the right to complain about it every step of the way."

Father laughed. "I wouldn't expect anything less from you, Maude."

Ugh! I really hate studying.

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