Chapter 5: Frenemies

A few hours later, inside the main castle, Leons room:

Leon was readying himself for the social gathering, a few hours of relaxation for influential people of this kingdom. It could be compared to a small celebration of sorts, where young and influential people meet up to either enjoy their time or discuss business. 

I really don't want to go. I'd rather continue studying my ability than going to a social gathering. It's only been a day since my awakening, yet I didn't have the time to test out my abilities to any meaningful extend.

He finished up changing into his royal clothing, and went straight out of his room. The butlers were already waiting. They then bowed their heads and accompanied Leon to the 'Hall of Celebration' of the castle. 

The 'Hall of Celebration'. A gigantic room with two main staircases leading to the second floor. The walls painted white, decorations filling every empty corner of the place, statues of previous kings presented on each side of the room and a fountain, in the center of the room, was setting the beautiful and joyful atmosphere.

Leon was late, the gathering has started already. The room was filled with well-dressed men and woman alike. Dancing, eating, drinking and talking, everyone was busy. Again...so many lords and merchants are present. Although its a good thing, I can't bring myself to like it. 

Leons butlers clapped loudly, grabbing the attention of everyone present.

"Entering...Prince Leon of Theanad!" - One of them shouted into the room, announcing the arrival of Leon to the crowd.

Leon, after realizing that everyone was now patiently watching him, slowly walked towards his designated spot in the room. He did not spare a glance at anyone, keeping his head up and focusing on how to walk properly. I did it again...whenever people watch me like this, I forget how to walk and have to pay full attention not to trip.

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He made it to his spot without entangling his legs in each other. I wonder if its just me who has this problem. He then sat down on his seat. His table was located on an elevated ground near the other tables, symbolizing the influence of the royal family.

Look at them, not even bowing their heads for me. The nickname 'Useless Prince' really is a burden, huh? But I expected this, it's the same as always. No one shows any respect towards me. But I guess I can understand their point of view. Why would they try to gain the favor of someone who has done nothing for his own kingdom? For someone who doesn't even have an ability? For someone they can't get any use out of? But I'm still the prince, and they know that.

The crowd went back to normal, ignoring the prince and continuing with what they were doing. Although I wanted to just sit around and get this over with, that might not be a wise decision. My excuse 'I'll wait until I awaken an ability' is not applicable anymore. 

One of his butlers brought Leon some steak to eat. Gently putting the plate on his table and pouring some fresh water into his glass.

That's right, I already awakened. It's time for me to make my moves and rebuild my reputation. I can't rely on my father forever, even he is currently struggling. Only after I manage to build my own force and influence can I be of any help for my father.

Leon gently cut out a part of the steak, enjoying it to its fullest. He then took a big sip out of his water. That was when he noticed someone approaching him. Hmm?

"Water...you truly are different." - The approaching woman said, now standing in front of Leons table, still below the elevated ground.

Leon put away his glass and stared at her with suspicion.

"It's the healthiest choice. No need for any fancy drinks, when I can enjoy a glass of cold and fresh water." - Leon said, tapping with his fingers on the table.

The butlers reacted and left them alone.

"Is there a reason for why you approached me?" - Leon asked.

The woman smiled, bowing her head slightly.

"Where are my manners? I am Laverna Coldguard." - The woman said, lifting her head again.

"As to why I approached you, I'm not sure myself. Something about you attracted me. I was curious, so I decided to find out." - Laverna said, leaning her head sideways.

"Well, you are welcome to sit beside me." - Leon said, pulling back the chair next to him.

"But...that's the Kings seat. Am I allowed to sit there?" - Laverna asked, surprised by Leons gesture.

"I allow it. Besides, the King won't be attending the gathering, so this spot will stay empty anyways." - Leon said, now continuing to eat his steak.

Laverna was visible amazed by Leons relaxed and none caring attitude. She did not hesitate any longer, sitting down next to Leon. What a surprise this is. Someone approached me first? I wonder what their motive is. Guess I'll find out sooner or later. He snapped his fingers, signaling his butlers to bring some more food to the table.

"Now that I am sitting next to you, I'm sure of it. It's your scent that is creating such a lovely atmosphere. What perfume are you using?" - Laverna asked, gently smelling the air.

"Perfume? I don't use perfume. This is my natural scent." - Leon said.

"Are you sure? I've attended multiple gatherings with you as the host and never have I ever felt this attracted. To be more precise, I never even noticed your scent." - Laverna said.

The butlers brought the requested food. The table was now filled with exotic fruits, meat and drinks. Never noticed my scent? But I don't have a scent. Wait...perhaps its related to my awakening? Do the flowers influence my scent? Or...maybe she is trying to be nice? That would definetely be the more realistic case. If my scent really changed this drastically, why would she be the only one noticing it?

"Whatever it may be, thank you for the compliment." - Leon said, reaching out to grab a fruit.

She smiled and relaxed a bit.

"How about we get to know each other a bit more? I don't want to judge you based on rumors, but on who you truly are." - Laverna said, taking a bite out of an apple that she just picked up from the plate.

This might be a good opportunity to build some connections. If I remember correctly, the Coldguards were one of the more influential merchant groups in our kingdom.

"You should know me pretty well already. I am Prince Leon of Theanad, the future ruler of this land who has yet to awaken." - Leon said with a calm tone.

"Well, I know that much." - Laverna giggled.

"I'm Laverna Coldguard. I'm 24 years old and am the successor of the 'Coldguard' merchant group. My ability allows me to create water." - She continued, holding her hand over Leons glass and pouring in some water that she created inside her palm.

"I was still drinking that." Leon sighed, disappointed at the fact that he needs his butlers to bring him a new glass of water.

"Im so sorry. As an apology, I invite you to visit our 'Coldguards' merchant group. You can drink as much water as you like there." Laverna said, whispering in Leons ear.

Leon coughed out the piece of meat that he just ate. Moving his seat a bit away from Laverna, he could not stop blushing. This woman...is dangerous.

Laverna took another bite of the apple she was eating. 

"I'm just kidding, no need to be so surprised!" - Laverna laughed.

"But your scent...it's truly attractive." - She added, continuing to enjoy her apple.

The moment was interrupted by a big man, who was now approaching Leons table, laughing out loudly.

"Leon! My dearest friend! Forgive me for my rude behaviour, not greeting you earlier." - The man said, stepping up on the elevated ground, looking down on the currently sitting Leon and reaching out his hand.

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Friend? Tsk. This man... Milson, Captain of the 'Howling Guardians', is but a simple vassal of the king. I hate this attitude of his. Calling me a friend, as if we were close. In fact, it's the opposite. My father and I hate this man. The Captain of the 'Howling Guardians', an important asset of our military. Their strength is immense and can't be underestimated, even by the other kingdoms. It wouldn't be a lie if I'd say that our Kingdom is not getting invaded, just because of them.

However, Milson has an arrogant attitude. He does not bow his head to any of the rulers of our kingdom. Doing whatever he wants to do, a war hound that can't be put on a leash.

"It's not a problem." - Leon said with a fake smile on his face, accepting the handshake.

If it wouldn't be for his immense strength, I would get rid of this guy immediately. However, we still need him. That is why I have to endure this behaviour. It's clear to everyone that this guy hates me. All of this is just a facade, obeying the rules to its absolute minimum.

"How are you doing? Any progress in awakening already?" - Milson asked ironically.

"I'm doing great, thank you for asking. And no, unfortunately, there are still no signs of me awakening anytime soon." - Leon replied, trying his best to keep up the fake smile.

Behind Milson, a deep voice started laughing out loud.

"So this is the 'Useless Prince' of Theanad?! The one who has yet to awaken? The idiot that knows no diplomacy?" - The unknown guy stepped forward, directing his laughs at Leon.

"You look even more stupid up close! I really can't believe it!" - The man continued, now turning to the shocked crowd.

"Everyone! Just look at him! Look at this man, the one you will be serving in the future. Isn't it funny? All of you, still not aware of the situation, celebrate like there is no issue with that. Do you really put your hopes on the fact that he'll be able to awaken an ability, strong enough to compete with the other kingdoms?!" - The man shouted into the crowd.

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Everyone was silent. They didn't know what was happening. A random man just appeared out of nowhere and started openly talking down on the prince. Although everyone knew that what that man said was true to some extend, they also knew that it was a big 'No' to talk about it openly. Not only that, but also right next to the prince himself.

Leon was furious. He got up from his seat and signaled the guards at the main entrance. Not long after, guards started flooding into the hall, pointing their spears at the shouting man and waiting for Leons command. Leon, anger written all over his face, looked down at Milson, who took a step back towards the none elevated ground.

"Milson. It appeared to me as if he was standing behind you. Do you know that man?" - Leon asked furiously.

"I do know him. He is one of my guests. Please, spare his insolence, I didn't explain the situation to him." - Milson said, bowing his head slightly.

'Didn't explain the situation', is that so? It's common sense to behave yourself next to the prince, but this kind of rudeness. And a guest of Milson at that, I can't believe his words.

"Oh no, the prince of Theanad is going to kill a guest of his, just because he couldn't stand the truth. What a joke you are!" - The man continued shouting.

One of the guards moved towards the man, grabbing him and throwing him to the ground.

"Silence! You are at the presence of the prince! You are not to speak anymore!" - The guard shouted at the man.

Leon slowly walked towards the man, pulling out his sword from the side.

"Milson, although he may be a guest, everyone here has to follow the rules. What kind of kingdom would this be, if everyone could just do whatever they want to do?" - Leon said, now standing in front of the man.

"You are right...I apologize for my mistake." - Milson said.

Did I just feel...a hint of joy? Leon became suspicious of the situation.

Come to think of it...things don't add up here. Milson brought a guest who openly talked down on me. Looking at that guest...he does not look like a noble. Not a lord...not a merchant...is he really a guest? He then put the tip of his sword next to the mans neck. On top of that...Milson agreed and even apologized. That is definitely suspicious. Why would he do that? Perhaps...all of this is a setup?

Leon pulled back his sword.

Don't tell me...Milson is making his moves? And it seems like it's not for the better of this kingdom. I can't kill this man. I feel like that, if I do, I'll be playing right into the hands of someone. This whole situation...is too bizarre.

"I have decided. Take this man and interrogate him." - Leon ordered his guards.

"You can't! He has provoked you to such an extend, we must set an example!" - Milson shouted, pressuring everyone around him.

He is using his ability? Leon thought, trying to resist Milsons gravity manipulation.

Gravity Manipulation, this allows Milson to increase or decrease the gravitational pull on everything around him.

It's confirmed then, he definitely wouldn't do this without an ulterior motive. I can't kill this man. 

"Milson! I order you to stop and obey!" - Leon shouted, standing upright, resisting the immense increase in gravitational pull.

Milson sighed, lifting the effects on everyone.

"I obey, forgive me." - Milson said with disappointment.

Something is very off here. I have to investigate further, when I have the time later.

The guards took away the man. The crowd settled down. Many guests left the gathering, most likely because of the ugly scene. MIlson also left. Leon, still annoyed and confused as to what has happened, walked back to his table. To his surprise, Laverna was still sitting there, observing Leon.

After sitting back down, the two of them continued talking.

"I don't know what to say. Who could have expected such a thing to occur?" - Laverna said.

"It really was unexpected, I'll have to look into this matter later." - Leon sighed.

Laverna leaned towards Leon, smelling the air around him.

"You...your scent has changed." - Laverna said, carefully trying to identify the scent.

"Is that so? How do I smell now?" - Leon asked, curious as to what Laverna would say.

"Its...poison?" - Laverna said with a surprised tone.

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