《Motivations of a Genius Lady》


 1 Whats With this Scenario?

    Painful.

    God forbid, her body was aching as if the hounds of hell had been trampling it multiple times.

    Pia struggled to open her eyes and was temporarily blinded by the glaring light coming from all directions.

    ''Huh. Is this the afterlife?Too bright. Ugh. This is hurting my eyes. They should really have an off switch for this.'' Pia thought to herself.

    The last thing that she remembered was having the worst case of headache and deciding to sleep it off after taking some pills.

    Pia blocked the light, putting her hands in front of her. However instead of the slightly tanned, rough hands that she was expecting to see, in front of her was a pair of fair, smooth, and unblemished ones.

    ''What the hell? I didn''t know my hands were this beautiful. Totally hand model material.''

    Suddenly, as her eyes have finally adjusted, it was not her hands that caught her attention anymore. Pia stumbled out of where she was because of the shock.

    "Sh*t! Am I dreaming? Where the f*ck am I?"

    Pia''s brain was lagging that moment. She tried to scramble out from her mind what happened the previous day before she flopped into her bed and unto dreamland.

    Right. She resigned from work. She lost interest in it and she couldn''t bear to stay for another single day. And on top of that she hadn''t been sleeping too well for the past months and the physiological fatigue had caught up to her. Pia remembered taking sleeping pills and ibuprofen for her headache that night to help her get a good night sleep.

    "I guess I overdid the sleeping pills huh."

    She murmured softly to herself while taking in every detail of the room she was now in. Pia could only describe it to be lavish but not too overdone. It was elegant even. The cream-colored walls were patterned with stencils of roses pairing well with the old rose color of the ceiling, which were in laid with what seemed like gems. The understated sparkle were a pleasure to look at. Pia marveled at it.

    The afternoon sunshine reflected at her french windows illuminating the rouge sofa set. There was also a study table at a far corner along with a shelf of books. Pia turned her attention to where she was sitting down. The pristine, white bed she was in, had soft gauze canopies. The entire ambiance reminded her of an Old English room. Suddenly, it struck her.

    ''Did I transmigrate? What''s with this scenario? Am I freaking living a transmigration novel here? Oh my gosh! My inner otaku is rejoicing! Waaah!''

    ''Stop getting distracted Pia! Get yourself together!''

    Just as she finished reprimanding herself, she settled down and faced reality, Pia''s head suddenly ached again. It hurt to the point where she was drenched in cold sweat and had difficulty breathing.

    Countless images flashed in her mind, like a film reel playing.

    Lady Chalice Solveigh de Amaranth. That''s the name of the body she was in now. The only daughter of Duke Alaric Silvann de Amaranth and Duchess Lyana Charlotte de Amaranth. Much to the dismay of everyone, Chalice did not live up to her father''s reputation nor inherited her mother''s genteel grace.

    She was the wayward, brash, and man-chasing daughter of the duke. Pia was flabbergasted at this revelation. This girl was notorious for going after guys with good looks. Because of this she often got into trouble and brought shame to her household. She even got into an accident chasing after the Crown Prince.

    "This dumbass died because she chased after the Crown Prince and ended up trampled under his horse. Ugh! Seriously?! Can you get anymore stupid than that? There''s something called subtlety." Pia cursed under her breath.

    ''Well, at least she didn''t die while sleeping.''

    She snickered at that. Even in her manner of death, Pia felt it was uneventful. She could have died with a little bit more flair. Considering that, her personality thoroughly clashed with her new body''s personality. Not to mention, bragging aside, she was not that dumb. Although she wasn''t really that averse to her chasing guys. She was a typical 21st Century woman having that certain degree of feministic morals. In the modern world it was already pretty common for women to make the move on men.

    "But anyway, this is who I am now. I doubt I could go back to Earth anyway. Hmm. Alright Chalice, I am going to redeem you and live your life to the fullest. I will make your name glorious in this world."

    After she said those words likened to an oath, Pia sighed. She was happy to get another lease in life. Her last one was merely so-so, in her opinion. It was not brutal, not too overly dramatic. Just mediocre. Too mediocre that she felt bored. Unmotivated. It was like an endless cycle which tired her out. She was going to make sure that in this new one she will be exceptional, different, novel. That''s for sure. She will have her adventure of a lifetime. Pia will make sure she will not die of boredom again.

 2 A Daughter They Would be Proud of

    "My dear, about Chalice. She''s already injured. Can''t you let this one go as well?"

    Alaric looked up from the documents he was reading and landed his gaze to his beloved. It was always like this. Whenever their daughter, Chalice, got into trouble it was his wife who pleaded and apologized for her. Frankly, Alaric already expected this. He sighed and met her lovely peridot green eyes filled with anxiety and worry. These eyes never failed to take his breath away.

    "Lyana, my love, you know that this time it''s different. The crown prince is involved."

    Lyana''s shoulder slumped, her face down-trodden. Alaric stood and took her into his arms. The both of them know that Chalice was at fault. The crown prince had disliked her from the start. He only tolerated her as respect to Alaric being the prime minister and sworn brother of his father emperor.

    However,the crown prince was truly angered when Chalice chased after him doggedly and thus had her trampled by his horses to stop her.

    Even if she was injured in the process, in the end Chalice had disrespected the crown prince. This is something that they, as her father and mother cannot deny. Thus, it was either House Amaranth punish her themselves or deliver at the mercy of the crown prince himself.

    "Then could you be more lenient with her punishment. Don''t make suffer."

    Lyana conceded. Alaric looked down at her and smiled reassuringly.

    "Lyana, Chalice is my only daughter. I may be strict with her but I also do not wish for her to suffer. I know, somehow it is also my fault that she turned out to be this wilful."

    "It''s both our fault, my dear. We''re her parents. I just hope that this incident would change her for the better even just a tiny bit."

    Alaric sighed. He didn''t refute what his wife said because he too hoped for it. Howeverhe did not want to hope too much. Chalice was much too spoiled by her mother. And his strict demeanor did too little and instead made her more rebellious.

    "Let us just wait for her to wake up and hear her stand on the matter first, my love. I will give her fair judgement."

    Lyana did not reply to him and just reveled in the comfort his embrace gave though it did little to ease her anxiety about their daughter.

    ---

    Pia stared at the face reflected back at the vanity mirror. Exquisite. There''s no denying that Chalice was a beauty. Her features were that of a sinful enchantress.

    The girl''s ebony locks tumbled out in waves perfectly framing her small face. Her fringes were just long enough to tease the thick, dark eyelashes fanning out. This was complemented by her upturned aquiline nose and soft, heart shaped lips.

    But the most notable one is her eyes. They shimmered like the purest of emeralds with gold flecks scattered in. They were bright and clear like the lush forest basking underneath the morning sun.

    "Tsk! This girl is an evildoer. Her looks are even more devastating than my previous one."

    Pia touched her face. It was supple and smooth. Her skin has never been this good in her past life. Yes, she was a beauty as well. But she was too lazy to even bother maintaining it with skin care products.

    "Too bad you were too dumb, Chalice."

    She tsked. This girl was dubbed as hideous. It was ironic since her face was one that could send an entire nation to ruin. But because of her naivety, she got tricked by her so-called friends into dressing up in the most dismal fashion and putting on thick make up. It made her look like a clown. Due to this, she was often ridiculed. After all, her mother was a flower of high society. The epitome of fashion, grace, and beauty. While Chalice was the complete opposite.

    "I can''t blame you though. Despite everything, your innocence is something I could never have."

    Pia whispered. Chalice was the typical sheltered lady. Since she was an only daughter, her parents pampered and protected her to the fullest. Lyana, her mother, had difficulties during her pregnancy and childbirth. This led her into not being able to conceive again.

    However, it is this very protection that made Chalice an easy prey for the jealous, scheming women of high society. She was one who had everything. Looks, wealth, and status.

    ''Seems like bullying is something common even in this age.''

    Pia sighed as she filtered through the memories Chalice had. It was slowly melding in with hers. She could feel the love that Chalice''s parents had for her. She had once known and lost that kind of love in her past life. Pia was glad that she could have it again.

    "They are my parents now. I''ll give them triple of the love that they are giving me. I won''t disappoint them again."

    Pia vowed. She was one to treasure kinship. She would make sure that she would not lose it this time. She will be their daughter Chalice, a daughter they would be proud of.

    The sudden creak of the door opening snapped Chalice out of her reverie. She looked up at the person who went in.

    "My lady, you''re awake. Thank heavens."

    Chalice recalled the name of the girl in front of her. It was her maidservant, Lucy. She sneaked one time to stroll around the capital and in happenstance saved her and her brother from being persecuted as thieves. From then, they vowed to serve her.

    Chalice recalled that she was always mean to her. But Lucy tolerated all of it. Amongst everyone close to her, Lucy and her brother Luke were the only one truly genuine. Aside from her parents, of course.

    She smiled at the girl. Worry and anxiety was evident in Lucy''s eyes. Chalice would not be surprised if she found out that she was the one who took care of her untiringly, along with her mother.

    "I''m fine now, Lucy. Cease your worrying."

    Chalice told her. Her sweet smile still lingering.

 3 Drastic Change

    Lucy was dumbfounded. Her miss was sweetly smiling at her. Something that she stopped doing years ago. Lucy grew up serving the young lady of House Amaranth. She was used to her mean, haughty ways. She knew that despite that, the miss was kind and generous. Lady Chalice would not have saved them if she was evil. It was only because of the people who corrupted her mind that she became that way.

    Lucy hated those people who made her miss like that. But it was not in her place as a servant to interfere. She was painfully well aware of the etiquette expected of a master and of a servant. Her job was to serve and support her. She regretted not interfering though. If she had maybe her precious miss would not have nearly died.

    But now, she saw that kind, sweet smile again.The smile that saved her from the abyss, from the hopelessness that enveloped her and Luke''s lives. If it were not for the chance of new life that smile gave to them, they''d have already been on their way to ruin. Lucy could not help but tear up.

    "Oh my, Lucy why are you crying? I am truly fine now. There''s no more need to worry, alright."

    Lucy reined in her tears and composed herself. Her miss was worrying about her. It was a sin for a servant to add to her master''s burdens.

    "It is nothing, my lady. I am just glad that you are alright now. It is truly a blessing."

    She heard Chalice chuckle. Lucy saw her taking her hands. Her eyes widened in shock.

    "Now, now. I''ve made my cute Lucy cry. How unbecoming of me."

    "My lady, I, I-I''m...Pardon my lady, my relief overwhelmed me. I''m sorry for acting out of turn."

    ---

    Chalice sighed loudly. How could she have been blinded by those white lotuses. It was this sweet girl all along who truly treated her good. Gratitude welled up in her heart.

    "Lucy, you are not at fault alright? I could not thank you enough for all the things that you did for me. I''m glad I have you by my side."

    Chalice smiled at the girl who was struggling so hard to keep her composure.

    "My lady, I am only doing my duty. You are my savior. This is not enough for me to repay what you have done for us siblings."

    Chalice did not reply to that. She could not. Especially when she saw the firm gaze of the girl. She just smiled at her instead.

    "By the way, where are my parents?"

    Lucy cleared her throat and replied.

    "The duke and duchess are at the study, my lady. Would you like me to call for them?"

    "There''s no need, Lucy. I''ll go to them instead. Could help me get dressed please? I can''t really move my shoulders."

    Lucy replied in agreement and helped her prepare.

    "No. I do not like that Lucy. Could you please look for something simpler and easier to move in?"

    Chalice cringed when she saw Lucy take out a gaudy piece of gown that was in pastel orange embroidered with white flowers and sprinkled with gems. It was beautiful but it was too much for her. She pointed at a white gown with peony appliques and laces at the sleeves. It was the complete opposite of the previous gown.

    "But didn''t you hate this style of gowns, my lady?"

    Lucy quietly asked. Chalice did not answer and focused on Lucy who helped her ease herself into the dress.

    "Actually, I like these simple ones better. So Lucy could you please get rid of those gaudy and flamboyant gowns in my closet. I don''t like seeing them. They remind me of hateful people."

    The coldness in Chalice''s tone did not slip from her maidservant''s ears. Lucy nodded her assent to the orders and proceeded to fix her hair. She noticed that her miss had such a drastic change in demeanor ever since she woke up. But Lucy just credited it as a result of the incident.

    Chalice walked slowly through the hallway leading to her father''s study. She breathed in deeply before knocking softly at the door.

    "Come in."

    Chalice heard her father''s rich baritone dully muted by the door. She went in and held her head high to meet the eyes of her parents.

    --

    Alaric heard soft knocks at his door, he signaled for the person to come in. He was expecting that it would be the Sei, their butler whom he sent in an errand. Little did he know that what would greet him was an unexpected surprise.

    "Father."

    Alaric was taken aback by the familiar soft, breezy voice of his daughter. Strange, her usual tone with him would be full of anxiety. Now there was no trace of it. He looked up, a glint passing through his emerald eyes similar to hers.

    His daughter was different today. Her usual bright and glaring clothes were changed with a pristine white one. Her face devoid of her usual unsightly make up. Standing in front of him was a perfect combination of his beloved wife. A lady with her mother''s features and her father''s eyes.

    Alaric exclaimed internally. It has been a long time since he had seen his daughter looking like this. He could not help but lament the times she was inseperable with him.

    "You''re awake. How do you feel?"

    He asked, trying hard to keep the coldness in his voice. He doted in this daughter of his. He just didn''t know when they started drifting apart. This was something that he blames himself of. Maybe he should not have become so strict with her.

    "I''m quite alright now father. I''m recuperating well. Thank you for your concern."

    Alaric gazed at his daughter pointedly and found that she was staring at him. Her expression was soft. A trace of faint sweet smile could be seen from her lips. He coughed awkwardly.

    "Good. It''s good that you are fine."

    Alaric returned his attention to the papers in his hands. The silence was making him tense. He didn''t know how he was going to interact with her.

    He was fearless be it in court or war. This is why Alaric was dubbed as the Titan Duke. Even the emperor, his sworn brother, is intimidated by him sometimes. But when it comes to this daughter of his, he was at a terrible loss.

 4 Mete Out a Punishmen

    Tsundere. Her father is a tsundere. Chalice giggled inwardly at her thought. Duke Alaric Sylvann de Amaranth was known to be taciturn and merciless. And in her memories he was always strict and cold. The way she sees it however, the man was actually the prickly on the outside, soft on the inside type of person. Now that she thinks about it, this father of hers is quite cute.

    Not mentioning the fact that he was very handsome as well.

    ''Hah. The genes of my family is impeccable.''

    Chalice noticed that her mother was not around. So to ease the tension and awkwardness between them she asked for her whereabouts.

    "Your mother is in the kitchen. She went to oversee the preparations for lunch."

    Her father answered curtly, his attention at the papers in his hands.

    "Oh, I see. Am I disturbing you father?"

    Chalice started. She wanted to talk about what had happened. She wanted to apologize. And given the customs of this time, she knew that a punishment is in order for her. After all, it was the prince of the empire that she had offended.

    Her father looked up at her and laid down his documents at the table.

    "No. Is there a problem, Chalice?"

    Chalice put her hand in front of the other, trying to determine where she should start. She lowered her head and released a tense breath.

    ''Oh to hell with it. I had my faults. I need to admit all of it lest my father comes up with asevere punishment for me.''

    "I''m sorry, Papa. Sorry... for giving you trouble again."

    ---

    Alaric was dumbfounded. He already prepared his ears for Chalice''s usual bellyful of complaints. Not once had he imagined a day that his daughter would actually lower her head and apologize. But what was more important was... She called him papa. Papa!

    The last time he heard Chalice call him that was when she was five. Alaric was in a bliss. He struggled to maintain his composure. However, his eyes softened to noticeable degree. He breathed in deeply before answering her.

    "It is good that you are sensible enough to acknowledge your wrong. That is enough for me and your mother. The important thing now is for you to recuperate. You don''t have to worry about other matters."

    Alaric had planned for Chalice to return to their fief as her punishment if ever she complained. Much to his delight however, Chalice apologized instead. It must be noted that this proud daughter of his seldom apologized. What she had done was already a feat of its own. Alaric was willing to let her go with this, even if he had to anger the crown prince. It''s not as if the boy can do anything about it. He will just apologize to the emperor himself if need be. His daughter is obviously more important than some prince.

    ---

    Chalice stared at her father in surprise. She was prepared for the worse. Except what she got was the opposite. Chalice saw the warmth in her father''s eyes. She couldn''t help but be touched. It been so long since she felt the love of a father.

    Fuzzy feelings flooded her chest. And before she knew it hot, wet tears escaped from her eyes. Throwing all caution to the wind, she ran to her fathers arms and sobbed.

    This was the scene that Chalice''s mother, Lyana, saw upon entering the study. Her daughter crying hard in the arms of a panicking Alaric. Chalice was sure her mother would have laughed out loud at her father''s expression if it were not for her crying.

    "Alaric, what did you do? Why is our daughter crying?"

    She heard her mother saying sternly.

    Chalice sniffled while calming herself. She looked up at her mother and smiled.

    "Mama, Papa did nothing. I was just happy. Thank you. Thank for loving me and tolerating everything until this time."

    Surprise colored Lyana''s face as she stared at her. Chalice knows that her actions were incomprehensible to them. But she didn''t care at that point. All she wanted to do was make them feel her happiness at having them.

    Lyana approached, and enveloped them in a hug.

    "Chalice, dear there''s no need for thanks. You are our daughter. No matter what happens, we are here for you."

    Chalice''s tears welled up again. She was not alone anymore. She had parents again. This warmth that she had missed desperately, she was able to have again.

    "I love you Papa, Mama. I promise this time, I am not going to disappoint you again."

    Her solemn tone caught the two off guard. But they just smiled as they settled her down to the couch.

    When her bout of emotions had passed, Chalice knew that it was time to get down to her business. Enduring the embarrassment she feels, she started.

    "Papa, there is something that I must ask of you."

    Chalice saw her father looked at her mother curiously then turned to her.

    "What is it, Chalice?"

    Chalice looked at him seriously and with a solemn tone replied

    "Please mete out a punishment for my offense to the Crown Prince, Papa."

 5 Disguised Deal

    The stupefied faces of Alaric and Lyana was something that Chalice would remember for days. She also reminded herself to ease up on the surprises or else such expression would be permanently pasted on her parents countenance.

    She pursed her lips and waited for them to get back their composure. Chalice heard her father clear his throat and look briefly at her mother.

    "Explain, Chalice."

    Chalice peeked lightly at them and steeled herself. She needed her father to consent to this. If not she''d be living the rest of her life uninterestingly from then on. And that was something she would not take lying down. Chalice will not be able to explore her kingdom-building, or in this case fiefdom-building abilities. She had always wanted to try being a ruler and this is as close as she could get to it.

    ''This is my chance to a glorious life, ah!''

    "Well Papa, it is true that I have offended the crown prince. I must have been possessed and seriously muddled to have done what I did. I fiercely regret it. However, to avoid implications I need to be punished. And in all certainty, I''d rather take the initiative to ask it from you Papa than have other people punish me."

    Alaric gazed at her thoughtfully, slowly digesting her words.

    "Well, you are correct in that. And what punishment do you have in mind, daughter?" Her father replied after a long pause.

    ''Oh hoh. Her father really is fitting to be the Prime Minister. Nothing gets past him.''

    Of course, Chalice volunteered to be punished, in this way she could butter up to her father and negotiate as to how she would be penalized.

    "Papa, please banish me from the imperial capital and send me to the fief for three years."

    Her father''s brow scrunched up, as if asking her to further clarify. But before she could say anything, her mother cut her off.

    "Banish you?! Chalice what are you saying? You are asking us to banish you? You just turned 16. If we send you to the fief, you''ll miss out on everything. How will you find a husband then?"

    Chalice cringed. She seemed to have forgotten to put her mother''s reaction to her calculations. She was so focused on obtaining Alaric''s approval that the possibility of Lyana''s opposition slipped her mind.

    "Mother, hear me out first will you?"

    Chalice said while holding her mother''s hand to pacify her.

    "To be honest, all I want to do now is to improve myself. I''ve let down all your hopes in the past. And even more than that I''ve let down myself. What I did previously was unbecoming of your daughter, of the Lady of House Amaranth. I am asking you to send me to the fief because I want to give myself a chance to start again. I have said earlier that I do not want to disappoint you this time. But I cannot do that if I don''t take any action to redeem myself."

    "Also, I hope you''ll understand, Mama. I am not thinking of marrying for now. I want a marriage like what you and Papa have. And I can''t have that when I hastily marry some guy who I don''t even love. I remember that it was you who told me that love is serendipitious. It comes when it is meant to come."

    Lyana looked at her blankly. Even Alaric couldn''t find words to refute her. Chalice heard her mother sigh.

    "How do you expect me to argue with that, my child? Not when it''s so indisputably sensible."

    Lyana turned to her father, questioning him with a look.

    "Well, it is good that you are being rational. However, why is it that you want to be sent to the fief, Chalice? This is quite unlike you. Well, you''re actions since you have woken up are all unlike you."

    Chalice stiffened up at that statement.

    ''Huh. Really, father. Can you please be a lot less keen on your observations?''

    She internally agonized over her father''s extraordinary inferential skills, though she kept her face calm.

    "I want to learn the ways of governing the fief, father. As for me being unlike myself, I guess I woke up. Being trampled on by those horses made me feel how worthless I am in the eyes of others. I finally realized how ridiculous I was and how cruel this world is. It is not just my body that was run over, my dignity and pride as well."

    She said her face staid, her tone thick with self- reproach. Alaric nodded at her.

    "I''ve heard your reason. Give me time to think about it with your mother. Take this time to rest."

    "Understood, Papa. Also there is another thing."

    Chalice hesitated for a bit but her father''s visage made her bite the bullet.

    "It''s about Lucy, Papa. If it is not too much of a favor, will you please take her in as your goddaughter?"

    "Where is this coming from, Chalice?"

    It was her mother who responded.

    "Lucy grew up with me. She had been a lot of help. Not just help. She had supported me in everything. She was one of those who genuinely treated me well. She did not ridicule me for my actions nor hate me for being mean and haughty to her. No matter how much I made her suffer, she always returns it with her kindness. Think of it as my way of gratitude. Besides, I also intend to make her my sworn sister."

    "Well, it is true that she had taken care of you. If it weren''t for her decisiveness and quick thinking you might have really died under those horses. Her brother Luke is also exceptional as well. His assistance in the fief is indispensible."

    Alaric assented. Chalice was surprised. Though it was her who took the siblings in, she was closer to Lucy. She thought Luke was a bit too timid and thus ignored him on most days. She did not know that he was sent to the fief to assist William.

    "Luke is in the fief?" she asked. It was a bit hard for her to believe. Although, it was understandable for her not to know since she she had been uncaring before this.

    "Yes, he is. William informed me that it made work a lot easier with him there."

    "Will Lucy be accompanying you in case we do agree for you to go to the fief?" her mother asked.

    Chalice chuckled silently at the way Lyana phrased her question. She did not need to go through so much effort to make it hypothetical. Chalice was determined to make sure that her father agrees on sending her.

 6 Disguised Deal 2

    "That... I don''t intend to take her with me, Mama. I''m leaving her here to accompany you. I''d very much appreciate it if you could introduce her to high society."

    Chalice answered reluctantly. Lyana raised her brow at this. Chalice knew her mother was doubtful of her purpose. After all, there will be a lot of difficulties for Lucy when she is introduced in high society. Especially since her origins were uncertain and she previously worked as a maid.

    "Why do you want her to enter the circle, Chalice? You want to make her your substitute, is that it? Do you realize how cruel that idea is?"

    Lyana reprimanded her. Lucy was too innocent and kind. Entering the aristocratic circle would tear her to shreds, like a sheep thrown into the wolves for slaughter.

    "Mama, I understand your worries. I know first hand how cruel the circle is. I do not plan to make her my substitute. I have my reasons, though I cannot divulge them to you. Be assured that I will talk to Lucy about this. I will get her consent."

    Lyana peered at her intently, trying to determine what she was really thinking.

    "Alright. Inform me of what she thinks about it later."

    Chalice smiled at her concession. Having accomplished her goal, Chalice contented herself in eating the snacks her mother prepared afterwhich she scampered away happily to look for Lucy.

    Unbeknownst to Chalice, her parents were baffled with their discussion with her. They realized that they now, were unable to truly read their daughter. On the positive side, she was a lot closer to them than before. With this, they had no more qualms.

    Chalice found Lucy at her room taking out the gowns she said she hated. She trotted towards her, smiling jubilantly. Lucy noticed her miss'' mood and smiled along with her.

    "Something good happen, my lady?" Lucy inquired.

    Chalice looked at her, her emerald eyes shining with delight.

    "Why yes, Lucy dear. Good things certainly have happened. Want to hear about it?" Chalice quipped while flopping herself in the couch, resting her chin in her palms.

    "Of course, my lady. That is if you want to share. But before that, please mind your sitting posture."

    Chalice ignored her comment and frowned at the way Lucy was talking to her. It was all too formal and it made her uncomfortable.

    "Before that, Lucy can you please stop being too formal with me. It''s stressing me out."

    Lucy tilted her head, confusion evident in her eyes.

    "But I have always talked to you like this, my lady. And what do you mean by stressing you out? Forgive me for my ignorance of the word, miss."

    Chalice stood up and turned Lucy to face her. She squinted at her bewilderment.

    "Lucy, listen to me alright. Will you please stop being too formal? That''s an order. Call me by my name."

    Lucy started to protest of which Chalice cut off immediately.

    "Chalice. C-H-A-L-I-C-E. Get it? Call me Chalice."

    "Ch-Chal..Ch-Chalice."

    A blooming smile appeared in Chalice''s face when she heard Lucy''s compliance. She let her go and went back to lounge at the chair.

    "Good. So, about the good news. Which one do you want to hear first, Lucy?"

    "Whatever you want to tell first my la-, I mean Chalice."

    Chalice smile widened at Lucy''s reply. She twirled a small section of her ebony hair, contemplating on what to tell first and how.

    "Hmm. I asked father to punish me. I requested to be banished to fief."

    She said after a few seconds. Her voice nonchalant and indolent, as if what she said did not concern her at all. Chalice glanced at the girl and nearly laughed out loud at the horror in her face.

    "Oh calm your nerves down, Lucy. It''s not as if I''ll die by being banished to the fief. Besides, I was the one who asked for it."

    Lucy walked up to Chalice and stared at her uncaring face, unable to make sense of what she wanted to do.

    "Why would you ask that, my la-... I mean Chalice? Why would you want to be banished? That would be too much. You were already injured by his highness."

    Lucy protested indignantly. Her anxiety for her mistress was at an all time high.

    "Lucy, this is something that I have decided on. Trust me. I''ve thought about it quite well. Besides, it''s time I concern myself with our duchy."

    "Well I cannot refute that. But I am going with you, Chalice."

    Lucy''s words were full of conviction. So much so that Chalice felt guilty for not being able to grant her wish. She sighed audibly.

    "You didn''t stutter saying my name this time. However, I''m truly sorry Lucy. I can''t take you with me."

    Lucy''s eyes widened with shock, her face filling up with grievance. Chalice touched her nose, keeping silent amidst Lucy''s stare.

    "Why not? Have I done something that you dislike? I can change if that''s the case."

    Chalice shook her head helplessly. She kind of expected for Lucy to be against the notion. But not this strongly.

    "You didn''t do anything wrong, Lucy. My actions, of course have sufficient cause. And my having you stay behind is the same."

    Chalice walked toward the french windows, her gaze traversing the splendid gardens of their estate.

    "I promised my parents that I will not disappoint them this time around. I want themto see that I can become useful and not merely a headache for them. This banishment of mine is merely a disguise. I want to take control of the fief. I want to care for our people there. I know you want to help and support me. But I am telling you, you will be able to help me better by staying here. You will confirm this soon enough."

    Chalice explained, her gaze still lingering with the freesias. Then she turned Lucy with a smile that was unlike a smile.

    "I got ahead of myself. I had something to ask by the way."

    "What is it?" Lucy asked, her voice unsure.

    "Will you... be... my sworn sister? For years, you have taken care of me and... and I was blind not to see that. That truth is I treat you not merely as a servant but my sister. So will you please accept this favor of mine, Luce?"

    Chalice came up and held her hand tightly. Lucy had her head down, silent. She waited patiently for her to speak.

    "Silly Chalice. Of course. I''ve always treated you as that. You''re even more precious than Luke."

    Lucy answered after a long silence. Chalice chuckled at her words and then engulfed her in an embrace.

    "Thank you so much Luce."

    Chalice let her go and looked at her, her eyes tinged with a bit of hesitance.

    "I asked my parents to take you in as their goddaughter and have you enter high society. Lucy, I need you to be my eyes and ears here while I''m away tempering myself. I''m sorry if I''m dragging you into this. But you are the only one I trust. You will suffer even more... at my expense and I- I really feel reluctant now that I think more about it."

    Chalice bowed down, unsure of what to say. She had taken her as a sister but in the end she was still putting Lucy in a tight spot for her personal reasons. The guilt of her selfishness was eating her.

    Suddenly, Chalice felt a light pat on her head and heard the soft voice of Lucy.

    "I didn''t know that you could be a lot more sillier than this, Chalice. l''ve always, always wanted to do something more for you even as merely your maid. Now that you have given me a chance to be of use, not to mention took me as your sister, then the more that I am not letting you take away this chance. So please, rest assure that I am willing to help you. Just focus on doing what you need to do."

    Chalice blanked out. Really, the kindness of this girl was astounding. And she was on her side. She was her friend. Chalice was ecstatic at this revelation. She found herself clinging to Lucy in an embrace.

 7 Sloth Chalice

    "Chalice, you are going to have a sore back if you keep on slouching about like that. More so, it is also not good reading for hours on end. You need to give your eyes some rest. You''re even missing meals. The Duchess is worrying about you, you know. At this rate, she might even fire the chef thinking that his cooking is not to your liking."

    Chalice rolled her eyes at Lucy''s nagging. She''s even worse than her mother at times. She found it endearing but really, how fussy could they get.

    It has been more than a week since her discussion with her father. He still has not called her for his decision. Chalice couldn''t help but think that her father is stalling for time. But why would he even do that?

    She did not have any problems with waiting. At least that''s what she thought the first few days. After all, she also needed the time to acquaint herself of the the new world she was in. The previous Chalice only had shallow knowledge of the essential information she needed, the rest were all about men. And she could care less about that.

    Chalice cooped herself up in the library and binge-read the books. It was good that at least she had memories of the language and writing system of this place.

    She found out that the continent she is in was divided into four empire regions: Ogen in the south, Aurora in the north, Maris in the west, and Idalia in the east. The regions have been relatively at peace for the past years. This is all due to the Alliance Imperiae created after the revolt of the four imperial nations against the previous ruling empire, Bahamut.

    The Idalian empire where her father is the prime minister, is currently ruled by Claude Regis de Idalia and his empress Ana Myrcella de Idalia. Their son Troy Regis de Idalia was the crown prince whom she was chasing about previously. Chalice saw a portrait of his in one of the history books she had read. And she cannot understand what she saw in that guy.

    Crown Prince Troy was handsome to boot, that''s for sure. But he was the typical prince charming type. Nothing interesting there besides his pretty face, in her opinion.

    What surprised Chalice was that amongst the four regions, it was Idalia who followed the Bahamut''s practice of monogamy. This made Chalice have a newfound respect for the royal family. She abhorred the concubinage system and was glad that Idalia did not propagate such practices.

    So far, Idalia''s state of government affairs and economy were doing good. The empire made the most of the years recuperating from the war that it seemed as if it did not happen at all. Or at least that''s how it is in the capital. After all, it can''t be ensured that development is evenly distributed down to the farthest village of the empire. She was particularly skeptic of that, hence the reason that she also insists on going to the fief.

    Also, other issues common in a feudalistic era such as this, were still rampant. But that aspect was to be expected. After all, this was unlike her previous world. The modern society of that time was built upon thousands and thousands of years of foundation. Idalia cannot compare to that.

    Chalice also took note of the religion in this world. The Church of Yeshua encompassed all four regions. Despite the fall of the Bahamutian Empire, the Church was unaffected. They distanced themselves from the issues of the secular world. Only rendering services to the needy. She couldn''t help but be suspicious and amazed at the same time. Seems like power of religion was even more magnified in this timeline.

    "Say Lucy, how much longer do you think father will take before coming up to a decision? The are only a few more books left for me to read in the library. Even if I ransacked the ones on father''s study, it would still not be enough."

    Chalice was exasperated. She had nothing else of interest to do. Although Lyana asked her to go to the various tea parties and balls, Chalice found that too tedious and boring. She could not tolerate even a minute of pretentious social interactions with those spoiled brats. She was not generalizing though. It''s just that, most of the people who had given invitations were the people who ridicules her at her back. Those bunch of white lotuses. The minority, on the other hand, were people whose intentions were to curry favor to their family using her as the channel.

    Chalice do not plan on wasting her precious time with them. She''d much rather read, eat, sleep, tease the maids and her midget knight, and basically just idle about in their manor. Even if she might turn into a sloth in the process.

    "Well, it can''t be helped Chalice. You don''t want to attend to the balls and tea parties you were invited at. You are also too lazy to go around the capital. It would of course result in you having nothing to do."

    She pouted at Lucy''s patronizing tone. Chalice had nothing to say to that. It was not her fault that there are only a few things which piques her interest.

    "I''d rather stay here than do those uninteresting things."

    Chalice scoffed while she closed the book she was reading. Another one down. Another step taken on her way to slothdom.

 8 Musings of Lucy

    ''It has been past a week since Chalice has woken up after her incident with the crown prince. I must say that ever since then she had been strange, very unlike herself. Though it is not really bad. In fact, her changes are quite pleasing.

    It has also been a week since she had taken me as her sworn sister and became the god daughter of the duke and duchess of Amaranth. My debt of gratitude has once again multiplied. Despite Chalice saying that it was nothing, in my heart I could never let it go. I vowed to always follow her, care for her, and be the best sister. All the people in the world may turn their back on her, but I won''t. I won''t let her regret taking me and Luke in.''

    ''In the past, she was always grouchy and irritable. She would insist on getting her way. She was the typical pampered aristocrat. They may see her that way, but I know the truth. She was like that merely as a defense for all the ridicule that she endures. It was not only once that I heard her cry at night because of it. Chalice was just a girl in the end. A girl trying her best to fit in. Everyone shunned her. That was why I did my best to do the opposite of that. To make her feel accepted. But in the end, I was only one person.

    However, things had changed ever since she woke up.

    Since I was already well-versed on the things that a lady of high society must know of. Instead of studying those again, Duchess Lyana put me in-charge of Chalice. Pretty much like her governess.''

    ''I was glad that she had already changed her dressing style to a more subdued and elegant one. She had also ceased to put on her usual ghastly make up and prefers to go bare faced.I even had the illusion that she hated it. She became more calm, toned-down and lady like compared to her usual brash and lofty ways.

    However, there was one thing that I could not help but find to be quite an enigma. Despite most people finding Chalice to be brazen, she was in fact timid, and lacks confidence. She had developed an inferiority complex in herself. But the Chalice today, her demeanor became indolent and languid, an undeniable domineering aura emanates within her.

    Also I seem to have been uninformed that my lady is unbelievably sardonic. Her blunt sarcasm shocks me at times. She also seems to have developed a habit of seducing people as a form of entertainment. Though she only teases the maids usually, coupled with that face of hers it was deadly.''

    ''Chalice''s usual victim however was her newly appointed knight, Sir Levi. Her previous one was fired due to negligence after that incident with the crown prince. Thankfully, he was immune to her face.

    Sir Levi is an effeminately handsome man. He is one of the top knights of the Amaranthian Militia. However, as in Chalice''s words, he was narcissus incarnate. Their first meeting was disastrous. Though, it seems that they had become closer these days. Chalice told me that despite their bickerings, she trusts Levi. And that she had obtained his utmost loyalty.''

    ''I refrained from asking how she made that happen. Whoever Chalice trusts, I will trust as well. Nevertheless, her sporadic hoydenish behavior worries me. Not to mention, she had lost interest in the things that she used to like.

    My jaw almost reached the floor that time when she told me that she wants to go to the library. She used to loathe books, reading, and studying in general.

    I was flabbergasted when she stayed there the whole day. It was only on her third day of stay that I have become numbed to it. She read through all the books like a whirlwind. Sometimes, I''d even hear her muttering questions and commentaries about what she was reading. And those commentaries further strengthened my hunch that Chalice may in fact be a genius, contrary to the belief of others.

    It pained me however, that she had to suffer before she realized her potential. But all is well, that ends well I guess.''

    Lucy''s train of thought was cut off when she heard the banter of the knight and lady pair beyond the library door.

    "For the love of Yeshua, my dear Lady don''t you get tired of being surrounded by books? Even if you read all of it, a stupid brain is still a stupid brain. You can''t simply change that."

    Sir Levi''s seductive bass voice reverberated. Lucy shook her head, she really need to reprimand this knight lest her lady be influenced by his poisonous tongue.

    "Oh please Levi. A stupid brain can still be improved. However, a midget will always and forever be a midget."

    ''I take it back. It is not Sir Levi who needs a reprimand. Chalice''s tongue far surpasses his.''

    Lucy thought bitterly as she opened the door.

    "Hey, that''s low even for you. My height is quite normal, thank you. That''s it. I''m never making you tea again even if you command me so, my lady."

    Their banters became clearer and louder as she went inside. The both of them were oblivious of her presence. Lucy heard Chalice gasp.

    "No, no. Sir Levi. You''re the handsomest and strongest knight ever. No one compares to you even if you''re midget. Don''t deprive me of my lippe tea."

    Now, that was quite a reversal. Lucy couldn''t help but chuckle. Levi and Chalice turned to her. The latter rushed towards her with a pout.

    "Lucy! Look, Levi is bullying me. He''s not making me tea anymore."

    Chalice complained. She sighed at her childish rant. This part of her was also something new to Lucy. But it was also something that she can''t help but indulge. Levi crossed his arms and scoffed at Chalice''s behavior.

    "Enough of your bantering, Chalice. Godfather is looking for you. He''s waiting for you in his study."

    Chalice stood upright at that. Lucy knew she had been waiting for this for days now. She hurriedly dragged Levi with her and headed for the door.

    "Lucy, let''s go. We can''t make father wait for long."

    She gave her assent to that and walked to catch up to the two. A trace of an expectant smile on her lips.

    ''I''ll be waiting for the great things you''ll stir up, Chalice.''

 9 Judgement Day

    "Father, I''m here."

    Chalice informed her father as she went inside his study dragging along her knight Levi and Lucy with her. She found her father, his back facing them looking outside the window. This was new. Alaric is almost always buried in mountains of papers everytime she visits him.

    "The three of you should sit. It''s good that you took Levi with you Chalice. I also wanted to talk to him afterwards."

    Chalice nodded at this and waited for her father to talk. She was pretty sure he called her here because he had already come to a decision. She looked expectantly at her father who was gaze was grave.

    "Chalice.. what, in your belief, is a Fief Lord?"

    Alaric stunned her with this question. Chalice''s expression turned heavy. He was testing her. Chalice could somehow see where her father was coming from. She was used to being unconcerned. The sudden turn in her attitude seemed to good to be true. And it was only right that her father is doubtful of her commitment and even her abilities. She paused for a long while, her head down.

    "One who has conquered himself is worthy of leadership, Papa. A fief lord is someone who is capable of admitting his faults and aware of his strengths. He is someone who knows that the mistakes he would make is bound to make his people suffer. That his every action would dictate their life and death. And though he knows that there is no definitive way for him to ensure his people''s well-being, he does what he can for them to retain their smiles. That is what I believe a fief lord is."

    Chalice responded and looked straight into her father''s eyes. Determination evident in her clear, emerald eyes. Alaric stared back at her. He then nodded, after a few minutes.

    "Remember what you have answered me today, my daughter. I''m allowing you to handle the matters of the fief in my stead. You will be the proxy Fief Lord. You are on your own, however. I hope you understand the gravity of your responsibility. I am giving you only this one chance."

    Alaric then stood up and turned his back on them.

    "You can go now. Take Lucy with you. Levi, you stay. I would like to have a word."

    Chalice understood that her father wanted to be left alone. She complied and proceeded to the door with Lucy.

    "Thank you, Papa." She said briefly, before going out.

    Lucy held her hand as they walked away from her father''s door. Chalice looked at her and smiled widely.

    "Come and help me prepare for the journey."

    She said to Lucy, to which the latter nodded.

    --

    "Levi, I trust you would not be as useless as Chalice''s previous knight. You better make sure she does not suffer any form difficulties there."

    Alaric sternly directed to the effeminate man in front him.

    "My Lord, I doubt that anyone could make the Princess suffer any grievance. These times that I have been with her, though short, it is enough to prove that it is her who makes other people suffer."

    Levi answered, though his words may sound disrespectful there was a tone of adoration in his seductive voice.

    "Hmp. It is only right that my daughter is the one who makes people suffer. She has every right to. Whoever questions her would face the entire House of Amaranth. Still, I want you to make sure that she is safe and protected at all times. Don''t even let a bug near her. Whoever offends her or hurt her in any way, kill them immediately."

    Black lines coloured Levi''s face. He should have known. Where else could that little she-devil get her ruthlessness from if not from her overprotective, great devil of a father. Levi cleared his throat.

    "If you''re that worried about her my Lord, why are you still allowing her to go?" he asked.

    The duke glanced at him before answering.

    "She said she wanted to change. I guess in a way it is her form of redemption. Sigh. My daughter has grown up."

    Levi looked at this man in front of him. A man who was beneath to only one and above all others. In the end, in the matters of family he was the same as any other.

    "If that''s the case, then you should trust her my Lord. I, for one, is sure that she would be capable if not more. There are a lot of rumours going on about her outside. Most of them are unpleasant. I doubted her too, in the beginning. I was indignant when you assigned me to her. But she proved me otherwise."

    "When I first reported to her, do you know what she said to me my Lord?

    ''You look like a girl. Are you sure you can protect me?''

    I was furious and insulted But what she said next had shaken my heart until now.

    ''It doesn''t matter. I do not care about how good your abilities are as a knight. What I want from you is loyalty. I can''t possibly entrust my life to a fickle man. And I can''t expect a disloyal man to give the best of his abilities to serve me either. So which one are you? Skilled or Loyal?''

    I couldn''t answer her, my Lord. Until now, I''m still pondering that question. But that was enough for me to realise that I would not go wrong in serving her."

    Alaric was silent. Levi bid his respects and left him to his thoughts.

 10 Leaving for the Fief

    Chalice''s ears were ringing. She was leaving today and a certain pair of beautiful women was still nagging her incessantly. Thankfully enough, her father didn''t join the fray. If he did, Chalice would end up deaf even before stepping into her carriage. Though she was discomforted with all the fuss, she couldn''t help but revel in their pampering.

    "Chalice make sure you eat properly alright? Don''t get too carried away with work that you forget to take your meals. Don''t forget to take a break. I''ve reminded Levi to make you your favourite snacks and tea. Make sure you change into night clothes and wash your face before going to bed. Don''t stay up too late. That won''t be good for your skin. I''ve pack essential oils for you, they would help a lot. Lucy also made your favourite potpourri sachets... hmm, did I miss something else?"

    Chalice sighed. She took her mother''s hands and faced her.

    "Mother, enough. I know you''re worried and all. But please, believe in me a little will you? I can take care of myself. I''ve remembered all of the things that you said. So please, calm down. Too much worrying will give you wrinkles. That would not bode well for the flower of Idalia''s high society."

    She said, her tone helpless. Chalice saw Lucy approaching while shaking her head.

    "You know my dear Chalice, we just can''t seem to believe that you are able to take care of yourself or even remember half of what we said. Your past records highly disagree with you."

    Chalice pouted at Lucy''s teasing. She squinted at her and huffed. Her cheeks reddening with the sunlight''s touch.

    "Hey, people change alright? Besides, your and mother''s unending ramblings have engraved themselves into my brain. Even if I wanted to forget, I can''t."

    Lucy chuckled at this while her mother pinched her nose playfully. Chalice saw her father walked towards them as well.

    "Promise me you''d be well? You better write me a lot of letters or else." Lucy pleaded, reluctance evident in her ocean, blue eyes. She smiled at that and blew out air exaggeratedly.

    "I promise, okay? And i''ll write you, mother, and father tons of letters that the courier would have difficulty delivering it."

    Her mother laughed at that while snuggling in her father''s embrace.

    Seriously, this couple. Their only daughter was about to go away and they were still thoughtful enough to send her off with a mouthful of dog food. She shook her head discreetly at this.

    "I''ve heard mother is taking you to a ball at the palace tonight?" Chalice asked.

    "Yes, she is. Your father will also be informing the Crown Prince and the Emperor of your banishment tonight. It will surely cause an uproar."

    Chalice agreed with this move. Her father would be proclaiming her banishment while her mother would be introducing Lucy at the same time. This way, her banishment would overridden by Lucy''s entrance. This was the leeway she needed to disappear quietly.

    "The larger the uproar, the better. Besides, the cause would not be me this time. Well, make sure to dress up. Take their breath away for me." She said to Lucy and winked at her playfully.

    Lucy laughed at this, while her parents just looked on at their banter. After a while, they saw Levi coming in their direction.

    "My Lady, everything is set. We need to be on the road now." he informed her.

    Chalice went to her parents and hugged them both.

    "I''ll be going now, Papa, Mama." Lyana hugged her back while Alaric ruffled her hair.

    "Be safe." He said softly to which Chalice returned with a smile. She proceeded to hug Lucy and then turned away.

    Chalice headed to the carriage, her slim yet unrelenting back faded into the sunshine. She did not look back. In her mind, she vowed that after three years she would set this capital ablaze.

    --

    Dainty sounds of instruments in harmony with people''s scattered laughter echoed throughout the Palace walls. A ball was held in honour of Her Majesty the Empress. Members of the aristocrats, ministerial families, and even the nouveau riche were present to pay their respects. This also gave them the chance to widen their connections.

    Lucy was a bit fidgety. It has been a very long time since she last went to a ball like this. She had almost forgotten it. She wanted to forget it. The blinding lights of huge chandeliers, the grating noise of the orchestra, and the suffocating, gratuitous smiles of scheming people.

    ''No, you can''t be like this Luciana. Chalice is counting on you. Steel yourself like before. This is a battle you can''t lose.''

    She chided herself.

    "Lucy, dear. Are you alright? Are you ready?"

    Lucy felt the warm hands of Duchess Lyana. It gave her comfort and courage to endure.

    "I''m alright, god mother. I''m ready." she answered the woman.

    "Very well, let''s go now."

    Lyana held her husbands hand and gestured for Lucy to follow. She walked behind the couple as they entered the ballroom.

    "Announcing the arrival of His Excellency, the Prime Minister Duke Alaric Silvann de Amaranth with his wife Duchess Lyana Charlotte de Amaranth, and their god daughter Lucy de Solaris."

    Murmurs suddenly burst through the crowd when they heard the introduction. The guests looked forward to the arrival of the Prime Minister, second only to how much they look forward to the arrival of the royal family. However, this particular one caught the attention of many. The young lady of the Amaranth House was absent.

    Although, it was an open secret in the capital that the daughter of Duke Amaranth was trampled by the crown prince''s horses due to the former disrespecting the latter by chasing after him. There has been no news of the Lady Chalice''s being reprimanded. Though, it seemed that her absence today was proof enough of that. And just who is the girl that was announced as their God Daughter? Why was she brought here?

    The people tried to steal glances at the young lady following the Duke and Duchess. Since she was behind them, all they could see was a head of auburn hair. They waited in bated breaths until the girl revealed herself in their line of sight.

    She was beautiful, the pure and gentle type. She walked lightly, flitting like the cherry blossoms of spring. Her auburn hair which were almost a shade of red framed her delicate face, creating a stark contrast to her glimmering ocean blue eyes.

 11 The Princess of the Amaranth

    The journey to the Amaranth fief from the capital takes seven days at most in a carriage. It is one of the largest fief in Idalia, having five cities in its territory. Surrounded by two notable mountain ranges: the Nephele Mountains where the gemstone mine owned by the Amaranth Duchy is located; and the Zeru Mountain range, the stronghold of the warrior tribe Athos.There is also the Guthrie Plains which is known for its windy climate,past it would be the Aegean sea.

    Chalice had been reading about their fief while she was waiting for her father back in the capital. But information from books are far from the actual situation, so Chalice would rather visit these places herself to know more.

    The days of travel put Chalice on edge. She felt as if she was about to rot, that or she''s about to turn into a full blown sloth with all the lazying around that she does. There was nothing of interest that happened on their way. Chalice was even wishing that they get too meet some bandits along the way. Unfortunately, such mishap missed their convoy. The endless juggling around of the carriage added to Chalice''s dismay.

    All these frustration were vented on a certain effeminately handsome knight, who is almost about to cry with all the bullying his she-devil of a master did.

    ''Oooh. Midget Levi is happy.''

    Chalice smirked when she saw Levi''s obvious sigh of relief when they entered the premises of the Amaranth estate. It was silly of Levi to think that she would stop just because they have arrived. It was too fun to irritate him.

    ''But I''ll let him off for now.''

    Chalice took in the imposing manor slowly coming to their view.

    ''It''s even more majestic than when I last saw it. I should have stayed here than in the capital. This place looks a lot more fun.''

    Chalice alighted from the carriage and directed her eyes to the people waiting in front. William, a sprightly middle-aged man was in front accompanied by a younger one.

    No. It was the other way around. Looking at it closely, Chalice realized that it was not William who is at the head of the servants.

    ''Strange. I thought William was in-charge of this place.''

    Chalice approached them and straightly went in front of the person at the vanguard.

    ''An evildoer! This guy is an evil evildoer.''

    She exclaimed in her heart.

    ''Unfortunately for him, I''m already immuned to his kind. Tsk. Tsk.''

    Chalice smiled wickedly as she drew her face nearer to guy. Completely unaware that the people surrounding them let out audible gasps, while her knowing knight facepalmed at her actions.

    ''My lady ah, you haven''t had enough of teasing me for a whole week. Do you really need to vent on a poor guy immediately upon arriving?''

    Chalice''s eye narrowed as she reveled at the man''s handsome features. His hair was darker than the night sky, with a face sharp and serious. His nose perfectly resembling that of a greek god. Lips so luscious that Chalice had to admit she''s alarmingly tempted to kiss him senseless. But amongs all of it, what blew her away was his familiar blue eyes. It was similar to that of Lucy''s. Except his shade was a lot lighter, a chilling icy blue.

    Then it dawned on her. This was Lucy''s brother, Luke. She could see a resemblance between them, though slight.

    ''What the heck??! I do not remember him being this handsome.''

    Chalice was flustered the more she stared at him. A strange feeling bubbled at the pit of her stomach.

    "Heh. Luke has become really handsome. Didn''t recognize you there for a moment. I almost kissed you."

    Chalice teased while she winked at him. Hmp, she would never admit to herself that she was affected by this man. She''ll tease him until theweird feeling she felt goes away.

    However, circumstances just don''t go the way it is planned. Chalice saw a suspicious pink slowly coloring the Luke''s face to which he coughed awkwardly. She abruptly walked away from him because she felt the heat coming up to her ears down to her neck.

    ''The hell is this guy blushing about. Now, I''m embarrassed too! Ugh.''

    Chalice frantically calmed her erratic heartbeat. And after she made sure that there was not a trace of embarrassment in her face anymore, she turned to the dumbfounded people at her back.

    "Aren''t you going to let me in? I''m parched. Tea would be a good idea by now."

    She smiled slightly at them. William and Luke seemed to have woken from their stupor.

    "Welcome home, Princess." William said to her after he cleared his throat, still unable to get rid of the previous scenario of the lady teasing Luke.

    "I''ll have them prepare the tea and snacks, Lady Chalice. Luke will lead you to the drawing room."

    William said as he led them inside. All the while giving Luke furtive glances which the latter intentionally ignored.

    "Sir William, I''ll go with you. Princess likes the tea that I make."

    Levi hurriedly said as he jogged to William''s side. He certainly won''t stay with Chalice and Luke. There was an inkling in his heart which warned him that he would surely vomit buckets of blood if went with them.

    Chalice threw Levi an amused glance before she turned to William and to Luke.

    "Instead of the drawing room, I''d take my tea to the study instead. After you, Luke."

    She gestured followed with a dubious smile,to which the man stiffly nodded and proceeded to walk.

    Chalice walked behind him, leaving behind William with an unreadable expression in his face and Levi shaking his head.

    This princess of theirs really was a man-chaser.

 12 We cannot clap with only one hand 1

    "I take it that my father had already informed you of why I am here."

    Luke gazed at the slim back in front of him. It had been a long time since he had seen Lady Chalice. He couldn''t help but be surprised at how she had grown up so beautifully over the years.

    Lady Chalice was his and his sister''s benefactor. She was the one who took them in back then when they were still wretchedly living in the slums and had almost been convicted of thievery. If it were not for the intervention of that young her back then, Luke would have been crippled.

    She was the light at the end of their tunnel. Luke from then had been silently admiring her, secretly protecting her. Though he was not able to serve her closely like his sister Lucy did, he still wanted to do something for her.

    However, Luke saw how she was conspired with by the people around her. The fact that he could not do anything to help hurt him. He could not even enter her eyes much less help her. Thus, he had no choice but watch as she slowly fell into the malicious ploys of women. How her reputation was continuously blackened. He retaliated to them for her through subtle means. Untraceable. But that was something only he knew about.

    A lot of people, due to the rumors, believed that Lady Chalice was a man-chaser. But Lucy and him knew that she wasn''t. She was brash, yes. Wayward, true as well. But chasing men? Chasing the crown prince? That was something instigated by those close to her. In the end, it led her to a calamity. Luke regretted that he was not even there to save her from being trampled upon by those horses. But he was far away in the Amaranthian fief, managing it for her.

    Luke knew such feelings for his mistress was forbidden. He was not allowed to like her. He can''t. She had already suffered enough. And him pursuing her would just disrupt the equilibrium. Aside from the fact that Duke Amaranth would certainly turn livid. After all, both of them do not want to put her in the midst of danger. That was why even if he had to miss her all the time, Luke stayed put in the fief.

    But the circumstances seem to be playing with him. Lady Chalice actually asked to be banished to where he was.. Luke worried about it for days, when he received the missive from the duke.

    It wasn''t until he saw her walked out of the carriage and stared at him that he threw all caution to the wind. He just relished the fact that his beloved was here.

    However, Luke almost regretted this when his Lady Chalice proceeded to tease him till he was red with embarrassment. Luke had no choice but to bear with it all. He shivered at the possibility of these kinds of scenario repeating themselves.

    Luke roused himself and paid attention to what the woman in front of him said.

    "Yes, my lady. The duke sent us an express missive about your arrival at the fief. He had informed us that you are here to manage the fief as the proxy Lord."

    Luke answered. Truthfully, he was skeptical when he came to know about it. From what he previously knew the Lady was smart but she was extremely averse to studying. The matters of the fief would overwhelm her if she had a weak fortitude. Although Luke held special feelings for his Lady, still he was a realist. He couldn''t let emotions cloud his judgement. Especially if it involved a lot of people.

    But then again, though he was doubtful of her capacity as a proxy Lord. Luke also thought that Duke Amaranth may have his reasons to give her this responsibility. After all, Lady Chalice is the only heir.

    "Luke, I am aware that managing the fief is still beyond my capabilities for now. But I am willing to learn. All I need is for all of you to give me a chance to try. And of course, I''d be relying on you."

    Luke took note of the firm resolve in her voice, which was also expressed in her beautiful face as she turned to face him. There seem to be something different in her. Her actions a while ago had taken him off guard but he just took it as her usual brash behavior. Though it was something she had never done. After all, Chalice never did took notice of him. However the lady in front him now had a fire in her eyes. A raw determination to achieve the goal she had set. The Chalice he knew had long lost this kind of confidence.

    Luke had to be honest, not only did it made him admire her more, it stirred something in him, as well. He had to say Lady Chalice is talking to him just as how a proper fief lord should.

    However, as he pondered her words Luke realized something was off. He immediately refuted.

    "Me, my lady? I''m afraid it should be William you should tell that, too. I am merely his asisstant." He replied humbly with his head down.

    ---

    Chalice raised her brow at Luke''s answer. She smiled a knowing smile.

    "Now, Luke. We both know that is not true. It is actually you who really manages the fief. William is the one who asissts you."

    She saw him stiffen up at her words. Seems like Chalice had guessed right. She had seen the way the servants a while ago acted. Their body language screamed servility and respect to this man. Though barely noticeable, it still did not escape her eyes. After all, it was something she was trained to do in her past life. To be observant of even the minute and negligible actions around her.

    "I don''t seem to understand what you mean my lady."

    Chalice squinted her eyes at him. This guy! Does he really think she was that dense?

 13 We cannot clap with only one hand 2

    "Don''t you think it''s useless to deny now."

    Chalice said curtly, her tone tinged with frost. She knows she''s not that knowledgeable when it comes to matters of this world. But heck, she was neither dense nor foolish to be underestimated so much.

    She heard Luke clear his throat before answering in his deep voice, calm and gentle as a lake.

    "My lady is quite clever."

    Chalice smiled pleasantly at his admittance, While she languidly took her seat, her pointed gaze stayed on Luke''s person. He had exceeded Chalice''s expectations. This man had become far too removed from the boy she had in her memories. She had previously seen him merely as the silent and timid younger brother of Lucy.

    Looking at him now however, Luke had no trace of timidity in him at all. His form, though gentle- looking, exuded an air of sharpness. There was also this inexplicable enigma in his eyes. Chalice felt that Luke is not as simple as he looks. What simple man could manage a fief? Not to mention, that the said man is an orphan who had no concrete form of education.

    "You patronize me."

    She said, her smile lingering. Chalice then put her hands together in her lap before turning serious.

    "I have a request to make, Luke."

    The man looked at her silently, as if beckoning her to go on talking.

    "As I have said, I''m a novice to the matters of the fief. I admit that. It is impossible to clap with one hand. Similarly, it is impossible for me to do this by myself. You have been administering the territory for a long time now. So, I would like to ask you for guidance. Will you be mine, Luke?"

    Ah, she couldn''t help it. Chalice had this undeniable impulse to tease, Luke. She deliberately phrased her question ambiguously. When she saw him stiffen up once again and his ears suspiciously reddining, Chalice figured it was time to stop.

    "Will you be my right-hand man?"

    She continued as clarification. Chalice chuckled internally when she saw Luke''s unreadable expression. It was only after a long pause that the man seemed to have recovered. And his answer had completely surprised her.

    "I am already yours, my lady. I am at your disposal."

    Chalice''s heartbeat quickened as she met his darkened eyes. Those icy blue glinted with an unknown emotion. She couldn''t help but gulp. This guy really isn''t simple. He actually reciprocated her teasing. Except he did it with a straight face. The gentleness he exuded insinuated obscurity. Chalice collected herself, a wicked smile forming in her lips.

    "Well, that''s reassuring. Still, I would like to say this. Luke, you are not allowed to betray me. You, Levi, and Lucy. My unquestionable trust will only be given to the three of you. Once you do, I will personally cut you down even if I die in the process."

    Conviction and ruthlessness pervaded Chalice''s voice. Her stare further proving her point.

    Luke went down on one knee, putting his palm in his heart.

    "I swear to Yeshua''s name that I will never betrat you, my lady. I swear to you my fealty, my identity, and my entire being. If I break my oath, I shall never enter paradise."

    Chalice nodded.

    "Good."

    Outwardly Chalice had kept her composed demeanor. But in reality, her head was spinning as she recounted Luke''s oath. It was heart-rending having a devastatingly handsome guy go on one knee, and practically vowed to give his whole being to you, okay? It was already an achievement for her to be able to be this calm.

    In order to salvage her poor sanity, Chalice diverted the situation and went down to business.

    "Then first of all, Luke please have someone send me the account books. I would like to read the reports on the territory''s income and expenditures for the past few years. Shameful as it is, I currently have little knowledge on the present state of the duchy. Nor do I have an inkling as to how it is managed all these years. Therefore, could you please give me maybe a couple of weeks. First of all, to read those reports and possibly to arrange an inspection of the territory."

    "Certainly, my lady. However, if you''re going to do an inspection I''m afraid it will take a little over a week to make the necessary preparations."

    "I understand. I won''t be taking long in perusing those reports anyway. The couple of weeks I''m asking would be enough time. Besides, I intend to do the inspection incognito. I plan to take only you and Levi with me."

    "My Lady, are you sure that the three of us are enough? Even if it''s incognito, going around the entire territory would at most take three months. And that''s only visiting the significant cities. I''m afraid given the conditions, having only two of us would compromise your safety- if not your health."

    Chalice smiled at Luke''s words. His worry was not unfounded. After all, she is a duke''s daughter. A pampered princess. But then, that was the old Chalice. The her now is very confident of her outdoor survival skills. And she was pretty sure, her safety is at the least of concerns. However, it was a given that Luke and Levi were not aware of that.

    "Alright, then you can choose two more people to go with us. I trust you''d choose appropriate people."

    "Understood, my lady.

    After settling down the preliminaries, Chalice allowed herself to finally take a rest.

 14 Reminiscing Her Past 1

    Morning.

    Chalice was used to waking up early. She had experienced an array of jobs and the thing they had in common was that she needed to go in early. This had set up an irrevocable alarm in her body clock.

    She proceeded to do some light tai-chi exercises for the heck of it and to also put her ridiculously big balcony to use. The morning breeze ought to help her start off good. Besides, she felt that she had been gaining weight recently. Dang the aristocracy and their scrumptious, mouth-watering, weight-inducing food!

    Chalice had developed a foodie complex since she had transmigrated in this world. She had quite the extensive and demanding work history and eating delicious, home-cooked meals are a luxury. She was bitter about this, so she had proudly decided to never neglect satisfying her taste buds.

    She was finishing up with her exercises when a knock resounded in her door. Chalice gave her consent, while she wiped off her sweat. She saw Luke coming in her room with light, measured strides before stopping at her balcony door. She saw a look of mild horror when he saw her, then proceeded to keep his down.

    Aside from being her right-hand man, Luke had somehow also become her maid...er nanny. Since the people she trusted were limited to three people alone, it was inevitable that Luke had to be the one to take care of her personally at the absence of Lucy. She couldn''t possibly expect her trustworthy yet hopelessly narcissistic knight to attend to someone''s need other than his own. Though at first it had been met with a vehement protest by Luke, himself in the end he was thoroughly defeated by Chalice ''logical'' and certainly not shameless arguments.

    "My lady, your bath and clothes had been prepared. If you could tidy yourself up, we could go down for breakfast. And please, do mind your appearance at all times, my lady."

    Chalice giggled at Luke''s obvious discomfort seeing her in her sleeping gown. Her eyes filled up with mischief as another opportunity to tease the poor man presented itself to her.

    "And whatever is wrong with my appearance, dear Luke?"

    She asked while languidly sauntering nearer to him. Chalice almost laughed out loud when he discreetly took a step back from her.

    "It is a bit inappropriate, my lady."

    The man said in a flat tone. However, there was a dubious red color slowly spreading in his ears.

    "How so? I am in my room. I can wear what I want in here. Tsk. Tsk. Why? Does it make you uncomfortable? That''s no good Luke. You''re bound to see me in a lot of situations like this. You need to get used to it. I can''t have just anyone asissting me much less enter my room."

    Chalice smirked at him.

    ''Aiyah. Poor guy. This much is already affecting you? What if I pulled out the big guns then? How would you fare?''

    She sighed internally. Luke may not be a simple guy but when it comes to matters between men and women, he seemed to be too pure. Chalice couldn''t help herself but be tempted to taint him. She shook at her evil thoughts. Another bad habit she acquired in her past life. The previous Chalice may be dubbed as a man-chaser but compared to a certain 21st century transmigrator currently residing in her body, she was utterly clueless.

    "Please, my lady. As much as it amuses you to tease me. We have to keep track of time. Please take a bath now. So we can get on with breakfast."

    "Aah. You''re no fun, Luke."

    Chalice pouted but nevertheless went to the bathroom. Leaving a certain man with an unrequited love staring at the door of the bath, not knowing whether to revel in joy at being able to take care of her or to drown in despair of having her near yet so far.

    After a subsequent uneventful breakfast, Chalice directly went down to business and continued to read the financial reports of their fief for the past years. She had no problems when it comes to crunching numbers. It was easy for her to keep up with the trail of the incomes and expenditures.

    Chalice could not help but reminisce her past life. The last job she had quit before waking up in the duke''s mansion was a finance analyst. In truth, even though in Chalice''s personal opinion her past life was merely so-so. On an outsider''s perspective it isn''t. She was really just an oddball eccentric. A recurring trait of a genius.

    Yes. The her in the modern world of Earth was a genius. Her mother was a biologist who had a penchant for botany, while her father was a doctor of many specializations but mainly virology. And her, their daughter possessed an eidetic memory and an ability to grasp things even after just seeing them once.

    Since her parents were employed by a huge pharmaceutical corporation, she mainly lived most of her life in the lab and homeschooled by her parents. However, the corporation had dealings with the underworld and had forced them to develop a deadly weapon meant biological warfare. It was an enhanced version of respiratory syncytial virus. A virus which was usually a common cause for various respiratory complaints, but was modified to break down the entire respiratory system within a minute prior to exposure. Given the highly contagious nature of the virus and its ability to survive for hours on surfaces, if used as a weapon it could wipe out an entire city in merely hours.

    Her parents were highly righteous people and it went against their conscience to allow such a dangerous threat to fall into evil clutches. Hence, they tried to escape the corporation and sought refuge with the government. Nevertheless, the people of the underworld cannot let go such treasure. Thus on their way to a safe house, the convoy that Chalice was in along with her parents were ambushed. Their car crashed into a trailer truck while in pursuit, killing both her parents on the spot and leaving her hanging by an inch of her life.

    Chalice survived that night, but she was taken by an organization under the government which served to dispose of those that threaten order. In a simpler sense, they were the government''s guard dogs. She, a mere 10 year-old, underwent brutal training exceeding even that of a soldier. Along with countless lessons of almost every profession and even those which were deemed indispensible to her missions like hacking, disguising, and even the art of seduction. But she pushed through all of it, in her mind was the determination to get revenge for her parents who only tried to do the right thing. She became a notorious agent, an assassin who took down hundreds of heinous criminals who were under the guise of proper, law abiding citizens of the civil world.

    But after having punished and taken down the corporation involved in her parents'' death, Pia started to feel lethargic of her life. She had achieved her goal, and she no longer had any motivations.

 15 Reminiscing Her Past 2

    She felt relatively bored with everything. Even the missions that Chalice used to find thrilling have lost all their appeal. Until, she decided to try her hand on other things.

    Chalice quit the organization, despite a lot of protests from her superiors. After all, she was their ace. In her 10 years on the organization excluding her two years of training, no mission assigned to her ever failed. It was all 100% ensured success. Not only that, she had a huge contribution to the growth of her fellow agents. Chalice was the one who devised their training regimen, modified the weapons, and even invented some. However, it was also because of this that she was not fully under their control. Her accomplishments overshadowed the charity they have given her by taking her in.

    Immediately after quitting and dealing with the necessary arrangements such as clearing out her browser history... er other identity, Chalice took on the next thing she thought was interesting.

    She became a doctor. With her connections to the government, it was easy for her to have her credentials. Chalice was already the doctor back then at the organization. It was one of those necessary lessons she took. But then again, her motivation waned. She also got bored playing with medicine.

    The same scenario happened repeatedly. And Chalice had already tried multiple professions. After becoming a doctor, she also dabbled in the sciences, trying her hand on her parents'' professions. But that too didn''t last long.

    Chalice also tried going back to university and took up other professions, all accelarated programs. Mineralogy, engineering and architecture, accounting and finance, language and literature, and even accounting and finance.

    She even tried part-timing as waitress and a convenience store staff just because it seemed interesting. Ultimately, Chalice tried the corporate ladder but she couldn''t take the pretentiousness so she quit, once again. All of this in a span of eight years.

    When she woke up in another world, she felt none of the despair and fear. Chalice was merely a wanderer in the previous one. All her connections to that place have become superficial ever since her parents'' death. She never had friends, only acquaintances and mostly enemies. It was already ingrained in her not to trust people after all she had gone through.

    As a result of that, she died a virgin. Okay. That doesn''t sound bad. Itjust meant that she never had a proper romantic relationship. Chalice knows how to flirt, how to covertly seduce men courtesy of her training. Sadly, no man had ever piqued her interest.

    But in this world, Chalice had a loving family. She had something to protect. Something to prove for herself. A motivation. And a chance at love. A chance to settle her roots.

    Chalice sighed as she reminisced everything that led her here. Other people in her position might still keep lingering feelings for their original world. In all honesty, she''d kill to have the convenience of technology again. But the cons outweighed the pros. She''d rather bring technology and modernism here than go back.

    She stood up and looked at the scenic gardens of the estate.

    ''No skyscrapers and city skyline could beat this view.''

    Chalice saw Luke and Levi walking.

    ''Well, now that is an even better view. Tsk. Tsk. The men in this world are hotter than the one on earth. What joy!''

    Chalice snorted at her thought. She noticed them talking to some servants. They were busy preparing for the inspection. After she had perused all the account books, they would be going around the territory. Chalice specifically wanted this so she could see first hand the issues that needed to be fixed. She wanted to have an in-depth understanding of the fief if she wanted to make it progress. And secretly, she also wanted to do some sightseeing.

    She stared at forms of the two men. They were in a sense contrasting. Levi had that effeminate look and demeanor with his petite stature. His long ash-blonde hair, hazel eyes, pert nose, and thin lips were all too much like a girls features. If it were not for the adam''s apple in his thoat, people will no doubt assume him as a girl.

    Luke on the other hand, was tall and firm like a proud bamboo. He wasn''t burly. But Chalice was sure he had hard, muscles beneath those layers of clothes. His gentle features did not make him less manly. Instead, it gave of an aura of a celestial. Proud, unrelenting, yet brimming with purity and kindness. He looked serious but that just made people want to approach him more. Though, that was the usual observation of Luke, Chalice noticed a certain air mystery around him. Sometimes, Luke has this light in his eyes which contradicts greatly to his gentle demeanor. Chalice just usually shrugs it off. Everyone has their secrets.

    "Alright Chalice, enough slacking off. You have got to finish reading these account books so you could go on an adventure."

    She lazily stretched her arms before taking her seat again and burying her face to the stack of papers in her table.

 16 Fief Inspection Squad

    "My lady, it''s late. You should go to bed."

    Chalice looked up from the reports in her hands. It was the last of the accounts that she had to read. She made sure she took sufficient notes for the things that needed to be changed and improved.

    She couldn''t help but commend the system that her father and Luke had implemented in the territory. The wealth of the Amaranth House was entirely seperated from the funds of the fief collected from the taxes of the people, as opposed to the other feudalist territories. Because of this the citizens relatively paid less taxes and enjoyed prosperous lives.

    It must be noted that the House of Amaranth owns the largest gemstone mine in Idalia, it was their main source of income. They are entirely unreliant to the taxes given by the people due to their monopoly of the gem trade. Chalice was overjoyed with this since she had studied mineralogy in her previous life. She was quite proficient when it comes to gems and jewelry.

    It was also quite amazing that the territory makes use of the double entry system of accounts. Chalice was a bit shocked when she found out that it was Luke who had introduced it. Exceptional seems to fit him quite well. She generously praised him because it made it easier for her to read those mountains of accounts. It also gave her a clear picture of the money flow of the territory and the duchy.

    "Give me a moment. I''m almost done."

    She answered Luke who strode in.

    "I''ll make you some tea for now then."

    Luke went straight to the trolley in the corner while Chalice returned to reading. After writing down a few more notes, she closed the reports and slumped into her chair.

    "Finally done? Here, I''ve kept it hot."

    Chalice smiled gratefully at Luke and took the tea. She felt the fatigue catching up to her but she felt more alive than ever.

    "It is quite gratifying to see how well you have managed the fief these years, Luke. I feel like you have given me a huge leeway."

    She said while reclining lazily on her chair. Luke smiled lightly at her before answering.

    "The previous dukes as well as your father provided a solid foundation, my lady. I cannot take all of the credit. Besides, it''s only right that I do my best since it is your House who took us in."

    Chalice stared thoughtfully at him. Seriously, it would be good if this guy loosens up a bit. He was similar to Lucy that way. Sometimes she feels like formality was ingrained in their bones already.

    "Really, you could just say thank you for the compliment instead of refuting me. Tsk. I need to fix that stiff personality of yours."

    She chided him which the man returned with a pointed look.

    "By the way, have you chosen the other members of our fief inspection squad? I''m already finished with the accounts. It would be best if we leave soon."

    Luke''s brow raised up at her words.

    "Fief inspection squad?"

    Chalice chuckled at his question. It was something that she had dubbed their little party. She thought it was quite fitting.

    "Yes. We are team who is going to inspect the fief. Appropriate, no?"

    The corner of his lips turned upward at her antics.

    "I refuse to comment, my lady. And to answer your question, I have already chosen the other two. Rye and Ward. They are two of the most skillful amongst the knights here."

    Chalice just nodded. She trusted Luke''s judgement.

    "Do you think three months is too long? Won''t it affect the territory without us here? I did not want to be hasty with this decision but I simply can''t forego the inspection."

    Chalice couldn''t help but worry.

    "It will be alright, my lady. The fief''s operations are relatively stable. William could handle everything just fine during our absence. Besides, those three months is merely an estimate. If there are no mishaps, we could go back earlier. Not to mention, this trip would help us evaluate the situation at the mine as well. Since we''re on this note, I think I should inform you of our itinerary and a rough outline of our route."

    "Our first stop would be the gemstone mine at Nephele Mountains. It is near Araceli City so we could immediately proceed there after. I''d rather we take the road going through Cloud Forest since we''re incognito. It will also save a lot of travel time. We''d be circling the territory, so after Araceli, next would be Wyndham City. It is the only port city within the fief. After which, we could also spend a few days at Eldoris which is near Wyndham. Then to Tal-El City of the Guthrie Plains. Our last stop would be Freyr City at the foot of Zeru Mountains. The roads are mostly passable. If there is a need to cross river, which I doubt, the rains have yet to come so it would be no problem as well."

    Chalice tapped her fingers rhythmically at the table while ocassionally nodding at Luke. She must admit, he was very meticulous in planning. Her conjectures are continuously being proven right.

    "Well, it seems most of our concerns have been dealt withbout. And I dare say you''re also set with all the preparations. We''ll leave tomorrow at noon then."

    Luke assented at this, his back straight.

    "By the way, Luke. Who would be cooking our meals? I''ll sorely miss the cooking here. They''re the best meals I''ve had my entire life. Sigh."

    The man frowned awkwardly at her statements. His eyes briefly rippling with contrasting emotions of self-consciousness and joy.

    "There would be no changes to your meals, my lady."

    Chalice frowned unbelieving. How could that be unless the cook comes with them? And as far she knows, there will only be five people going. Unless, all of her meals these past days were cooked by one them.

    Suddenly, Chalice arrived at a realization. She gaped at Luke, flabbergasted. Then after a while, a beaming smile appeared in her lips.

    "You''re the one who cooks all my meals. Oh my, Luke why didn''t you tell me?"

    She asked teasingly. Chalice''s increase in appetite could somehow be credited to the food she was served ever since she arrived. It was as if it was solely created for her palate, fully awakening the foodie within her. She did not expect that it would be Luke and not their cook who''s responsible for it. Seems like her personal asisstant even took it upon himself to be her personal chef.

    "I did not see it necessary to inform you, my lady."

    He answered curtly. Chalice tsked at his nonchalance. It was a big deal for her, alright.

    "Of course, it was necessary. Now, I can''t live without your cooking anymore. Do you know how grave this situation is?"

    Luke had a faint trace of smile in his lips and Chalice almost jumped him. Dang it! That smile was deliciously tempting. Just like his cooking. The evildoer of man just shrugged at her dilemma.

    "It''s not really a problem, my lady. I''ll just cook for you as long as you live then."

    Chalice''s jaw slackened. Her eyes narrowed at the complacent manner of Luke''s reply.

    ''Does this man even realize how similar to a vow his words are? Does he even realize the effect of saying such words with a face like that?''

    Chalice could only shake her head helplessly at the guy''s cluelessness.

    "My dearest Luke, I am sorely tempted to give in to that and swindle you mercilessly."

 17 The Inspection Commander Got Los

    The Cloud Forest is a vast expanse of woods in the outer skirts of Nephele mountains. It was a well-known shortcut to Araceli City of the Amaranthian territory, though people seldom use it. This is because the place gets awfully foggy after sunset. Making it almost impossible to travel at night time. Despite this, it is still one of the safest route for travelers given the fact that it is in the outer range of the mountains and wild beast were scarce. Bandit sightings were also rare in the area.

    It takes about three days to go through Cloud forest on carriage, counting along the stops along the way.

    Chalice and her fief inspection squad has currently set camp after their second day of journey. With the direction of Luke, they stopped riding an hour after sunset so that they had time to set up their tents, look for water, and hunt some food. The fog would make it difficult to do all these, after all.

    As self-proclaimed Fief Inspection Commander, Chalice was busy lounging about near the fire. Her trusted Second-in-Command, Luke, was putting up the tents with Levi. While the other two, Rye and Ward fetched water and looked for food.

    Ah, such is the life of those at the top.

    Feeling a bit stuffy and bored, Chalice decided to walk around their camp for a bit. The fog has not descended yet, and she was confident that she''d know her way back. Besides it has been a long time since she had done some parkour and tested her survival skills. It would be a real disappointment to let this chance go. The organization had once left her for half a year in a forest like this for training. Somehow, she missed those carefree times.

    On her walk, Chalice saw a lot of medicinal herbs and grasses. She was familiar with these because she always used them to treat her wounds back when she was training. This was a beneficial similarity of this world to her previous one.

    Chalice was too engrossed in picking up herbs and jumping around treetops that she did not realize she had already strayed far away from their camp. She only became aware of this when the fog has started to slowly creep out in the surroundings.

    "Sh*t! I was too careless. Luke''s gonna kill me." She cursed.

    Her survival instincts kicked in. Chalice had nearly forgotten this kind of thrill. She first settled herself unto a thick branch of a huge fir tree and calmed herself down before deciding what to do. Though the fir tree was safe and sturdy, it wasn''t very practical to spend the night there. Chalice needed to find a more proper shelter before the fogs thickened further.

    It was a good thing Chalice had insisted on wearing trousers and a dress shirt that day. Being trapped in a foggy forest in a delicate gown was the epitome of inconvenience. Her outfit now, on the contrary has enabled her to easily leap from tree after tree.

    ---

    "Luke! Calm the f*ck down! Panicking at this time won''t do any good."

    Levi scolded the man who had almost trashed the tents that they worked so hard to put up. Luke was a far cry from his usual gentle and composed self, thanks to their do-gooder of a lady who had just had to vanish into thin air.

    No one expected Lady Chalice to wander around. Though Levi always had a hunch that she would do so, he chose to believe that the Lady would have enough sense of danger and self-preservation to restrain her curiosity and stay put.

    But alas! How wrong of them to think that way. They had underestimated the guts that the princess have. All the time that they were busy setting up camp, the lady took her sweet time to get lost. The fog had already settled in their area when they realized her absence.

    Luke slumped down. Worry and anger evident in his handsome face. The light from the fire intensified the sombre mood he was exuding.

    "The princess is smart, Luke. Let''s believe in her. Her cunning mind will keep her safe. Besides, we''re still at the outskirts. She can''t possibly get into the inner regions within just a few hours."

    Levi comforted him. Although, he himself was skeptical of his own words. They have no choice. The fog had already encompassed the place and there was almost zero visibility. They could only helplessly wait for the morning and hope that the princess was able to keep herself safe.

    "I''m going to look for her. You three, continue to ride for the mine tomorrow. I''ll meet you there the soonest I find the princess."

    Before Levi could even protest, Luke had already disappeared into the fog. He could only sigh and concede. Not that he had a choice. The rest of their group can only settle to look for her while on the road. He stared at the place where Luke disappeared. He clenched his fists. He was her knight. Levi should have kept his attention locked onto her despite other matters. Now he feels utterly useless.

    "My lady Chalice, what kind of fief inspection commander are you? Leaving your squad behind. You have driven Luke crazy now. That guy is surely blaming himself even more that I do."

    Levi murmured while glumly stoking the fire, venting his frustrations. He also wanted to go out there. But he knew he would only hold Luke back.

    ---

    Meanwhile, a figure silently leaped through the trees despite the fog. A certain urgency and disguised panic evident in the figure''s face. There was no trace its usual gentleness,only a severe expression was shown. Even his icy blue eyes had become frozen and sharp, they had turned unforgiving at the faint light of the stars.

    "I''ll make sure to tie you up at my waist the moment I find you, woman."

    Luke swore, his hoarse and worried voice fading along the mist.

 18 Rescuing a Big Kitty

    Blissfully unaware of her morose knight''s misgivings and the desperate pursuit of her furious right-hand, the woman responsible had stopped short in front an opening of a cave with an entrance of about six feet tall. Chalice was ecstatic at this, she had finally found a shelter. Carefully shuffling inside, she kept her senses receptive.

    Chalice was halfway in when she saw faint glimmers of light. She walked warily towards it. After traversing about half a mile, the originally faint light grew stronger until she had arrived inside.

    The center of the cave was illuminated, though she couldn''t figure out the source. The circulating air inside was warm which made her glad because she didn''t have to worry about making a fire or contracting hypothermia and meeting another untimely death.

    Besides, at this point even if she wanted to make a fire, it would just be doomed to failure. She couldn''t possibly find dry wood at such a place and condition. Not to mention, it would take a really long time to make an ember or a spark manually.

    Chalice flopped herself down beside a huge stalagmite. The cave was strange. It was not wet at all, though she could hear the indistinct rustling of a stream. But she too exhausted to confirm her guess.

    In order to ignore her rumbling stomach, Chalice chose to just drift off to sleep. She was regretting not picking up the berries she saw along her way. All she had stuffed in her trouser pockets and pouch were herbs. She couldn''t possibly eat those. She knows firsthand how unappetizing they are. She wasn''t that desperate... yet. Besides, the herbs were best used as medicine rather than food.

    But even before she closed her eyes, Chalice heard a pained moan. She stilled when she realized it did not come from a human.

    Chalice slowly treaded to the source of the sound. Her feet brought her to another cave entrance. With just a step in, Chalice felt as if she was transported to another world... again.

    The rustling stream she heard a while ago grew louder. Verdant shrubs and tall trees filtered the light from above casting a muted, and dreamy ambience in an otherwise supposedly creepy cave.

    Chalice squealed like a kid. This was blessing in disguise, ah. She has stumbled upon a wonder of nature. A breath-taking discovery. It''s not everyday that an isolated terrarium is found just like that. Especially one that has it''s own all-natural regulated atmosphere. The barren cave outside was merely its foyer.

    The pained grunts once again rang out. Chalice snapped out of her daze and looked for whatever was making it. She wasn''t able to distinguish what beast it was. She treaded forward carefully until she finally saw it.

    Chalice couldn''t help but swallow hard as the source of the sound finally made its way into her sight. Her face paling like a sheet.

    A full grown lion!

    And what''s more, it does not look like the typical one. As far as Chalice knows, full grown male lions typically grow around to two meters tall excluding the tail. But heck, this one is about twice that size. It was lying there but Chalice was pretty sure, once it gets up it would tower over her frame like an animated sphinx without the human face. She also thought it strange that a prairie lion is here at a cave in a fog forest.

    Chalice stepped a bit more closer to see the beast. Her breath hitched. It really was not an ordinary lion. She had never seen one who had silky, golden mane and had a mark on its forehead. Well, she hadn''t seen one on Earth at least.

    The animal made a sound again. Chalice''s eye caught sight of a ghastly wound in its forelimb and another one on it''s upper rib. It was injured quite severely.

    She was torn. Chalice had a weakness for adorable animals like these.However, she also knew how proud this specie was. Not to mention, how ferocious they were. She might have some skills to boast of, but they surely were not enough to deal with this big kitty.

    Chalice bit her tongue.

    ''Noooo. I can''t bear to let it be. My poor heart can''t take its suffering.''

    She thought. And with that, she cast all life risks aside and decided to rescue this furry friend.

    Chalice walked lightly towards it. The animal seemed to notice her presence. It lifted its head. The lion''s wary golden eyes met her curious emerald ones. It growled lightly, giving her a warning. Chalice stopped a meter away from it and smiled faintly.

    ''It seems quite intelligent. How fitting. Truly the king of the jungle.''

    She sat down in front of it, took out the herbs she picked up and started crushing it. Chalice tore out the sleeves of her dress shirt and divided it to strips. The lion just watched her. It didn''t seem to regard her as a threat. Either that or it is just treating her like an amusing, harmless bunny. After all, even if it was injured it could still maw her to death in seconds.

    After she was done preparing the herbs and her makeshift bandages, Chalice stood up again and looked directly at the lion. She couldn''t help but internally admire the intelligence glinting from its eyes. She started to talk to it as if it was just another human being.

    "Hello there. I don''t mean any harm. And I know you can understand what I''m saying. I saw that you were injured. I made these dressing for your wounds. I''ll just put them on you and let you be after. I''m sorry for intruding in your territory. I''ll leave here immediately tomorrow. I just need somewhere to pass the night away or just until the fog dissipates."

    Chalice didn''t move. She waited for some sort of acknowledgement from the beast. She''d rather do wait and give it a semblance of respect it than take a step more and be mauled to death.

    After a long ardous while of waiting, the lion seems to have accepted her sincerity. It stood up majestically despite its limp and trudged nearer. It stopped three steps in front of her and handed its injured limb towards her.

    Chalice hid her delighted smile and proceeded to put the crushed medicinal herbs unto its injuries and then bandaging it with the strips of what used to be her dress shirt. The lion whimpered vaguely when she turned to the wounds on its upper rib. It looks like it was more severe than the other.

    She observed that the injuries it took were reminiscent of claw and bite marks.

    ''Heh. Seems like Mr. Kitty here got into a fight. Hmm. Must be territorial dispute. Wonder who won?''

    Chalice thought as she busied herself in trying to make the bandages in rib stay in place. The strips she made couldn''t be fastened. Who asked this great kitty to be humongous? It was as good things the herbs stuck by itself.

    After she was done, Chalice moved away from the lion after bowing slightly. She walked to a tree a bit farther to where the lion was, but still within its line of sight. She figured it would let the beast rest easier if she proved she really was not a threat.

    Chalice reclined at the trunk, letting her fatigue wash away her hunger and lulling her to sleep. Unaware that the particular pair of golden eyes watching her had turned considerably warmer.

 19 My Kitty Gave Me a Treasure

    Chalice woke up with a start when she felt a warm breath in her side and a heavy pressure in her thighs. She was about to turn to it when she suddenly remembered that her only companion in that place was a four feet herculean prairie lion. Chalice gulped nervously before she stiffly bent down towards the direction of the breath.

    But what met her eyes made her gasp loudly. The lion was lying down beside her and had audaciously laid it huge head in her thighs similar to what a spoiled house cat typically does. Chalice didn''t know whether to laugh or cry.

    ''My great kitty, I''m not a pillow ah.''

    She lamented in her heart. But she secretly reveled in the soft, warm, fuzzy feeling of the lion''s head. Noticing that she was awake, the lion stood up and bent its head down while licking her hands, its tail swishing leisurely. Chalice was stunned. Both from it licking her hand and from how it was already strong enough to stand when not even a day had passed when she dressed its wounds. Yes, the herbs she used were quick- acting. That she was aware of. But this was nothing short of miraculous. The average time those medicinal herbs took effect were a day and a half.

    Though she did not have a clock to tell the time, Chalice was sure she had only slept for a few hours. She was not that stiff and her body wasn''t sore as hell yet. She was awoken immediately when she felt the breath of her furry companion. This was not surprising since she had always been a light sleeper.

    What Chalice wasn''t aware of was the herbs she picked, though they were similar to the ones on Earth, their efficacy were triple. Hence, it was not surprising that the lion was cured in merely a few hours. Little does Chalice know, the crude medicinal pulps she had made today paved the way to a revolutionary medicine which would later save a lot of important people in her life. But that''s a story for another time.

    Chalice stared at the beast who had just licked her. Obviously the lion was a male, female lions do not have manes. It licked her again this time in the face, while it growled lightly. Chalice was baffled, it seems that the big guy acknowledges her. As to what degree of affinity, she did not know and did not care. She was already glad that it did not treat her as food. She chose not to ponder on it anymore, and stood up instead to find something to eat. She was famished. The last thing she ate were the pastries Luke handed her in the carriage, which was already hours ago.

    "God, I''m hungry. Hopefully, there are some edible fruits here. Even berries would be great."

    She was about to walk away when the lion abruptly circled to her back and nudged her in a certain direction.

    "Hey, what is it? Where do you want me to go?"

    She muttered. The lion continued to poke her back lightly, as if knowing that she would not withstand its full strength. Chalice followed the direction it was pushing her to.

    After a bit of walking, with the lion still at her back, Chalice arrived in an area where bushes of berries were growing sporadically. Her eyes glowed with joy. She could finally eat!

    Chalice turned to the animal behind her and bravely patted its head, or more like the tip of its nose. She couldn''t really reach its forehead. Surprisingly, the lion did not react harshly and instead Chalice noticed its tail swished a bit jubilantly.

    "Thank you for taking me here." She said softly and smiled.

    The lion sat down near a bush while she went to fill up her pouch with berries. Afterwards she slumped down near the lion and ate in silence. Chalice observed the animal discreetly, especially the features that set it off from others of its kind. Specifically, the ones she was familiar with. Aside from the its mane, which by the way were like golden silk threads, there was this mark on its forehead. It was in the shape of a tribal sun with flares reaching up to its ears. Or at least that''s what it reminded her of. She had seen a tattoo similar to it back on Earth. The silvery sheen of the mark highly contrasted to its golden honey colored fur.

    Chalice was fascinated with it. Coupled with the docility it was showing her, she was liking this kitty more and more. She secretly wished that she could take it home.

    After staving off her hunger, Chalice thought she ought to go out already. Hopefully, she''d only wait for a few more hours for the fog to dissipate. It would be bad news if she got left behind. Though she was pretty sure Luke wouldn''t allow that.

    However just as she was standing up, her leg cramped painfully. She doubled over and was unable to retain her balance. Chalice knew her face was destined for ruin if she did not buffer her fall. Thus she instinctively held her palms up the ground as a cushion. Unfortunately, Chalice overlooked a sharp stone and it was exactly where her hand landed.

    Wet, and sticky blood flowed from the ugly gash now present in her palm. Chalice hissed loudly and gritted her teeth hard. The damn wound hurt like the hounds of hell. She was glad she was conscientious enough to leave some herbs for her own use.

    Chalice crushed some and was about to pour the juice to her wound. But she even before she could do so, the kitty she had ignored because of the pain continuously licked the blood off her wound. Chalice stiffened, fearing the worst. Nonetheless, all her worries were baseless. She was even surprised because after the big kitty licked her wound it stopped bleeding. Still she poured the medicinal juice in it. It was better to be safe. She can''t risk her hand to be scarred or worse infected.

    After putting it in a bandage with what''s left of her sleeves, Chalice stood up and patted the lion again with her good hand. The lion just licked her again as response.

    "I''m leaving now. You should take care of yourself and not get injured again, alright?" She reminded the big cat with a smile.

    But similar to what happened a while ago, the lion nudged her again in a direction. Chalice wanter to turn away but on second thought she might as well check out what the lion wanted her to see. She still had time to kill anyway.

    The lion led Chalice to where shallow streams converged in one direction. There were also boulders by the side. It was quite a pretty sight. She still looking around and wondering what the lion wanted her to see when Chalice saw it walked towards a boulder. She saw it swiped a piece of rock with its claws.

    She gulped at that sight, for the nth time Chalice was glad the kitty did not deem her an enemy. Those claws could cut her in half before she could even blink.

    The sight that followed almost made Chalice laugh. The lion rolled the piece of rock towards her like a ball of yarn. But when she inspected it closely, Chalice was stupefied.

    Jade! That was Imperial Jade!

    Though the rock exterior was still present, the side where the lion''s claw cut it gleamed at her teasingly. Chalice had a degree in mineralogy and was an expert in gems and precious stones. She had seen quite a few roughly cut Imperial Jade before. Most not even amounting to a tennis ball. But this was even bigger than that. Her kitty practically delivered her a treasure.

 20 A Perfect Case of Fortune Favoring the Brave

    Chalice did her best to restrain herself from shrieking out loud. Aside from it being extremely unladylike, it might even scare her precious kitty who have just led her to a bottomless treasure chest. However, despite her best efforts she still couldn''t contain herself and ended up pouncing on the lion and hugging its uninjured limb. Talk about a non-existent self-restraint.

    She immediately let go after realizing what she had done. Her heart pounding in her ears in fear. Nonetheless, the lion was complacent about it which made here breathe out in relief. Chalice inspected the slab of rock the lion presented to her. She was even more sure now that it was jade, and it was the glass type even. The bright translucence it was giving off and the rich, uniform green color signified that it was of the highest of class.

    One must know that Imperial Jade is the rarest type and the best specimen may cost more per carat than high-quality diamonds. On Earth, jade deposits have become scarcer than ever. The one in front of her presented an undeniable possibility. Chalice was in standing in a jade vein. An untouched mine of high quality jadeite.

    A boiling rush of excitement coursed through her. This world did not know of jade, she was sure of that. Even the Amaranth House especializing in gems and precious stones did not know what it was. Basically, in this world it was an untouched fountain of wealth. Having a jade mine could take her ducal house to unprecedented heights.

    ''Okay, Chalice. Be sensible and stop getting ahead of yourself. Remember an innocent man treasuring a jade becomes a criminal. Though in this case, it is literally jade and I''m far from being poor. But the principles apply nonetheless, I can''t take this lightly.''

    Chalice firmly comply with the laws of power. And the very first is that one must never outshine the master. In the entire Idalia, only the royal family exceeded House Amaranth. Her discovery of this jade mine puts them right under the sword of Damocles*. The added wealth would place Amaranth on par with the royal family, which would also automatically shoot them up at first place in the emperor''s suspicious people list. That does not paint a pretty picture.

    ''Ugh, politics sure is troublesome.''

    Then an idea abruptly flashed in Chalice cunning mind. She smiled wickedly while eyeing the rough jade in front of her. A plan had brewed and assembled itself in her brain.

    Upon reaching an epiphany, Chalice tried to lift up the jade rock. Her plan relied on her taking the rock back to Luke. But the slab was too big for her to carry. She sighed loudly and circled the rock while trying to find a solution.

    Perhaps feeling her quandary, the lion who was watching Chalice by the side pushed her lightly to a corner. After which it once again cut the rock cleanly into a smaller piece with its claws. How it did that she didn''t want to know.

    She happily skipped back to where the lion was and took a fist-sized piece of the jadeite. Chalice looked at the lion with eyes glowing happily.

    "Thank you again, big guy. You''ve given me such a huge gift. I''ll be taking this. We need to go on our seperate ways now."

    Chalice heard a soft whine from the animal. She just smiled at it and walked towards where she came from, whistling while playing the jade rock in her good hand. She thought of how her situation became a perfect example of fortune favoring the brave. If she didn''t courageously help the lion, she might not have found the mine and instead directly go back empty-handed.

    When Chalice reached the entrance of the outer cave, she abruptly stopped. However, she almost stumbled out after a huge force shoved her from behind. She turned around almost instantaneously and was dumbfounded to see the big kitty who had followed her.

    She frowned unable to figure out what''s up with the kitty.

    "Why are you following me?"

    Chalice asked. Much to her surprise, the lion suddenly bowed down to her. Her jaw fell open wide in shock. She wouldn''t doubt if an egg would be able to fit in it.

    "Y-y-you want me to be your master?"

    The lion stood up and licked her face as an answer. Chalice was petrified in disbelief. The poor, innocent kitty had just given her a dilemma. She will be inspecting the fief incognito. Having a huge lion following her around as pet does not exactly conform to that word. She sighed. Still, her conscience couldn''t bear to leave the beast all alone in that cave. And thus she conceded.

    In the future, Chalice would think of how she made the right decision taking in the big kitty. For it had become her protection and savior, allowing her to escape what should have been the greatest calamity of her life.

    "Alright. If you''re going with me then I can''t possibly call you big guy all the time. Hmm. Aslan. I''ll call you Aslan. Would that be alright?"

    Aslan growled and swished his tail happily which made Chalice chuckle.

    "Now, Aslan, the fog has thinned down. Seems like it''s already dawn. We should get going. My squad is surely frantic by now. Wonder how they are coping up? Do you know the way out of here?"

    Aslan replied with a faint growl. Chalice smiled and was about to walk when she saw him bend down on all fours and turned his big head to her then to his back.

    "You want me to ride on your back?"

    She asked incredulously. A growl sounded out. Chalice took that as an agreement and promptly propelled herself up in Aslan''s back. She couldn''t help but marvel on how silky and smooth Aslan''s golden mane is. She held tight on his neck as the lion started running forward. Chalice chose to trust the big kitty. She knows he understood that she wanted to go out of Cloud Forest. It was also a good thing for her since she could save her energy by riding on him.

    As they passed by the trees in a blur, Chalice inwardly took note of the necessity to plug her ears a few seconds after Aslan runs. Because if she doesn''t she''ll turn deaf. Why do think she said this? Well, obviously because about 15 seconds after they had taken off, Aslan let out a roar that reverberated in the entire forest. Her, being in proximity bore the brunt of the impact. Chalice was surprised that she did not fall off after that.

    They rode fast for a good 20 minutes. Though after a while, Chalice asked Aslan to slow down to leisurely pace because she was starting to get dizzy.

    The lady and lion tandem had just entered a small clearing when Chalice heard a girl''s shrill call for help.

 21 Hero Saving the Beauty is so Archaic

    Aslan''s ears perked up upon hearing the scream, while Chalice straightened up alertly. She commanded Aslan to stop and stay still at a nearby tree to wait for her. Chalice then leaped through the trees without a sound and stealthily blended herself in the greenery. She inched closer to the source of commotion.

    Anyone seeing Chalice right now would exclaim in wonder. Her dress shirt had long lost its sleeves revealing her porcelain shoulders and fair arms. Her slim waist was emphasized by the tight sash of her trousers. Ebony waves put up in a messy pony by a strip of cloth fluttered lightly in the air framing her exquisite face, though smeared with dust was still undeniably breath-taking.

    Chalice was the definition of beauty. And this very beauty was on her way to save another. She scouted the clearing and saw a young girl, around 14 of age with her hands bound up. Her robes were partially opened revealing the white skin underneath. Her phoenix eyes were brimming with tears which she obviously was trying hard to rein in. Her cute nose and thin lips added to the delicateness of her being.

    The girl reminded Chalice of a Chinese teenager with her face and style of dress. However, her admiration was cut short when she saw a buff guy with scars across the cheek manhandling the girl.

    Chalice roamed her eyes around, assessing her enemies. There was five of them. The other four men were either drinking or eating what seemed like beef jerky. She surmised that they were on a short break. Chalice narrowed her eyes. These people were resting after a successful kidnapping.

    Chalice noticed that the fog around this part of Cloud Forest was thinner than it was where she came from. Aside from that, the sun was about to rise which had made the place a lot clearer.

    It was evident that these people did their operation a few hours ago. Dawn is when people are in their deepest sleep and their guards at the lowest. These hooligans made use of that fact. Chalice wondered who the girl could be. Her question was answered when a man with an eye patch on his right eye spoke.

    "Hey, Duff leave the girl alone. We''ll benefit a lot more if she''s untainted."

    The eye-patch guy commanded. Looks like he was the leader. The man named Duff stopped his manhandling reluctantly before turning to the eyepatch guy.

    "If you say so boss. But I didn''t expect the Keyne tribe have such a beauty among them. She''ll fetch a high price that I''m sure."

    Chalice frowned as she continued to listen to the conversation of the men. She figured that they were kidnappers and at the same time slavetraders. Chalice was enraged. She couldn''t process that her territory was infested with these scum. It must said that Chalice had a strong sense of justice, courtesy of her past life''s parents. She treaded the dark path in order to eliminate the darkness of society within.

    That part of her was retained and was magnified even more when she was transmigrated in a feudalistic world like this. Chalice wouldn''t let anyone of these rats live on.

    She gritted her teeth and calculated whether she could take on this group or not. She needed to save the girl and get rid of these trash lest they corrupt her precious fief further. Chalice went down to where Aslan was.

    She pressed her mouth near the lion and asked him to bend again so she could sit on his back. After which she asked the lion to go directly to the clearing.

    What followed was a scene which dazed the men and even the girl. A beautiful woman languidly sitting down at the back of a lion, a bewitching smile on her vermillion lips. Her enchanting emerald eyes roamed around the men and lastly fell onto the girl being held down.

    The people was roused from their stupor when the woman''s sultry voice resounded.

    "What do we have here? A bunch of full grown men messing around with little girl. How pitiful. How hateful."

    The woman''s lazy eyes indistinctly sharpened as she locked her gaze unto the opened robe of the girl. The men felt shivers down their spines as they met her eyes. It was cold and indiferrent. She looked at them as if they were insignificant weeds beneath her shoes.

    The leader unconsciously gulped, his face turning pale as a ghost. Danger. The woman was the epitome of danger. Though she did not emit any killing intent, the blank indiferrence of her eyes made it seem as if he was staring at the abyss. Years of experience made him a good judge of people. And this woman was anything but simple. Most of all, the lion she was riding was no ordinary beast. Only a few people were aware of the existence of royal beasts, the overlords of jungles whose intelligence were on par if not more than human. He was only one of those more fortunate ones who have heard about it.

    But before he could prevent his people form offending this seemingly simple woman, it was too late. Duff snickered and had ultimately sealed their doom with his words.

    "Hey boss, it''s another beauty. She''s even better than the other one. She also has a lion. We''ve struck it rich boss."

    The woman''s smile became wider. She beamed at them looking all innocent.

    "My apologies, sadly I''m not here to join the fun. I''m here to save the little girl."

    The leader was about to talk but yet again he was cut off by his pig-headed teammate. Not one of them noticed that he was almost about to break down.

    "Heh. What are you playing at girl? The hero rescuing the beauty? Too bad you''re no hero."

    Duff the Buff guy laughed mockingly as he said this. In return, the woman sneered.

    "Please, the hero saving the beauty is sooo archaic. Let''s be more revolutionary, shall we? Oh, my bad, I forgot you don''t possess the intelligence required to think that way."

    If it were not for the poisonous words spewing from the woman''s tongue, the men would have been enchanted all the way by her. But her insults instead infuriated them.

    The leader this time rushed to intervene before his companions make the situation unsalvageable. If that happens, none of them would escape here alive.

    "Damn it, Duff. Enough. Are you the one in command? You''re going to get us all killed."

    He shouted to his stupid teammate. The woman''s brow raised up.

    "Oh? It looks like there is one who still have some semblance of common sense from the lot of you."

 22 The Young Miss of the Keyne Tribe

    The leader ignored the taunting tone of the woman and promptly bowed in abeisance to her.

    "This lady, pardon my companion. He didn''t mean... didn''t mean to be disrepectful. If her ladyship has uses for the girl, we''ll hand her to you. In return, please let us all go."

    The woman still had that lingering trace of smile in her lips which made the emptiness in her eyes look even more sinister. The leader''s back was already drenched in cold sweat as seconds ticked by with the woman remaining silent.

    "Boss, what do you mean give her the girl? What about-"

    The leader shouted at Duff who still insists on being pig-headed.

    "Shut up! If you want to die, don''t drag us in with you."

    A soft yet ominous chuckle floated out in their ears.

    "Hmm. Alright. Give me the girl then."

    The leader sighed in relief as he heard the woman agree to his condition. He immediately went to get the girl and dragged her nearer to the woman. He was overcame with fear that he failed to see the mocking glint which fleetingly passed the woman''s eyes.

    The woman went down from the back of her lion, and stood beside it with one hand on her waist while she blew on the nails of the other.

    The other men could not do anything but watch their leader give the girl they worked so hard to capture to the unknown woman. They could not comprehend the reason why their captain was afraid of her. But they couldn''t do anything but trust his judgement and endure the bitter taste it left in their mouths.

    Similar to the other men, Chalice could not make out the reasoning of the eye-patch guy. She just shrugged it off and contributed it to him being scared of Aslan.

    Eye-patch guy threw the girl roughly in her direction. Chalice promptly caught her before she even touched the ground. She moved the still dazed girl behind her. Taking the last strip of cloth she had left, she blindfolded the girl. Chalice will not allow her to see the gruesome deed she was about to commit.

    "I have given you the girl, my lady. We''ll depart from here now."

    Urgency was evident in the leader''s voice and it did not escape Chalice''s ears as well. She smirked inwardly.

    "Wait."

    Her voice reverberated in the clearing.

    "Did I say you could leave?"

    Eye-patch guy''s exposed eye almost bulged out at her words. The others frowned.

    "B-but you clearly said..."

    Chalice smiled innocently.

    "What did I say? I did ask you to give me the girl. But I didn''t say I would let you go. Besides, who gave the right to negotiate with me?"

    Chalice tilted her head to the while eyeing the men. A layer of frost laced her every word.

    "You...you."

    Duff the buff and pigheaded teammate of Eye-patch guy lost it. Without a word he ran towards Chalice, his sword aiming for her throat.

    Chalice stood there cool and uncaring. A golden shadow wheezed at her side and met the oncoming attack.

    The next thing she and the other men saw was the decapitated body of Duff the buff, three long grisly lines spurted blood non stop. His head rolled to the side, almost sliced into three bearing the same lines as that in his body. Silence pervaded the clearing as the coppery stench of blood wafted in the air.

    The men stood petrified in their places. Eye-patch guy fell down to his knees, his intestines had long turned green with regret.

    "I''ll be merciful. Since all of you did not attack me nor slander me, I''d give you the honor of not meeting the same fate as him. It''s either this or you take your lives by yourself."

    The sweet smile in her face gave the men the illusion of a demoness. Her devastating countenance only added to the despair they felt.

    The first one to move was the leader. His hope of escaping alive had vanished when Duff made his move. He breathed in deep before slicing his own head. The three men left had long pissed their pants. And when Chalice''s eyes landed on them, they trembled. With much difficulty and angst, they followed suit and sliced their own necks.

    Chalice looked at the corpses littered in front of her. Seems like darkness has a way of catching up no matter where she went. She reined in the baleful aura she knew she was emitting and walked slowly to the girl.

    "They''re gone. You''re safe now. However, keep the blindfold on for now. I''ll lead out of here. "

    Chalice gently said, trying to comfort the girl as much as she could.

    "Thank you, my lady."

    She heard the girl''s lilting voice. Chalice couldn''t help but sigh quietly. She led the girl out of the clearing, away from the nightmare and into the shelter of the tall trees. When they reached an acceptable distance away, Chalice removed the girl''s blindfold. Watery hazel eyes looked up at her.

    "Thank you. Thank you so much for saving me." The girl repeated fervently. Chalice nodded at her sincerity.

    "It was nothing. It''s the least I could do. What is your name, by the way? Where are you from?"

    Chalice asked. She was secretly hoping that the girl was from Araceli City so that they could travel together. Having a guide won''t hurt. She can''t possibly just wait for her team to find her. Chalice might as well meet them at the city. They would surely wait for her there.

    "I am Feng Mian, my lady. Feng is my surname and Mian is my given name. I am the daughter of the Keyne Tribe Chief. Our stronghold is just past the Cloud Forest."

    Truly like a Chinese! Chalice exclaimed.

    "You have a strange name. Pardon me, it is only now that I have heard about the Keyne tribe. I''m not really from around here. I just got separated from my companions in the fog."

    The girl beamed at her, her eyes looking at her with both understanding and admiration.

    "Our roots are not from here, my lady. Our ancestors are from Eashen, beyond the eastern Aegean sea. My clan moved here just after the fall of the Bahamutian empire. It is understandable that you have yet to hear about us. Especially if you''re are from the parts near the capital."

    Chalice assented. She couldn''t help but somehow be thankful she got lost. She had obtained a lot of things on this brief interlude.

    "If my lady is okay with, our stronghold is only 20 miles east from here. My father would surely want to thank you as well. You are our benefector. You could also rest there beforw you continue your journey. If it is not too much to ask, where are you going my lady?"

    "I''m bound for Araceli City. Before that my team was supposed to make a stop at the gemstone mine of the Amaranth House. My companion was supposed to visit his brother working there."

    Chalice didn''t want to lie to the girl. But she also couldn''t divulge her identity. She was after all incognito.

    "Oh, then it is only fitting for us to go to the stronghold. The Amaranth mine is only around 100 miles south of there."

    "Alright then. We''ll ride Aslan. You lead the way."

    When Feng Mian heard her mention Aslan, the girl reluctantly looked up at the lion following her back. Reluctance was in her face.

    "Oh, don''t worry. He won''t attack you. He listens to me."

    She clarified. Though still a bit hesitant, Feng Mian conceded. And thus they rode the lion aiming for the Keyne stronghold.

 23 Rewarded with Wealth... and then More Wealth 1

    Keyne Stronghold.

    Feng Jin paced around worriedly. His daughter had been abducted despite the security of their stronghold. It has been a big blow on him and a question to his abilities as chief. What shame it was, he could not even ensure his own daughter''s protection. Feng Jin sighed. It seems they have been too relaxed these years.

    The Keyne Stronghold had been established by his grandfather. Their clan originated from the Eashen Continent, past the great Aegean Sea. Because of their unfortunate decline in Eashen, his family migrated here just after the great revolt.

    They were originally a tribe of warriors and merchants. Hence, their choice of land naturally leaned to the mountains of Nephele. The Keyne stronghold was established and had continuously prospered through the years.

    The Keynes were known for their Eashen medicine, unique craftmanship and smithing, and also their unusual fur tanning. Their warriors are also quite proficient in ferocious martial arts contrary to Idalia''s combat arts. These things made them well-known in Araceli City of the Amaranthian fief. Very few try to cross them. The abduction of Feng Mian has rudely reminded them of their complacency.

    "Chief! It''s the Young Miss! She has been found."

    Feng Jin abruptly stopped his pacing and turned to the boy who shouted frantically.

    "Is that true? Where is she? Is she alright?

    He fired off his questions rapidly while unconsciously shaking the poor boy''s shoulders.

    "Chief, calm down. Young Miss is unharmed. She''s at the Great Hall. However, she has companions though."

    While saying this, the boy''s expression turned strange and his complexion paled a little. Feng Jin frowned. Companions? Are they perhaps Feng Mian''s savior?

    "Companions?" He asked with suspicion.

    "It would be better if you come see yourself, Chief."The boy replied and they proceeded to walk to the Great Hall.

    The Keyne''s Great Hall was reminiscent of a small throne room. This is where the elders and officials of their tribe gathers. It is also where banquets and festivities of the tribe are held.

    As Feng Jin went past the doors, he saw his daughter sitting at chair. Despite her unshevelled appearance, Feng Jin surmised that she was relatively free of injuries. What caught his attention more is the woman beside Feng Mian.

    Her hair was darker than ebony. Her features undeniably beautiful. It was even more magnified by her startlingly brilliant emerald eyes. Eyes that he was quite familiar with.

    Feng Jin''s brows furrowed. Why was a descendant of the Amaranth Duke here? Direct descendants of House Amaranth has a particular distinguishing trait. That was their emerald eyes.

    Being a tribal chief in the Amaranthian territory, Feng Jin is equivalent to a City Lord. It was necessary for him to know the notable people, their characters, and of course, their families and lineage. The first on that list is the Lord of their fief. As far as Feng Jin knows the current generation has only one heir. That was the only daughter of Duke Alaric. What was she doing in the Nephele Mountains?

    Before Feng Jin could ponder more about it, his daughter has noticed his arrival.

    "Father!"

    Feng Mian approached him with a wide smile. He embraced her gently. Relief finally washing over him for real.

    "Mian er, you''re home. You''re fine."

    The girl smiled sweetly at him as she broke away from his arms. She approached the woman with her.

    "Father, this person is the one who saved me."

    ---

    Chalice stood up to meet the Tribal Chief of the Keyne Stronghold. She did a slight bow and studied the man discreetly.

    According to the girl Feng Mian, her father''s name was Feng Jin. Chalice thought that he was a perfect example of a tribal warrior. He was tall and quite muscular. His stern face was imposing in it''s own ways. She could see a little bit of resemblance between the father and daughter.

    Feng Jin''s aura was reminiscent of a general. Chalice has to hand it to the old guy, his presence itself commanded respect. She knew without a doubt that he was powerful. It amazed her that someone actually dared abduct this man''s daughter. And also Chalice couldn''t help but pray for the tragic fate of whoever becomes his future son-in-law.

    "Greetings, my name is Alice. It is an honor to meet the Chief of the Keyne tribe."

    Chalice noted the strange glint that passed through the man''s eyes. It seems he really was not a simple person.

    Feng Jin cupped his fist and dipped a bow at her. Chalice figured it was one of their customs. She can now thoroughly confirm that they were more or less similar to the Chinese.

    "Please forego the formalities, Miss Alice. You my greatest of gratitude. You have saved my daughter''s life and for that we are indebted to you."

    Chalice smiled at him, pleased at how polite he was. She had noticed it as they entered the stronghold. The Keyne people were a corteous bunch. They were all so cute, and Chalice was awed at seeing their dresses. She almost thought she was transported to old Huaxia.

    "Oh, it was nothing. I was passing by and I can''t possibly dismiss my morality and let such a young girl be harmed."

    Feng Jin nodded at her. Though he did not smile Chalice felt that the man had considerably warmed up to her. This made her ecstatic. Befriending the Keyne''s would be beneficial to her plans.

    "Still, it is my daughter''s good fate to have encountered you Miss Alice. This debt of gratitude is something we must reciprocate."

    He said solemnly. The man then turned to his daughter and asked her to bring tea and snacks, to which the latter complied to immediately. However, Chalice was sure he did it so that he could talk to her in private. This conjecture of her was futher proven when Feng Jin dismissed the guards and other people within the Great Hall.

    "Hmm. It seems that Chief Jin has something to say to me. Please, do feel free."

    She reassured the man. He coughed for a bit before facing her, his gruff face was serious.

    "Pardon me, it is not my intention to pry but may I ask what is the descendant of Duke Amaranth doing in the Nephele Mountains?"

    Chalice half-smiled. She had expected for himto figure out who she was. And Feng Jin did not disappoint.

    "What gave me away, Chief Jin?"

    She asked with a mischievous grin, indirectly stalling in answering his prior question.

    "Your emerald eyes are distinctive to your lineage, my Lady."

    Chalice sighed at this. She knew it. Emerald eyes were unique to their House. To anyone with an understanding of the Amaranths, this is a dead giveaway.

    "I thought so. Well, it doesn''t really matter. After all, in this stronghold it is only you Chief Jin who is aware of this fact."

    She met his eyes before she continued. Telling him her purpose wouldn''t really hinder her.

    "I am actually incognito as of the moment. Hence, the alias. I''m on a trip to inspect the key cities of the territory. We took a shortcut to Cloud Forest because I also needed to check up on the gemstone mines. However, due to some mishaps I got seperated with my retainers and stumbled upon your daughter."

    Chalice explained to him, her tone nonchalant. Feng Jin nodded in understanding.

    "I see. That is why. Thank you for the enlightenment."

    She waved her hand signifying that it was nothing. Chalice then turned to him, her demeanor changing from languidness to an earnest one.

    "Chief Jin has said that you are willing to reciprocate my saving your daughter. There is indeed something that I require your assistance to."

    Chalice said slowly. Feng Jin signalled for her to continue. With that, Chalice took out the piece of the rough jade and slowly set it for him to see.

    It did not take a long while before the Feng Jin''s eyes widened, his face incredulous as he held the rock in his hands.

 24 Rewarded with Wealth... and then More Wealth 2

    "Jade!"

    Shock was an understatement to Feng Jin''s expression. Chalice chuckled. She had anticipated for him to know about jade. He was wearing one, after all. But Chalice did not expect him to be this surprised. His flabbergasted face amused her. She was also glad that the Keyne tribe knew about jade. It solved the problem of her looking for people to craft it.

    "Yes. It is jade." She confirmed.

    "H-How? How come you have such a big piece of Jade, my Lady? And it''s even Imperial Jade at that? We have stayed here in Amaranth for decades. But I have never encountered any jade vein."

    Feng Jin asked. Excitement dripped from his voice.

    "I stumbled upon it coincidentally."

    Chalice curtly replied. Having figured that she did not want to explain, Feng Jin returned to admiring the piece of treasure in his hands. Then after a while, he realized something.

    "My lady, jade is relatively unknown in this continent. How come you know about it?"

    He asked curiously. Chalice smiled mysteriously at him and indicated that she do not want to answer this as well. This cemented Feng Jin''s belief that this descendant of Duke Amaranth is not how people make her out to be.

    "How I came to know about it doesn''t matter, Chief Jin. What concerns me is whether you want to cooperate with me on this endeavor? I am aware of the superb craftmanship of your tribe. Your jade pendant is evidence of that."

    Feng Jin sat up straight. His face carried a serious hint. If his guess was right, Chalice''s offer for cooperation involved the trade for Jade ornaments and jewelries. This was a lucrative offer for him, indeed.

    "And what are the conditions of this cooperation, my lady?"

    He asked carefully. If Chalice''s conditions are acceptable then he would agree to it in a heartbeat. Chalice smiled brightly at him, her countenance dazed Feng Jin for a moment.

    "Well, it''s simple actually. I would be the one to mine and supply you the jade. You will be in-charge of refining it into ornaments or jewelries. For the most part, you will be given the freedom with the designs. However, I want you to make some allowances for my own designs. I plan to auction those as limited edition pieces. Also, I will be paying appropriate wages to your craftsmen and allocate 15% of the profit from the auctioned pieces in the future. What do you say, Chief Jin?"

    After a short pause of contemplation, Feng Jin arrived at a decision.

    "Consider it a deal, my lady. Sigh. However, are you sure about this. I feel like we are taking advantage of your generosity. Your investment is greater than our effort into crafting the jade."

    Chalice shook her head. The truth was, her main goal was to foster the tribe''s reliance and trust in her. She knows that they are worthy allies and a great factor in the fief''s development. Compared to that, forsaking some monetary profit is not a bit of a sacrifice.

    "The prosperity of your tribe is the fortune of the Amaranthian territory. Though Chief Jin and the Keyne tribe comes from the Eashen continent, you are living in Amaranth. As the proxy Fief Lord, you are my people regardless."

    Feng Jin shuddered at the lady''s words. A light seems to radiate from her as she uttered them. That light sparked hope and belonging in him. Feng Jin cursed the people at the capital. What wayward? What brash? What man-chaser? The woman in front of him now exudes the essence of a ruler. Even the Duke of Amaranth has not acknowledged them this way.

    "Then, I must thank you again my lady. It is my tribe''s fortune to be in your grace. As a gesture of goodwill, there is something that I want to gift to you Lady Chalice."

    Chalice raised her brow. It can also be done this way, it seems. The law of reciprocity is applicable to these people. Chalice was glad, either way.

    "Oh, what is it Chief Jin?"

    Feng Jin took out a badge bearing a dragon circling a sun, as well as a piece of parchment paper.

    "This badge gives you the authority to call upon my tribes forces for three times. No matter what it is, the Sun Dragon Camp will aid you. And this paper is a land title. We have acquired a piece of land north from our stronghold, in the borders of the outer and middle areas of the Cloud forest. This land, I believe, will flourish more in your hands, my lady. It may be a vast barren land, but it''s true worth lies beneath."

    Chalice was elated. Having the Sun Dragon badge thoroughly accomplished her purpose. Now she even got a land out of it. She frowned for a while as she thought of Feng Jin''s meaning. Then gasp as she had realized it.

    "Could it be another gemstone mine?"

    She asked excitedly. Feng Jin shook his head, indicating she was wrong. Chalice furrowed her brows at the grim look on his face. Strange. What treasure could this barren land have to elicit such an expression from the Chief?

    "No, my lady. It is not a gemstone mine. It is an iron mine."

    Chalice was astonished. An iron mine! Though the times have been peaceful the past years, an iron mine was still a coveted possession. Especially by the imperial family.

    She could now understand the grim look of Feng Jin. The iron mine really was a treasure. However, whoever possessed it would be pushed under the empire''s suspicious eyes. Her discovery of the jade vein was nothing compared to how this iron mine would push her family even more under the sword of Damocles.

    Somehow, she felt cheated. Feng Jin acted all too glad to pass on this hot potato to her. But then again, this was fine by Chalice. She had a lot of ways to deal with it and whatever setback it will give. Besides, the benefits outweighs the risk by a margin. She only needs to bide her time in dealing with it.

    "Heh. You''ve given me such a generous reward there, Chief Jin. Nonetheless, many thanks. I will deal with it carefully."

    Chalice assured him as a devious smile colored her vermillion lips. She reaped a lot on her excursion at the Cloud Forest.

 25 The Princess Returns

    Chalice stayed for another day at the Keyne stronghold. She finalized her deal with Chief Jin and also took a much needed rest. She was also worried about aggravating Aslan''s injuries. Chalice rememebered the look on Chief Jin''s face when he saw the lion she brought with her.

    It was also then that Chalice found out that Aslan was a Royal Beast. She haven''t encountered anything about such beasts. Feng Jin told her that it was understandable for her not to know. Only a few people knew about such beast since they were rarer than rare. Not even history had a clear record about them. If not for an emperor in Eashen possessing one, Feng Jin would not have known about it.

    Feng Jin also told her that Royal Beasts were very particular in choosing a master. Sometimes they wouldn''t even choose at all. But if they do, they would serve that master alone until it died. Royal Beasts have a strange yet magical way of acknowledging masters. But as to how specifically, Feng Jin did not know. Chalice did not care as well, Aslan went with her and that was enough.

    Chalice prepared to leave immediately when morning of the next day arrived. She knew that her companions may have already gone crazy looking for her. They might even have reported to her father already. Though Chalice hoped that they did not resort to that yet.

    Feng Jin assigned a unit of the Sun Dragon warriors to escort her to their gemstone mine. Chalice hoped that her companions have the thought of having someone stay there and wait for her. If not, then she really was screwed.

    ---

    Meanwhile, the morning after Chalice got lost and with Luke who left to look for her the same night Levi and the other two of the Fief Inspection Squad set off for the gemstone mine. As directed by Luke, they will be waiting for them there.

    Without the princess, the three knights rode on full speed. They arrived at the mine that very day as well. Levi''s agitation and panic just started to escalate and lasted until the morning of the next day.

    He was tempted to send a missive to the duke but then decided against it. Levi was banking on Luke finding her. However, he was bound to be disappointed. Luke arrived on the third day alone, his whole being dark and brooding. Levi felt as if Luke was about to murder someone at any moment. His poor self tried to encourage and pacify the guy, while desperately praying for their mischievous princess to miraculously find her way to the gemstone mine. After all, they all decided to stop here and check out how the mine is doing.

    Luke decided to look for her again the very next day. Levi agreed and said that he would go with him. Little did they know that the princess they were looking for was on her way to them.

    ---

    Morning of the next day.

    Luke woke up early and started to pack up some essentials for camping. He was going to look for Chalice and he needed the supplies in case it took longer than expected. Luke did not want to fear the worst but he just couldn''t visualize Chalice being able to survive in the wilderness for more than a week. After all, Chalice grew up like a flower in a greenhouse. How will she know about surviving in the wild? Luke''s heart ached when he thought about how scared she might be.

    However, before he could even step out of the gates of the mine camp the officer- in- charge hurriedly called him out.

    "What''s the matter, Captain Carsein?"

    Luke asked when he saw the apprehensive look on the man.

    "Sir Luke, warriors of the Keyne tribe are here. They are seeking your audience."

    Luke frowned. He obviously knows about the Keyne tribe. But House Amaranth did not have dealings with them nor does Luke know them personally.

    "My audience?"

    Captain Carsein nodded gravely. He also knows about the Keyne tribe. He was aware of how ferocious their warriors are. Almost to the point of suicide. Those bunch were a groul of battle maniacs. Not to mention, their explosive and forceful martial arts tend to overpower the sleek style of Idalian battle arts.

    "Yes, sir Luke. They specifically named you. I say, sir have you offended them somehow? A whole unit of them is outside the mine camp."

    Luke was even more baffled at this information though his face remained placid. He did not answer Captain Carsein anymore and proceeded to meet the visitors.

    He was walking to the gates when Levi joined him with Rye and Ward in tow. It seems Captain Carsein also informed him about their guests.

    When they arrived outside, a burly man in a strange warrior garb stepped forward to meet them.

    "Who among you is the man called Luke?"

    The warriors gruff voice resounded, Luke stepped out to meet him.

    "That would be me. Who might you be, sir?"

    The warrior met his eyes and then cupped his fist while bowing. Luke was surprised but kept his cool, returning a small bow of his own.

    "My surname is Feng. First name is Yi. Third unit commander of the Sun Dragon Camp of the Keyne Stronghold."

    Luke furrowed his brows. What business could make such a higher up of the Keyne Stronghold go personally to the gemstone mine?

    Before he could even voice out his questions, a familiar, teasing voice called out to him.

    "Hey, Luke, Levi! Did you miss me?"

    Luke''s breath hitched as his eyes landed on the form of the woman who had driven him desperate with worry the past few days. She was wearing an unusual white robe with long, wide sleeves, embroidered with poppies at the skirt''s hem. It was topped with an outer garment that was thin and silky, it shimmered lightly at sunshine struck it. Chalice did not look like someone who just got lost in the forest a few days ago.

    Instead, she looked like she got back from a leisurely excursion. Her whole being was similar to that of a celestial. Luke sighed exasperatedly. He really doesn''t know how to deal with this woman.

    "The hell Princess! Where have you been? What happened to you? Do you know how worried we were? Really, how could you be this selfish? Luke even spent two nights and a day without rest or sleep looking for you at Cloud Forest. In the end, you were just lounging around at the Keyne Stronghold?"

    Luke coughed awkwardly as Levi rapidly fired his mouth at their mistress. He didn''t stop him because in all honesty, he bore the same sentiments.

    Chalice pouted at the both of them and crossed her arms to her chest.

    "Hey, it was not my intention to be lost alright. I didn''t mean to make you worry. I saw some herbs back then and I thought they''d be useful to us in the long run. Levi, you''re such a grouch. I did not lounge around in the Keyne tribe. Much. I also had difficulties, you know."

    Chalice spouted of her own tirade and even rolled her eyes at Levi. The people from the Keyne tribe were dumbfounded at the scene. They knew that the woman they were escorting was a notable persona. Anyone who could tame a huge lion like her could never be simple. Yet, the knight was scolding andbickering with her like it was nothing at all while the other man watched without care.

    When both sides reached a stalemate, Feng Yi took the chance to intervene and informed them that they will be going back to the Keyne tribe. It was Luke who answered them and gave them his thanks for escorting the lady back.

    After the Keyne warriors left, Levi walked out on Chalice which left her with him. Chalice looked at him, aggrieved.

    "Are you going to scold me too?"

    Luke heard her ask. He stared down at her. All the frustration, the worry, and anxiety vanished when he saw her. But then again, he couldn''t her mischief go this time. What happened was too dangerous, even if she returned safe this time.

    "No. I''m not gonna scold you. That''s Levi''s job. I am going to punish you, though."

    He said nonchalantly revealing no trace of the relief he was feeling and taking delight in the way her delicate lips widened in disbelief.

 26 Fief Inspection Continues

    Chalice stomped her feet as she made her way to the mine camp, all the while complaining in her heart. Why can''t these men understand that she didn''t mean to get lost? Do they take her for a weakling for them to worry that much?

    She stopped at that thought. Alright, it was valid for them to think of it that way. Chalice was a pampered brat. How was she supposed to know how to survive in the wild? She shrugged her shoulders. She would just attribute everything to instincts. She had no other way of explaining it anyway.

    However, her recovered spirits sulked again when she remembered how Levi scolded her. That midget is in for it. Daring to scold this young lady. Then Luke''s threat of a punishment echoed in her mind. It scared Chalice out of her wits. She whacked her brains out in guessing what her punishment could be. Luke isn''t going to starve her, right? Of all punishments, depriving her of Luke''s cooking was the worst she could think of.

    ''No! No! Luke couldn''t be that cruel. But on second thought... maybe he can.''

    Chalice cried in her heart. She steeled herself for the days of starvation to come. She felt Luke following closely behind her back. His usual distance five steps have now become three. She sighed at this. It seems like her squad turned crazily paranoid with the recent happening. Not that she could blame them. Suddenly, Chalice halted her steps. She had forgotten something.

    ''Aslan! Oh my god! Did I just leave Aslan behind? What if the men in this camp took him for a lost wild animal?!''

    Chalice berated herself while turning abruptly in the direction of the gate. Luke followed her without a word, watching her like a hawk. She rolled her eyes at him. When she reached outside, the poor, forgotten kitty was nowhere in sight. Chalice didn''t worry at this. On their journey, Aslan sometimes comes and goes. She figured he might be hunting for food, nonetheless he returns immediately after her call.

    "Aslan, come here."

    Chalice called on to her pet.

    Luke furrowed his brows at this.

    Who was Aslan?

    His question was answered when a huge feline scurried out from the dense trees. Luke wondered how the hell did it hide itself there without them noticing. Considering the sheer size of it, he would have sensed its presence immediately.

    The lion made its way to Chalice and stopped right in front of her. The latter rubbed the side of its massive head and then turned to him afterwards.

    "Erhm, Luke this is Aslan. He''s my pet."

    Luke felt as if he was hearing things. His lady seemed to have said that the humongous, wild, golden lion in front of them was her pet. He waited for her to say she was kidding but all he got was blank stare. Luke gulped. His lady just got lost for a few days and now she was back with an... unusual pet. Luke calmed the frustrations in his heart. Anything that his lady says, goes.

    "My lady, you do realize that your...your pet is a lion? And a huge one at that?"

    Luke asked Chalice tentatively.

    Chalice beamed at him. Affectionately leaning on one of Aslan''s feet. She wiggled her pointer finger at Luke. Her expression can only be described as cute.

    "Oh no! Aslan is no ordinary lion. He''s a royal beast. And somehow by a stroke of luck, he seem to acknowledge me as his master."

    Luke stiffened at her words. She pursed her lips at this and waited for him to speak.

    "My lady, do you realize the implications of possessing a royal beast? Where in the world did you even find him?"

    Chalice sighed at his questions. Everything was coincidental, alright. She didn''t plan anything. Originally, she was going to leave Aslan behind. After all, they were on an inspection trip. Having him around would call for unnecessary attention. But as circumstances would have it, Aslan was the one who chose to follow her. Does he expect her to leave such a cutie behind?

    "I have an inkling of what you''re worried about, Luke. As for how I found him, it''s better that we talk inside. There are certain things that I need to inform you."

    Chalice said seriously. Her previous playful demeanor gone. Luke caught on to it and nodded solemnly. They made way inside the mine camp in silence. The strange and scary sight of two people and a lion walking around in camp gave the miners a start. For those uninformed lot, they wondered who their visitors are. How come the captain was too indulging of them?

    ---

    Chalice and Luke arrived in a moderately-sized house in the inner section of the mine camp. She asked Luke to inform the officer-in-charge, Captain Carsein about Aslan. They can''t have the workers panicking and end up hurting the poor kitty, after all.

    After ensuring that Aslan was settled, Chalice went inside the house and flopped herself unceremoniously in a consort chair. Luke frowned at her but did not say anything.

    She stared at Luke, a pensive expression in her face.

    "We''ll be having difficult times ahead, Luke."

    Chalice said after a long while, her eyes never leaving his handsome face. She wanted to take note of every change in his expression. But she was doomed to be disappointed. Luke maintained a poker face.

    ''Ah, his expressions are lot more adorable when I tease him.''

    She internally grumbled. Luke met her stare. Blue clashing with emerald. If people saw their interaction at the moment, they would surely blush. After all, it was as if they were exchanging amorous glances at the moment. Luke waited for her to continue, which she gladly obliged.

    "When I got lost in Cloud Forest, I stayed in a cave. I''m guessing it was in between the outskirts of the middle area of the forest. That cave was an isolated terrarium, Luke. I found Aslan there. He was injured, and I treated it. Aslan led me to the inner area of the cave. I found a treasure there."

    Chalice started, a half-smile lingering in her lips. Luke frowned.

    "A treasure, my lady?"

    She nodded gravely. Chalice would have shown the piece of rough jade she took, however she thought better and left it with Feng Jin to be refined.

    "Do you know what jade is, Luke?"

    Luke nodded though there was a hint of confusion in his eyes. Could it be that the treasure his lady was referring was Jade?

    "I do, my lady. I''ve seen some on the Keyne people. It is quite a unique gem. It is also said that this jade has a lot of benefits."

    "That''s right. The Keyne people who originated from the Eashen continent are very familiar with jade. However, jade is not known in our continent. Well, it is to be expected since no one has ever found a jade mine anywhere here... until now. You see, Luke, I found a huge jade mine there. I took a piece with me but I left it with the Keyne tribe Chief to be made into a jewelry. If you''re going to ask how I got to the Keyne stronghold, well, I accidentally saved their young miss and she took me back there with her."

    Chalice reiterated her discovery. Luke showed surprise but it was too quick that it seemed imaginary. He felt that Chalice omitted a lot from her narrative. However, he didn''t want to force her into telling him.

    "What do you plan with the jade mine then, my lady?"

    He asked afterwards. Luke found it bizarre when Chalice heaved a troubled sigh with his question.

    "I''ve already dealt with the jade mine, Luke. I obtained the cooperation of the Keyne Chief. It''s a partnership. What troubles me is the gift he gave as goodwill. The authority badge is one thing. But the bigger concern is the land title of the iron mine in their jurisdiction."

    Luke stilled. An iron mine?! Such a gift was both extravagant and dangerous. It would catapult Chalice and the Amaranth House into the landmine that is the Imperial family. Luke clenched his fist. They must tread carefully regarding this matter.

    "That is troublesome, my lady. How would you deal with it?"

    Chalice smiled languidly, her eyes retained nonchalance.

    "I''ve already thought of a few countermeasures. Although it would be better if you could help strategize. For now, let''s focus on what is at hand. We need to continue the fief inspection. What''s our next itenerary?"

    Luke sighed and crossed his arms. It was wise to put the issue on hold for now.

    "Our next stop would be the port city of Amaranth, my Lady."

 27 Tied Up... Arriving at Wyndham City

    The breeze in Wyndham city was tinged with the salty taste of the sea. Chalice breathed it all in deeply. It felt a lifetime ago since she had been anywhere near the sea. Oh, wait... It really was a lifetime ago.

    "My lady, we''re about enter the city premises. Please tell your massive feline to make a detour and wait for us at Zeru Mountains. We don''t want the situation at Araceli City to repeat itself, don''t we?"

    Luke''s irritatingly attractive voice sounded near Chalice''s ear. She was so bummed that she abruptly turned her head intending to scold him good. But then... she found herself inches away from his face.

    Chalice mentally shouted stream after stream of profanities. What the hell is this guy doing?! Why is his insanely handsome face so near to hers, that she could even breathe in his deliciously tempting minty chocolate scent?! She forcibly maintained her glum expression. In order to maintain her fragile self-control, Chalice covered that sinful face with her free hand, ignoring the smooth, tingling sensation in her palms when it touched his lips.

    Yes. Free hand. Because a certain guy with his evildoer face thought that tying her to him was a freaktastic idea that will prevent her from wandering off on her own again. Chalice almost blew her top when she found out Luke''s punishment for her. She remembered their argument before they set off to Araceli City.

    ...

    "Are you serious?! Luke, who does that to their mistress? Despite that silk being soft and all, it would be so strange walking to town with our hands tied up with each other. What would people think? Have you forgotten that I''m a lady? As my most trusted companion, aren''t you the least bit concerned of my reputation?"

    Chalice ranted off nonstop. Luke gazed at her blankly, his face leaving no room for discussion.

    "Levi, are you really going along with this?!"

    She turned to the knight slouching by the side with an amused expression. He merely shrugged at her plea for help. Chalice fumed. This knight is taking pleasure in her misfortune. She won''t forget this slight, Chalice told herself. Noting in her mind how she''ll punish Levi, this insubordinate knight later on. As for Luke, teasing him to death would be just fine.

    "If my mistress had been conscientious enough the previous time, this subject would not have been forced to do this. Therefore my lady, be good. Stop struggling and let me tie you up properly."

    Luke''s calm reply roused her attention. He said it in a way quite overbearing that the 21st century woman in Chalice was thinking all sorts suggestive themes. She mentally swatted away the image of a red room in her mind. Such a dangerous thought. She almost clawed of her cheeks. Ungrateful cheeks! Reddening without her permission. It was a good thing that Luke was concentrating on the binds at her wrist. And merely associated her silence with anger. She was so embarrassed, she could kill.

    Luke''s vigilance around her reached absurdity when an incident involving Aslan occured. Wild animals as pets were pretty common in Araceli City, with it being at the foot of a mountain range.Thus, Chalice thought it was safe to have Aslan roaming around with them in the streets like those typical wild animal pets. However, that was merely her own wishful thoughts.

    Aslan was too massive to be even considered common. Commotion broke out in the city and if she wasn''t tied up to Luke, she would have been lost in the stampede. This had solidified Luke''s justification of her punishment and cemented her coming days of no freedom.

    ...

    Luckily they had nothing important to inspect in Araceli. They just sent Rye and Ward to check out the city''s status and gather intel. Nevertheless, Luke retained his paranoia..

    erm... protectiveness.

    Chalice was even half-expecting him to sleep with her in the same room. He was being that irrational. Not that she could blame him though. It was good he still had enough sense of awareness not to do that. Although, when they took to the outside Luke pitched his tent right next to hers.

    Despite his helicopter- parent tendencies, Chalice was actually a bit flattered with the attention. Even Levi was acting like mother hen to a chick. She didn''t know whether to laugh or cry at this.

    "I get it, okay? I know what I got to do. Stop with all the nagging. If you get any more closer, I''ll freaking kiss you."

    Chalice retorted back at him with tease. As usual, red decorated Luke''s cheeks and ears. She smiled, pleased with herself. Teasing Luke always brings her a sense of achievement and a decadent satisfaction. It was addicting.

    "My lady, please be more mindful of your words."

    Luke chided her, his tone helpless. Chalice snorted at that, emphasizing her protest. She dragged Luke with her and called for Aslan. Being a proud, intelligent kitty, Chalice didn''t spend a lot of time instructing him. The big guy was easier to talk and coax compared to the man at her side.

    However, Chalice still repeatedly reminded Aslan to wait for them at Zeru mountains. She knew she had nothing to worry about, Aslan was a royal beast after all. But remembering his injuries the first time they met, Chalice couldn''t help it. The lion licked her endearingly before setting off.

    As for her entourage, Rye and Ward entered earlier to look for an inn and a stable so their horses could rest and be fed. As for her, Luke, and Levi, they proceeded to Wyndham City on foot.

    Being a port city, Wyndham catered to a constant influx of tourists, merchants, and foreigners. The city was bustling with people of diferrent sorts of features and clothing. Carriages came and go. There were even rickshaws rushing about.

    Chalice was reminded of the cities in her past. Minus the high-rise buildings, the cars, and modern technology, Wyndham was a perfect example of a prosperous mid-century city.

    Chalice looked around. There were lots of various commodities which she hasn''t seen before. As she looked around at the trinkets at the sideway stalls, Chalice observed the interaction of the people. The stores were all lively with chatter. The cityfolk had smiles on their faces.

    But...there was something amiss.

    "Luke, this city is strange."

    Chalice said to her companion, her eyes still at the people busily going about their own businesses.

    "Why do you say so, my lady?"

    Luke gazed at her questioningly. Could the lady have noticed it?

    "Their smiles. It''s a bit too forced. Too unnatural. And despite the lively atmosphere, it''s as if the entire city is shrouded in a deep, lingering fear."

 28 Disappearances at the Port City

    Luke stared at Chalice''s side profile. How can someone as sheltered as her be able to discern such a situation when she had never encountered them before? He had already heard some rumors about the unusual events at Wyndham City. It was one of his concerns in this inspection. But Luke had never mentioned it to the Lady before. She has deduced this much merely by observation?

    There was a nagging suspicion in Luke''s mind. Had he been away from the capital for too long? Or is it that he just never realized Lady Chalice''s abilities? Luke decided to not dwell on it. It was not such a matter that he cared much about. To him, Chalice was justChalice.

    "My lady is quite receptive. There have been rumors going around about Wyndham City. Despite how bustling it may seem, their population has actually dwindled."

    Chalice paused and looked up at him. Her face slowly turning icy. For all the days, Luke has been observing her, he only came to a single conclusion. Chalice has become unfathomable. He couldn''t figure out what she was thinking at all, much less what she''s about to do next. Sometimes, she even makes him feel intimidated. Just like this time.

    "Dwindled? How? Due to deaths or disappearances?"

    Luke was surprised at her question. Has she figured something out already?

    "Disappearances, my lady. People have continuously gone missing in Wyndham."

    The air around her seemed to grow colder right after Luke replied. Her back tensed up. Her emerald eyes carried a glint of danger as she looked up at him.

    "Those people who went missing, do they have similarities? Or any point of connection?"

    He furrowed his brows. Even he didn''t think of that particular detail.

    "Apologies, my lady. I can''t answer your question for I have yet to investigate these disappearances. However, I do know that they have put up a board which had listed down the names and a few information about the missing people."

    Chalice waved her hand dismissively before answering.

    "It''s fine. Let''s go check out that board. Let us just hope that I am mistaken, Luke. Or else we will be in a huge predicament."

    As they were tied up together, Luke had no choice but to suck up being mercilessly dragged by the unusually grim Chalice. They arrived at the city square where a large board about eight feet tall was hung in a pillar by the city hall.

    Luke watched as Chalice fervently went from one posted missing person to another. After going through every single poster, she cussed loudly while clenching her dainty fists. He didn''t try reprimanding her this time. He could feel a sense of foreboding from her actions.

    "Luke, we have a crisis in our hands. Damn it! I cannot believe that we have something like this in our territory. Really, what do these people take my Amaranth House for? A dead cat? Oh, I''m going to freaking exterminate these rats."

    Chalice was huffing in anger as she lambasted whatever it was that caused her frustrations. Luke sighed and tried to calm her down. She seemed to have forgotten that they were in public. Her image of a lady is going to be totally ruined if Luke let her continue being this shrewish. Not that he minded, of course. Still, she was his priority. That includes her public image.

    "My lady, I would be able to symphatize with your sentiment more if you explained what you have just found out."

    She breathed in and out for a few moments before turning to him. Her gaze solemn.

    "All of the missing persons were either teenagers or children. Their ages ranging from 8-16. Most of them were young women. Some were male children who were described to be frail-looking and effeminate. This not a simple case of mere disappearances, Luke. Someone is behind all of it. They didn''t disappear. They were abducted."

    Luke was dumbfounded. She figured all of that by just looking at the posters? He haven''t gotten a word in before Chalice started to talk again.

    "If my hunch about their circumstances is correct then most probably, these pitiful children were already sold off by now. Still, we need to investigate the manner of their disappearances to make sure of it. I might just be mistaken. After all, the details in these posters aren''t sufficient enough for any conclusive judgement. Even though, I can''t stand it if this goes on. If it is really a trafficking syndicate behind all of these disappearance, then as the Proxy Fief Lord I will take the necessary actions to eradicate them. If it wasn''t, Wyndham is within my jurisdiction. In the end, I still need to deal with it no matter what."

    He held her shoulders down and had her face him. Luke lowered his head near hers, their foreheads touching each other. His brows furrowed together. He knew what he was supposed to do. Why was she still so worried? It''s enough for her to figure things out. If she even took it upon herself to make actions regarding this issue, what use was he as her right-hand man? Seriously, no matter how smart she was she would always slip into being a blockhead.

    "My lady, please get a hold of yourself. We have people to handle this. Why are you so agitated? You have me to take actions for you. You only need ask."

    Luke smiled when Chalice finally stopped her tirade. She looked at him dumbly for a long while before she brutally smacked his face. Luke was shocked and was about to retort kindly. However, he was stunned silly instead when she saw the redness of her cheeks. It was only then that he realized what he did.

    Luke felt his cheeks reddening as well. What was she embarrassed for? Now even he was feeling embarrassed. He was totally innocent alright?

    "Stupid Luke. Let''s go already. Make sure to deal with this. Report to me of any information you come across."

    Chalice harrumphed before turning away and once again dragging him with her.

    ---

    "..."

    A certain knight who was overlooked by two tied-up people who were caught up in their own world.

    ''The hell princess! Just because you have Luke with you now, you have forgotten about your cute knight. You''re a traitor, Chalice! Traitor!"

    Levi stared after them blankly as he robotically followed their steps. The two really have forgotten that he was with them all this time.

    Levi looked up at the sky and lamented his wretched fate.

 29 Chalice the Troublemaker

    "My lady, here. I thought you might want to see this."

    Chalice took the stack of papers that Levi handed to her. The more she perused it, the deeper the furrows of her brows went.

    A few minutes later a lound bang was heard as Chalice slammed her fists on the table. Even Luke''s face turned grim as he read the papers she hurled in a corner.

    "It is as you have feared my lady. A syndicate has taken root at Wyndham. We aren''t able to gauge what exactly this organization is. Though, it is pretty much set in stone that they are responsible for the abductions. It is comforting that they have been complacent and slipped up. Giving us a starting clue."

    Luke said as he flipped through the documents. Chalice took in deep breaths to calm herself. Being an agent in her past life enable her to see the horrors that humans are capable of doing. And human traffickers were high up on Chalice''s kill list.

    She had seen how these horrible people treated their ''commodities''. She had seen how vicious the deaths were. She had seen how broken the victims have been, despite being rescued they were never the same again. Who would be able to stay sane being subjected under countless torture and abuse?

    It seems that anywhere, no matter what world,humans will always be capable of such macabre deeds. This time, Chalice is taking it personally. No one commits such atrocities in her fief, to her people.

    "Janus Street. Hmm. So all the missing people either went to Janus Street once or they were abducted right at that street. Are there any witnesses?"

    Levi shook his head. Aside from Janus Street, he hadn''t found any more substantial evidences. Whatever they were up against was rooted quite deep for them to fathom easily.

    "I''m afraid none, my lady. It''s either they were paid not to say a word or they are too scared to do so."

    Chalice stood and walked to the little window of the room. It hasn''t been long since she had come to Amaranth as the proxy Fief Lord. Yet, she''s already facing an unexpected quandary. Worse thing was, she had to deal with it elegantly and with every bit of a noble lady''s flair.

    Frankly, if Chalice had a choice she''d rather raid those bastards nest, rescue the victims and beat them all up to death. The route to being the ultimate Fief Lord truly isn''t easy. There were a lot of danger flags she had to face. Can''t she just get rewards instead? Possibly another unlimited treasure chest?

    She sighed before turning to her two aides.

    "We wouldn''t be able conduct an extensive investigation during this time. It will be foolish for us to do so. This incognito situation is truly starting to irritate me. Luke, what do you think we should do?"

    "It would be best if we wait and observe for now my lady. Being hasty might just aggravate our enemy. We can''t let them do anymore damage than what they have already done. I''ll send a missive to a few trusted men to search for the missing people. If they had been sold, then we might have a chance on that end. We may be able to rescue them. As for dealing with the syndicate, we will move after the inspection ends and we''re back to Amaranthia."

    Chalice pinched the bridge of her nose. She doesn''t have any choice but go along with Luke''s plan. She is well aware of how sensitive this case was. Their enemy was still cloaked by anonymity.

    Although, there was always that other option.

    "Alright, we''ll do as you say. Let''s catch up on some rest then, shall we?"

    She looked at Levi, cocking an eyebrow at him.

    "Oh right, Levi. Thanks for the information. To be able to gather that much in a such a short time, you really are amazing. You have my commendation."

    Levi''s face bloomed an enchanting, self-absorbed smile. His narcissistic tendencies were acting up again. Chalice took it upon herself to immediately take him down a notch.

    "You''re still a midget though. I''m surprised there aren''t any uncles mistaking you as a cute loli outside."

    Chalice followed up her compliment with this light teasing. As expected, indignance immediately exploded in the poor, bullied knight''s heart.

    Levi was really contemplating why he was serving this ill-mannered princess in the first place. He didn''t mind being called a loli but then he found out what it meant. He nearly lopped her head off. Even now, that foxy smile of hers was ticking him off. Add that to the laughter that Luke was hiding in his light coughs.

    Levi concluded that these two really were deserved each other. They make him eat dog food one moment, then they would be making fun of him the next. These two demons were too synchronized. He slammed the door hard at their faces as he left. Though he didn''t immediately leave as he was still trying to calm his angry heart.

    "Levi is too precious for his own good. I''m glad he''s with us."

    Chalice said ruefully. Her tone heavy. The previous teasing revealing itself as merely a calculated distraction to the issue they were facing. Levi who was at the door stiffened. Damn it! And he just decided to curse her. Now, he''s obligated to take it back.

    ---

    A few hours past midnight just when people have sunken unto their deepest sleep, a silhouette could be seen leaping from roof to roof. The figure blended well into the night. If Luke and Levi saw this person, they would be astounded beyond words.

    Chalice, the wayward daughter of Duke Amaranth was the identity of this leaping silhouette. Cloaked in a black hood, she was wearing tight black trousers which barely reached her ankle and a black shirt. Her boots didn''t even make a single noise as it lightly touched the rooftiles. An occasional silvery glint flashed in her hands. The sharp tip of the dagger was like a melancholic star against the darkness of her cloak.

    The slashes of wind felt cold on her face. Chalice relished the feeling. It has been too long since the last time she went on a mission like this. Adrenaline rushed in her veins as the familiar sense of danger blared in her head.

    Initially, Chalice did not plan on doing anything of this sort. However, her unceasingly righteous heart couldn''t bear the idleness. So, she decided to allow herself some freedom for a midnight outing. You might wonder where the hell she got her garments and weapon? Or even how she escaped her hawk- eyed nanny in the person of Luke?

    Let''s just say that Levi is a really sloppy person, and a bit of a heavy sleeper when exhausted. As for Luke, escaping that guy was tricky. So she made sure he was deeply asleep first before she bailed.

    Chalice went straight at Janus Street. The alley, though considerably wide, was dark and gloomy. It gives off a chilling vibe, warning everyone not to come close. She had her usual lazy smile. But Chalice''s emerald eyes right now were frosted over. It rivaled the abyss that she was staring into as it swallowed her form into its clutches.

 30 If Not For Your Sake, Then For Mine

    "Did you have fun, my lady?"

    Chalice''s reflexes went overdrive with shock and surprise. The hand which was holding a dagger slashed without hesitation at the direction of the chilling voice. But it never landed. Instead, her wrist was held in a steely grip.

    She stiffened and mechanically turned her head to look at the handsome visage of Luke. His whole being emanated a chill that made Chalice involuntarily shiver. Luke''s eyes glinted brightly with mixed emotions. She gulped and lowered her head. Her strength was sapped dry by those eyes. It made her feel... ashamed. Especially when she detected the worry and self-reproach in them.

    ''I''m dead. I''m so dead. He''s super angry this time.''

    Chalice panicked inside her head. She was aware of how protective Luke has been since the start of this trip. He handled her as if she was a delicate flower that would be ruined with so much of a touch. Chalice knew how he went crazy when she got lost. She could still hear Levi''s blaming tone as she reprimanded her for Luke.

    This midnight excursion stepped over his bottom line. Chalice only realized it now. And she couldn''t help the guilt eating at her heart.

    She heard Luke sigh loudly. His grip loosened up, her wrist was freed. He held her chin up to look at him. Chalice saw helplessness in her eyes. They were tinged with what seemed like... indulgence.

    Was she seeing it wrong? Yes. In the first place, why would Luke direct that sort of ambiguously doting gaze at her, right?

    Luke wiped a part of her cheek tenderly. She looked at him with confused eyes. What was he wiping?

    "My lady, if you''re going to go and have fun outside please make sure you don''t get filthy. It''s quite unbecoming."

    ''Oh no! Do I have blood on my face?''

    Her heart skipped a beat at that thought. She can''t have Luke asking questions now. She wouldn''t know how to answer.

    Chalice cursed those bunch of hooligans she encountered a while ago. So much for her bad luck. She infiltrated a courtyard within Janus Street. It was quite suspicious. Though no one would have thought so except for her. Chalice was able to obtain a few key evidences. However, as she was leaving, someone had discovered her. A fight inevitably broke out. Chalice quickly resolved it. Nevertheless, she had been so careful not to spill too much blood for it might give her away to Luke.

    But those damned men were tough cookies. It actually took three strikes from her dagger before they went on their way to King Yama''s palace.

    Chalice didn''t know what to say. She didn''t have the courage to. Somehow, she already had an inkling that Luke was having doubts. However, he was much too honorably loyal to even question her.

    She waited for his interrogation. A heated debate was going on in her head. What would she tell him?

    "Lady Chalice, there is no need for you to explain yourself to me. I am your right hand. It is not within me to question you. I will move when and where you want me to. I will do what you ask me to. If you tell me to jump, I''ll ask how high. If you tell me to go left, I''d forget that right even exists. I am yours to command and make use of."

    Luke stared at her, his icy blue eyes carried a sense of pleading. Chalice was stupefied.

    "I would appreciate it very much if you keep that in mind my lady. I am here for you to rely on. There''s no need for you to venture out and put yourself in danger. You are my mistress. My reason for being. What am I to do if something happens to you? Please my lady, cherish yourself. If not for your sake, then for mine."

    The desperation in Luke''s tone caught Chalice off guard. His words repeated themselves in her mind, slowly being embedded in its recesses. An undeniable tremor of warmth wrapped up in her heart.

    Why does she always forget that she wasn''t alone anymore? That she no longer needs to do everything on her own? She had people who cares and protects her. The least she could do was make them feel that their efforts aren''t futile.

    Chalice breathed in deeply and met Luke''s eyes. A genuinely warm smile, far from her usual languid and articial one, bloomed in her face causing Luke to suck up his breath.

    "I''m sorry for worrying you Luke. And thank you. There are things that I cannot explain to you yet. Things that I cannot say. Give me time, alright? After all, you''re going to be my cook for life."

    She tried to slip in a little banter to lighten the atmosphere between them. Chalice heaved a sigh of relief when Luke loosened up and returned her smile with one of his own. He merely nodded at her reply.

    "Erm...Can I go to sleep now, Luke? Both of us need the rest."

    She asked tentatively at Luke. She was exhausted. All she wanted to do was lie down and sleep. Luke straightened up with a sigh.

    "Alright, my lady. But before you hit the bed please wash up first. I''ll make sure to prepare something warm for breakfast tomorrow."

    She smiled at him and agreed promptly. Too tired to even notice the strange glint in Luke''s eyes and the suspicious smirk in his lips. Just as she was about to open up the door to her room, she heard Luke call out.

    "My lady, one more thing."

    Chalice drowsily tilted her head to his direction, questioning.

    "Although, I am glad that you have relinquished to my plea. I still cannot let this unaccounted for midnight outing of yours slide. I regret to say that there will be no more desserts for you until I decide otherwise."

    After he finished his statement, Luke nonchalantly proceeded to his room. Not even giving the devastated her a second look.

    Chalice felt that the heavens were really playing with her. No desserts! She won''t get any desserts! Her heart was broken beyond repair. She stomped her feet as she entered her room. Her heart bitterly lamenting and cursing Luke''s cruelty.

    ''I have been fooled! Give me back my compliments you meanie! Stupid Luke! You will be punished with this injustice! The foodie god will smite you with retribution!''

 31 Encountering Indigo 1

    Chalice relegated the information she had gathered the night before to Luke and Levi. She decisively waged her innocence and deflected Levi''s suspicious looks. As for the culprit who banned her from her precious desserts, Chalice ignored him altogether. Which only earned her an eyebrow raise.

    Through Chalice''s infiltration, they learned that the syndicate goes by the collective name of Black Water Organization. They mainly dealt with human trafficking and slave trades. However, Chalice suspects that there is much more to them than that. Also, their base at Wyndham City was a relatively new one. Which further proved that the said organization had other bases of operation.

    Since they were unable to make any crucial moves against them for the mean time, Chalice and her fief inspection squad continued their trip. They were going full circle around the territory. Freyr City at the heart of Zeru Mountains was their last stop. And to reach it they would need to go through Eldoris City and then to Tal-El City of the Guthrie Plains.

    ---

    Chalice looked around taking in the rustic view of Eldoris City. Compared to the bustling Wyndham, it was relatively subdued. There was a lesser traffic of people but it was evident that the city enjoyed a simple lifestyle and genuine peace.

    However, it would have been more pleasurable for her if she could skip around and sight-see by herself. That was merely wishful thinking though. Helicopter Nanny Luke was on it again with his bondage fetish. (Erase that thought. It is totally unsuitable for children.)

    Chalice''s wrist was tied up with his again. The worse thing was she didn''t dare complain for she was still in hot waters brought about by her last adventure. Even the ban on her desserts wasn''t lifted yet. She was afraid that if she even make so much a squeak of protest, it might never be lifted at all. That would spell death for her. In this sort of way, Luke was really scary.

    She was internally grumbling when Chalice saw a flash of color fluttering behind a house. She stretched her neck to see it clearly. That color. She was familiar with it.

    "Luke, can we go check that out?"

    Chalice asked him cautiously. Luke frowned a bit before reluctantly leading the way. Oh, she knew what was going on in that brilliant mind of his. He was suspecting her of another mischief. She sighed resignedly. She refused to acknowledge that this was her fault.

    As they got closer and closer to the house, a sprightly young lady looked up at their direction. She was tending to the plants vigorously growing at the yard of the house. Chalice beamed at her with a cheer. The poor gal was blinded.

    Luke shook his head. He could sympathize with the girl. This particular princess of his was ignorant of her looks. Not just ignorant, she was uncaring of it as well. He really had his work cut out for him. Never in his life did he imagine that one day, he would be worrying about a certain someone''s skincare, haircare, fashion and even make up. But alas, such is the fate of a man in love.

    "Hello there, pardon the intrusion. May I inquire about something?"

    Chalice politely asked the young girl who shyly hid her hands full of dirt from tending to the plants.

    "If it is within my knowledge, I would gladly answer the lady."

    The girl''s cheery and bird-like voice tinged with shyness answered her.

    "What are those?"

    Chalice pointed at the fabric flittering with the wind peeking from behind the small house. The girl followed her finger and understanding flashed in her eyes.

    "Oh that, my lady? Those are fabrics that my family have personally dyed. That dye color is exclusive to our Eldoris city."

    Chalice eyes brightened. She knew it. That particular fabric with that unique shade of indigo was something she saw on one of her trips to Japan. If she didn''t remember it wrong the process of making that particular color was called aizome, or indigo dyeing.

    This indigo color is basically synonymous with the samurais. They wore indigo dyed fabrics under their armor as protection from infections and wound inflammations. Not to mention, this dye also has flame retardant properties making it an ideal garb for firefighters.

    Chalice was so fascinated with this that she bought a lot of garments authentically indigo dyed. She was thoroughly surprised that she encountered it here in this world.

    She looked down at the plants the girl was caring for. She scrutinized it closely and confirmed that it really was the Japanese indigo plant, Persicaria tinctoria.

    Her mind whirred nonstop at the face of this new prospect. She couldn''t but stare down at the young girl.

    "Say, by any chance do you sell those fabrics? Is there a trade for them?"

    Chalice asked excitedly. However, the dejected answer of the young girl dampened her emotions.

    "To have a trade for it would be a dream come true, my lady. However, only the citizens of Eldoris are fond of this colored fabric. Aside from that, the process of creating the dye and dyeing the fabric itself is quite tedious. If we are to sell it, I''m afraid no one might even buy because the price would be steep. Hence, we only make this for own use."

    Chalice could understand where the girl was coming from. She knew how difficult the process of aizome was. Not to mention, the glaring fact that the people are not aware of its other benefits aside from the aesthetics. Chalice wasn''t surprised that such a treasure was overlooked.

    But not this time. She was here. She found it. And Chalice wasn''t the type of person to let go of something so profitable.

    "I am quite fascinated with your fabric. It''s one of a kind. Could I perhaps buy even just one bolt? I''ll pay whatever price."

    Chalice glared at Luke who nudged her lightly. Her expression must have illuminated how serious she was about it that Luke just sighed helplessly.

    The girls surprised expression soon turned ecstatic. She asked for them to wait while she called for her father. Soon enough, a middle-aged man with an amiable face went out from the back to meet them.

    "Is this the lady who wishes to buy our fabric?"

    He asked corteously with a bow. Chalice smiled and nodded.

    "Yes. That would be me. I really like your fabric sir. If you could spare me a bolt then it would be truly wonderful."

    The man smiled proudly. It was evident that they put a special sentiment to this fabric of their. And Chalice could seriously emphatize as to why.

    "Our family would gladly sell you a bolt, my lady. We will give it to you for four silver notes. Though this price may be a lot higher than other textile, ours has been handled differently, the color solely found here in Eldoris. You will also realize soon enough that it is a lot more exquisite compared to others."

    Chalice nodded kindly at him. In her opinion, four silver notes were still cheap. One silver note basically equated to around three dollars on Earth. The indigo fabrics she bought in her last life were even five times more expensive.

    "I understand, sir. No worries. I believe you."

 32 Encountering Indigo 2

    Chalice was happily hugging the bolt of fabric in her hands. Luke held in the laugh threatening to erupt from his throat. The way she held the bolt as if it was going to be stolen from her was too adorable. Though, honestly, he couldn''t see what made the fabric special for her to put significant attention to it. Even paying twice the usual price of textile. Its color unusual, but that was pretty much it.

    She must have felt his question because she looked up at him blinking innocently, the light in her eyes almost blinding him silly. Luke chastised himself. He needed to hold out and resist her cuteness. No matter how difficult it was. Despite the closeness of their relationship, Luke was still, in the end, her mere servant.

    "You know, curiosity may have killed the cat but satisfaction brought it back. Ask whatever it is your thinking about. I''ll answer it right away."

    Chalice said with a smirk. Luke had the urge to erase that alluring smirk from her pretty mouth with a searing kiss. Nevertheless, his poker face didn''t leak a bit of this impudent desire of his. He instead focused on the cloth being carried in her fair arms.

    "What''s the deal with that fabric, my lady? You seem to hold it in high regards."

    He asked tentatively. Chalice gave him a patronizing look before she answered.

    "I hold it in high regards because it is only right to do so. This isn''t any ordinary fabric, Luke. This indigo cloth which was dyed with the color extracted from Persicaria tinctoria is not only pretty. It can also serve as a protection from infections and prevent wound inflammations. It is quite beneficial for knights during battles, wouldn''t that be right? I dare say, the medicine field will also benefit much from using this cloth. Aside from that, this fabric is flame-retardant, Luke. Now sum all of that up and tell me that this is merely a piece of pretty cloth."

    Chalice almost ran out of breath with her explanation. Joy was obvious in her face. Luke nodded in immediate agreement. She was right. The fabric really was precious. It has a lot of economic potential. Chalice''s forethought never failed to surprise him. And on her profiteering tendencies were always on point.

    Luke realized as well that Chalice would almost always grab any fortuitous encounters that involved money-making. He was mystified at this developing obsession of hers. It''s not as if she lacked money.

    "My lady, why does it seem like you''re trying so hard with these money-making schemes? You''re already rich."

    He asked. Well, she did say that she will answer his questions. Chalice pouted at him and harrumped.

    "Luke, my dearest, that money isn''t mine. It''s my parents. Also these so called money-making schemes won''t only benefit me. It is also for the people of the territory. I''m creating chances for them to better their lives. The benefits I gain through it are just bonuses. My real aim is to have them learn how to be self-sufficient. It''s like this, it''s better for me to teach them how to fish rather than give them fish to eat everyday."

    Luke was tongue-tied at her logic. His heart soared at how amazing of a woman she was. This prodigious woman was his beloved, albeit a one-side secret love that it was. He internally mocked those who used to belittle and ridicule her, especially that particular pompous prince. If they could see her now, for sure they couldn''t help but prostrate in her greatness.

    "It looks like Eldoris City will be quite well-known in the future, my lady."

    Chalice replied with a bright, confident smile.

    "En. You bet it will."

    ....

    Chalice''s party did not stay for too long at Eldoris City. They merely made a stop to replenish supplies and have the horses rested and fed.

    They took to the roads again just before the sun set and camped out near a river 50 miles pass Eldoris.

    Chalice took this time to ask Luke about the features of their next stop: The Guthrie Plains.

    "Guthrie Plains, my lady in a word could be described as windy."

    She made a face at Luke''s perfunctory answer. Seriously, was a definite and verbose description too much to ask? Fortunately, Chalice''s inquisitiveness was sated by Levi.

    "It is not merely windy, Luke. It is very windy. Guthrie plains is a wide stretch of savannah. Though there are also scattered clutter of trees. It is home to a lot of herds, as well. The rare and coveted breed of Thunder Horses could be found there."

    Chalice eyes twinkled.

    Herds? That means a group of wild horses?

    Chalice was ecstatic. Maybe, she''d take some time and tame one or two. It would be a good gift for her father. Hmm. Maybe she''ll also get one for her mother. Who knows? Her luck might grant her an encounter with those famed Thunder horses. It''s been another lifetime as well, since she was able to do some bareback bronc riding*.

    Unbeknownst to Chalice, the four men caught that particular twinkle in her eyes. They collectively decided to keep an even closer eye to the princess. They toughened their hearts for the incoming shenanigan she was about wreak.

 33 Spontaneous Rodeo

    Just as Levi had said, Guthrie Plains really was a wide stretch of endless savannah. The verdant green of the grasses was pleasing to the eyes. The breeze of wind came more frequently than anywhere else but the scattered oak trees helped temper it.

    However, the moment their group entered the Plains Levi and Luke guarded her like their life depended on it. Chalice was frustrated. How was she going to catch...erm... tame the wild horse of her dreams if they stuck around her like freaking super glue.

    ''Should I resort to begging? That might work. Maybe I should do some puppy dog eyes as well. Gosh, I''m so smart.''

    After a few rounds of self-flattery and pep talk,Chalice turned to the two men who were clearly overreacting. It''s not as if she''s a trouble magnet. If she''s attracting anything, that would be treasure alright?

    "Luke...Levi, can we--"

    Chalice wasn''t even able to finish her question when the two chorusly replied with a firm, hard NO. These two meanies. What did she ever do to them? She pouted and then lowered her head pitifully. Her form invoking endless pity.

    Luke heart thumped. Did he go too far? Guilt slowly sprang in his heart. Though he doubted that this may just be one of Chalice''s ploys to get what she wants, but who asked him to be madly in love with her?

    Seemingly feeling the change in his resolve, Levi looked at him outraged. The knight even nudged at him. Which Luke purposely ignored. With a helpless sigh, he called to his lady.

    "We will allow you to see the horses, my lady. But please assure me that you''ll behave."

    Luke gave in. Chalice snapped her head up automatically, her eyes shone bright with cheer. If they weren''t in the carriage, Luke was sure she would have jumped up and down.

    Levi put his hands up in defeat. Seriously, could this guy be anymore gullible? Anyone could see that the princess was just acting. He was unknowingly fed with what seems to be dog food. Again. Can''t anyone cut this poor knight some slack?

    The group traversed the way where the herds usually frolick and eat. All for the pleasure of a certain princess. Who, by the way, was so excited she was about to fly. They stopped at a huge oak tree just a few miles away from the meadow where the horses fed.

    Luke let Chalice loose of their bounds and repeatedly warned her not to wander around. Chalice agreed all too quickly which made her companions even more doubtful. Rye and Ward secretly betted if she would get into another trouble again.

    With her restored freedom, Chalice dashed far away from Luke. Which made the latter''s face darken, because obviously the lady promptly forgot his warnings. She was so brilliant, but why was her memory regarding rules even shorter than a goldfish? Luke lamented.

    Chalice, on the other hand, suddenly stopped when she had reached a considerable distance from the herd. She marveled at the majestic horses in front of her. They were truly quite the sight.

    She was about to reluctantly accept that she won''t be able to catch one of these horses when suddenly a pair of colt and mare broke away from the herd. They headed to a cluster of trees just a few yards away from her position.

    Chalice grinned in delight. How lucky could she get? It was the horses who delivered themselves to her. Oh, joy! She silently followed the pair of horses into the woods. At that point, Chalice selectively ignored the worried and alarmed expression of Luke who was already hot on her trail. She merely gave him a reassuring smile and a thumbs up before disappearing into the trees, leaving a dejected man huffing out in the clearing.

    The horse pair went to a stop. Chalice was suprised to see a small brook in that patch of woods. But what even astounded her more was the gallant horse, dark as obsidian, trotting nobly towards the exit, towards her.

    Chalice settled herself into a tree in the border of the clearing and the woods. She waited patiently for the horse to reach her hiding place. And when the horse did, she leaped up onto its back.

    The startled horse started bucking hard and tried desperately to throw her off. Chalice held on to its firm neck and tried to soothe the wildly thrashing horse. She hung onto him for dear life as the it seemed to not have any plans on stopping anytime soon. She could just hope she would be able to calm this beautiful stallion or she can''t imagine how else Luke is going to punish her.

    "Whoah! Whoah! Stop flailing about, Onyx. There, there. I''m not going to hurt you. Calm down."

    She repeatedly said to the horse, softening her already lilting voice. Somehow, the horse miraculously did calm down and stopped. Chalice heaved a sigh of relief and took out two pieces of cubed sugar. Well, not that she planned this to actually happen. But she did try to prepare for it. Dang, it wasn''t easy to sneak these out from under Luke''s eyes. Totally worth it.

    The horse tentatively sniffed the sugar cubes she held out in her hands. After which, it gingerly ate a piece. Chalice smiled pleasantly at this. She rubbed the stallion''s neck affectionately which earned her a contented neigh.

    "Can you take me out to the clearing, Onyx?"

    Okay. So, she named it already. Big deal. She has tamed it anyway. Besides, Onyx was a fitting name for the stallion. He was as dark and as beautiful as the gemstone itself.

    The horse obliged to her words and went out of the woods. Chalice directed it where her currently panicking companions were.

    Her smug smile was thoroughly wiped clear when she saw Luke''s face as dark as the bottom of a pot as he met her halfway. She chuckled nervously. Her breath hitched on her throat as she held on to her newly acquired horse.

    "A Thunder stallion! My lady, you have tamed a Thunder stallion!"

    The excited voice of Rye broke the tensioned stalemate between her and Luke when they arrived at the spot where the carriage was. As she processed his words, Chalice couldn''t help but grin fully. She has actually obtained a Thunder stallion. That spontaneous rodeo of hers wasn''t for nothing. And even the incoming wrath of a certain Helicopter Nanny was worth it all.

 34 Lucys Dilemma

    While Chalice was having the time of her life grappling with horses and being a walking treasure detector, Lucy is having a quiet and relaxing time accompanying Duchess Lyana at the Imperial Capital. Except for an annoying fly that seems to have made it his mission to pester her.

    It all started during the ball where the Duke and Duchess of Amaranth introduced her as their god daughter. Despite staying with the Duchess half the time and trying to lie low, Lucy was struck with a misfortune.

    She had caught the eye of the country''s most beloved Crown Prince, His Highness Troy Regis de Idalia. Her sworn enemy. Lucy cursed her luck a thousand times when the man approached her during the party. She hated the man to the bone. Chalice''s suffering were all caused by him either directly and indirectly. The damned guy even trampled her with his horses. Lucy can never forget that debt.

    Lucy prided herself on being gentle and forgiving. Except for this prince and anyone who had hurt her precious Lady Chalice. She can never forgive these people. If it weren''t for her status and fear to drag down the Amaranth House, her benefactor, Lucy would have utilized every means to make them all suffer.

    However, it seems like fate wanted to play with her. The man delivered himself to her on his own. Nonetheless, Lucy cannot do anything but be civil to him for the sake of not screwing up whatever Chalice was planning to do. In the end, for her, Chalice comes foremost.

    That was why when Prince Troy went up to her with a dance invitation, she refused as politely as she could. And by polite, she meant walking out and not kicking him where the sun doesn''t shine.

    If at that time she knew that such an action would provoke that self-important person''s ego and pique his interest, she wouldn''t have declined him and just endured his troublesome company.But it was too late for her to regret. And now she has to deal with his constant visits. Even the Duchess was starting to get irritated. After all, they both feel the same way towards whoever had hurt Chalice.

    However, she couldn''t determine if the Prince was just self-absorbed or plain shameless. He does not seem to feel their hostility against him. That or he''s merely ignoring it.

    "Miss Lucy, the Crown Prince has come to visit you."

    A maid informed her. Lucy sighed exasperatedly. This is getting old and it''s getting on her nerves.

    "Tell him I''m not here."

    The maid did not protest nor asked anymore questions. She merely nodded and bowed before leaving. Lucy shook her head at this. See, even the maids have been used to his frequent visits and her iron-clad refusals to see him.

    Lucy closed the book she was reading and sighed. She missed her Lady Chalice dearly. She wondered how she was faring at the territory. Lucy could only hope that her younger brother is taking care of her.

    She smiled at that thought. Why was she even hoping? It was a matter of course, already. Luke would, without a doubt, be meticulous about Chalice''s welfare. That brother of hers was beyond head over heels for her. It was a pity that they have become like this. Lucy couldn''t help but wonder what it would be like if it was in the past. Maybe Luke could pursue Chalice without worry of being persecuted for their differences in status.

    Lucy extinguished the ember of memories flickering in her mind. Their past was something she had locked into the deepest parts of her mind and heart. Luke and her made a promise to forget all about it for it will bring nothing but danger and pain to the ones important to them now. It was bound to hurt Chalice. Lucy knew that Luke would rather suffer than let Chalice knew of their history. She sighed. Enough of her sulking. It''s not going to help in any way.

    "Miss Lucy, have I offended you in some ways? Why do you avoid me so?"

    Lucy stiffened at the sorrowful baritone voice which rang out behind her.

    ''What in the world...?! He hasn''t left yet? Why is he so desperate?''

    She reluctantly faced the person who spoke. The Crown Prince stood in front of her dressed in a light blue shirt paired with a black vest and coat. His gray tie complimented his silver hair glistening under the light. Lucy must admit that the Crown Prince was absolutely handsome. It wasn''t a wonder why Chalice like him previously. Anyone would fall for those features very much like an angel who has descended and those charming violet eyes. Anyone but her.

    Breathing in deep, her eyes narrowed in annoyance. Seriously, this prince is so free with his life. That''s it. She''s giving him a piece of her mind. Lucy can''t handle his pestering anymore. If she gets punished for l��se majest��*, so be it.

    "Shouldn''t you ask yourself that, Your Highness?"

    Lucy''s voice dripped with sarcasm. Her gaze sharp as she looked directly at the Crown Prince''s eyes.

    "Is it about Lady Chalice?"

    She heard him say in a cold, low voice. Lucy furrowed her brows. That''s quite a sudden change.

    "Well, it seems like the Crown Prince''s memories aren''t that defective after all. You remember her after all, the person you ran over with your horses and was banished from the capital."

    She sneered at him. However, the next words from the Prince baffled Lucy.

    "I''ll always remember Lady Chalice. I have wronged her greatly. But trust me, Miss Lucy she would be better off with what had happened. At the very least, both of us have been freed temporarily from the machinations of the older generation. And I''ll have time to remedy the situation completely. Trust me, being banished to the Amaranth fief is thousand times more tolerable than being stuck here."

    Lucy looked confusedly at the Prince. His voice was grave, helpless, and burdened. What was he saying?

    "I can''t seem to understand your words, Your Highness."

    She said blankly to him. The Crown Prince smiled bitterly at her. His eyes apologetic.

    "Contrary to what is going around, I do not hate Lady Chalice. Maybe I did for short while, but I realized none of it was her fault. The things I did to her were a ploy to get her to hate me. To get her to want to stay far away from me. Sigh. She is quite a persistent lady though, I must say. Hence, I was forced to resort to drastic measures. All for the sake of saving the both of us from the marriage pact."

 35 The Marriage Pac

    Lucy was dumbfounded. Chalice was engaged to the Crown Prince? But then again, such a situation wasn''t too surprising. After all, Duke Alaric was the Prime Minister as well as the sworn brother of the Emperor. It was inevitable for them to join their families in marriage.

    "A marriage pact? You and Chalice?"

    The Crown Prince nodded solemnly at her. His brows then furrowing at her question.

    "Does Miss Lucy not know? I was so sure you were aware since you and Lady Chalice seem quite close. I assumed she told you about it. After all, isn''t that why she kept chasing after me despite my efforts of keeping her at bay? Well, I quite understand as well why she would keep it from you. It is a sensitive information, after all. General Cartier is a very strict man, he wouldn''t allow a servant to know such matters."

    Lucy stilled as she listened to the drone of the Prince. Her face grew cold and she dispiritedly gazed at the man. It took a while before she spoke again. This time she dismissed him herself.

    "If there is nothing more Your Highness, then pardon me. I shall take my leave. I have things to attend to."

    She walked away without waiting for the Prince''s reply. Not that she cared, anyway. Except, because of her hastiness to get away Lucy failed to see the mocking sneer that formed in the Crown Prince''s lips and the words he quietly uttered in her absence.

    "Only a lowly woman and yet you repeatedly refused my advances. Even mocking me as well. If you weren''t such a beauty, I''d have your head rolling right about now. Who are you proud of? That disgusting woman coveting the empress'' crown meant for my beloved. Not if I can help it."

    With this statement and a ridiculing scoff, the Crown Prince left the Amaranth manor in disdain.

    Meanwhile, Lucy arrived at her room and flopped herself weakly to the soft bed. Her heart was unsettled. It was as if she was brought back to those times of sufferings. She wasn''t a fool. She had seen through what Prince Troy was thinking.

    Truthfully, if she wasn''t used to such ploys, maybe she would have believed the seemingly harmless words he has said. This would made her start having resentment and doubt towards Chalice and sprout a sliver of trust towards him.

    In the end, royalty was always like this. Beyond the glamorous dresses and embellished crowns, it will always be embroiled in two-faced schemes and internal war. How naive of her to think otherwise. How foolish of her to expect the opposite.

    ''It''s not the time to wallow in such thoughts, Luciana. You need to take actions. Think. It''s impossible for Chalice to know about the marriage pact firsthand. It''s impossible for the Duke and Duchess to keep something like this from her especially if it''s regarding her lifelong event. This isn''t as simple as it seems.''

    The monarchial heirarchy flashed into her mind along with a particularly interesting rumor going around the ladies of the court. The Crown Prince also seemed to have said the older generation and specifically mentioned Duchess Lyana''s father, General Lucius Antonine de Cartier.

    That''s right! It was impossible for the Duke and Duchess to set up a marriage between the Crown Prince and Lady Chalice. They dote on her too much to force her into an arranged marriage.

    However, it wasn''t only the emperor and the duke who are bossom buddies. The same thing goes for the Retired Emperor and General Cartier. If this was a previous arrangement by those two people then everything makes sense.

    That would mean everything was all a machination. The rumors which dragged Chalice''s reputation through the mud, the ridicule she faced, the little accidents she got into which had isolated her from ladies of the court; all of it was instigated by that two-faced Crown Prince.

    No. It''s not only him. That woman must have been involved, as well. The vixen who was always so envious of Chalice. Lady Vanessa Jermaine de Monseratt. The rumored lover of the Crown Prince and daughter of Marquis de Monseratt, who is one of the most influential courtier of Idalia; second only to the Duke of Amaranth. The so called unparalleled Lady of the Court.

    She narrowed her eyes. The Monseratt family has been known to have high aspirations. Given the fact that the majority of high society and even the masses were very much in suppport of Lady Vanessa being with His Highness. It seems her family do not want it to end there and is also eyeing the empress position.

    How hateful! Her Lady Chalice did not ask to be betrothed to that scum. Lucy lamented and felt sorrow for Chalice. She has suffered through so much for something that was beyond her power.

    Lucy sat abruptly. She stood up and went to the study table. She took out a bunch of stationery from the drawer and started to draft two letters.

    She won''t let her be kept in the dark further. Only with sufficient information could Chalice prepare for whatever circumstances may befall her. After all, she has changed. She was no longer that old Chalice who cowers around the vicious ladies of high society. Besides, this was Lucy''s role. And she would make sure she does it properly. Lucy will not let Chalice suffer that fate.

 36 An Encounter in Tal-El City

    The blissful feeling of having acquired a Thunder Horse served as a natural deterrent for Chalice. It rendered Luke''s glowers at her a mere punch into cotton. In the end, Luke succumbed to the influence of her mood. He let the incident slide with a mere sigh much to the chagrin of Levi.

    After camping for a night, the group of incognito inspectors arrived at Tal-El City of the Guthrie Plains a few hours before lunch time. As per usual Rye and Ward, the trusted knights slash aides, took the horses to rest and be fed. They also proceeded to check for supplies which they were lacking. The trio on the other hand went roaming around to check the City''s estate.

    Tal-El City was considerably different from the other cities in the territory. The buildings were all in domical shape. Chalice was so fascinated about the infrastructures which hasn''t seen even on Earth. She begged Luke to get rid of their bindings so she could enjoy going around. With just a few minutes of cutely pleading and her killer puppy dog eyes, Chalice got her way.

    Levi snorted at her though and started nagging Luke for being lenient to her for the nth time. She could only sigh and ignore Levi''s antics. Contrary to his belief, she was absolutely not walking disaster about happen. Chalice swore that if he uttered another word, she''ll pester him until he rips his hair off. That would be quite a sight.

    Chalice skipped through the roads like a child in an amusement park, completely throwing her image. Luke was helpless while Levi facepalmed. Their mistress has been possessed by child. They refuse to believe that it was an inherent trait.

    She dashed from one place to another totally ignoring the two men who hovered ten steps behind her protectively. When she saw a glimpse of a busy plaza with various food stalls set up, Chalice practically run off like a breeze. Due to her haste, her two companions were caught off guard. They only recovered after a couple of heartbeats and promptly followed the direction she went into.

    By then, Chalice had already reached the plaza and was excitedly savoring the wafting aromas of various delicacies. She was so taken in with the food that she didn''t bother looking where she was going. Such negligence and lack of attention like this obviously would lead to mishaps. And since it was Chalice involved, a mishap did happen.

    Just as she was about to head to a stall selling candied fruits, the salivating lady collided with someone and was sent stumbling to the ground. Surprised by the sudden force, Chalice grumbled as she tried to get up. A hand appeared in front of her which she took without reservations. She was having difficulties standing up with her skirt.

    ''Dumb dress. I should have just worn trousers.''

    She thought as she huffed to regain her balance. When she finally gained a stable footing, Chalice looked up to the owner of the hand assisting her.

    A strange, tall man met her eyes. He has dark obsidian eyes, sharp nose, and full lips. He reminded Chalice of an Arabian Prince dressed in a garb similar to Sinbad in that anime she binge-watched one time back on Earth. She remembered it was called Magi.

    She tilted her head at him curiously as she retrieved her hand. Chalice silently gauged the man. Amaranth is quite welcoming to foreigners so she didn''t find it too surprising to meet one here. Especially since Tal-El City was quite famous for it''s unique buildings. The clothes though different, Chalice could still see that it was purposely made to be understated. Despite that, it''s luxurious feel did not escape her. Add the meticulous and exquisite craftmanship of the bangle and the ring on his person, Chalice knew that this man was not an ordinary tourist.

    "Are you alright, Miss? You should be careful where you''re going."

    The man said in his deep bass voice. She nodded slightly.

    "I''m fine. Pardon my carelessness, good sir. Thank you for the assistance."

    She bowed slightly to him. Chalice was about to bid her leave, but the young man beside the Arabian Prince person suddenly chided her.

    "Hah! You''re not only careless. You''re also a disgrace. How can a woman walk so heedlessly like a barbarian? What a shame. You''re looks are wasted on you."

    Chalice''s eyes narrowed dangerously. Did this freaking manboy just insult her? Fine. She admit it was her fault for colliding into them. His precious Arab Prince person haven''t even said anything and he''s running off his mouth as if he was the one who suffered from the force of collision. Besides, she already said sorry and she didn''t even mean for it to happen. Just that, and he thinks he''s allowed to brand her a disgrace? Though she was already used to being called that in the capital but it was totally unacceptable at this time. He''s badly looking for a beating.

    Her previous playful demeanor sharpened dangerously at her annoyance. The tall man squinted in surprise when he noticed the change in her aura. He held his hand in front of his companion and turned to her.

    "Forgive my subordinate, Miss. He doesn''t know what he''s saying. I apologize for his offense."

    Chalice breathed in deeply, calming herself. She stared for a long while at the man. Fine. She''ll reluctantly accept his apology and not make a fuss about it. Her fruits were waiting for her.

    "It''s fine. I shall pay it no mind since I was at fault first and for the fact that you assisted me in standing up. But please do heed my advice, teach your subordinate some humility. You can never be too sure of the people the you''ll encounter in the streets. Sometimes, a beggar may in fact be a king."

    Just as she finished those words, Luke and Levi has already caught up to her. Luke asked about the situation but she merely waved it off and dragged the both of them to the candied fruits stall that had been ceaselessly calling for her.

    ---

    "Go and take your punishment. I don''t need a servant who gets ahead of his master."

    Arhan coldly turned to the servant by his side. He looked at the direction the woman and her companions. A look of pondering in his eyes. Suddenly another man came rushing to his side.

    "Sultan Arhan, my liege, my apologies for making you wait. The City Manor has a slight issue. Where do you want to go next?"

    He smiled at the man. The City Lord of Tal-El was an acquantance of his in the territory of Amaranth. His mother was a well-known noble lady in the Kingdom of Ogen but fell in love with the previous City Lord of Tal- El City during one of her leisure trips. Their tale of love was quite popular back in their kingdom.

    "The City Lord needs not to apologize. As a dear friend, you going out of your way to accompany me is enough. By the way, does the City Lord perhaps know of that woman?"

    Arhan pointed at the trio standing in the fruit stall, specifically at the beautiful woman happily eating candied apples.

    The City Lord gazed at the woman that the eminent ruler and Sultan of Ogen pointed at. He was accompanying this royal who was once again on one of his spontaneous vacations. However, he rushed back to the City Hall because of an urgent letter hence he wasn''t aware of the previous incident. Still, he studied the woman in question when the sudden realization hit him. Those eyes! He looked cautiously at the Sultan.

    "My liege, has that woman offended you?"

    The City Lord asked nervously. He would be stuck between a rock and a hard place if the two had some sort of conflict. Sultan Arhan shook his head and sighed.

    "I''m afraid it was I who has offended her. Though it was my servant who went out of line. Still, it falls onto my fault as the master."

    Arhan explained. The City Lord gaped at him in surprise. He cleared his throat and answered the Sultan''s question.

    "That woman, my liege, is the Amaranthian fief''s princess and currently our Proxy Fief Lord. The urgent letter which I had received a while ago was from the Duke himself informing us about her. That letter was supposed to have arrived fews weeks ahead of her. However, there has been a mishap and thus it came to us late. I assume she is here now on an inspection."

    The Sultan looked at him with a slight furrow on his brows.

    "The Amaranth princess?"

    The City Lord nodded and proceeded to further expounded the lady''s identity.

    "Yes. That woman is Lady Chalice Solveigh de Amaranth. The only daughter of the Duke and Duchess of Amaranth."

    Arhan was silent, his lips formed a slight arc. So, she was the duke''s daughter. How interesting.

 37 The Fluffy People Of Wind Valley

    After gallivanting...erm... studying the current estate of Tal-El city, Chalice''s group of five went to take a sumptious lunch in one of the popular restaurants there. She has completely forgotten the earlier incident and the others thought it was not much of an affair. However, Luke did take note of the man''s face and attire. It seems like Chalice encountered an Ogen citizen.

    "Hey Luke, when are we going to arrive at Zeru Mountains? I miss Aslan."

    Chalice whined to Luke as they started of on their journey again. It has been many days since she last saw her big kitty. Chalice wanted to ride on him again. Aslan''s back was a lot more comfortable than being juggled around the carriage. She also rode on Onyx but the saddle they had bought wasn''t compatible to a Thunder horse''s form. Also the wind was too strong and Luke forbade her to ride for long, complaining that her hair would be difficult to comb again.

    "We''ll get there after three days more or less. As long as no incidents occur, my lady, you''ll be able to see Aslan soon enough."

    Chalice removed her gaze from the carriage window''s changing scenery. She pouted at Luke and gazed at him with a brow raised.

    "I somehow sense a slight jab from that statement of yours, my dearest."

    Luke cleared his throat and turned his back on her. Chalice chuckled and put her face closer to his without him noticing.

    "You sensed wrong, my lady. I''m merely stating a fact. Besides, you cannot de--"

    His words were cut off when he realized how absurdly close her face was when he turned to face her again. Luke gulped nervously. He could feel her breath blowing in the tip of his nose. A subtle lilac fragrance drifted off from her intoxicating him.

    "Really, my dear Luke? Hmm. Are you sure you''re not insinuating that I frequently get into incidents that delay our trip?"

    Luke felt as if he was in the midst of a heavenly tribulation. His nails dug deep into his palms drawing blood. It took all of his willpower to pull himself away and put a distance between them. God knows just how much he wanted to do the opposite. His heart ached at the need to take her into his embrace and keep her there.

    ''You''re merely her servant, Luke. You are not worthy of her.''

    He chanted that thought in his head so he could keep himself from doing something he might regret later.

    "It is not my fault if you take it that way, my lady."

    He said dismissively as waved his hand. This woman who was too gutsy for her own good. She didn''t even realize how much she''s courting danger a while ago.

    ''Honestly, she will be the death of me.''

    Chalice harrumped loudly. Luke was such a party pooper. But then again, seeing that red tint spreading in his face never gets old. It always put her in a good mood.

    ---

    "My lady, wake up. We have arrived at the Wind Valley. We''ll be spending our night here."

    Chalice groggily rubbed her eyes as she looked around her. A gasp of surprise escaped her lips when she saw the cluster of stone houses with thatched roofs. There were also people who were wearing some kind of a headdress made of the same thatches.

    She was taken aback. Those headdresses made them look like fluffy puffballs walking on land. The lot of them were mostly plump, too. Add that to their fair skin and naturally reddish cheeks, they made Chalice thought of sesame balls. Now those treats are delectable.

    "Where are we again, Luke? Are we in fluffylandia?"

    Chalice asked absentmindedly. She got a light rapt in her head for that. She glared at Luke.

    "My lady, I may not know what the word you used meant but coming from you it would surely not be good. Please be more sensible."

    She scoffed at Luke and chose to ignore him. Chalice saw Levi coming towards them. It looked like he went to whoever was in-charge of the place and ask permission for their stay.

    "The Valley Chief has allowed us to take shelter at his home for the night. He also had his people prepare a small banquet. I refused but he would take none of it. He said that their valley seldom have visitors and us arriving is a joyous occasion."

    Levi informed them as he led the way to the Valley Chief''s home. Chalice took Onyx from Rye''s hand seeing that the horse was being unusuall restless. She then sneakily gave the stallion a cubed sugar which the horse happily munched on as he finally settled down. Chalice smiled at this. This horse was a bit lordly.

    The Valley Chief''s home was a lot bigger compared to the other stone houses in she saw as they walked by. She asked Luke why the houses were built like that. The walking google of this world answered that it was because the wind in the valley was a lot stronger compared to Tal-El City. The dome buildings weren''t enough for such kinds of erratically strong winds.

    Chalice agreed to that. She did notice that fact when they arrived. Luke was even forced to put her hair into a tight bun to keep it from flying off and transforming into a bird''s nest. The Chief''s wife stood waiting for them at the front door of the house. She looked like the typical local of their valley; plump, fair, and perpetually blushing. The only difference was that she wasn''t wearing a headdress and her caramel-colored hair was tied up in two buns. She had a warm smile as she welcomed them.

    "Esteemed guests, please put down your things here, I and my daughters shall settle it to your rooms. The banquet is about to start and the people are there waiting for you at the Valley Square. You''ll see a big bonfire when you reach it."

    Her tone was polite and corteous. Chalice couldn''t help but feel fond of her. She was like the typical kind and hospitable auntie that gives you food. They gave her their luggages and then walked to the direction the Chief''s wife pointed out. A huge fire roared up in the center with people in thatch headdresses surrounding it.

 38 Thunder Horse Emperor

    Chalice and company walked towards the bonfire. A man whose form hovered between plump and burly met them with a huge smile. She surmised that this was the Valley Head. He has that friendly uncle look going on, totally fitting for someone who would prepare a banquet for passing travelers. Her conjecture was confirmed when he greeted them in a cheerful, booming voice.

    "Friends! Come, come and sit here. I''ll have the food serve a while later. For now, please watch some of my people''s songs and dances. It is their way to welcome you."

    He directed them to sit on a dais which had small tables set upon it. Chalice copied him and sat cross-legged. Luke and the others did the same. After they were seated, some girls went around and put on garlands of flowers on them. For the men it was in the form of a necklace. But for her, the garland was fastened into a crown. She giggled lightly at this, appreciating the thoughtfulness of these cute people.

    ---

    Unknown to her, Luke was staring at her face which was illuminated by the fire with an emotion that can only be called as love. Luke watched the flickering fire reflected in her eyes. With the addition of the flower crown on her head, she look very much like a fairy disguising as a human to grace them with her presence.

    He savored every single time that she was preoccupied and unaware. It was only his chance to look at her without masking his emotions. Without hiding how much he loved her. Because once she turned and looked at him, he needed to return to being only a confidant.

    ---

    Levi looked helplessly at the hopeless man staring at his mistress. Somehow, he felt pity and admiration for Luke. It wasn''t easy for someone like him who fell in love with the person he was supposed to serve. It made it difficult to hold back because the person was so close yet so far away.

    Having your beloved near you everyday and yet forcing yourself to kill the love you were feeling was even more painful than torture. Levi could emphatize with him all too well. He shook his head and chose to ignore him. He didn''t want unpleasant memories surfacing again. This was the least he could do for a kindred spirit.

    ---

    Chalice clapped along with the beat of the small drums. She must say, these Wind Valley people knew how to party. The women were exceptional dancers as well. And their music was really catchy.

    After two rounds of dances, the Village Chief asked for the food to be served. Chalice sighed and turned pitifully at Luke. She wanted to eat what he cooked. Luke merely smiled helplessly at her while rubbing her head for comfort.

    "Be good. It will be impolite to our hosts if you ignore their food. I''ll cook for you the first thing tomorrow."

    He said to her indulgingly. Chalice puffed her cheeks but conceded. It wasn''t her fault okay? Luke''s cooking was simply out of this world. She dared claim that it was even better than the dishes made by those Michelin starred chefs back on Earth.

    However, just as they were about to eat. A commotion shattered the merry atmosphere. Loud neighs and the thundering sounds of hooves rang out. Chalice stood abruptly. There was no mistake about it. That sound came from her beloved stallion.

    Just as she had formed this conclusion, the majestic form of a Thunder horse entered the Valley Square. Chalice then heard collective gasps of surprise from the people. There were even some who stumbled to the ground upon seeing the horse. Chalice frowned but did not put too much thought about it. They must have been too shocked. After all, Thunder Horses were rare.

    Instead, Chalice hastily ran up to the restless Onyx. She was the only one who could calm him, after all. She took out a cubed sugar but in her rush she tripped on a small rock and fell down, scraping her arm in the process. She heard Luke''s cry of alarm which she disregarded entirely.

    She needed to appease the horse or else it might run rampant and hurt these fluffy people. She approached Onyx with a small smile, not minding the stinging pain in her arm or the ticklish feeling of the blood running down in it.

    She reached her uninjured hand to the horse and affectionately rubbed its head.

    "There, there Onyx. You''ve been restless since a while ago. Why have you run out here? Did you miss me?"

    The horse neighed lowly and rubbed its face back to the palm of her hand. However, a surprisingly familiar scenario unfolded in her eyes.

    Onyx bowed its head down, sniffing the scrape in her arm. Then without so much of a warning, he licked the scrape and the slight blood dripping from it. Afterwards, the horse went on its knees bowing in front of her.

    Chalice was agaped. What is this? Why does it feel like this has happened before? Right. Aslan also did this. She stiffened as it dawned on her. Chalice didn''t dare continue the thought for it was too scary. But that doesn''t mean others would spare her feelings.

    A hoarse whisper floated out from the silence which had blanketed the entire square.

    "T-Thunder Horse Emperor. It''s a-a... royal beast...it''s the Thunder Horse Emperor. The lady has... contracted with him."

    Chalice snapped her head to the direction of the voice. Her suspicion was confirmed and she didn''t whether to laugh or cry about it. It seems like the horse she randomly tamed at the plains was actually a royal beast like her Aslan. And this particular beast seemed really important to these people seeing the prostrating form of the Valley Chief directed unto her.

 39 The Truth She Forgo

    Chalice was all too glad to have left the Wind Valley. She couldn''t take their worshipping faces anymore. It was merely a coincidence that she has tamed Onyx. It didn''t matter what type of beast he was, whether royal or not, she still would have taken him in. Besides, how was she to know that the horse she picked is the only black stallion in this world. The Earth has plenty of them, alright?

    She did not dwell on that fact anymore. It wasn''t something that she could have changed even if she wanted to. Instead Chalice focused her attention to what had Luke said that night.

    "My lady, it is fortuitous for you to contract two royal beasts. However, you are aware of the repercussions, I hope? The world is not lacking of greed."

    Chalice was aware. She knew very much that too much was never going to bring any good. She knew the evils of the world. She had seen it with her own eyes, heard it with her own ears, and suffered from it half her life. This sudden predicament has made her sullen.

    Immersed in her thoughts, Chalice was suddenly roused into reality with Rye''s sudden shout.

    "Bandits! We''re being attacked."

    She stiffened. Luke who was beside her became vigilant and stood up to protect her. Levi slammed the carriage door open and dashed outside to help the other two who were in the front.

    Chalice saw from the open door that the fighting has broken out. Rye and Ward were holding of the enemies one after the other. Levi''s assistance were a negligible help and soon enough even he was fending off tens of bandits at once. Her heart dropped.

    A whole gang of armed bandits has intercepted them. And as she sees it, even if her companions were skilled and powerful knights the only option for them now is to flee.

    Unless, she makes a move. Her modern combat skills and assasination abilities could deal with them, albeit a bit more difficult without modern weapons. It was still not on the level of the previous missions she has dealt with on Earth.

    She breathed in deeply. Might as well risk it. It wasn''t that she didn''t trust the capabilities of Levi and the others. It''s only that she didn''t want them to get hurt or worse die because of her. She didn''t need protecting. She wasn''t a delicate flower from a greenhouse.

    "Luke, I''m so sorry for this."

    Chalice tapped Luke''s acupoints which rendered him unable to move. She took the dagger which she knew he was hiding in the side of his belt. After which she ran off to where the battle was at it''s height, secretly thanking her foresight to wear trousers this time. At least she spared herself from the comical view of her stumbling with the ruffles of her skirt while trying to be a badass hero.

    She has always had this habit of trying to be funny during inappropriate times. Call it a way of her keeping her wits about. Nonetheless, all of the humor bubbling in her mind vanished when she saw the state of her midget knight and her two trusted aides.

    The situation was a lot more dire than she thought it would be. There were too much of the enemies and too little of them. Her lot cut a sorry figure. Especially Levi. In a corner of her heart, she was glad she Luke stayed back to protect her instead of putting himself in the frontlines. But that thankful thought was merely a fleeting one. Because Chalice right now has long seen red. That was her people. No one was allowed to mess with them.

    It was her fault. All of it was her fault. If she didn''t insist on this inspection, they wouldn''t have to suffer like this. If she just stayed put in the fief, they wouldn''t meet these bandits. They wouldn''t need to protect her to this point. Rye and Ward wouldn''t have to face the brunt of the attack. Levi wouldn''t have been so bloodied that he lost his usual effeminate and narcissistic self. She wouldn''t need to paralyze Luke. She should have just been like how she was in the past. She should have been contented with doing nothing.

    The myriad emotions of self-blame, guilt, rage and pity triggered something in her. A familiar tantalizing thought hovered ceaselessly in her head. Whisphering. Coaxing her softly like an irresistable temptation.

    ''Kill them... Kill all of them.''

    ''You know you want to''

    ''Paint them in that beautiful vermillion.''

    ''Paint them in your favorite color.''

    Chalice succumbed to it completely. All she knew was whatever it was saying gave comfort to her heart. It soothed the dark feelings surrounding her and suffocating her. She was put in bliss and she wanted to stay there. She let herself go.

    When she came to Chalice saw the dagger glistening, reflecting her current state: a demon. An iron stench covered her from head to toe. Blood dripped from her sticky hands. It colored her white shirt like painted poppies in full bloom. Her face was tinted by rivulets casting an eerie glow on her beautiful countenance. Her eyes glinted with remnants of her bloodbath. Corpses were littered around her. The three men stood far away from her in shock and disbelief.

    This was the truth that she has long forgotten. The reason why she really quit the organization that time and pursued other professions. Professions which she deemed as safe. Jobs that were meant to contribute to the welfare of people and uphold order and justice. Roles that only made her emptier.

    This was the memory she had buried along with her will to live. The memory of a night of carnage and wanton slaughter. A little boy''s lifeless eyes. The eyes of an innocent soul she took away from the world with her own hands in a bout of bloodlust. It was the memory of a mission where she was supposed to be the savior but ended up with her as the murderer.

    This was her sin.

    Chalice stared at the fair hands of the body she has taken over. Her eyes blank. This body was innocent. But now it has been tainted by her. Even with this new life, it seems she can never escape the darkness. One which she had fought for years but ended up swallowing her, casting her in its detestable color. It was the abyss she stared into, and that which had stared back.

    She had hope that in this world she''ll finally have her redemption.

    She wanted redemption.

    But that darkness consumed her again. She still gave in. Though Chalice did not hurt her companions this time, but until when? This world required her to kill. This world was even crueler than the previous one. She has proven that on Janus street. So until when can she ensure that wouldn''t succumb again to the temptation? Their lives will only be at risk with her around. She was a sinner. A killer. A murderer. She was beyond saving. She was not meant to be here.

    ''Leave!''

    ''Leave! Only when you''re gone could they be safe from your hands.''

    Chalice heeded the whispers of her conscience. The emotions were eating her from the inside and she couldn''t take it any longer. She needed to get away.

    "Onyx!"

    She called on to the black stallion. The horse galloped to her side as if feeling the turmoil she was in.

    Chalice leaped onto his back and commanded him to move.

    She left without looking back.

 40 Shes Our Princess

    Luke saw the boundless despair shrouding Chalice the moment before she left. His heart broke seeing her in that state. He desperately tried to move his limbs. He wanted to stop her from leaving. He had an idea of what she was feeling at that moment and he wanted to reach out and take her into his arms. She wasn''t alone. She had him.

    After a few more minutes, Luke was able to move again. He rushed to the three who were wretchedly lying on the ground a few meters from the carnage. He looked tepidly at the dead bodies of the bandits whom Chalice single-handedly took down.

    Luke checked on them. Rye and Ward has already fallen unconscious. And Levi was trying to hold on to his last bit of consciousness. His eyes mirrored Luke''s as he looked at him with shock, disbelief, but moreso, worry.

    They would be lying if they say they weren''t doubtful of how Chalice has done what she did. But that was negligible. Both of them swore their lives to her. Despite Levi and Chalice bickering at every little thing, he treated her like his precious little sister. And Luke, nothing more can be said for him. His love for Chalice crosses all bounds of sanity. He wouldn''t care about her secrets. That was hers to keep. He has his own secrets too. What mattered to them was her, herself.

    "Luke, bring... bring her back. Y-you''ve got to... bring her back. She''s too... far gone. Her eyes were so... lifeless, it s-scared me. It felt as if we..we were about to l-lose her."

    Levi gasped and struggled to spit out the words in his heart as Luke tended to his wounds. Luke knew what he was saying. He feared that too.

    With a taut face and hurried hands, he patched them up and carried them in the carriage. He wanted to chase after her so badly but he won''t leave these three men to their lives.

    "I''ll find her. And I''ll bring her back. She is our princess. Nothing would ever change that. And it''s the only truth we will ever acknowledge."

    He told Levi firmly and then proceeded to run the carriage back. He planned on leaving the men back to Wind Valley and search for Chalice. She was in a precarious situation. Even if he needs to overturn hell itself, he will find her.

    And when he does, Luke will never let her go again.

    He won''t hold back anymore.

    ---

    Chalice didn''t know where she was going. Not that she cared, anyway. She let Onyx gallop off to wherever, not bothering to direct him. The wind brushed her cold face as trees blurred onto her view. Her mind was still blank.

    She only came to when Onyx stopped near a small stream. The poor horse must have been exhausted for running nonstop. Dusk has already settled in. The cricket''s song was mixed up with the distant sounds of wild animals. But there was silence in Chalice''s heart.

    She gauged indifferently her whereabouts. It seems she has entered the inner sanctuary of beasts in Zeru Mountains. Chalice knew she should be worried. The forest was dangerous. Even for someone like her. Especially now that she was not in an optimal state.

    However, Chalice just didn''t have the energy to bother. She felt tired. Her mind was forlornly fighting off the recurring images of an endless bloodbath and it was taking its toll on her heart, soul, and mind.

    A small voice however called to her. Like a glimmer of a dim star in a dark, moonless night. It was different from the other thoughts swirling through her consciousness at the moment.

    ''Go back!''

    ''You need to go back!''

    ''You''re no longer that person.''

    ''You have people waiting for you.''

    ''You have people who care.''

    ''You have people who loves you.''

    ''You have people who will accept the darkness in you.''

    ''They won''t leave.''

    ''Go back, Chalice!''

    The voice kept repeating the words. Over and over. Like a broken record. It annoyed her but they were also sparking a flicker of warmth in her frozen heart, cajoling her to listen to it and obey.

    She soon started questioning herself. Wet, hot tears threatened to flow freely in her eyes as the smiling faces of the people she held dearly in this world flashed in her mind''s sight. Was she really not the same anymore? Does she really have a chance? What if the voice was wrong? What if it''s just giving her false hope? She cannot take another disappointment anymore. She just can''t.

    Her head was aching at the discord running rampant in it. When suddenly, a rustle startled Chalice. Onyx neighed warily at a direction. The huge bushes leading to the stream moved violently before revealing a herculean, golden lion with a strange marking in its forehead.

    Aslan!

    Chalice stood up, momentarily forgetting her folly. It was her Aslan. She was about to run to the lion when Onyx dashed up to her front protectively. Her eyes widened in surprise before a small smile appeared in her lifeless face.

    "It''s okay Onyx. He''s Aslan. He''s my beast, the same as you. He won''t hurt me."

    She uttered softly in her hoarse voice, reassuring the black stallion. The horse neighed lowly before giving way to her. Although, it still stood on guard behind her back.

    Chalice choked on her sobs as she ran up to her big kitty. She embraced the golden fur that her hand could reach. Her painful cries broke free from her control. The lion seemed to sense her frail and vulnerable condition. So he slumped on the ground and onto his stomach, letting her bury her face in his huge neck. His fur muffled her cries and hid her weak form from the world.

    The Thunder horse sat on its four legs, there by the lion and the girl''s side, sandwiching her in between. The two beast formed a protective cocoon, painting a contrastingly doleful yet peaceful picture.

 41 The Priestess Who Was on her Morning Walk

    Having cried all her heart out, Chalice was finally able to create a semblance of calm and normality to her emotions. The night has already progressed and she couldn''t hastily move around despite her having two royal beasts by her side. She decided to pass the night by the small streams. Thankfully, Aslan seems to have a berry-detecting ability in him, so she was saved from the dreaded hunger.

    Chalice woke to the sound of birds chirping gaily, greeting a brand new day with zealous vigor. The sunshine passed through the branches of the trees creating a halo of subdued light around the stream. The glimmers of the water made the whole place magical. Her two loyal pets were still on her side fending off the cold breeze of the early morning. She reveled in that little bubble of comfort, wishing she could stay there forever.

    She knew she was just escaping the inevitable. But Chalice couldn''t help it. The recurrence of her entrenched memories was a huge blow to her pysche. She sighed.

    ''Honestly Chalice, you''re just prolonging the agony.''

    She thought to herself as she snuggled in Aslan''s fur. Her feet brushing against the silky mane of Onyx. Chalice secretly thanked her dubious luck for giving her these two. At the very least, they anchored her to the living world at the most crucial time.

    After several more minutes of idling, Chalice stood up and collected herself. She walked languidly, aimlessly for a few miles with her two beast. She looked around her, the towering trees of Zeru mountains are quite aesthetically pleasing. An OCD person would surely give it a thousand thumbs up. They stood in lines after lines in an orderly manner. Chalice also noted that these trees were all fruit-bearing ones. Suddenly, Chalice realized something off.

    This was a forest. A freaking forest. Not an orchard. So why were the trees arranged as if it intentionally grew that way?

    Unless someone really did plant them that way.

    Chalice grew vigilant. Has she perhaps tresspassed on an area she wasn''t supposed to? But this was the mountain ranges, who would live deep in its most dangerous parts?

    As if an answer to her questions, a woman dressed in immaculate, white robes and loose, red trousers reminscent of those shrine maidens back on Earth. She was walking leisurely as if she was just in her backyard and not on dangerous woods teeming with wild animals. However, that wasn''t the strangest thing about her.

    It was her mystical, silver eyes which looked as if they were glazed over and blank, seeing pass through the things in front of her. Was she blind? If she was, what the heck is she doing in here by herself?

    "Hello, young lady. You seem lost."

    Chalice looked at her incredulously. She was lost? Between the two of them, the lady looked like she was the one who was lost. She looked so out of place with her beautiful countenance, pristine clothes and aura that forbade sullying. She looked like she was more fit to be found in a temple of light and sunshine, far from the dirty clutches of the secular world.

    "Pardon me, lady. But I am not lost. I know I am at Zeru Mountains. It is exactly where I am meant to go."

    The lady''s thin and pinkish lips formed a mysterious curve. Her dazed eyes met hers. Chalice felt like drowning from those eyes. It was as if they were prying into the deep recesses of her soul. It unnerved her greatly.

    "I did not mean it that way."

    Chalice tilted her head at her confusedly. Why does she feel like there was an underlying meaning from her statement. She just couldn''t pinpoint what.

    "That aside, welcome to Amaterasu. It has been a long while since fate has brought someone here. You arrived just in time for my morning walk. You aren''t alone, I presume Lady Chalice."

    She stiffened in shock. This lady knows her? How? Was it her eyes that gave her away again? But that wasn''t possible. Chalice was pretty sure this woman can''t see. Even moreso, she was on her morning walk? She really did treat the forest as her orchard.

    "You know me? You know I''ll be here? Are you psychic?"

    There were still countless questions she wanted to ask and it was all encapsulated in those three questions. If she had added more, it''ll be a monologue.

    "Know you? Not personally, no. I only had a glimpse of who you are. That doesn''t count as knowing you. However, I was expecting your arrival for some time now. Psychic? I don''t know about such things. You could say I am a bit blessed with precognition. Though, I only see what I am allowed to see."

    Chalice was in utter disbelief. And the more she listened to the lady, the more she was confused. She summed all of what she has comprehended at the moment.

    So, the place she was in now was called by the woman as Amaterasu. But she surely was in Zeru Mountains. She didn''t know her for she only saw things about her. Huh? She wasn''t psychic, only precognitive. Wasn''t that the same thing? And she was already expecting her. Okay, that was apparent because she was precognitive in the first place.

    But who was she, really?

    The lady suddenly laughed lightly derailing her train of thoughts.

    "Oh my. I seem to have forgotten the most important thing: introductions. Silly me. Enchanted to meet you, Lady Chalice. I am Hikari, Priestess of the Amaterasu tribe of the Zeru Mountains."

    Chalice nodded stiffly. Well, at least she remembered.

    "And to you, Priestess. As you already know me, I won''t bother with it anymore. But I will introduce you to my companions. This is Aslan and Onyx."

    The Priestess nodded with another one of her strange, mysterious smiles.

    "Interesting. A lion and a thunder horse. Fitting, indeed."

    Chalice gaped at her flabbergasted. She blurted out a questions she has been holding off desperately.

    "But aren''t you blind, Priestess?"

    The woman nodded at her in understanding. An amused chuckle escaping her lips.

    "I am. Nevertheless, I may have lost my sense of sight. But that doesn''t mean I am unable to see."

    Chalice has been proud of her intellect. But she was rendered mute by such mysticism. Her brain whirred theories upon theories of explanation. She ignored all of that in the end. After all, why does it matter? Chalice acknowledge that there are things that are not meant to be explained in the world. They were meant to be believed in.

    "Follow me to the tribe. The morning haze would make you susceptible to colds."

    Chalice followed the woman beckoning to her. Though she was unsure of it, she had an inkling that somehow coming here was right. And that this place will help her find the answers to her uncertainties. Somehow, she believed this place would be the catalyst to the wavering future.

 42 Fine Lines of the In-Between

    Chalice was amazed at the village that was unfolded in front of her when she and the priestess got past the rows of the towering fruit trees. Thinking about it, Amaterasu wasn''t just a simple village. It was as large as the Keyne stronghold and was even more fantastic.

    It looked like a huge botanical garden except with cylindrically-shaped houses here and there. They were structure with polished bamboos and some kind of a metal. Each of the house had narrow corridors wrapping it around along with wooden shutters on top of sliding panels made of translucent paper and wooden frames. It was quite a wonder to behold. There were flourishing wisterias with branches overlapping creating a magical impression in the place. Chalice also saw a row of cherry blossom and plum trees.

    There were bamboo patches sporadically in place casting a contrast to the pastels. The slabs of rock made a unique pathway to each of the houses, overall creating a harmonious feel. She felt at peace in this place. It was as if her very soul was being healed just by standing there.

    She stood there dazed, admiring the beauty of nature that was hidden so deep in these mountain range beyond a thick wall of towering trees. If she wasn''t seeing it for herself then, she would''ve argued endlessly that such a place cannot exist in the heart of the inner sanctuary of Zeru Mountain''s beasts.

    She passed by a few people who all greeted her politely. She returned it with all the courtesy she could muster. Though they looked at her curiously, especially at the two animals walking with her, they didn''t pry and went their own ways.

    ''These people are pretty chill.'' She thought to herself.

    The priestess led her to a house similar to those she saw on their way. It was cylindrical but instead of green, it was white. There were three floors of it instead of two like the others. There was a huge archway before it that looked like a torii*. When they passed it by, she saw a well along with a zen garden and small bamboo fountain.

    Upon seeing the inside, Chalice thought that the house was actually quite practical. The floors were made of woven rice straws which smelled quite pleasing. She saw the priestess slide open one of those panels of translucent papers with wooden frames that actually ran from floor to ceiling. It revealed the entire view of the garden to them. She gasped to herself in amazement, thinking she''ll also make herself one of these back at her home.

    But she stilled at that thought, feeling melancholy once again. She shook her head to rid herself of it and focused on observing the place. She sat cross-legged at the thin pillows lying neatly near a low table and waited for the priestess who left her after opening the sliding windows.

    "Why am I here?"

    She asked after finishing a few of the buns and sipping the last bit of her tea. The priestess cocked an eyebrow at her direction, a slight curve in her mouth seemingly finding this question amusing.

    "Shouldn''t you be asking yourself that? Why are you here?... What led you to this place?"

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    Hikari retorted at her. Chalice furrowed her brows and indulged her. She thought deeply to herself with only one answer coming to mind.

    "Fear. Fear led me here. You see lady Hikari, before stumbling to your place I have just finished off and slaughtered an entire gang of bandits who have hurt my companions."

    Chalice answered blankly as she stared at the garden laid in all its glory. She suppressed the morbid thoughts surfacing once again in her mind.

    "You have gone through quite the ordeal, lady Chalice."

    She gaped at the nonchalant priestess. Doesn''t she care? Chalice has just told her that she committed countless murders. She''s actually indiferrent about it. Is she really a priestess or they have different standards here?

    "However, if you don''t mind me asking. You were capable of taking down these dangerous men alone, yet why do you say you were led here because of fear?"

    Alright, that''s it. Chalice gave up trying to fathom the priestess'' train of thought. She might as well not think too much about it. If she didn''t care about her murdering these so-called dangerous men, she wouldn''t as well. Chalice somehow forgot that the feudalistic world was a cruel place. The priestess was bound to be used to such claims. She looked up at her silver eyes and sighed as she answered.

    "It wasn''t fear of those men that made me leave, lady Hikari. It was fear of myself and the darkness which has consumed me."

    There was a long while of silence between them. The resounding clink of Hikari putting down her teacup disturbed the solemn air.

    "Do you truly believe yourself to be part of that darkness?"

    Chalice nodded without hesitation. That was without a doubt. The tendrils of this hated stygian has thoroughly taken her soul. She couldn''t possibly deny that. The priestess shook her head in her reply.

    "Darkness is merely the absence of light, young lady. There is but a few who can be perfectly dark and perfectly light; entirely good and entirely evil. Humans are quaint creatures in a sense that they can never be completely dark or light, evil or good. They exist in the fine lines of the in-between. The gray areas. You told me that you killed those men with your own hands. But have you thought of why you killed them in the first place? You focused so much of your attention to the act of taking their lives and felt guilt because of it. Yet you completely disregarded the fact that if you haven''t done what you did, you and your companions would have been dead under them."

    The priestess held her hand. The sudden warmth of her long, slender fingers and smooth palm jolted her rigid body. Her soft voice echoed in her ears, straight into her heart.

 43 Let Me Find You Soon

    Chalice look dumbfoundedly at the priestess. Her words seeped into her very soul. Somehow an epiphany was inching its way into her mind. The bigger part of her wholeheartedly accepted Hikari''s words. They made so much sense that she couldn''t refute it even if she tried. However, there was still that trace of the evil voice trying desperately to make itself heard. She did her best to ignore it as she continued to ponder.

    Light huh? Could finding the light of her life really liberate her from all of these misery? Honestly, she didn''t want to run away anymore. Chalice yearned immensely to truly live her life to its fullest. She wanted to use her capabilities to prove her worth. To leave her mark in the world. She didn''t want to die like she did back on Earth. Silently. Without a trace, without anyone knowing, and without anyone mourning for her.

    But how will she know if she found her light? What was this light in the first place anyway? Chalice was lost. For the first time, this genius did not know what to think or do. So she looked at the woman in front of her. The woman whose eyes seemed to hold all the mysteries of this world.

    "How would I know if I already found my light?"

    The priestess smiled at her question.

    "You''ve already found it. You''ll realize this yourself soon enough. And when you do, young lady, don''t push it away."

    Chalice sighed exasperatedly at Hikari. She tried. But she just can''t keep up with all her mysticism. She didn''t dwell on it though. If she has found it, then that''s good enough. Chalice will take the priestess'' word for it.

    ---

    Meanwhile, Luke has exhausted his horse again. He hasn''t taken any rest and only stopped briefly to eat a few bites of food and drink water. His heart cannot settle as long as he hasn''t found the princess.

    He has already entered the inner sanctuary of the Zeru Mountains. He wanted to check in with the Amaterasu tribe which was half a day''s ride more. Luke was hoping that some of the Amaterasu people may have seen Chalice running about in the forest. It was fortunate that her horse was also easy to single out.

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    Most people weren''t aware that there was a tribe residing deep into the inner areas of the mountain range. It was also coincidence that Luke came to know about it.

    Luke was chasing an elk when he stumbled upon a blind lady trying to harvest peaches from its tree. He didn''t know whether to laugh or pity the woman. Still in the end, he helped her pick out the fruits. In turn, the woman invited her to the tribe. It turned out that she was the Priestess of the Amaterasu tribe. Their figurehead.

    He was quite jubilant when he found out because it was said that none has ever confirmed that the tribe really existed. And that even if some people did encounter the tribe, they kept mum about it. It was only when he met them himself that he believed it was only right for them to hide themselves. The beauty and wealth of their place would drive people with greed. Aside from the fact, that the tribe was a bit on the naive side because of the countless years of seclusion.

    He became fond of them and their honest to goodness personalities. Except maybe the priestess. Luke does respect her. However, Lady Hikari had the power to render a person reeling in confusion at her words.

    He wasn''t spared of this. Though for others, it wasn''t much. Luke felt as if the priestess stripped him bare of his secrets. It was as if she knew everything about him and yet she just chose not to divulge it directly but through confusing riddles. It was a scary feeling for him.

    Luke continued riding after the horse has sufficiently rested and fed. Soon enough he arrived at the familiar line of trees. He breathed in deeply and proceeded forward. A desperate wish in his heart bloomed. He wished that somehow, someone in the tribe had clues about Chalice''s whereabouts.

    Given the time she left, she couldn''t have reached Freyr City yet. So the tribe was the most probable stop she could have made. Luke didn''t have any problems chasing after her even to the ends of the world. Nevertheless, he couldn''t possibly allow her to suffer the hardship of such long time travel. Who would cook her food? Fix her hair? Choose her dress? Who would take care of her?

    Ah, but then who was he kidding? Deep down, the reason for the urgency of finding her was him, himself. Luke has tasted the bliss of being close to her everyday. He was the one who can''t take it being so far apart right now. He missed her too much. And it was driving him mad. He needed to see her teasing smile and hear her languid voice. He needed to smell her fragrance even if it was detrimental to his control. He needed to feel the warmth she exuded. Luke needed her to remind himself that he must keep living because she needed him.

    Chalice was his anchor to this world. She was his sunshine. It was her who brought light and direction to his existence at the most vital of moments. She was his sanity and his heart.

 44 Akai Ito Bracelets

    Chalice, oblivious to the nearing presence of her right-hand man was currently enjoying a bath in the open air hot spring courtesy of the priestess. Despite being hard to figure out and spouting mysteries now and then, the Amaterasu Priestess, Hikari, is actually quite likeable. Minus all of the profoundness surrounding her, she was quirky and witty without losing her elegant flair.

    Although, Chalice was thoroughly shocked when she saw her wine collection. She found it a bit funny when Hikari called her specific favorite, sak��* of courage, as to why, Chalice didn''t really want to know. She assumed it was just one of Hikari''s quirks. After bragging about it for about half an hour, Hikari forced her into agreeing to drink with her while they view the moon later on tonight. Or in Hikari''s case, feel the moonlight.

    As for now, she currently reveled in the feeling of the warm, relaxing water. She was a bit tired with going around the whole tribe. Amaterasu lived up to first impressions. It was truly a breathtaking place. Chalice even planned to adopt some of the things she saw and put it up at the Amaranth Manor. Such as the zen garden and the bamboo fountain. She also begged Hikari for wisterias which she could propagate. She also wanted an open air bath but it seems that one needs a bit more thought into it.

    She sighed and then shook her head after a while. As much as possible, Chalice didn''t want to think of anything related to them for now, lest her thoughts took another dark turn. She knew she needed to go back. After all, she didn''t want to get others in trouble because of her. Not to mention, her parents might go berserk with her disappearance. But for now, she just desperately wanted to relish this time for herself.

    Chalice looked up at the night sky. The moon was starting to come up to its zenith along with the stars which twinkled like shards of diamonds. So much has already happened to her and yet it seemed only yesterday when she transmigrated here. She thought being another person would get rid of her nightmares. Of the depression and anxiety she had back in that life. Well, she hoped it would.

    She didn''t want to admit her condition. Even if it was glaring at her in the eyes. She didn''t want to admit that even now she had difficulty sleeping. Why can''t this world have sleeping pills? Chalice was seriously tired.

    ''Well, thinking about it, not having sleeping pills is a good thing too. At least, I won''t die because of it again.''

    She smiled bitterly. So much for not thinking about anything. Her reverie was broken when she heard the sweet voice of Hikari.

    "Chalice, get out of there already. I feel the moon''s warm light and hear my sake calling out for us. Hurry up, will you?"

    "Alright. Alright. You didn''t have to rush me."

    She replied as she rose up from the warm water. Chalice draped herself in the cotton towel that was conveniently left there at the side. After drying herself, she took up the clothing that Hikari prepared for her. It was a traditional Amaterasu attire. Chalice thought it was similar to the Japanese yukata* except this one was more elaborate with its embellishments.

    The robe had a satiny finish. It was black with countless life-like blooming red poppies imprinted on it. It made her already fair and snow white skin even fairer. Chalice left her hair as it is, her dark wavy locks blending with the robes.

    Hikari''s blank eyes gaped at the sky as an enchanting beauty slowly made her way towards her. Chalice was like the night blooming cestrum slowly unfurling her petals under the moon beams. A shadow of a smile hovered in her red lips, mysterious and alluring.

    "You''ve already started, seriously?"

    Chalice''s husky voice rang out in the air. Hikari gave her a smirk as she poured sake on a small cup. There was also a serving of aromatic roasted meat chopped up into cubes. As well as pickled papayas. Chalice took a bite of each before drinking from her cup.

    Hikari''s sake was sweet and had a little bit of fruity tone to it as well as a pleasing aftertaste. It''s warmth reached to the pit of her stomach and gave Chalice a pleasant feeling. She can totally understand why Hikari is so fond of it.

    "This is so good. Can you gift me a bottle?"

    She asked the priestess delightedly. Hikari chuckled at her as she put down her cup.

    "I''ll add that to the gift I''ll be giving you. But just one bottle, alright?"

    Chalice tilted her beautiful head at her. Gift? Hikari was giving her a gift? Whatever for? She saw the priestess take out an exquisite brocade box and pushed it into her hands. She looked at it for a short while before opening it slowly.

    The box contained a pair of black meteorite bracelet gleaming softly under the moonlight. It was polished to perfection, almost mirror-like. However, precisely in the middle of the bracelets runs a contrasting blood red line. Each of the lines congealed into circular bead. These beads were clasped tightly together, joining the two bangles together.

    Chalice ran a finger to the smooth surface of the jewelry. It felt cold under her touch but strangely comforting. Its delicate simplicity nevertheless awed her.

    "What is this, Hikari? It''s absolutely breathtaking." She asked awestruck. Hikari smiled at her with indulgence before taking the pair of bracelets in her hands.

    "These are Akai Ito bracelets. Take it as a meeting gift from me. One is for you to wear and the other, you must give to the person you believe will stay with you under any circumstances. Give it to your light, Chalice."

    Chalice nodded. Her focus so intent on the magnificent bracelets that she didn''t hear the last part of Hikari''s statement.

    Her thoughts swirled around the person she was thinking of giving it to. The moment Hikari said she should give the bracelet to the person whom she believed will never leave her, only one came up to her mind. She couldn''t help but smile at the thought. Perhaps with this, that certain nanny would lift his ban on her desserts.

    "Thank you so much, Hikari. They look one of a kind. I''ll treasure them dearly."

    Hikari chuckled at her before returning the bracelets to her. With a smug smile she turned her head to the view once again.

 45 The Secret of the Saké of Courage

    After downing three bottles of sak��, to which she herself insisted, Chalice has lost to the clutches of alcohol. Hikari merely listened to her amusedly as she nibbled at the roasted meat and pickles mumbling incoherently to herself.

    The priestess shook her head as she recalled Chalice''s reaction to her explanation about the bracelet. She actually disregarded it and instead asked how they were able to make the bracelet that way. Sigh. It seemed like the lady hasn''t realized the implication that Akai Ito bracelets held. That or she was completely not paying attention.

    Unmei no Akai Ito, the red string of fate. The Amaterasu people believed that two people connected by the red string are destined lovers, regardless of place, time, or circumstances. This magical cord may stretch or tangle, but never break. The Akai Ito bracelets were made based on this unbreakable belief. The owners of a pair are only meant for each other.

    The bracelets were usually given during weddings to the husband and wife. They serve pretty much as wedding rings to them. But then again, it wouldn''t be interesting if Hikari told Chalice that. She already had an inkling as to who Chalice will give the bracelet to. She mentioned him quite often the whole day. And quite unaware of it too.

    Hikari smiled fondly at the drunken enchantress in front her. Sometimes, even if only meeting for such a brief moment, an undeniable affinity can be formed. That was exactly what she felt towards Chalice. Hikari didn''t mind the darkness engulfing her nor the mystery of her origins. All she saw was a girl seeking a friend.

    Fate truly was a strange one. The two people she had ever let in her life were entangled with each other unbreakably. However, Hikari''s eyes darkened when she recalled her vision. She wanted to let them know. She wanted to spare them both such a misery. These two should have had enough of that to last them a life time. But Hikari cannot go against the heavens. She cannot divulge the secrets of fate. An observer, that was her role. Meddling will only inflict more damage in this case. She sighed helplessly.

    ''I''ve done all I could to help. The rest is up to them.''

    Hikari thought as she silently savored the sweetness of the wine along with the soft, fragrant breeze of the night. That was until silent but hurried footsteps broke the tranquility that blanketed the two women. Hikari turned at the source and smiled nostalgically.

    "You''re here. Right on time as ever." Hikari uttered softly as she turned to the man who arrived. An urgent and anxious look was plastered in his face as he rushed to her.

    "Luuuuke! My dearest, hic, sweetest Luke is, hic, here."

    Chalice drawled while she stood up and walked to him swaying. Luke automatically held his hands out and caught her as she stumbled on the last step. Her unique fragrance coupled with the scent of alcohol attacked Luke''s nose. Usually, he would stiffen at this but now all it gave him was a sense of assurance.

    He found her! He finally found her!

    His beloved was finally back in his arms. Luke couldn''t contain himself and didn''t bother to. He engulfed Chalice in a tight, warm hug.

    "Aww. Hikariii, my Luke, hic, missed me so much. Hic. See. He''s hugging me so tight. Hic. He should''ve done so, hic, long ago."

    Chalice patted his head indulgingly. Hikari merely listened on them, suppressing the bubbling laughter in her throat. She turned her attention to her cup and leisurely drank.

    "You made her drink so much?" Luke turned to the priestess relaxing under the moonlight, Chalice still in his arms. Hikari smirked with concealed mischief.

    "Now, now. This isn''t my fault. She was the one who wanted to drink till she dropped. I tried to stop her after our first bottle. She wouldn''t listen, however."

    Luke sighed as he looked at the drunk woman in his arms. Her fair face was flushed red because of the alcohol. Her eyelids drooped seductively contrasting with the goofy smile in her lips.

    Surprisingly, Chalice took Luke''s face in her palms and held it dangerously near hers. Luke could only stare dumbly at her.

    "Hikariii, say, hic, what was I thinking in the past? My head, hic, must have been filled with water. Hic. My Luke is obviously, hic, a thousand times more dashing than that, hic, pimp of a prince. Hic. This is a man worthy, hic, of this lady chasing after him."

    Hikari chuckled jubilantly at Chalice''s slurring words. She surmised Luke must be in a very uncomfortable situation right now. And Hikari would gladly help Chalice put him in an even more precarious situation.

    "You should take her to bed. Both of you needs the rest. Aside from the fact, that you can''t possibly travel out with her like that."

    Luke breathed out and took Chalice''s hands from where it is holding. He then carried her princess style.

    "Where can she rest and sleep?" Luke asked the priestess. Hikari motioned to him the guest room. Luke unhesistatingly walked to the direction Hikari pointed at. Chalice was his first priority. Halfway there, however, he paused and turned to the priestess.

    "Thank you for finding and keeping her here. I owe you one." The priestess smiled her mysterious smile at his thanks before she answered.

    "There''s no need for thanks. She was meant to come here. Just as you were meant to stumble into this place back then. Just as you were meant to find her here today. It is all predestined, my friend."

    Luke shook his head as he tried to settle down the squirming woman in his arms.

    "Even if that''s the case. You still have my thanks." He insisted.

    Hikari turned her head to the man as she heaved a helpless sigh.

    "Alright then. If you truly want to thank me, take good care of her. She''s now my friend as well." Hikari directed her blank, silver eyes to Luke''s icy blue ones and spoke again.

    "Luke, your light has more to her than meets the eye. She flickered, ceased to be, and came back engulfed in a darkness rooted deeply in her soul. She''s strong and she''s fully capable of saving herself from it. But she doesn''t have a reason to. Save her, Luke. Save her from herself. Be that reason."

    Luke was rigid at Hikari''s words. But he didn''t reply to it and merely nodded once. He then walked towards the room without looking back to the priestess again.

    Hikari savored the sweet wine in her mouth. A naughty smile suddenly slipping out of her lips. All that she said to Luke has their purpose of course. They were matter of facts. She was serious about that. However, the tense statement was all but forgotten when she remembered the drunken girl in the man''s arms.

 46 A Privilege

    Luke laid Chalice down to the soft, fluffy mattress in the room. However, the lady''s arms still held on to his neck with no plans of letting go anytime soon. Her mouth was widely grinning at him. It was looking a bit stupid already but Luke found it quite endearing. He was glad that somehow she was smiling. No matter what the reason was. He''d rather have that than see her in a state similar to the one before she fled.

    He tucked a stray lock of dark hair in her ear as he stared at his beautiful countenance. Luke smiled lovingly at her before he tried to take her fair arms away from his neck. But before he could do so, Chalice''s eyes snapped open and stared at him intently. Her arms tightened even more, drawing him closer to her.

    "My lady, you should let me go now. You need to rest. You''re drunk."

    Chalice pursed her lips and frowned at him instead of letting go. It was only after a long while that she spoke.

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    "No. Hic. No. No. Not, hic, letting go. You''re staying, hic, here with me." She muttered drunkenly, shaking her head like a spoiled kid hell-bent on getting her way. She then forcefully tugged him even closer to her, clinging to his neck as if someone was about to snatch him from her. Luke lost his balance to her sudden action and fell on top of her. They were put in a highly ambiguous position and it made him feel uncomfortable. Luke struggled to get up. He didn''t want to look as if he was taking advantage of her.

    Nevertheless, the princess seemed to have other plans in mind. She held on to him tightly and even engulfing him fully in an embrace instead. Luke was helpless. It''s either he goes with it or forcefully pry himself out of her grasp. Propriety asks him to resort to the latter and separate himself from her. But his inner desire dictates him to relish the moment. To go along with what she was doing and not care for what happens the next day. Being in her embrace was a far-fetched dream which has come true at this moment. Would it be a sin to to give himself this chance?

    "Luke will you, hic, ever leave me?"

    Luke stiffened at the sorrowful question she suddenly blurted out. He supported himself with his elbows so he could meet her eyes. They were cold, empty, and scared. His heart ached so much at the sight.

    "Even if I''m a murderer? Even if I had taken countless lives including innocent ones? Even if I''m in reality, a demon who''s satisfaction lies in killing? Even if in the end, I''d end killing you?" Chalice''s voice surprisingly did not falter nor slur. But what made Luke alarmed was how lifeless it was. There was a glaring fear of rejection that glinted her eyes and shot arrows at him. He thoroughly hated her current state. But even more so because he was clueless to what caused it. He hated how it made him feel helpless. His Chalice is better suited to being the usual teasing, lazy, gluttonous her. It was a crime that her brilliant and amazing self to be reduced to this empty shell.

    "Yes. Even if you are a demon. I''ll stay. I''ll always be here. I''ll never leave you alone. And if in the end I die by your hands, my lady, I''ll die the happiest man in this world. It is a privilege to be killed by you." Luke replied not bothering to hide the warmth and love in his tone. At this moment he didn''t want to hide to it. He wanted to make her feel that she has him with her. The lady was drunk and she was bound to forget every single thing of this night, anyway. He might as well let himself go.

    Chalice finally showed a ghost of a smile but even that slowly faded into a sad one. Which has further deepened the frown in his face. It seems that Hikari was right. Chalice was drowning in darkness. What had happened to her? What led her to this? Luke was stifled at these questions.

    "Why? Why would you stay, Luke? Why would you go so far for me? I don''t have redeeming qualities nor am I a good and virtuous woman."

    Luke caressed her face and petted her head softly. A gentle smile illuminated his face. He looked at the precious woman in his arms that was currently struggling with her insecurities. The woman who didn''t realize how much of a treasure she truly was, not because of her wealth or status. But because of her own, individual brilliance.

    "I stay because you are my light. My savior. Your happiness, your smile is the wind that propels the sails of my being. I''d do anything, be anything just so I could paint a smile to that beautiful face of yours. I stay, Chalice, because I can never leave my life. The oath I swore that day, I intend to keep it as long as I live. And even if you no longer want me by your side, I''ll still protect you in my own ways." Luke spoke solemnly. Each word carried all the repressed emotions he held.

    When he left Chalice and went to the Amaranth fief, he vowed to kill the inappropriate feelings he held for the lady. In his mind, it was merely a form of temporary infatuation caused by gratitude. And as years passed of not being with her or seeing her, he confirmed this to be true.

    Until she came along again.

    And this time the changes in her made the feeling he discarded come back in an even more forceful and undeniable form. If he previously felt a love due to gratitude, a love borne for one''s savior; this time, what he felt exceeded that.

    What he felt now transcended the borders of what is proper. It overbearingly defies the rigid and unforgiving norm. What he felt now was one that gave him both fear and joy. Because it urged him to acknowledge that which he had discarded. It tempted him to commit each and every possible way of possessing her.

    Even so... even at this extent she was also the anchor which made him sane and good.

 47 The Sobriety That Morning Brings

    Chalice squinted her eyes at the bright light of the morning sun passing through the murky white of the window panels. She stretched lazily and savored the fresh feeling of having a really good night''s sleep. Now that was a first. And Chalice couldn''t help but enjoy the pleasantness of it.

    However, just as she was relishing the feeling, memories of the night before flooded her brain. Chalice went rigid. Multiple explosions suddenly went off somewhere in her mind without much warning.

    ''Oh my goodness! Chalice, what have you done?''

    She blanked out just as she had registered that thought. She remembered how she downed cup after cup of the sak��, unaware that she was pushing herself further and further in its sweet trap.

    Luke! That''s right. Luke came. Luke found her. And then... And then... Oh god! What an embarrassment!

    Chalice would have rejoiced and feel moved at his arrival. But when she remembered how she clung to him like a freaking human leech, she couldn''t help but cringe at herself.

    What was more frustrating was that she actually pulled the poor guy and embraced him like a darn koala. That was equivalent to practically molesting him. Chalice blushed profusedly when she remembered how close Luke''s face was. She recalled the feeling of his hard, chiseled back under her palms. Steam was practically coming out of Chalice''s head at this point.

    And then, another blow struck her hard.

    Her conversation with Luke played itself out repeatedly in her head. Chalice''s breathing quickened as a sudden realization took over her mind. But she vehemently shook her head. How could such an idea be possible? Was Luke unaware of the implications of his words? He was clearly sober though. So he might really be serious about it.

    Chalice refused to continue that particular thought. She''ll just treat it as the perpetually ignored elephant in the room.

    "Morning, my lady." Luke''s warm and honey-like voice sounded out on her ear.

    Chalice stiffened as she was roused up from her daze. She almost screamed though she was able to bite her tongue on time. She mechanically turned her head in the direction of the door. Her mind hitting overdrive with her panic.

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    ''Curse you, Drunk Chalice! Curse you!''

    ''I''m never drinking again.''

    ''That''s it. I''ll pretend that I don''t remember anything. That would make things less awkward.''

    ''Nothing happened, Chalice. Nothing happened. You''re cool. You''re calm. You''re fine. You can do this!''

    Swirling thoughts plagued her mind but Chalice focused on the last one, chanting it like a talisman. She forced a surprised face and directed it at Luke. It wasn''t really hard to do that since she really was surprised and about to go out of her darn, freaking mind.

    "L-Luke? You''re here? How did you find me?" She asked, her tone forced. Chalice didn''t miss the disappointment that passed through Luke''s eyes when she asked those questions that signified she forgot all about last night.

    Nevertheless, it disappeared just as quickly as it came. Luke recovered himself and smiled his usual smile at her.

    "I scoured the entire mountain for you, my lady. Until I stumbled upon this tribe. Luckily, you haven''t left yet and here we are. How are you feeling, my lady? Are you hungry? Do you want to eat now or freshen up first?"

    Luke was being his usual helicopter nanny self. But Chalice couldn''t help but sense something different. She just couldn''t pinpoint what. She shook her and focused at the situation at hand.

    "I''ll wash up first if it''s alright." Chalice said with a trace of hesitation. Luke merely nodded and then proceeded to the adjacent bathroom that was in the room.

    Chalice heard him fill up the tub with water and the ruffles of towels and clothes being unraveled.

    She was lost in another reverie when he called out to her saying that she could now wash up. Luke then held out the door and waited for her to enter.

    When Chalice reached his side, a metallic luster caught her eyes. There, in Luke''s wrist is an inconspicuous meteorite bracelet which was polished to perfection. A contrasting red line embedded in its middle. It was exactly one of the pair of Akai Ito bracelets that Hikari gifted her.

    ''Oh, right. I basically forced the bracelet on to him last night.'' Chalice remembered.

    Luke noticed her pause and then followed the direction of her eyes. He coughed uneasily and began to explain to her.

    "This... I''m sorry, my lady. You insisted that I put it on last night. You were even angry when I tried to take it off. I''ll return it right away." He hurriedly clarified.

    Chalice shook her head at this and gave him a small smile. She could understand why her drunk self got mad when he tried to remove it. The bracelet looked as if it was purposely made for Luke''s wrist. It matched him well.

    "No need. It suits you. And I meant to give it to you anyway. So, keep it." She said curtly and entered the bathroom without giving the man another glance. This cut off whatever protest Luke was about to raise. Thus he could only sigh helplessly as he gazed at the bracelet in his hands.

    The man surmised that Chalice was still clueless as to the real significance of the bracelet. But he also couldn''t help but feel blissful when she told him that she had planned to give it to him in the end. Luke felt joy knowing that it was meant for him.

    Chalice, meanwhile, dipped her entire face into the basin of water. First, to calm her darn raging mind and second, to cover up the heat flushing her face red.

    She had always known how good-looking and pleasant-smelling Luke was. Chalice has always been fond of his scent. And when that minty chocolate fragrance assailed her nose a while ago, she couldn''t help but sniff discreetly. Her whole being heating up as she engulfed herself in it. Her mind recalled the heavenly sensation of having Luke in her embrace.

    It was official. She has become a pervert.

    Chalice chided herself. She needed to remain sane and rational. She let out a loud sigh, her eyes looking down.

    However, there in her snow white wrist was the other half of the Akai Ito bracelet on Luke''s hand. She stared at it complicatedly. It reminded her of a trend back on Earth. It certainly was similar to having couple bracelets. Couple, huh? The thought of her having the other pair of the jewelry Luke has, brought a strange feeling to her heart. Novel and unexpected.

    It was a concept she has never once encountered in both her lifetimes.

 48 It is not in Your Place to be Selfish

    Silence pervaded between Chalice and Luke as they ventured out of the Amaterasu tribe territory. The tense air wrapped around them as they avoided each other''s faces.

    Chalice peeked through her lashes and gauged Luke''s expression. She sighed for another time and then focused her attention on the road.

    "You are not a murderer." Luke''s voice suddenly rang out and broke the silence. Chalice looked at him, disoriented at his voice.

    "Huh? Sorry, what?" She asked. Unsure of what she has heard.

    "You are not a murderer, my lady. What you have done does not change how I see you. Or how any of us sees you. You have done nothing wrong. It was either us or them. Our convictions instead were strengthened. This only proved that we have chosen the right master to serve. So we''d rather not have you believe that you are a murderer nor that you are alone in all of this. We are here for you. Do not be scared of losing control, my lady, because I promise to haul you back to sanity."??

    Chalice looked at him blankly. His words were still trying to register themselves into her mind. She was partly afraid that they will think differently of her. That things will lead her to them feeling awkward around her. She was already used to their usual banters. It would really be unfortunate for that to change.

    But Luke''s last statement hit home. That was what she feared the most. Her losing control of herself, succumbing to the darkness which was thirsty for blood and laying dormant in her, biding its time.

    She smiled bitterly.

    "What if you can''t bring me back, Luke? What then?" Chalice said in a rueful tone. She saw Luke stop in his tracks and dismount from his horse. She did so, as well. Suddenly, she felt the strong grip of his hands on her shoulders.

    Chalice was met with his playful smirk and his intense eyes which held a firm conviction despite the pretend mischief.

    "Then I will join you, my lady. We''ll both be insane forever. I will stay true to my oath." She blinked as the warmth of his voice tickled her ears. Chalice looked down to hide the smile threatening to break out from her lips.

    It was only after a few moments that Luke let go of her, his smirk lost its curves and turned into a straight line. A sense of foreboding washed over Chalice as she watched the drastic change of his demeanor.

    Luke''s scathing tone made Chalice feel as if she was a child getting reprimanded for not sharing her toys. But she was also aware of why Luke pointed this out for her so harshly. This was a classic scenario of a servant needing to be firm and wise for his master was being completely stupid.

    This was a feudalistic world. And she was someone who holds so much power in her hands, as of the moment. Power that was capable of dictating whether people would live or die. She had no time to be wallowing herself into the oblivion of self-despair and fear. Luke was right.

    What was she running away from again? This was not her old world. This was a place and time that forced people to kill for justice and for peace. If she couldn''t get the redemption she wanted, then she might as well force her way to get it. To get her own version of redemption.

    She was no longer that former genius agent with a tragic backstory. She was now the Princess of Amaranth. The daughter of the most powerful duke and Prime Minister of a country. Her fear will always lurk around in her being but Chalice knew this wasn''t the time to deal with it. Slowly. She will slowly purge out that fear as she continued on in this world.

    Chalice looked at Luke. The light in her eyes shining brighter than ever. That was the light of a ruler and it got Luke lost in its radiance. He nodded indistinctly at this positive change. This was exactly the state he wanted her to be in.

    "How is Levi? And the other two?" Chalice finally inquired after a long silence. They resumed their pace and treaded the way back to the Amaranth estate.

    "I sent them to Wind Valley before I left to look for you. I think they are also on their way back to the estate. They will be able to recuperate there better." Luke replied with solemnity and a slight trace of self-reproach. This didn''t escape her ears. She knew Luke was feeling guilty. He was not able to help them in the fight at all. Chalice knew that he was blaming himself. Even though his incapability of joining the fight was not his fault but hers. She was the one who paralyzed him, after all.

    "Luke, why were there bandits at Zeru Mountains? As far as I know, there has never been any who made this place their base ever since my great-grandfather''s time." Chalice asked him doubtfully, thinking of diverting him from his guilty thoughts. And to analyze the circumstances with him, as well.

    The Zeru Mountains were deemed sacred so few people have the guts to tarnish such a place. Within the whole Amaranthian fief, this area was the most peaceful. It didn''t clock in any severe crimes aside from domestic disputes. Aside from that, the mountains itself were teeming with wild and rare ferocious beasts which served as another natural deterrent.

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    Thus, it was natural for her to find it strange that bandits would actually have the guts to commit atrocities in this place.

    "You are quite right, my lady. Bandits have never been sighted in the area until now. I would love to be able to answer your questions. However, I profusely apologize. I prioritized finding you first before delving into any type of investigations." Luke bowed to her in apology. Chalice shook her head at this.

    "It is fine. I am at fault here. How many days will it take us to get back to the estate? We have a lot of things to deal with. Urgently."

    Luke tugged at his horse''s reins as he glanced at the lady sitting in her majestic black stallion while a humongous lion followed at their back. It might sound comical, but the sight of it was actually intimidating. Chalice, with her tiny frame, was capable of commanding such powerful beasts.

    "Around five days if we take the long way. But I know a different route. It will help us reach home in three days." Luke turned to her. Chalice squinted her eyes. Her mind whirred at all the plans and contingencies she was forming. She looked at Luke determinedly. They were now back on track.

    "Good. We will take your route. We need to arrive home as soon as possible. I need to root out whatever evil is lurking in my territory. No one undermines my house''s authority, slaps it in my face and gets away with it. When we arrive, get me the territory''s best shadows. Also, schedule an appointment with the head of the Merchant Guild. I won''t let this intervene with our development plans for the fief."

 49 Youre Not Just My Knigh

    Chalice and Luke were met with a frantic household when they arrived back at the Amaranth estate. Levi, who was already up on his feet surprisingly, met Chalice with a death stare. It seems his injuries were a lot less severe compared to the others. That or he was just a veteran when it comes to fighting, getting injured, and recuperating. He stomped heavily with menace in her direction. Somehow, she felt that the usually womanly Levi looked a bit manlier when he was this angry.

    ''Hmm. He''s still a shortie, though.''

    Before Chalice could even utter a syllable Levi has already started his rain of tirades unto her. Chalice could only helplessly shut her mouth and let him blow his top off. After all, aside from being injured to protect her, Levi was as always worried about her safety.

    "What were you thinking, my lady? Running off like that? What if there were still bandits lying in wait? Have you thought of what would happen to you? Even if you could fight all of them alone, what if they still had reinforcements? Are you an immortal to be so courageous to not fear death? What happened to your brains? Did they rot along with your sense of fear?"

    Chalice shook her head at his antics but was also glad that he was well enough to nag her. She was initially worried that she''ll arrive to see a bedridden Levi. Being in that sort of state did not suit him. Chalice preferred this Levi. A lively, albeit naggy and overprotective knight, almost to the point of resembling an overly doting older brother. She grinned at the thought before replying to former.

    "Okay, mother! Thank you sooo much for worrying about me. I''m sorry I ran away. So, could you perhaps stop nagging already? My ears are about to bleed. I''m fine now. I''m back. My brain is not faulty. My intelligence is still way up there where you can''t reach it ''cause you''re forever a midget. My sense of fear is up and functioning. It is ringing all the warning bells and telling me to stay away from you at this moment actually for the possibility of you flicking my head is quite high. Even if your height certainly isn''t, your face makes up for it though." Chalice replied lengthily. A sheepish smile was in her fair face while a dainty finger touched her nose in embarrassment.

    Levi froze up at her banter. His face darkening even more as he stared at her with anger, disappointment, and... hurt. Chalice saw all of this and realized her mistake.

    "Levi, I-..."

    "I know I have been very useless by needing my master to save me when I should have been the one protecting her. I know I have failed the Duke''s expectations when I have failed to defend you and ended up injured in the process by measly bandits. I apologize for my incompetence. But my worry is not something that my lady needs to make fun of." Levi muttered stiffly.

    With her head lowered, a sigh escaped Chalice''s lips. Now, how was she going to pacify this innocent midget knight of hers?

    "You are not incompetent nor have you failed in being my knight. You have done what you could. I was not making fun of you, Levi. I merely don''t know how I am supposed to accept your care and worry. I am thoroughly at a loss."

    Chalice held her head in her palm, her head was aching at all this fuss. She didn''t like this heavy atmosphere one bit.

    ''It''s not as if you can blame them though. They are merely looking out for you as best as they could.'' She chided herself.

    "I''m sorry, Levi. For giving you so much trouble."

    "A master is not supposed to apologize to her knight."

    Chalice met Levi''s gaze and beamed a sincere smile. And just like that she was forgiven. These people dote on her too much. Her heart felt full and proud. This life, she would protect it with everything she can.

    "You''re not just my knight. You''re my brother." Chalice winked at Levi as she spoke. Not waiting for him to recover, she gestured to Luke to follow her into the study. There were a lot of things that needed to be dealt with.

    "This girl. She''s just spinning me around with her tricky and superfluous words again. Not this time, this knight isn''t going to fall for it no matter what you say." Levi scoffed as he walked to the direction of the kitchen, thinking of preparing some tea and biscuits for the busy people in the study.

    "I''m a just person. Since, I won''t be contributing much to their discussion; I might as well bring in some food. Hmm. Yes, that''s right." The effeminate knight further justified.

    In the study.

    "Give me a rundown of everything we need to deal with Luke. My head is currently still in a disarray." Chalice grumbled as she drooped down the soft mattress of her chair.

    Luke straightened himself up and assumed his business-as-usual expression. He turned to the lethargic form of the Duke''s daughter and shook his head indistinctly. His lady''s resilience is quite daunting. He didn''t know if it was a good thing or not.

    "Let''s start off with the pleasant ones, my lady. Maybe that''ll make you a little livelier. There''s the jade vein you have discovered at the cave in Cloud Forest. Of which, you had struck a deal with the Keyne people. Specifically, you agreed to mine and supply them the jade while they are tasked to refine it into jewellery and ornaments. You will also be paying the wages of the craftsmen and promised to allocate 15% of the profit to the stronghold." Luke paused and gazed pointedly at Chalice.

    "My lady, as promising as this concept is, how exactly and concretely do you plan to go about accomplishing it?" He asked further.

    Chalice returned Luke''s gaze at her with her own.

    "The mining, I''ll put you in charge of that. Though, the specifics of how to mine the jade, that part I''ll be teaching you that. The transport won''t be too much of a hassle for the Keyne Stronghold is near the area. They also have strong warriors to guard the miners and the raw stones. As for the commercial aspect of it, I plan to open up an auction house." She answered in detail. Luke''s interest was piqued.

    Auction houses were mostly found only at the capital. It was popular amongst the nobles. It was unheard of for fiefs to have one. Aside from having their own products on auction, they could also accept other products. This would open up a whole new trade line.

    "Putting up an auction house is not as easy as it seems, my lady." Luke reminded Chalice. The latter merely rolled her eyes at him. Obviously Chalice was aware of such fact.

    "Of course, I know that. I''m not going to proceed to it blindly. Besides, I don''t want the Amaranth name to be associated with the auction house. Hence, I''ll be seeking the assistance of the Merchant Guild''s infamous Merchant King."

    Crash!

 50 Levi and the Merchant King 1

    "My lady, who did you just say you''ll ask for assistance?" Levi ignored the broken cups and spilled tea; instead he proceeded straight in front of Chalice''s desk.

    His voice carried a strange tone in it and Chalice couldn''t help but draw her brows together at this. Levi was certainly acting peculiar. She pondered over his question, a conjecture forming in her mind.

    ''Does Levi have some kind of history with the Merchant Guild? With the Merchant King? Hmm. Come to think of it, I don''t actually know Levi''s true origins. All I know is he was a top fighter in the Amaranthian Militia. I never bothered asking father about it. Nor have I asked the man himself.''

    "I said I''ll be asking for the aid of the Merchant Guild, specifically the Merchant King." Chalice said slowly while looking intently at Levi''s expression.

    The latter''s face turned blank at her confirmation. Chalice glanced at Luke questioningly, to which the man just shrugged implying that he wasn''t aware of anything. She pouted at this and turned her attention back at the knight''s refined features.

    "Levi, what''s wrong?" Chalice asked hesitantly. "Do you know the Merchant King?"

    It still took for a little more while before Levi recovered himself and answered her question.

    "No. I do not know him." He answered stiffly. "Pardon me for my clumsiness, my Lady. I''ll have someone clear this mess up and prepare another set of tea and snacks for you. If you''ll excuse me."

    Levi robotically walked out of the study, his being entirely absent-minded. Chalice grew more curious because of this. Obviously, she wouldn''t believe Levi''s lame denial of knowing the Merchant King. If she believed one bit of it despite his obvious actions, then her eidetic memory and a lifetime''s worth of experience on Earth would be for naught.

    "My lady, will you be letting this go?" Luke''s lovely voice caught her attention. She tilted her head to him and smiled with mischief.

    "Dearest Luke, we really do need the Merchant King''s aid. I prefer to work with brilliant people, thank you very much. I only want the best and nothing but for my fief. As for Levi''s case, haven''t I told you? Curiosity killed the cat, but satisfaction brought it back. I, for sure, will not pass this chance to know him a little bit more."

    Luke sighed, exasperated at her antics and unending amusement of irritating the poor knight. Still, he felt that Levi''s case this time does have more to it than it seems.

    "Try not to go overboard, my Lady." He cautioned her. But Luke knew that more or less, this reminder fell on deaf ears.

    ---

    ''Ah, how pathetic of me.''

    He shook his head glumly and proceeded to call for a maid to clean up the mess he had caused. Since he had promised to brew another set of tea for the lady, Levi did so. But instead of bringing it to them himself, he had William bring it to them. He, on the other hand, treaded the path towards the secluded area of the Amaranth Estate. Levi knew he had to clear out his head and fix his act or else a certain princess might come up with ideas that''ll lead him to trouble again.

    ---

    Chalice wasn''t surprised that it was William who took their tea this time. She had already expected Levi not to show up. Perplexity was all too evident in the expression he had on before he left.

    "How soon will you be able to schedule a meeting with the Merchant Guild?" She asked Luke pensively.

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    "Although, the Merchant Guild has offices in most cities including ours if it''s the Merchant King you want to coordinate directly with, we''d need to send a missive to their headquarters. Nonetheless, it isn''t assured that he will meet you since he leads most of their caravans himself. Unless, by a stroke of luck, the caravan he is in-charge of this time passes through our fief. This particular person is quite elusive, my lady."

    She knew about that. Chalice sighed. She had readings about this exceptional merchant. Ever since he had taken up the position of the Merchant Guild President, the guild has flourished more than ever. They were to expand their reaches not just in Idalia but even the neighbouring countries of Ogen, Aurora, and Maris. They basically have connections all over the continent. Chalice even heard of the rumour that they were about to undertake trading with the continents beyond the Aegean Sea. And all of these were due to the cunning mind of their President.

    "Juliann Ross. Such an interesting fellow." Chalice murmured to herself. Luke heard this and nodded in assent.

    "He is quite remarkable. For someone of his age to propel the Merchant Guild in such heights, he is obviously a commerce genius. Dealing with him would be far from a walk in the park." He commented.

    Chalice stood from her chair and sauntered to the windows. She drew open the curtains and peeked at the picturesque gardens. Her eyes reflecting wonder. Luke''s train of thought was deviated from their initial staid topic to the splendour that was his beloved at the moment. His lady was absolutely breathtaking even if she was just standing there.

    He couldn''t help but stroke the cold metal bracelet in his wrist, his lips drawing up a curve.

    "I''m more concerned of his connection to Levi compared to cooperative prospects with him. Yes, it will be advantageous to rope him in on our side but if he has any unpleasant history with Levi or if he had harmed Levi in any way in the past; I need to reconsider him. It''s not as if we do not have any other choice."

    Chalice''s solemn tone stirred Luke from his trance. He stared at the woman indolently leaning by the window frame in admiration.

    "You are willing to let the chance of collaborating with the Merchant King if Levi is uncomfortable with him? On an objective standpoint, this is highly impractical my Lady." Luke questioned sternly.

    A carefree chuckle echoed within the room followed Chalice''s dainty hands dismissively waving at him. Luke gaped at her in question.

    "Yes, yes, I know that a collaboration with the Merchant King is the best option for us, for my plans regarding the jade mine, and for future commercial prospects. I also explicitly mentioned that I want only the most excellent. Still, that doesn''t mean I would disregard the sentiments of the people I deem important. If this particular choice compromises Levi''s well-being, I will not consider it. Even if you insist that it is impractical."

 51 Levi and the Merchant King 2

    The Merchant Guild Caravan is highly anticipated wherever they pass, be it in a big city or even just a small village. It is said that as long as you offer something of worth they will procure it with fair prices. There is also a chance to exchange with the commodities they have with them as long as they are of equal value. It must be noted that the Merchant Guild have lots of fantastical and valuable merchandise that were acquired from all over the country and its neighbours. Sometimes, even those from other continents appear within their trade.

    The Guild started off as an alliance of local merchants which eventually evolved into the giant that it is today. The power structure of the Guild resembled roughly that of the modern conglomerates on Earth except its president is determined through abilities and not of influence. This is saying a lot since most of those in position are old foxes and cunning businessmen. This made Chalice even more appreciative of the Merchant King, Juliann Ross. To be fair, his title was well-deserved.

    ''Ah, he would really be a worthy business partner. It would be such a loss. But Levi comes first. It was a good thing I had a contingency plan.''

    Chalice could handle everything and put up the auction house herself with the Amaranth House''s personal funds. She was very much capable of doing so. It won''t even make so much of a dent on the amount of riches that their family have accumulated throughout the years. However, that would trounce her aim of disconnecting the jade vein from their duchy. Hence, she didn''t want to consider that option as much as possible.

    There was also the choice of letting the Keyne Stronghold handle it. Except, the Keyne Stronghold was still under the Amaranth territory, people would still associate their dealings with them. Compared to handling it herself, this was much preferable nevertheless. It was less effective and riskier but at least it will push the project through.

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    ''Still, collaboration with the Merchant Guild is the best and most efficient.''

    Chalice sighed and returned her sight at the documents scattered about on the table. She was reading up on the information regarding the Merchant Guild once more and was trying to look for other alternatives to exploit. But with the uncertainty of Levi''s case, none came up.

    She comforted herself with this and went back to perusing the other documents that needed her attention. Chalice has just settled her thoughts down when the familiar soft knocks on door sounded out.

    "Come in, Luke." She permitted. Chalice peered at him inquisitively.

    Luke cleared his throat and gazed at her straight, his piercing icy blue eyes seemed foreboding. She couldn''t help but straighten up. This was something she had noticed lately, whenever Luke was about to disclose something serious, dire, or ominous he always seem to have this expression. Chalice felt wary.

    "What is it?" With this in mind, she voiced out her question with a tinge of apprehension.

    Luke heaved a sigh and started. "I have news regarding the route of the Merchant King''s caravan.

    "And? What of it?" Chalice immediately followed up.

    "The caravan will be passing the estate at noon tomorrow, my Lady. Their route this time is around our Amaranth territory." Luke pinched his nose as he finished. They haven''t dealt with the matter with Levi yet. Without accomplishing that they couldn''t just hastily approach the Merchant King. The opportune time arrived too quickly for them.

    "What?! Tomorrow?! Already?! Bu-but I haven''t talked to Levi. Argh! What sort of joke is this?" Chalice exclaimed. She held her head in her palms in frustration. She almost wanted to pull on her hair but it was in an elaborate braid courtesy of her personal hairstylist which was by the way the man standing in front of her bearing such bad news.

    "What are your plans, my Lady?" Luke, ever so helpful, inquired despite seeing her predicament. Well, Chalice couldn''t blame him. This was one of Luke''s admirable traits. He never let his emotions get ahead of himself and was able to be calm during such circumstances. Being so forthright, Chalice felt herself calming down.

    She shook her head helplessly. "I honestly don''t know, Luke. I''ll try to come up with a decision tomorrow morning. What is bound to happen will happen."

    Chalice dismissed Luke right after. She wanted to be left alone with her thoughts. In truth, she could just go ahead and strike up the deal with the Merchant Guild. Levi can''t do anything about it anyway, even if he felt against it. After all, it brought the most benefits and convenience to her and the fief aside from the fact that she was his master.

    But she didn''t want to be that kind of person. Chalice didn''t want to be that kind of Lord. Hence, her current struggle.

    ---

    Luke was irritated. He had only feigned his calmness and rationality a while ago. He could see Chalice''s frustration and Luke preferred not add to it. But Levi irritated him quite so. After the scenario at the study, Levi hadn''t shown himself for a few days now. The man had hidden himself and left the lot of them, especially the lady, at such a loss. If it didn''t concern his well-being, Chalice would not be hesitating with their arrangement. And now, the central character to it all was being a wuss.

    He marched to the direction of Levi''s quarters with severe strides. Anyone who puts a frown on his Chalice''s exquisite countenance needs to be held responsible for it. It must be said that Luke may be a little severe with Chalice at times, especially on the aspects of her training as a fief lord. Nonetheless, this man was actually very protective of her. So much so that even a single fly that displeases her must vanish from this world.

    A loud bang echoed within Levi''s room followed by a resounding thud. A frowning Levi was about to unleash his sharp tongue on the intruder when he saw a terrifying Luke peering down on him like an ant. His darkened face seems to influence the surroundings which made Levi shiver unconsciously.

 52 Levi and the Merchant King 3

    A flash of confusion made its way into Levi''s dainty features. Why was Luke suddenly all worked up that he even barged into his room bearing all this angst? He was pretty sure he didn''t do anything these past few days. Levi has been so behaved he could almost rival a saint, alright?

    ''Okay. I might be exaggerating. Is this about that cake I smuggled into my room last night? Oh no, did Luke find out I took it?'' Levi sat upright in panic and started twiddling his fingers like a kid caught red-handed.

    However, even before he could utter a single word of defence Luke had grabbed unto his collar. Being a bit deprived in the height department while Luke had been blessed by the heavens, Levi could only look on helplessly at the raging man.

    "You''re in here hiding like a rat and causing your Lady, the master you''re supposed to serve whole-heartedly, all sorts of problems. Chalice is about to sacrifice the best course of action for her plans and for the fief for a coward like you! And I dare say you were too caught up in your own world that you didn''t even notice it or think about it. Say Levi; are you really a knight or masquerading just as one?"

    The scathing tone of Luke''s every syllable made Levi even more puzzled.

    ''What is Luke saying? So, this isn''t about the cake...what then?'' Levi was confounded. He gaped at the striking, more often than not calm and gentlemanly man that was about to spit fire at him. It seems Luke has a fiery side to him as well. And his reverse scale was none other than their mistress.

    "Let me down, first. I really don''t get what you''re saying alright? I''m long-winded like that." Levi chose, and quite wisely too, not to fight fire with fire. After all, he really was clueless as to what Luke was furious about.

    Luke haphazardly released him causing Levi to hit the marbled floor painfully. But he dared not say a single word of complaint for fear of infuriating the former even more.

    "I thought so. You really weren''t aware. I''m not surprised since you just up and left the moment you heard the words Merchant King. And you never showed yourself afterwards. How stupid of you. If you had just been conscientious enough and curbed whatever demons it was that you were hiding, and actually asked Chalice what she needed the Merchant King for then maybe your dim-witted head would finally understand."

    He loosened his tie as Luke glared disdainfully at the knight. He has gone back to his usual, calm self. Although, his anger has subsided it didn''t mean that he wasn''t still annoyed with Levi. The man was usually bright on most days. Though most of it he spends unhealthily admiring himself. (William and most of the maids were witness to this.)

    Has his unusual reaction triggered something in those brilliant cogs of her mind?

    ''I say! That woman and her over thinking.''

    Luke sighed resignedly as he headed for the door. He tilted his head pointedly at Levi with a neutral expression masking his face.

    "Collaboration for the opening of the first ever Auction House in the fief; its aim is to open up a new commercial centre and a trade route for the Eashen jade. The lady has stumbled upon a jade vein and it has opened up an industry with high economic potentials. One that can catapult Amaranth into unimaginable heights."

    He paused and turned his back to the knight. Luke knew it was easy for him to ruminate on the possible results of the said collaboration. He didn''t need to explain to Levi its overall impact to the Lady and the fief''s future prospects.

    "Unfortunately, my lady has assumed that the Merchant King has somehow done her precious knight wrong. She''d rather suffer setbacks than cooperate with a probable foe."

    With one last glance at the dazed knight, Luke walked away in a manner far from that of how he came.

    ---

    ''Levi, this is Juliann. He''ll be living with us from now on. You must treat him well, alright?''

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    His curious hazel eyes gazed at the boy at his mother''s side. Levi tilted his little head to him. The boy seemed to be a lot older than him and a lot taller too. His platinum hair was cropped short but Levi noted that its silvery strands glistened like silver in the light. His gray eyes had a frosty glint to it that did not fit his age.

    "Juliann, this is my son Levi. I hope you could look after him from now on. He''s quite sickly and delicate."

    Levi''s mother said with a warm smile. Juliann regarded Levi with a cold nod. While the latter''s face reddened with embarrassment.

    "Mommy! I am not delicate. I''m a boy. Boys are not delicate." He stomped his tiny foot and gave his mother an anxious glare. Levi''s outburst was met with only an amused laugh.

    "Ah, my Levi is super cute." His mother further teased and pinched his plump cheeks which were flushed with pink. Levi felt even more enraged at his mother''s antics but it all vanished when he saw that the silent newcomer also held the faintest trace of a similar amused smile.

    ---

    Levi peered at the face reflected in the mirror. His hazel eyes glazed over as he recalled the first time he met the Merchant King. Chalice was right. He did know the man. Levi knew him absolutely well. After all, they grew up together.

    Levi came from a small merchant family originating from the Heidelberg territory in the South. During one of their caravan travels, they found Juliann, ragged, dirty and injured at the rubble of a ruined village. His mother felt pity on the child and took him in.

    Later on, they came to know that the village where he was found were ravaged by bandits. Due to the lack of warriors aside from the village chief, Juliann''s father, they didn''t stand a chance. Juliann was the sole survivor. How he had managed to escape, he never did tell them. And they never pressed him on for it.

    Juliann proved to be quite a help to Levi''s family. Even then, he had shown exceptional intelligence. Oftentimes, Levi''s father would ask for Juliann''s assistance in their merchant business. Levi''s mother was also quite fond of him, for despite his cold exterior Juliann was quite caring for the young Levi.

    Levi looked up to him as well. He was the only person who had not treated Levi as delicately as others nor did he make fun of his features which were a bit too feminine for a boy. Juliann was every bit the older brother, albeit an ice block incarnate older brother.

    He always had an eternally cold expression and a frosty glint in his eyes. Juliann also refrained from talking unless he felt like it or he needed to. Levi was the only one who could make him speak in sentences and paragraphs. Mostly because Levi does not stop talking unless he answers.

    Even in Levi''s darkest times, when his parents passed away and were lost forever at sea, Juliann kept his word to his mother and stayed with him. He took care of the depressed Levi and handled the mantle of their family.

    In all facts, Juliann has never done him wrong.

 53 Levis Beauty Trap 1

    Levi peered at the face reflected within the glistening mirror. A face even fairer than that of a lady stared back at him. Long, silky strands of golden blonde hair tumbled down to his shoulders like a permanent halo of sunlight.

    His delicate nose and sultry, thin lips were complimented by a pair of hazel brown eyes framed with unusually long and thick lashes that are the envy of women. His slender build further blurred his real gender. If it were not for his protruding Adam''s apple, most would really see him as woman.

    In truth, when he applied at the Amaranth Household as a knight even the steward doubted him. Except, his face may be stunning and all that he still had the upbringing of a man, the aspirations of a man. Though he didn''t really like fighting, his father trained him in the ways of the sword. And later on, Juliann ensured he was skilled in it as well.

    ''You need to be a good, if not the best, fighter. Lest you can''t defend yourself from malicious people.''

    Juliann''s bitingly cold tone reverberated in his ears. Levi knew the underlying meaning in them. He needed to be good in defending himself for he might get abducted again. It happened a few times back in his younger years. Juliann never failed to save him and brought him back.

    ''I did become good in it. But never good enough to beat him.''

    Levi pursed his lips in annoyance. He gingerly traced his face, feeling the smooth and unblemished skin. A ripple of unknown emotion flashed in his eyes.

    ''Juliann never did like this face of yours, though.''

    His thoughts mocked him. As they grew up,

    Levi noticed that Juliann refrained from looking at him straight. When he confronted Juliann about it, the man just coldly replied that such soft features were an inconvenience. Levi was offended so much back then, that he ignored Juliann for a month.

    He took one last glance at the immaculate face and brushed all the memories away. He turned back and silently headed out. It was time for him to stop running away. He had no concrete reason to anyway. Juliann didn''t know in the first place. He didn''t know that Levi left because he had started to treat Juliann something more than just a brother.

    Levi ran away from the rearing head of a love that was not supposed to be.

    ---

    "President, someone is making a ruckus in the camp. He wouldn''t budge from the entrance."

    Juliann Ross turned his head to the person who intruded unceremoniously in his tent. The frost in his eyes intensified. The man shivered in fright. It was known in the whole of Merchant Guild that the president absolutely hated being disturbed without rhyme or reason.

    "And this concerns me because?"

    "Apologies P-president, the... person was insisting on seeing you. He said he wouldn''t leave until you meet him." The man stuttered slightly as he answered. A slight tremble evident in his voice.

    The president wasn''t really a scary person. Only, his cold and distant personality made it hard to approach him. Within the years he had stayed with the Guild, no one has ever seen the President show a semblance of warmth or any other emotion aside from cold indifference.

    "Who is it?" Juliann asked curtly. Although he still retained that chilly expression, anyone could feel the slight impatience he was exuding.

    "He did not say, President. But he''s really pretty. We even thought he was a woman at first." The man answered sheepishly as he scratched his back with uneasy hands.

    Juliann froze when he heard the man''s reply. He knew a certain guy who fit the description of being as pretty as a woman. He only knew one who does and that one had been missing for years now.

    Juliann had been looking for him ever since, looking for that little rebel. But it was as if he vanished from the ends of the world. He did not want to be found, Juliann figured as much. His knuckles tightened unconsciously as he recalled that flawless face which haunted his nights in the past years.

    ''So he finally decides to show himself.''

    He breathed in deeply as he tried to reel his emotions which were normally calm as a lake but were now chaotic as if someone had ceaselessly thrown pebbles in it. He called to the man who had intruded his peace.

    "Bring him here." Juliann waved to him dismissively. When he saw that the man was gone, his face which was frosted over showed an undeniable anticipation. Unconsciously, Juliann ran his fingers to his hair and fixed his ruffled sleeves.

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    It wasn''t long before he heard two sets of footstep coming over to his tent. One in particular made him tense. He knew those strides well. Held it in his heart and boggled his mind for years. Juliann heard his staff''s request for permission to intrude; he gave his assent after a short pause.

    The shuffle of their steps tickled Juliann''s ear. He tried to focus on reading the last paragraphs of the document in his hand. He failed. He was stuck on the same sentence, unable to settle his thoughts.

    That was when his visitor spoke.

    "Still so uptight Juli." The silvery voice rang in Juliann''s ears. It was pleasant as ever and he couldn''t help but lift his eyes to the speaker. The face that engraved itself in his mind finally appeared in the flesh. He couldn''t help the flow of relief flooding his being. Even the perpetual chill of his aura warmed considerably. Except, no one was aware of this except Juliann himself.

    "My parents named me Juliann. I''d have to trouble you to struggle saying it all the way through." He stated tonelessly, ignoring the remark Levi made.

    "You finally decide to show up. Why so after all the years of running, Vi?" He raised a questioning brow at the man in front of him.

    "My parents named me Levi. I''d have to trouble you to struggle saying it all the way through." Levi mimicked his words from before, his cheeks puffed up in irritation. He stomped closer to the chair at the side of the desk where Juliann was seated behind.

 54 Levis Beauty Trap 2

    Levi''s hazel eyes stared at Juliann''s gray ones. He propped his chin at the table between the two of them. He was surprised at how composed he was seeing Juliann again. Although there still was the familiar thump in his chest, somehow it didn''t overwhelm him as it used to. The time that had passed and the experiences he had over his time away had made him more restrained and unbothered.

    "I''ve been good. Never better. You? You''re doing certainly well for someone who didn''t want to be a merchant. You even became their king." Levi''s eyes flitted over Juliann''s form. He had matured quite well. The edges of his features adapted a sharper turn. His platinum hair was longer but it still had that moonlight glow in it. Juliann''s cold demeanour however remained.

    "And you certainly deviated from your so-called dream." Juliann cocked his head at him, giving his knight uniform a once-over. A neutral expression blanketed his visage. Levi never did like this side him. Juliann was always like this; always restraining his emotions as if it''ll be the death of him to expose the fact that he was human too.

    He smirked mockingly. "Yeah, who would have thought that we would be exchanging places?"

    Juliann met Levi''s eyes which made the latter tensed, his shoulder stiffening. Juliann stood up and with graceful steps walked up to Levi''s front. His lips thinned in what seems like concealed anger.

    "I figure it wasn''t so bad. Also, I needed to look after what was left behind." Juliann retorted in a tight voice. He straightened up and held his hands in his back.

    Levi was tongue-tied. He knew Juliann''s underlying meaning despite the conciseness of his statement. Well, he did have a point there; when he left, the business to which he was the heir to fell into Juliann''s hand whether he wanted it or not. On Levi''s defence, he knew Juliann was quite capable of trussing up the business. He had been managing it ever since his parents died anyhow. It wasn''t as if anything would change. In fact, in Juliann''s hand it reached the pillar of success.

    "Why did you leave, Vi?" Juliann followed up while Levi was caught up in his thoughts and remained quiet for a long while.

    Levi snapped his head to the man at the sudden question. He bowed his head as he fiddled at the cuffs of his shirt unconsciously.

    "I''m surprised you even asked. But does it really matter at this point, Juli?" Levi tried to sound nonchalant but there was an undeniable imprint of bitterness in his tone.

    Levi shook his head indistinctly. He wasn''t supposed to feel any resentment. He was the one who left of his own volition, in order to protect Juliann from himself.

    "I''m here for a business offer." Levi then said after a pregnant silence between the two of them. He, of course, did not forget the reason he looked for Juliann.

    Juliann cocked his brow at his declaration.

    "Oh, and what kind of business offer is it?" Juliann, true to his title, adapted a professional attitude at the onset of the topic.

    "My mistress would like to have collaboration with the Merchant Guild in starting up an auction house here in the Amaranth fief." Levi straightened up his back and spoke in a clear manner. The urge of wanting his purpose to succeed was like an off switch to his usual flippant ways.

    "Sounds interesting. Terms?" Juliann''s tone was neutral. Levi lifted his eyes to his, awkwardness evident in his form as he sat in the chair.

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    "I... I actually... Err, actually, I''m not in the place to talk to you about the terms. It would be better for you to talk to my Lady yourself." Levi answered with a light cough. Juliann gaped at the man.

    "I''m pretty sure the estate had sent you a request for it. Tsk. I knew you would ignore it. So, I came here for good measure." The former followed up, his hand gesticulating frantically in the air trying to cover up his embarrassment.

    Juliann knew better, though.

    ''He still hasn''t changed, after all. Still as hasty as ever.'' Despite his thoughts Juliann chose not to refute the knight''s reasoning.

    "Alright. I''ll leave it to you to send my agreement. I''d have to trouble them to meet me here, however. Such request isn''t too much for your Lady, is it?" Juliann''s thousand-year old frost face replied. Levi smiled slightly and nodded. He was about to bid his goodbyes to the cold man but was cut off before he could.

    "Why don''t you stay for now? The least you could do is accompany me for dinner and some drinks. With how much you owe me, aren''t you ashamed?"

    Levi''s quaint hazel eyes widened as he gawked at Juliann in utter disbelief. However, the disbelief turned into annoyance. He pursed his lips at the man.

    "You really are the Merchant King. You won''t even let even such a small favour go unsettled. Fine! I haven''t had anything to eat anyway. You better make sure they''re good." He retorted with a scoff and refused to look at the insufferable man. Because of this Levi missed the beaming smile that illuminated the man''s face that faded as quickly as it came.

    ---

    Morning. Amaranth Estate

    "Are you sure about this, my Lady?" Luke asked tentatively as he stared at the opulent, mahogany door of Chalice''s room.

    The lady in question was currently behind the wide, changing screen in the room slipping on an understated, emerald gown. Despite the presence of the changing screen, Luke chose to make himself scarce by facing the other way. If it were his choice, he wouldn''t stay there whilst the lady was changing. They were of different genders, after all. Luke was not entirely a saint, truth be told. Except, if he did leave Chalice to her own devices, who knows what she''ll do with herself?

    The last time Luke let her on change and prepare on her own, Chalice went out with sloppily done hair, crooked buttons, uneven laces, inside out collar, and amiss of her gloves. It was a disaster to be in such a state for a lady of her bearing. Hence, the everyday scenario of him staying in and helping her even for such womanly matters.

    "Hmm, I''m sure. It is a loss to not have the Merchant King on a cooperative arrangement. But, I trust our own plans will still end well. Nonetheless, that doesn''t mean I''m not curious about his caravan." Chalice answered as she stepped out of the screen and sat on the nearby vanity. Sensing this, Luke turned to face her and proceeded to busy himself with combing her hair.

    "Curious about his caravan, huh? My lady, it''s not necessary for you to go about it in a roundabout manner." Luke stated coolly as he started to braid. Chalice glared at the man.