Not Giving Into Fate

44- A New Education

I sat in the garden in the early morning reading a book and drinking some coffee. I had just sent Milo a letter about Lady Warren's wish to meet when my brother surprised me with his presence. I smile at him, lowering the book as he takes a seat in front of me. I didn't really get a chance to speak with him last night.

"Elric..." I start, unsure of how to start this conversation. I put my bookmark on my page and close the book all the way. "Please have some coffee if you're not leaving soon."

He reaches forward and serves himself a mug of coffee, taking it black as usual. "Yes, I'll be leaving for the Temple later today. I'm just waiting for all the teachers to come."

I nod my head. "Alright... by the way, did you enjoy yourself last night?" I ask, trying to subtly come up with a way to bring up my young friend.

He looks over his coffee mug, staring at me with an unamused look. "If this is about your friend-"

"I just want to know your thoughts about Lady Horla. She's been a good friend to me." I say, hands up in defense. He puts the mug down and gives me a look, a look I don't know how to interpret.

"She's a pretty girl who isn't scared around me. You can tell she has a bubbly personality and from what I can see, she's very optimistic and trusts too easily. I don't know what will happen in the coming months, but you don't have to worry about an upcoming wedding."

My heart churns at his words. I frown and shake my head, knowing my brother knows the truth of my worry. I reach forward and grab his hand. "No, you shouldn't have to worry about me." I tell him. "I want you to be happy and she has the capability to do that. I... I just don't want two weddings in the near horizon. I would prefer for you to take control of the dukedom and then focus on your marriage."

His hand tightens around mine. "How can I focus on finding love when I know your future husband hurts you? I'll get you away from him before I get married. I swear on our mother's grave."

I look at him and I can feel the sincerity in his words. I bite my lip and nod my head, knowing he will do it. He tried to save me before but it was too late. But now... he can definitely help me. I give him a smile.

"Help me get out of my marriage and I will make sure yours will be full of happiness." I remember the past where he didn't have a lover or a hint of one. He was alone after the war and suffered inside the house with father and the bastard daughter. He doesn't deserve that again.

We let go of each other's hands and settle on a new change of conversation. He tells me of the meeting that occurred after my garden party. Our vassals weren't happy with the increase in taxation, especially since some lower ranked nobles were found to be caught up in the black market scandal.

After the meeting, Elric told me how many people came to him upset about the rise in taxes and they disclosed some other comments about our aging father. In the end, Elric tells me many of our vassals will gladly support him in the coming year. That makes me feel better. In a year, the war will come and hopefully pass by quickly with the Bulnan Chief's new weapons. Elric will undoubtedly fight and be a war hero. He will have full support to take over the dukedom. He can get me out of this marriage.

Elric tells me a joke and I double over in a fit of giggles. His laugh is loud, head thrown backwards at his own joke. I look up and my laugh stops when I see the bastard walk in with a smile on her face. I kick my leg, hitting Elric's shin and he turns around to see her.

"Hi brother and sister! Can I join you for breakfast?" She giggles, pink hair frames her face. She looks around, not seeing another chair so she decides to stand.

"I'm done eating." Elric says, pushing the plate of food away. I sip my coffee, hiding my smile at his brazenness. Her smile drops, but then it comes back. I don't say a word, crossing my arms as I look around the garden. The garden has already wilted. The trees have lost their green color and a pretty red, orange and yellow surrounds us in the air and on the ground. Elric doesn't say another word, deciding to close his eyes with his arms crossed.