From Nescience - 4. Skylar: Politics Bore Me

“Wait a second. Isn’t that the little kid who fought with you during the attack on Gyroseus?” I asked. To which the prince simply nodded. The year before was quite eventful, and the other nation’s capital was attacked. All I heard was that they got attacked by things of another realm. “I heard High Magus Shiraea took him under her mentorship. What does it have to do with him?”

“That boy is of immense potential as a Necromancer.” Prince Zion commented with a smirk. He sounded pretty pleased at the memory. “We may need his help.”

“Your Highness, those two had been out of range for at least half a year.” Sir Raea added. Her voice was cold, as if she was scolding her lord. “Their last update is they were in deep cover in Fuhrstenvald. I highly doubt that we will be able to make any form of contact soon.”

“Yeah. That’s also what Mr. Rutherford said.” The young prince sighed loudly like a child. But he looked like someone in the middle of the Primary Course. I thought it was kind of cute and weirdly attractive. “It was a special task from him. This is quite a troublesome situation. We may need to check out other potential sources of information.”

“Mr. Rutherford? Who’s he.” I implored them. My interest got piqued by the unfamiliar name. “He sounds like a Tidian.”

“He is. But he also recommended you to be part of my party as the Honorary Kingsblade.” He replied. Which caused me to gulp. Someone I didn’t know knew me. Even worse, it was a Tidian who should know nothing of this world, supposedly. “Truthfully, I have only called you out of my allegiance to him. You are also a mystery to me, Skylar. Except that you are a Rune Mage and hail from a family of competent mages. That includes your late father, who was a hero.”

“But how does he know me?” I asked in rhetoric.

“I am still not sure.” The young prince rubbed his chin. Then he looked at me with those weird-colored eyes. I had to force myself to look away because he looked captivating. “He just mentioned that you will be necessary to the coming war. But he did not offer any more clues after that.”

Coming war? I thought to myself.

Before I could ask further, a loud knock came on the door. Another Kingsblade with long dark hair entered. The man looked elegant and had delicate features. His hair was tied neatly at the back of his head. I assume that he came from a well-known family. But unlike the other knights, he wore sleeves of a robe on his arms instead of gauntlets. He seemed to be the type who would look down on you condescendingly. And I had a feeling that I was right.

“Your Highness, your guests have arrived.” He spoke with the utmost respect. I found it odd that his hands were hidden underneath his sleeves.

“Thank you, Sir Sylva.” Then he motioned me to go along with him. I am not someone who easily trusts people in power, but the boy had strong authority over him when he wanted to. His eyes just provoked me to obey him. “Come with us, Sir Knightley. It would be best if you could advise me on things. Rune Mages are far more educated about the things of the world.”

“Thank you, Your Highness. But that would be an exaggeration.” I replied. I think it wouldn’t hurt to not torment him. The playfulness of his aura was snuffed out completely. And it made me curious how this mere child could lead an army into battle. “I am but a novice. A fledgling that just had been freed from his institution.”

“Nonsense.” The boy quipped. The young prince led as Sir Raea, Sir Sylva, and I walked behind him. My robes danced the same way with their crimson-colored capes that complimented their golden armor. “Please do pardon me, Knightley. I’m not too fond of formalities, but we have guests, and I may need to play my part. We can act more of our age after this.”

We stopped by the door, and I heard muffled sounds. It was a custom in Sevel that a Kingsblade would introduce the prince formally before the prince himself may enter the room.”

“I present to you the crowned prince of the Kingdom of Sevel, Prince Zion Synarius Voltanis zi Aleksandri, Eleventh of his name, the Lord of Counsel of the High Table, the Freedom of Revalor, the Iron Scepter of Athtar, and the heir to the Elluin Throne of Sevel and all its Protected Realms.”

For a title, that was a mouthful. But such are the customs of this Kingdom. A person of royal blood is presented with all his significant achievements. And for someone as young as the prince, it was impressive in all manners.

A few seconds later and the door opened. Prince Zion went through first and sat on the far end of a long table made of Ruvia wood. We followed through and found ourselves a seat.

I couldn’t help but look around after that. Most of their respective guards stood by the walls. The only person allowed to have a seat at the table was me. Three other men were sitting down. One of them was a child like me. And his silvery white hair just made him stand out like a sore thumb.

“Good day, my Lord Knights. I’m sure we have a lot to discuss.” The young prince initiated the discussion. His tone was dry and monotonous. As if he was not the same person who commanded his Kingsblade to attack me for a mere joke. “I assume you have particular concerns that must be forwarded. Let me hear them, then we’ll see what I can do.”

“With all due respect, Your Highness, but would it be best to seek an audience with His Majesty about the things we need to discuss?” The oldest man on the table asked. He was probably in his mid-fifties. Short-trimmed gray hair was on his head. Even his facial hair was neatly cut. His face was an elegant mix of wrinkles and wisdom. But I could sense from his strong avroi it was too early for him to back down from a fight. “We need to act decisively. And I’m afraid a smaller meeting may slow things down. The High Table must be summoned as soon as possible.”

“That’s most disrespectful to His Majesty, Lord Knight Evennon! The prince has diplomatic authority to exercise the Majesty’s power if need be. To disrespect His Highness is to disrespect His Majesty! Let’s not forget that he is now the Lord of Counsel and the third highest officer in the Kingdom!” A man in his mid-twenties exploded. He had long wavy dark hair that was untied. And it made him look awfully attractive for his age. He also looked scruffy and battle-hardened. “Watch your words, Lord Evennon. That is also my younger brother!”

“Thank you, Lord Barragan. I had always wished to be as courageous and bold as you. And it still is. But that is all fine.” The young prince assured and faced the man who voiced out to his defense. Yet the statement was dry and mechanical. From what I could sense, there was no fondness there. Then Prince Zion quickly faced the older man, that was upset. “Your concerns are valid, Lord Knight Evennon. I will call for an audience with His Majesty if I deem fit. So please, lay down all your concerns. We will go through this one by one.”

“Your Highness is still a mere child. And you may not fully understand yet what the reports would entail.” The man seethed. “We have to make haste!”

“Are you far more educated in the ways of the Law and of Diplomacy, Lord Knight Evennon?” The young prince asked with a sharp tone. “I am thankful you have answered the call to be my father’s Counsel of Treasures. But please know your place, or I will show it to you myself!”

“Are you mocking me, you little—”

“Silence!” The boy with white hair boomed in the chamber. Everyone froze for that second. Despite what he looks like, he also carries the same level of authority akin to that of the prince. His icy blue eyes could accidentally murder someone in the chamber. “Lord Knight Evennon, please mind your manners. You are still talking to His Highness. The boy has proven himself reliable in battle a few times. Just because you were not a witness does not mean it is untrue.”

Lord Knight Barragan stopped himself from making the conversation worse. It took a few minutes before the thickness of the room died down. But Lord Knight Evennon seemed to stop spouting things. I was just on the edge of my seat. Yet I found it weird that none of the Kingsblades were ready to jump into action. It was almost as if the older Lord Knight was about to attack the prince.

“If I may, Your Highness,” The young boy said, “I shall go first.”

“You may, Lord Knight Eisen.” Prince Zion motioned him to continue.

“There were sightings of huge rabid creatures running amok in the eastern region.” The young boy started. At that point, I remembered who he was exactly. My absence from Sevel had left me awfully oblivious again to the people in authority. “Based on the descriptions given by the locals, they are not wild animals. So far, we have done our best to shoot down the rumors.”

“How was it described?” The prince asked.

“A mixture of a lion and a man. Skin as dark as midnight. And it had huge wings.” Lord Knight Eisen explained. “Fortunately, there were no casualties yet. But they have found some cattle that were torn in half. Most of the innards were eaten. But the carcass looked unexplainably deformed. Like something had burst open from the inside.”

My stomach sank from the description. It was eerily similar to what I just saw in the other room. And my mind raced for what it implied next.

“Surely, that’s just a distortion!” Lord Knight Barragan commented. “Those people were just startled and may have seen things!”

“I’m afraid not.” The young-looking Lord Knight argued.

“The reports are true. It had alarmed the other two Viscounts of my region. People are in panic and paranoia.” Lord Evennon added. His composure was more serene. You could have mistaken he just had supper prior to the meeting. “We will need to talk to the Counsel of the Grains once His Majesty summons the High Table. Our agriculture will suffer if this continues. The farmers are demanding answers.”

Their conversation went through as my head zoned out. All this political talk was the pinnacle of boredom for me. I just had to rack my head and remember how the government in Sevel works. I may have traveled around during my studies in Solus Magus, but Sevel was my home kingdom. That was quite common among Rune Mages.

As far as I remember, the King had his own set of advisors in the Castle of Ethemir called the High Table. It was led by the King Himself, and his direct proxy is the Chief of Counsel, who is the King’s confidant and highest advisor. He is also the second-highest officer in the Kingdom. But the Chief of Counsel also had the authority to exercise almost the same level as the King. That’s why the spot is often chosen with utmost rigidity.

Followed by that is the Lord of Counsel, who also acts as a high advisor to the King. Apparently, it was given to Prince Zion recently after the events from the year before. I assume he also had access to much important information that would enable him to make a wise decision. Plus, I heard that the young prince also had professors from Solus Magus that taught him laws, civil government, history, as well as Altimeraean and Tidian philosophy. Despite his young age, he is wise beyond years and can intimidate the most battle-hardened men. It was not a conventional choice, but it was not beyond reason, either.

Many Rune Mages are welcomed to the service of the Lord Knights and Viscounts who govern different areas within the Kingdom. Lord Knight Barragan, for example, is the one who has the authority in the eastern region of Svornheim. A hard spot against the ever-expanding Empire of Shintotsukawa. At the same time, he is part of the High Table as the Counsel of War who oversees the military operations and the strength of the Kingdom against internal and external threats.

I heard he was also the adopted son of the King. He was treated as a prince but chose to slowly separate himself from the Royal Family. A few years ago, River told me that Lord Knight Barragan wanted to make his legacy born from his hard work, not just earned it from entitlement. My older brother stayed under his service for a few weeks as part of his training in the Citadel of Siegeveld. Our studies also require us to be introduced to those in power. Except in the Citadel of Harfjord. Fuhrstenvald was a particular case.

As I looked around again, I took note of how all of the officers in the chamber had the same capacity and authority.

Lord Knight Evennon is also part of the High Table as the Counsel of Treasures and oversees the funds used for the Kingdom. It was a crucial and highly pressured role since his approvals must always be met. Any suggestions given by other members of the High Table must be tempered and tested by his wits. I think it was also why he was uncompromising on the young prince. It was part of his job.

The older man was also the governor of the southern region, Welshmouth. They often make trade with other countries. For decades, it was the project of Lord Knight Evennon to establish trade routes with Qah’livan, Teutesus, Zidania, and the southern region of Shintotsukawa. The economic strength of the whole Kingdom was owed to him. That’s why a lot of the people in the High Table respect him and permit his temper tantrums because of his legacy. For a very emotional man, he was calculative of the benefits of the Kingdom.

Then there’s Lord Knight Eisen, who governs the eastern region of Stromborne. He is a peculiar man because he was cursed to never age. I heard he was already in his 40s but looked just a few years older than the prince. It was not a huge help since Prince Zion looked incredibly young for his age. Like a fourth year of someone taking their Primary Course. Yet there were also rumors that he did not have pure Altimeraean blood. His white hair and somehow a bit of bluish skin were the root of those rumors. He was found as an orphan, and some whispers said he was someone from Elefsier, a dimension different from ours. It was the dimension of Eidolons.

But the rumors did not shatter the motivation of the Lord Knight. Through years of hard work, he also found himself seated at the High Table. He was the Counsel of Diplomacy, representing the King in the Council of Mir’Quies as the Seno Legatos of Sevel. All the rumors eventually died down because he was never bothered by them. The man showed his tenacity and proved his worth in battle and wisdom. Eventually, he was honored by his own people.

The only Lord Knight that was missing was one governing the inner region of the Kingdom, Ashdorne. It was also the region where the capital settled, the city of Elluin’thronelle. My family moved there when River was still just a toddler from the town of Old Gallenhaal. My father found a nice spot just outside the city where we would not be too bothered by its busyness.

“It will not be a surprise if Teios Kyr is already moving within our Kingdom. I implore everyone to be skeptical of each other’s allegiances.” That snapped me out of my inner thoughts. The mention of that cursed group was a trigger for me. It was Lord Knight Evennon who was speaking. “We don’t know if our ranks have been infiltrated!”

“It is unwise to create unnecessary divisions among ourselves.” Lord Knight Eisen countered. His voice was firm. And I also agreed with his sentiment inside my head. “The last thing we need is a divided kingdom against a powerful enemy.”

“Calling them powerful is an over-estimation.” Lord Knight Barragan said provocatively. As if he wanted to challenge Teios Kyr himself. The man really had a passion for battle. I wonder what made him trustworthy enough to be the Counsel of War with such temper. For sure, he had proven himself somehow to the King. “They are only a small group of fanatics! They have no military power to be a threat to the Elluin Throne.”

“And yet they were able to defeat our very own.” Prince Zion groaned. Then he faced me with sad eyes. “Leovand’r Knightley is revered as a hero who stood against the Black Sorceress. He is one of the best mages out there and still lost his life. We cannot afford to be careless.”

Everyone in the room suddenly had their eyes on me. It was as if they realized that I also existed in that chamber.

“This is Skylar Knightley, the son of the late Leo Knightley.” The prince said and gently placed his hand on my shoulder. The tension rose. My breathing went shallow, and my palms became sweaty. In a span of a second, I became a person of interest. “Pardon the late introductions, but I have decided to place him under my service as he just finished his Primary Course in Solus Magus. I have sent his older brother to the care of our allies in Zidania.”

“Ah, the rumored Runeless Rune Mage from Solus Magus. I am very sorry about the loss of your father.” Lord Knight Eisen remarked. His tone was very courteous and elegant. “He is truly a loss to the Kingdom. I have met him a few times, and he has always impressed me with his wisdom.”

“Thank you, Lord Knight Eisen.” I replied lowly with a smile. It was common for me to receive applause for my father’s achievements. “I know I have huge shoes to fill in his absence.”

“Lord Knight Barragan, I believe the attack on Gyroseus last year was a testament to the might of Teios Kyr.” The young-looking man proceeded with the conversation. He said it as a fact and questioned the other man’s method of judgment. “To attack a nation’s capital is a declaration of war. And I doubt they are willing to do that if they do not have the resources to back it up.”

“Tidians have also been massacred in their own realm. A group of individuals from Zidania did their best to fend off the attack, but their own country failed to support them. It was truly a shame that so much blood was shed.” Prince Zion added. His twin was involved in a fight in Gyroseus, according to River. “Another peculiar person was also present during that time. That boy must be found soon.”

“Who would that be, Your Highness?” Lord Knight Eisen asked in rhetoric.

“Chance Valentine.” Prince Zion replied promptly. I sensed the lament in his voice. Valentine was quite the mystery. But his name has only been mentioned here and there. “He’s the vessel of Israfil, the son of the late Aleus Volaniss.”

“Isn’t that one of the Qirian Council members? I heard he fought alongside Leovand’r and also perished during that fight.” Lord Evennon mentioned. “The man also seemed to know something crucial about the Black Sorceress.

“That’s correct.” The prince quipped. “Our friends in Zidania have tried to stop Chance from getting away after the massacre. But ultimately failed. The boy seemed to be confused due to the manipulation of Samael.”

“How could a young lad escape from a trained Knight of Imperio?” Lord Knight Barragan inquired. “They are elite warriors of Zidania. It’s a shame if a mere novice like that boy could escape.”

“The boy used magic not of Altimeraean origins. According to sources, he suddenly used magic of the same nature as the Black Sorceress.” All of the heads turned towards the prince. All of their faces darkened. Their posture went rigid at the mention of such power. “If that boy has made contact with Tartaros, then this matter must be taken more seriously.”

“It was a mistake that we have labeled Teios Kyr as zealots before. And that they were not worth our time.” Lord Knight Eisen confessed softly. “It looks like their reaches have expanded for quite some time. It’s all due to our collective ignorance.”

“A contact of mine, I shall not name, said that he is convinced they have been planning this for decades.” Prince Zion pointed out. Everyone’s expression darkened even further. It was almost grim. “They played the long game. They have distracted us with mere antics. And we do not know how strong they are now.”

“That is indeed troublesome news.” Lord Knight Evennon nodded. His voice became low and contemplative. The strong antagonistic aura was all gone. “Could it be that they have strong ties with Fuhrstenvald?”

“That may be the case. We have assets there now as we speak.” Prince Zion said. A bit of optimism had to be added to the conversation. He was also pertaining to Nikolai and High Magus Shiraea. “Hopefully, it will not end up as a fruitless witch hunt. I am sure they will find something.”

“The whereabouts of Chance Valentine are also of great importance. He may be a young lad but is a threat that must not be taken lightly.” Lord Knight Evennon remarked. Chance was with my brother during the fight. They fought side to side. But I had to ask him his thoughts on the strange boy. All I knew was that he was proving to be a powerful mage. “His magical prowess has tremendously grown by now.”

“Is there by any chance he had sided with Teios Kyr?” It was Lord Knight Barragan who raised the question. It was valid. And if the answer is yes, that also spells a considerable concern. “You mentioned that he was being manipulated.”

“I doubt. He was a victim as well of the group.” The young prince argued. But that was only speculation. As wise as the prince was, he could still be wrong. The possibility of Valentine siding with Teios Kyr was unnerving. It left a bad taste in my mouth. “The boy’s life was normal and peaceful a few moons prior to the massacre. He and his friends were simply dragged in this prolonged war with Teios Kyr.”

“Their evil knows no bounds!” Lord Knight Barragan almost roared. “It is most upsetting whenever innocents are thrown into the fray of selfish mongrels.”

Silence erupted for a minute after that.

“I believe our meeting can be adjourned.” Prince Zion announced. All of us proceeded to stand with dignity. Then the young prince started to address the Lord Knights of their tasks one by one. I also noted how the prince would look eye to eye with each of his subordinates. “Lord Knight Eisen, please see to it that you can ask help from the Counsel of Parchments on information regarding Teios Kyr and the whereabouts of Chance Valentine. I will also try to reach out to my sources in Athteria if we can pin him down.”

“Understood, Your Highness.” Lord Knight Eisen replied with a bow.

“Lord Knight Evennon, I hope to earn your complete trust someday.” The prince told the older man. The Lord Knight bowed his head in shame. “I will send forth friends from Solus Magus to help you make an economic plan in case this panic over rumors worsens. I am sure their scholars can be of great help. We will not let your decades of effort go to waste!"

“Yes, Your Highness.” The old man replied. And he bowed even lower. This time, the tone was of reverence and of awe. It looked like Prince Zion did his job to subjugate these strong-willed men. And it must have been difficult for him that his youth was looked down upon. “Please do forgive my manners. It will not be repeated.”

“Please, you are forgiven. Do not mind it.” Prince Zion assured. Then turned towards his adoptive brother. Both their faces were expressionless. But the older man looked a bit more peaceful. “Lord Knight Barragan, I will be with you in the Svornheim Region after the morrow. Please wait for my companions and me in the Black Keep of Syverill.”

“That is most valiant, Your Highness.” Lord Knight Barragan commended.

“We will scout the region and hunt these things down.” Prince Zion carried on with his plan. “Based on the reports stated today, I am convinced that they are not just rumors. We cannot take these threats likely. The lives of our citizenry are on the line.”

Everyone nodded in agreement.

“It is my job to protect this realm. I will not let my royal title strip me of such duty. And I am most glad I am not alone in his honorable commission. Our Kingdom should be proud to have you as their rulers.” The prince erupted into a short monologue. His face was stern. Brimming with pride and pressure from the titles he wore. The butterflies in my stomach went wild as he continued on. Something stirred inside my pants and I didn’t know if I liked it. “The royal blood is here to serve and not be served. That means the same burden falls upon your shoulders. Please never take your titles lightly, my Lord Knights. My father, His Majesty, handpicked you not because of your competence but because you are trustworthy to serve this Kingdom. Never forget that! For honor. For duty. For service. For freedom. And for glory!”

“Yes, Your Highness!” Everyone roared in unison. Even I was moved by what he said. Lord Knight Evennon even had tears forming in his eyes. And I secretly hoped that I could be just as brave, bold, and courageous as this young prince. He is quickly becoming a lot more interesting to me. “For the Throne of Sevel and all its Protected Realms!!”

“You are dismissed, our loyal Lord Knights!” The prince announced again with a louder voice. Despite his seemingly frail body, he seemed to pack his voice in a modulated manner. “I will send for you once we have made progress.”

Everyone left in order and with renewed vigor inside them. The only ones who were left in the chamber were just me and the prince.

“What do you say of my performance, Knightley?” Prince Zion inquired with a stoic face. I was pretty caught off guard by the question. Every ounce of his words was genuine regard for his people.

“I doubt that is called a performance, Your Highness.” I quipped.

“I am a lot older than I look but still young if you see the bigger scheme of things.” He countered. “The reality is, I am always afraid. It’s also a huge burden to be royalty. I find people fantasizing about wearing the crown to be delirious. I do not even wear it myself!”

“I’m also afraid of what can happen, Your Highness.” I admitted. Then I had to pause and think about sharing more of my personal life. Initially, I was against it. But I gave in at the last second. “It was never the same after my father passed on. Sometimes, I am just gripped with fear of uncertainty. But I am forced to put on a brave front because my father is a hero.”

“That makes the two of us.” Prince Zion beamed. His eyes almost sparkled from his reply. And I got hooked into it further. Those weirdly colored eyes mesmerized me. “I am happy I’m given another person in my party close to my age. More than just an Honorary Kingsblade, can I ask you to be my friend, Sir Skylar?”

“O-of c-course, Your Highness!” I stammered. It was a most unusual request. “I would find it a great honor to be your friend. It would be great to have someone bold and courageous by my side!”

“Bah! If you really know me, you would call me anything else but bold and courageous. Please, do believe that my hands were cold the entire time!” The young prince grinned with a goofy smile. The intense discussion prior made me forget that he is still a child. Being a few years older and being well-educated didn’t mean he was already mature immediately. “I’m sure you have noticed how those men are power-hungry. And for all their own reasons. Some even selfish.”

“I believe so.” I replied.

“No matter how honorable and trustworthy they are, the Lord Knights are fallible.” Prince Zion continued. He said it so casually. And that would have mortified the Lord Knights if they heard it. Yet it was also very true. “They must constantly be reminded that they are valued in the Kingdom, and their values must also be found within it.”

“Otherwise, they will stray off the wrong path.” I added further.

“That is correct, Sir Skylar.” Prince Zion affirmed

“That feels weird being called Sir.” I chuckled softly. It really was. For the good part of my youth, my goal was to become a Rune Mage, not a Knight. The sudden change of title was a surprise. “It’s very disconcerting.”

“Okay. I won’t call you that.” The young prince complied. Then a smirk sparked on his tiny face. “But you may not call me by any of my honorifics if it’s just my Royal Kingsblade and us.”

I was not able to reply right away. I wanted to argue back. But he is still the prince. And he was slowly growing on me. Then I went ahead and conceded. “Fine. I guess that that could work.”

“I’m sure you still find it odd to be suddenly pulled into this. But I have grown to trust Mr. Rutherford over the past year despite his…insolent personality and wits. One needs to get used to it.” The prince sighed. Maybe this person was also intriguing. I’m sure I will meet the guy at some point. “Perhaps he is right because you are still your father’s son. I am positive that it will greatly help your brother as well.”

“Thank you.” I replied. Then we locked eyes for half a minute. Prince Zion was a very beautiful boy. And I could help but stare at him. His smooth skin was divine and like the work of the gods. “I…I’m sorry. I shouldn’t stare.”

“It’s okay if you’re enjoying it.” The prince assured me. His voice somehow took my consciousness and hypnotized it. And I knew it was all his charisma because I sensed no avroi in play. “You’re my friend now. I want you to be yourself when we’re alone.”

Before I could reply, he exited his chair and approached me. Then he touched my face gently and leaned forward. Prince Zion kissed me on the neck gently and caressed my face. Slowly, he took me up, and we exchanged positions.

“Sit on me.” He commanded playfully. But I could not stop myself for some reason, so I did. He slouched back and sat on him as if I was riding a horse. We were face-to-face, and I knew my face was as red as a tomato. I felt his boner grinding mine, and it was really firm. “I hope you can help me on this, Skylar. As the prince, I am not allowed to make intimate friendships with people. Let alone women close to my age because of our customs.”

“Don’t tell me Sir Ysverin has helped you…relieve yourself.” I stated.

“I wish. He would be executed if someone knew.” The prince groaned as he slowly undid his pants. “But messing with a friend is a lot more acceptable and normal. And I have not done this for ages. I almost had one last year, but he backed out at the last minute. Shame.”

Prince Zion looked like a boy in his ninth year, but his cock was not that of a boy. I knew he was older than me, but I was supposed to be slightly bigger body-wise. As he pulled down his pants, I got a better look. It was definitely bigger than mine. Probably from the tip of my thumb until my pinky finger if I had my hand open.

I also wanted to undo my pants, but I could not halt myself and grabbed his cock. Slowly I played and pulled back his skin. That was pretty common for all Altimeraeans. I only heard the term circumcision in Athteria. They were a weird race. The tip glistened as if it was inviting me further.

The young prince pushed me back and guided me downwards. It took a second before I realized what he wanted me to do. So, I took upon his challenge and tried to get the whole thing in my mouth all at once. But I was not used to it and only got a bit more than half. Inside my mouth, it was pretty huge, and I tasted the salty liquid at the tip.

“Good mother of Elluin!” Prince Zion exclaimed under his breath. It was a good compliment. But his cock smelled so good. It was royal. “Where did you learn that?”

“I have messed with some of my friends in Solus Magus.” I quickly responded before going back to work on his cock. Slowly, I got more and more in. His hips started to push into my mouth as he fucked my head silly. Both his arms found themselves hugging the back of my head as he frustratingly attempted to stop himself from moaning.

I knew he was getting closer since his rhythm was getting more erratic.

But a knock on the door erupted. Our eyes shot open, and the prince quickly pulled his pants back. I immediately went back to my seat and tried to look relaxed. The frustration on our faces was visible. He wanted to nut. And I desired the taste of his cum.

The door opened, and Lord Knight Barragan entered. But this time, he had removed his armor. Instead, he wore a set of robes with intricate embroidery. Letters of the Qraellic language were on it. That was not uncommon since Sevel was the final resting place of an ancient civilization. And only the Ministry of Solus Magus preserved its essence through the use of Rune Magic. Sadly, the rest of the Altimeraea had lost touch with that side of history.

“Hello, little brother. I hope you don’t mind going back here.” The man greeted. The young prince stood up to welcome him back with a warm embrace. I found it uncanny that they shared no affection during the meeting with the other Lord Knights. Perchance, it was part of the facade, as the young prince had put it. “How have you been lately?”

“It was boring and stressful. Mostly stressful.” The young prince sighed. He stopped himself from wincing even. Prince Zion was on the verge of it. I bet that one more suck and his seed would have spilled. “It’s tough to manage a Kingdom. Father’s sickness is growing worse by the day. You should pay him a visit soon.”

“Yes, I will. But it seems he would publicly show himself every once in a while to maintain the morale that their King is well and alive.” Lord Knight Barragan replied. “Besides, that shady figure from Shintotsukawa must be sought. We cannot declare war against them without valid proof.”

“They have said that the weapon of a woman is poison. And that’s what happened. A slow death instead of a brave one on the battlefield. My father is horrified by the idea.” Prince Zion noted. He rubbed his chin curiously as if he was an old man full of wisdom and experience. Maybe he really was that. And everything was just an illusion. “Our best rune mages are doing their best to maintain father’s health. But they are convinced that it was not of Altimeraean origins. Mr. Rutherford also said that it was neither synthetic nor natural in Athteria after inspecting father’s blood.”

“It’s also possible that Shintotsukawa has made contact with Teios Kyr.” The older man suggested. Both their faces had sour expressions after that. Even my throat went dry. The implications of Teios Kyr gaining influence on the Isvardian Continent would be pivotal to what may happen next. “They are being brash in expanding their borders beyond the Rockslodge Pass.”

“You may be right.” Prince Zion frowned. “I am contemplating sending my brother and Lord Knight Eisen as our ambassadors. We need to find a means to negotiate.”

“Are you a fool?” Lord Knight Barragan almost erupted. I almost found myself voicing out my own opposition. Sending the prince who was second in line to the Elluin Throne to a potential enemy would be hazardous. “That is a precarious move.”

“My brother would kill me if I did not place him on the front lines.” The young prince argued. And I was sure that the other prince wouldn’t like the idea of robbing him of an honorable role. Lord Knight Eisen would surely be the guiding force to negotiate adequately. “Besides, we must make it look like Elluin Throne is as strong as ever. That’s what my father would do.”

“His Majesty’s vitality is still impressive despite carrying a lethal poison in his body for almost a year.” I remarked with confidence. But it was futile to lighten the mood and offer a word of hope. “I don’t think he is a hopeless case. If only High Magus Shiraea was here. She’s a legendary scholar when it comes to Life Magic. “

Then the door opened again. Sir Raea came in with a pale face.

“The Chief of Counsel has been assassinated.”