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Chapter Text

black.....that's all luka could see....but that didn't mattered to him anymore as he finally died and escaped clutches of hesperu
....he missed hyuna, he wanted to see her, his only light...he blamed himself for her death but now he wanted to reunite with her and forever be with her....

"you have lived pitiful life child..."

luka heard a voice out of nowhere, but he was calm as nothing mattered to him anymore

"...where is hyuna?..."

"you died yet you still ask about her...she is at peace with her brother...those siblings already choose to reincarnate...what about you child? do you wish to stay in endless void or reincarnate and have a chance at living without any alien control?..."

luka asked "i...i can't be with hyuna?..."

"no...she has long left...and you should try to move on and find a new purpose in life child..."

luka was heartbroken that hyuna once again left him. once again didn't choose him. he wanted to ask her why was she keep abandoning him but now she left he couldn't...
he knew hyuna wouldn't return there...he didn't know what to choose...yet he still didn't wanted to be in this void... "i...i will reincarnate..."

"good choice child...i wish you luck in your next life..."

Luka felt sleepy and when he woke up it was still dark...time passed and finally he could hear someone...woman talking...and singing

"....Sleep, little star from far away, You've wandered worlds so far today. Silver moons will guard your flight, Cradled in the arms of night. Hearts may change and stars may fall,But you are still loved through it all...."

woman's voice was simply magical as she singed a lullaby for luka. he knew about 'mother' from books even though he never experienced warmness or love of one as he was just a clone and nothing more...yet this woman's singing strangely made him relax and feel something weird inside him...

Lukas would rarely hear woman's voice but when he did he became addicted to it...he wanted more....he felt something warm every time he heard her sing...

time passed and after a long wait luka could see glimpse of lights which made him close eyes in pain due to not seeing light for so long....then he heard crying...who was crying though?...oh. he was. he heard panicked voices of other women until he heard a familiar voice of his mother which was now weak and faint

"my lovely child...my lovely moon...welcome to this world my Ambroise...mommy is sorry that she has to leave now...but...don't die my love...and don't worry...mommy will always be by your side even though invisible..."

luka or now rather ambroise was born and gently kissed by his mother for the first and last time...ambroise realized the person he wanted to meet and listen to had died as he felt her gentle hold went limp and many woman started crying...ambroise was taken by one girl who kept singing with shaky voice same lullaby as his...mother...once did when he was in her womb

"....S-sleep, little star from far away.... Y-you've wandered worlds so far today..."

luka felt his eyes grew heavy and fell asleep. girl who was around 15-16 years old finally let's out a silent sigh of relief as she put baby to sleep was startled as man who had eyes as cold as ice entered room. everyone bowed to him despite grief and girl pulled sleeping baby closer to her. man looked at baby coldly and said "name."
girl looked determined in any case man decided to harm baby she wouldn't go down without a fight even if it costed her life. she answered

"....lady named him Ambroise your majesty..."man's eyes grew colder as did pressure "that wench...dared to choose such a name...a name of immortality and heir... for this thing... she's lucky she died...or else i would've killed her."red haired man who stood beside emperor was tense and nervous until emperor finally said "let's see how long he will survive...sent him to north palace."

girl tensed up, north palace was most coldest, darkest and abandoned palace but she wouldn't complain after all baby was still alive and she will make sure baby's survival. emperor left with red haired man and girl could finally relax, she caressed baby's soft skin "don't worry your highness...anne will do anything to ensure your survival...''
Ambroise opened his eyes and tried to adjust to the light. The first thing he saw was an old ceiling that looked like it might fall on him, he tried looking around and noticed that the room was rather cold and dark.

It definitely was an isolated place if anything. Then he heard footsteps and a figure had picked him up. It was that girl again. The girl smiled gently and warmly at him...This was first time ambroise was smiled at so warmly after hyuna when they were children...before hyunwoo's death.
The girl said "your highness, good morning...I am Anne...your nanny...you must be so cold..."

Ambroise's body was cold, nothing new...in the past he always had a body like that...Anne smiled sadly and took out some cheap warm clothes out of her bag along with a bottle of milk

"your highness I bought you some warm clothes and some food for you...unfortunately I can't buy fairytale books for you yet...but worry not! I shall teach your highness everything...."

Anne was the only maid in this cold place and she not only had to clean up but also buy things for ambroise from her salary which wasn't high either. Ambroise was taken care of everyday and Anne never left his side, she always spoke of fairy tales she learnt when she was a child and spoke of obelian history.

"... the sorcerer of the tower had the strongest power in all sorcerers' existence and......so your highness you are the first prince of the obelian empire, Ambroise de Alger obelian...and your father is... emperor Claude de Alger obelian..."

At the mention of Claude Anne's face was dark and cold but then she sighs hopelessly. she stared down at ambroise with eyes full of sorrow and said
"Your highness.... remember...never trust anyone...especially to your father....I will do anything so you will survive."

Ambroise looked at Anne and realized that this life wouldn't be easy as well despite him being a prince...and it seems he will have to fight again to survive...

Half a year passed and Ambroise could easily crawl around and now slowly walk. Anne kept buying him clothes and making him food or sneaking in from the kitchen of the main palace. Ambroise was often bored and stoic as nothing interested him which Anne easily noticed it and decided to teach him how to write, read, talk and behave like a prince. it was least to say she was surprised by how quickly Ambroise learnt everything but also very proud. She kept telling him stories of sorcerers, obelian empire history and other countries around obelia which seemed to caught interest of Ambroise, after all of he wanted to survive he must gain as much information as possible.

t's been three years now since Ambroise was born. He was eating the same portions when he was still Luka, but this time instead of maintenance form it was because Anne couldn't afford it and stealing food from the main palace was also very hard.
Ambroise found out that Anne was from a count's family who weren't very rich but not too poor too. And as always Anne kept using her salary for their survival.
In times of winter it was especially cold in the palace, and Anne usually used her weak mana to keep Ambroise warm.

Despite everything Anne was also a very skilled assassin and very knowledgeable one at that, apparently her grandfather owned a guild so he taught her everything which may come in handy before passing away. she kept teaching Ambroise things at age of 2 and 3 what 7-8 years old kids should be learning but understanding things wasn't that hard especially when Ambroise wasn't really a child. Then one day Anne said "your highness...it seems you now have a half-sister..."

Ambroise looked at her with his stoic face "what do you mean Anne?..."

" The emperor's favorite concubine gave birth to a girl and died in childbirth...but...despite being born as a girl she surely has it better than you as she was assigned to live in ruby palace...when she grows up she might use the emperor's favor against you...so we have to be strong your highness..."

"What is her name?..." Ambroise asked with bored tone.

Anne's eyes Darkened "Athanasia, your highness..."

Ambroise eyes sharpened "naming her name of immortality while knowing I will be an heir....that concubine had guts... I'll give her that... let's see what he will do next..."

Ambroise understood the cruelty of Claude towards him, he was sure of it after that incident.
Three or four months ago Ambroise got sick...or rather he discovered he again was suffering from heart disease. again. Anne in panic went to the main palace and begged the emperor for a physician or mage for ambroise but she was cruelly rejected.
Ambroise somehow survived and after that he and Anne made sure that they would be in shadow and quiet so when they would be ready... they would either run away or make Ambroise an heir.

Athy couldn't believe herself. She had reincarnated into a novel she had read! And she has the worst character! A tyrant's daughter who was destined to die at the hands of her own father! Lily was reading her a book when she found out her father was Claude de Alger obelia. But what she didn't expect was a character whose existence was never mentioned in the novel. The prince.

"This is your father your highness, Claude de Alger obelia...you also have a half-brother your highness...the prince..."

When Lily mentioned the prince her face was saddened and full of....pity? Athy thought what would this prince be like, would he be innocent or will he be another red flag like Claude?
Only time will know, but if she ever met her brother she will make sure she will work her charm on her and avoid death. And who knows maybe he may help her escape from this place. That night unknown to athy a balcony window was opened quietly and a little frail figure got close to her crib. The figure stared at her and then put his hand on her throat

"... I wonder ... if you will get in my way...such a little weakling ...let's see if you can survive..."

The figure tightened his hold on her neck a bit but not enough to block her airways. The figure let go of her frail throat and disappeared as he had appeared. next day when Lily came in she was surprised to see the balcony window open as she was sure she closed it yesterday but she didn't think much and just closed the door and returned to care for athy.
Unknown to her there was a light blond haired figure sitting on a tree branch watching nanny and a baby before he disappeared in thin air.

It was a sunny day as Anne decided to sneak Ambroise out in the city. she had bought a magical disguise earring for him as despite Ambroise's eyes being yellow, it was still a jewel eyes. They went out and Anne had bought a few skewers of meat which Ambroise happily chomped on.

“Roy, would you like to buy anything else?...”
Anne couldn't call Ambroise his highness in public so she decided to give him the nickname Roy.

Ambroise thought and said “books"

Anne nodded as she understood that he wanted to learn more about magic and politics, she thought it was because he was curious about it.

‘hmmmm…I should learn more so it'll be easier for my survival…’ thought Ambroise. he was wandering around while Anne was buying books When suddenly some thugs dragged a white haired boy who seemed his age into a dark alley. he got curious, followed them quietly. He looked at the thug coldly while men laughed as one of them pointed a knife at white haired boy's neck

“ Now noble boy, give me all your money and I will let you go~”

it was least to say Ambroise wasn't impressed. He observed the boy and noticed certain details. he was surely from a high noble family as he wore an expensive outfit, his hair was white and his eyes were warm, yellow like the sun…it reminded him of hyuna when they were a child...
Yellow eyes and white hair fitted only one family category. Alpheus. So he must be heir to Alpheus.

Men were about to touch the boy when suddenly one by one all died, they could only see a flash of yellow hair. As blood was spilled in front of Alpheus boy he was scared then he finally saw his saviour.
He couldn't believe his eyes…his saviour….he looked like an angel…unknowingly he said “angel…”

When Ambroise heard this he raised an eyebrow, confused but said nothing. His hand reached out. Boy didn't hesitate as he held his hand and stood up. He couldn't take his eyes off of this angel.

Ambroise said calmly “what is your name?...”

“Ijekiel…may…may I know your name?...”

“Just call me Roy…”

Ambroise looked at him. Ijekiel’s eyes were warm like hyuna's but he was too shy unlike her…he turned around and was about to left when ijekiel hesitantly called him, his voice hopeful

“W-wait!...will…will I be able to meet you again in the future?...”

Ambroise stops in his steps and says “you will. One day…”

he left an innocent boy who was blushing and in deep thoughts who still couldn't help but think about golden haired angel. Ambroise returned and saw worried Anne who went to him

“Your hig-... Roy! Where were you?...”

“Wandering around…did you buy everything? I'm tired…”

Anne nodded and picked him up and carried all the way back to place. She put him in one old bed and Ambroise fell asleep immediately. she smiled gently then looked at his purple fingertips which was a reminder of how cruel the world was which didn't even spare innocent ones.

Two years passed and so did Ambroise's 8th birthday. His hair grew long now to his waist and he appeared more feminine with his little waist and skinny build. Anne taught him everything about politics, etiquette and magic as well as math. He was talented and easily memorized everything. Now he could use magic easily but still obviously not stronger than Claude’s magic.
In these two years Ambroise would often go out to create a group which will be loyal to him and help him to survive.
And he did find two people.

A young boy who lost his family and had no reason to live. Ambroise helped him and simply gave him one. Live to protect him. Despite being young he was very talented and easily learnt how to wield a sword. And a young adult girl who was betrayed by her family due to selfish reasons and tried to sell her out because of her shadow-like powers. She was more fit to be an assassin. Well, in short Ambroise Freed her and she swore her loyalty to him.
Their names were Alaric and Matilda. They hated Claude for the treatment he gave to ambroise but they don't act on their feelings. Instead they only follow orders.

It was a normal morning and Ambroise decided to go under a tree in the shade and sleep. It was his favorite spot because this tree reminded him of the tree in anakt garden tree where he first met a hyuna…
Meanwhile a little girl was running around with a pouch in her hands and suddenly stopped when she saw Ambroise. “Pretty…” she could only mutter. This girl was obviously Athanasia who was also trying to survive. She was wondering who this boy was so she got closer.
Ambroise felt someone getting close to him and opened his eyes only to find blue jewel eyes staring back at his yellow jewel eyes.

Only then did Athy realise this was her half-brother, prince Ambroise de Alger obelia. She tensed up, she didn't know what he would do, would he kill her or was he innocent ?
Ambroise stared at her and said calmly “your far from your palace…what are you doing here…”
Athy calmed down a bit because of his smooth calm voice and decided to use her charms. She smiled sweetly and innocently and said

“I wanted to see big brother!”

Ambroise looked at her fake facade and said “your acting is mediocre…and if you want to survive here work on it a little bit…”

Athy froze on the spot as her act was revealed. But then she saw in Ambroise's eyes that he had no ill nor kind intention…he simply didn't care about her or her life.

“Go back to your palace…I don't need your maids wandering around my palace. “

Athy nodded quietly and went back. When she was free from Lily's scolding she went to her room. that night she thought about it

'Maybe…maybe I can work with him to escape the palace…'

Chapter Text

A few days later Athy would often sneak out to ambroise the palace and Ambroise as always would be at the tree; these meetings became a sort of ritual to them. she slowly started trusting him as they knew they were stuck and she told him about her plan to escape.
Meanwhile Ambroise kept seeing hyuna in Athy, her rebellious personality of wanting to escape and her energetic talk. He unknowingly started to get attached.
One day Athy dragged Ambroise around palaces with a pouch in her hand.

“Woah! brother look! A golden statue! Do you think anyone will notice it if we steal it?”

Ambroise looked at her stoically “we can't lift that thing and they'll be stupid if they won't notice it…”

Athy started touching statue and even bite into it which made Ambroise looked at her in disgust
“It's dirty Athy…stop that-”

Suddenly a cold voice was heard, one that froze the entirety of children's figures.
“What are these filthy bugs doing in my palace?...”

Athy froze so did Ambroise. They weren't expecting to meet him here at all.
He looked at Athy
“yes…was it that dancer from siodonna…you look like that wench….I think I remember what that wench named you ... .I believe it was Athanasia…”
Then he looked at Ambroise “and you…you're from that wench who kept singing ... .hmmm…it was Ambroise…”

Suddenly and unexpectedly Athy accidentally dropped her pouch resulting in gems to drop to floor. That caught Claude's attention.
Beside Claude stood a red haired man who looked nervous but still smiled at children.
Then suddenly Claude picked up Athy
“You're heavy…you really have chubby cheeks but I didn't expect you to be this heavy…”
"..."

Athy freaked out as she was having mental dialogue with herself
Ambroise glanced at Athy who had lost all the colours from her face and fear was evident in her eyes. Ambroise knew he was too attached to her, he couldn't afford to lose her….not like hyuna.
“Now…what were you two doing at my palace…”

Red head man tried to ease the tenseness “your majesty, maybe they got lost! Plus. Children this age tend to be curious and have a liking for shiny things!”
Claude looked at Ambroise cold yellow jewels that looked back at him “then what about this one?”
Red head didn't know what to say until Ambroise spoke
“We got lost. We were just going back. “

Claude gave Athy to Felix not so gently. “Felix carry her…I should have some tea with my guests….”
And much to Ambroise's surprise he was picked up by Claude.
“You're too light….”

Now both Claude and Ambroise were staring at each other. Claude started moving towards the inner place as Felix followed behind while carrying Athy.
Ambroise finally was let down and he immediately sat down. And Athy as soon as was put down sat beside her. he knew she was scared so he held her hand which calmed her down a bit.
Claude ordered and treats was served.
“i didn't know you couldn't speak “ said Claude while staring at Athy

“Athy can talk” Athy said while acting cute

“Then why didn't you talk until now?”

Redhead spoke “your majesty children these age tend to be shy”
Claude raised an eyebrow “shy? Isn't this brat supposed to be shy? Yet he is here glaring at me”
Claude stared at Ambroise's not so hidden glare.

“I'm just not shy unlike her.” Ambroise said. He had already figured out that Claude didn't interested something's that was boring so he could act as he wanted
Meanwhile Athy was begging Ambroise to stop his shamelessness.

“Felix…”

“Yes, your majesty?”

“Leave us.”

“...”

The red head now named Felix left the children alone with Claude. athy was dying in her mind as her only hope of help left the room.

“Hmmm…Athanasia…Ambroise…. such a name ... .do you two know what it means?...”

Athy played dumb and shook her head while Ambroise was just silent as he knew and it didn't even matter to him as he chewed on cookies, he hasn't stopped eating since he sat down which annoyed Athy greatly. ‘how can he be so calm!’

“To give such a name to her child to a girl no less…she would have her limbs ripped if she had survived that labour…”

Ambroise just snorts at that, knowing if that woman survived childbirth she wouldn't be even touched at all as she was his favorite after all. He continued eating. Claude looked at him.
“Do you want to say something?...”

Ambroise looked at him and decided to not risk it too much
“No.”
“Why aren't you eating? Should I punish cooks?”
Athy immediately started eating
“Yummy!...” she beamed, ambroise resisted to roll his eyes at acting.

After that they both were sent back. First was Athy's palace where Lily was terrified but as Felix was about to escort Ambroise to his palace he said “there's no need. I can go back on my own…”
“But your highness-”
“I don't need it. “ Ambroise left without looking back.

When he reached his palace Anne worriedly asked everything and Ambroise told her everything.
“Matilda…”
“Yes master?..”
“How is our plan going?”
“We already recruited a few people though we need more than that to create our own guild.”

“How about you Alaric?”
“I've been training and finally got into royal guards.”
“Good…. continue your work…”
Ambroise was deep in thoughts ‘hmmm…I have a feeling he'll summon us again…”

True to Ambroise's thoughts the next day Ambroise was summoned to the throne room along with Anne. When he entered the room he saw Athy was already there along with Lily.
Ambroise bowed beside Athy while Anne and Lily bowed to Claude who sat on the throne while Felix was standing beside him.

Claude first looked at Lily “Lilian york long time no see”

“Blessing and glory upon the sun of the obelian empire.”

“I haven't been able to pay attention to my one and only daughter due to my duties at court…but still Athanasia has grown to be a healthy child…the credit goes to you…”

“thank you your majesty…”

“The same goes for you Annette greenwood…”

Anne shamelessly and fearlessly replied coldly “thank you your majesty.”
Claude looked at Anne before continuing

“However…from now on I will be looking after the princess and prince’s well being. There will be no need to worry…”
Claude smiled “starting today princess Athanasia will be treated as proper princess, and same goes for prince Ambroise.”

Ambroise and Anne immediately left after that meeting

“Anne…change of plans…aleric will be leading alongside Matilda in creating a new guild…”
“Understood your highness…but will you be alright?...I worry…”
“Don't be…”

Anne nodded as they walked into the northern palace.
A few days passed and everything was the same. Ambroise was quietly standing while munching on cookies while Claude was talking to Athanasia
“I think you've gotten chubbier since last I've seen you…”
“Hehe, you look pretty too papa!”

Claude looked at Ambroise “and you've gotten skinnier…”
Ambroise looked at Claude stoically while continuing eating cookies.
Soon they went closer to the boat. Lily was hesitant about Athy being in the boat while Anne took out a warm cloak that she could finally buy and made Ambroise wear it as his immune system was weak enough.

Claude picked up Athy and put her in the boat and then turned to Ambroise who was put in by Anne. He clearly didn't want to be picked up by Claude. He sat beside Athy and put his head on her shoulder.
Soon they were in the middle of the lake. It was calm…
“Your hair is sparkly and shiny papa! Athy really likes sparkly things hehehe”
“Ah…that reminds me, you had a jewel pouch with you that day”
Athy was frozen but kept acting cute

“I kept your treasure safe and sound. Why don't you come and retrieve them yourself next time?”
Finally it was calm and Ambroise was sleepy when he suddenly heard a loud splash and Athy choking which made him wide awake. He looked at Athy who was drowning and asked for help.
Ambroise looked at Claude who didn't seem to care and wouldn't do anything which made him grit his teeth. It reminded him of that incident again and again. He thought Claude was getting better but no. He still was a heartless bastard.

Ambroise used his magic and tried to make Athy float up in the air. He could feel his heart beating fast, adrenaline in his whole body, he could feel his eyesight getting foggy but he couldn't. No. He wouldn't let Athy die like hyuna. After a lot of trying he finally put her on grass.

Ambroise started breathing heavily and losing his footing in front of Claude. It was all because of the weak body Ambroise's body couldn't handle huge usage of magic which was nearly as close as his body size which made him cough out blood.
This alarmed Claude and finally took him to land. He tried healing him but it seems Ambroise's magic was rejecting his.
"Your highness!"

As Lily was taking care of Athy, she heard Felix yelling, she looked up only to see Ambroise coughing blood which made her panic more. Anne immediately went and made Ambroise drink potions of body healing which made him stop coughing and finally fainted out of exhaustion.
Claude watched as his children were in bad condition and he felt something string in his heart…

Anne picked up Ambroise and looked coldly at Claude “I will get his highness back your majesty. Blessing and glory upon the sun of the obelian empire.”
Anne knew she couldn't trust him. She knew yet she couldn't go against Ambroise's words.

The next few days Ambroise was in bed and recovering while Athy would visit him often and they ate snacks together.
“So how was tea with the bastard?”
Athy coughed even though she wanted to laugh “brother I feel the same way about him but what if someone were to hear you talk like that? We'll get in serious trouble…”
Ambroise had a face that said ‘i don't give a fuck’
Athy chuckles at his face which made Ambroise smile slightly. He always felt warm when he was with Athy...it felt good...was this love they called?....he didn't want this feeling to ever stop...

It's been three boring years if you ask Ambroise, his and Claude's relationship was still strained. Athy now is 8 and Ambroise is 11. he was walking around the garden when he felt a trace of magic inside the forest. Curiosity got the better of him and decided to go inside.
He then came across ... a hair? On ground? …. Ambroise looked up to see a man sleeping on a tree branch who had…veryyyyyyy long hair.

Should I kick him off of there…he looks strong but I doubt he'll kill me anyways. Ambroise pulled hair like there was no tomorrow and man fell down and groaned as he woke up
“Who woke me up!” Man had black hair and ruby eyes like gems, Ambroise liked it
“It was me…why are you sleeping here ?...”

Man looked at the boy and blinked before grinning “interesting….”
“What is?”
Man stepped closer and held Ambroise's chin while smirking “this…isn't your first life is it?...”

Ambroise tensed up but said while narrowing his eyes “and who are you…”
Man smirked arrogantly, “I am mage and master of magic tower.”
“Then why are you here like a homeless man?”

Man froze before he scowled “I'm not homeless!”
“You are. You are sleeping on trees like monkeys, if you had home you would've gone there, but you're so homeless here. “
“What kind of logic Even is that! And second of all. Don't compare me to a monkey.”

“Right, sorry. Chimpanzee.”
Man looked pissed off
“Anyways. I can't call you homeless guy can I? What's your name?”

Man sighs annoyed “Lucas. And what's your brat?”
“Ambroise”
“So who's kid are you? Are you #### son?”

Ambroise looked at him like he was dumb “that man was living 200 years ago. My father is Claude de Alger obelia”

Lucas hummed uninterested then grinned as if having an idea
“so how did a brat like you break through my barrier…your magic is enormous…but your body is too weak for it to handle…so how about this? In order your body not to blow up, give me your mana”
Ambroise looked at him “then how about we make a mana contract?”

Lucas raised an eyebrow “what are the terms?”
“I'll give you my mana, a place to stay and food to eat in return you keep my body from exploding and will help me whenever I'll ask no matter what it'll be.”
Lucas was in thoughts “fine. We have a deal then~”

“Good. Now I'll be going back. “
Lucas watched as Ambroise was going back “let's see how interesting you'll be brat …”

Athy, Ambroise and Claude were in the garden drinking.
While Claude was drinking tea, Athy was drinking milk and got curious
“Papa, what are you drinking?”
“Tea.” Ambroise answered before Claude could

“Is it good? I wanna have what Papa's having!”
“Your highness, it might not be good for you”
“Let her have it if she wants to”
“Alright…does your highness want one too?”

Ambroise looked at Felix and nodded. Soon two teas were served.
“It's delicious! It's like flowers blooming in my mouth!”
Claude froze and looked at Athy in nostalgia so did Felix
“... it's too bitter…” Ambroise had a scowl on his face

Felix said “your highnesses did you know, your mothers said same thing when they first drank that tea”
That caught both of their attention.
“Mom said the same thing?”
“felix you are very talkative today. Stay five steps away.“ said Claude

Felix sulked as he steps away
Ambroise was quite but in deep thoughts

The next day Athy was drawing with Ambroise in a room. Athy started asking questions about her mother and Ambroise unconsciously started humming a lullaby his mother used to sing, his voice still smooth and soft as it was in previous life. And moreover he was drawing a woman with blond hair and a ghostly smile while having no eyes. Her skin was healthy white and was wearing white elegant dress.

This made Anne freeze and looked at Ambroise with wide eyes. Athy looked at Ambroise as she heard him humming.
“Woah! Brother you are drawing is so pretty!”

Anne slowly got closer, and asked with a shaky voice “y-your highness….m-may I ask w-who did you draw…?”
Felix eyes widened too as he noticed something similar

Ambroise looked at her “I saw her in my dreams…but she never has a eyes….she only smiles and sings…”
Anne looked like she wanted to cry but she smiled “I see…”
Athy then asked “Felix, why is Anne's face like that?...”

Ambroise looked at Felix curiously, waiting for an answer too
“Um…you see…his highness has drawn his mother and hummed the same song she used to sing…”
“Brother's mom could sing?”

Anne said smiling in nostalgia “yes. She was the most talented singer in the whole empire, her smooth voice and charms never failed to enchant anyone…”
Felix nodded “it seems his highness has gotten talent from lady Leticia”
Ambroise was quite before saying “is there any chance to see her face?”
Anne tensed “emperor has a gem for recordings for that. “

That's all Ambroise needed to know as he nodded and continued drawing.
“I wanna see mom…” Athy unconsciously muttered
Felix said “I can ask his majesty to-”

“NO! DON'T! I DON'T WANT TO SEE HER!“athy yelled out
“If you think he'll be that kind to give us that then you're thinking wrong.” Ambroise said coldly as his words got sharper
“But your highness-”

“Felix. You know him better than anyone here. He's a cruel man. I won't ask anything from him. Ever….no matter how sweet he'll act, he's only my father in blood and name. Nothing more.”
Felix was tense and his face conflicted. Lily didn't know what to say as she and Athy were the only ones who didn't know anything about what happened.
Later that night Felix who stood beside Claude said

“I spoke to his highness today…he…he has great hate towards you, your majesty…”
Claude, who was doing paper work paused “and?...am I supposed to care about some brat?”
“Your majesty….he only considered you as father in name and blood…maybe you should talk to him and-”
“Felix. Get out. I'm busy.”

Felix sighs and goes out.
Claude lays back into his chair and sighs. He knew he shouldn't care about what that brat said, he's nothing to him. He was nothing to him in the past too…so…why does it still string?...

Chapter Text

Next day Ambroise and Anne went to the city secretly. They met in underground place where Matilda and Alaric were waiting

“Your highness! I missed you sooooo muchhhh” Matilda took Ambroise in her arms and smiled excitedly

“Ugh. Matilda gave his highness a rest, he just arrived and stop hovering all over him…”

Matilda looked at him annoyed “my, so jealous I see~ well if you wanted to hug your highness your could just say so~-”

Alaric face had blush out of embarrassment “you shameless woman!-”

“Enough you two.” Anne said sternly

“How's progress going…” Ambroise finally asked

“Guild people are all ready, what do we call our guild though?...”

“....hyuna…hyuna guild…”

“Then it's decided! We are a hyuna guild!” Matilda said energetically

Ambroise never wanted to forget Hyuna, so he decided to name his guild her name to keep  memories and the name of her.

'I miss her...'

Athy and Ambroise were going to Claude's room upon his request to eat together when they came across duke Alpheus. Athy started making fun of him and calling him Mr. Whitey. Duke Alpheus finally looked at Ambroise and said with sly smile

“Your highness my son is your age, would you like to meet him? I'm sure you'll get along”

“Sure. I'll inform you of my visit when I decide so…”

Duke Alpheus nodded, getting message that he was powerless against him and left. Athy was freaking out, what if Ambroise met and liked Jeannette more, then she'll be left behind and abandoned, and she would have no one to depend on.

Ambroise who saw Athy's expression whispered to her “calm down…I don't know what you're thinking but whatever it is everything will be fine…”

she finally calms down. When they were pushed inside Claude's room they noticed he was sleeping on the couch. Children looked around and Ambroise saw some brown haired and green eyed woman portrait. He didn't like her. At all. Then he saw Athy was about to hit Claude when her cookie fell out of her sleeve.

'this dumb bitch-'

she very quickly switched up to singing. Claude looked at her, newly awoken

“What song is that?”

“A song to say bye bye to bad dreams”

That made Ambroise snort which annoyed Athy but didn't break her act. They soon all sat down and ate, Ambroise would eat fastest of them all and he always had snacks somewhere hidden. Claude just stared at them. After lunch Claude looked at Ambroise and said

“i heard you could sing.”

Ambroise narrowed his eyes “so?...”

“Sing.”

Ambroise was getting annoyed “I don't know what you want me to sing.”

“Anything is fine…”

Claude grabbed both Athy's and Ambroise's hands and went to lay down on his bed. he didn't know this world's songs, he only knew a lullaby that his mother sang. He sighs and started singing with his angelic voice

“Sleep, little star from far away, You've wandered worlds so far today.
Silver moons will guard your flight, Cradled in the arms of night.
Hearts may change and stars may fall, But you are still loved through it all…~”

Claude closed his eyes though not asleep, he remembered that lullaby, whenever he would pass by her room he always heard her sing that and then smile at him with that warm yellow eyes that despite everything held no judgement, just gentleness and pity.

Felix then started telling his backstory and asked “your highnesses ... .what do you wish most?”

Athy was quiet before saying “I want papa to like me more…”

Ambroise said “I…I want to see and hear mother…”

Felix nodded sadly.

Soon siblings fell asleep beside him and Claude opened his eyes. He caressed both of their heads, Athy looked exactly like that woman and had the same bubbly personality…while Ambroise despite looking like her had his personality.

That's when Claude finally realised that at first despite him bringing children here out of boredom, he got attached to them quickly. Especially Ambroise…if they didn't appear even for a year…he would have finally forgotten them…but now…he wanted to be a part of their life.

A week has gone by and Ambroise was lazing around before finally deciding to visit duke Alpheus manor. Anne had got him ready early in the morning making him grumble but couldn't go against her at all. The ride wasn't that long as Ambroise kept humming a certain song (wiege). Soon they were in front of manor and duke Alpheus was waiting at entrance along with his son ijekiel. When Ambroise came down from carriage ijekiel's breath hitched. It was you. His saviour. His angel. He met you again.

Duke Alpheus greeted "blessing and glory upon the star of the obelian empire" he was smiling slyly but cautiously. From the last meeting he understood the prince wasn't a fool at all, rather he was like a cat, quiet and observant, and once you'll have your guard down that's when he strikes.

"Your highness must've been tired from the ride. My son will be your guide."

Ambroise just nods as he and ijekiel started walking and when they made sure no one was nearby ijekiel spoke shyly

"Your highness...we meet again...I still can't thank you enough for saving me.."

"No need. And I said we would meet again."

Ijekiel nodded. He couldn't believe he was walking beside his angel. He felt a warm sensation in his stomach and his heart was beating fast. Unexpectedly they came across a girl year younger than Ambroise and ijekiel. She had brown hair but jewel blue eyes. She looked at Ambroise excitedly and shyly. Ijekiel froze so did Ambroise. his mind was working fast, the girl had jewel blue eyes, as far as he knew he and Athy were Claude's only children. But this girl might've been an illegitimate one, but Claude doesn't let anyone get pregnant as he uses pills for that specially. Moreover, the girl's hair was brown.

Ambroise remembered a portrait in Claude's room, a brown haired and green eyed woman. The portrait was smashed which would meant anger or betrayal which that woman caused Claude. He clearly knew that woman. But was it his child...or other person? he was going over his history lessons in his head when he stopped on one person...former emperor. Anastacius de Alger obelia...the chances are 50/50...either this girl was anastacius...or Claude's....

"H-hello!...your highness..."

"What's your name?" Ambroise asked rather coldly. This girl...something feels off...

"My name is Jeanette margarita..." Jeannette smiled shyly.

Margarita...that was the name of Claude's last fiancé, Penelope Margarita...if this girl's existence would be revealed then both his and Athy's future would be ruined...she might be introduced as a legitimate daughter which makes his chances of becoming crown prince less. He had to manipulate this girl. To survive.

"Ijekiel. I would like to speak with Jeanette. in private."

Ijekiel hesitantly nodded before leaving them in a room. Jeannette looked shy and nervous. This girl was weakling. Even compared to Athy. He will make sure this girl will be useful to him. Ambroise smiled and said "Jeannette was it? I would like to know more about you...could you tell me more?"

Jeanette nods and started telling him how Penelope was her mother, and Claude father, how she lived and how she wanted to be with them (Claude, Athy, Ambroise). That was enough information to learn that Jeanette was a pawn in some game duke Alpheus was playing. She was so gullible and soft...it reminded him of that pink haired girl from past life...mozi? Muzi?...mizu?...no...mizi...right. Whatever, her name was, it didn't matter to him.

"Jeanette do you trust me?"

"Yes I trust you big brother!"

"Then Jeanette...you see...someone here is trying to harm me, our little sister and father...I need your help...can I trust you to help us?" Ambroise acted pitifully which perfectly worked on Jeanette who seemed shocked

"I-i will help brother!"

"Alright then...Jeanette...you see in a few days there will be someone becoming your maid called Linda, you can trust her...whatever you'll hear or see, write to me in letter and give to Linda to deliver to me...I'll update you with us too!..."

"O-okay then brother! I will do as you say"

Ambroise caresses her head and smiles "thank you for being good little sister...but remember...you can't tell anyone, even ijekiel about this...okay?"

"Okay brother..." Jeanette nods while smiling brightly.

After talk with Jeanette Ambroise talked to ijekiel. It was clear to him that boy would do anything he would ask after all he had saved him. It was only fair he returned favour.

"Ijekiel. I need you to tell no one that I met and talked with Jeanette. This will be enough for you to payback for saving you"

Ijekiel nodded, he could tell Ambroise talked something serious with Jeanette but he couldn't help but obey his words...how could he deny his saviour...his angel?...

"I understand your highness...I will tell no one about this..."

A few hours later Ambroise was back to his place "Anne. Call Matilda and Alaric. Right now."

Anne noticed the serious voice of Ambroise nods and immediately did as she was told to do. soon she came back with Alaric and a smiling Matilda. Ambroise's eyes looked cold

"Matilda...i felt something entered my body. Get it out of me. " Matilda tensed up and got serious as she started her work before her face darkened "your highness...were you close or attacked someone with black magic?...because it seems like it's in your body and a little over thia dose might have killed you..."

Alaric and Anne were shocked "your highness what happened? Did anyone attack you?" Anne said worriedly

"No ...it seems duke Alpheus is playing with fire...and we have another illegitimate or legitimate obelian child...Alaric. Gather information about Penelope Margaret, Claude and the former emperor's relationship with her. Also all activities of duke Alpheus in last 10 years. "

Alaric nodded "I understand your highness "

Matilda was finally done with taking black magic out

"Matilda. I also have another mission for you."

Matilda nodded

"I need you to get in alpha manor and become a personal maid of Jeanette Margaret. She's a brown haired child. You'll use the identity of commoner Linda. It seems she holds a big amount of black magic. She will give you letters and deliver them to me. She's a useful pawn in there...make sure no one will be suspicious of you and try to investigate as much as possible."

"Understood your highness. "

"Now you two can go...Anne...make sure this information doesn't go out of this room."

"Understood."

"You're all dismissed. I wish to be alone now."

Three of them left and Ambroise was in thoughts 'let's see if you'll be burnt duke Alpheus...'

(these are photos of Alaric, Matilda and Anne. Matilda is blond haired woman while Anne is black haired one. )

Alaric pov

My name is Alaric Ashbourne, I was a normal commoner's son who wasn't special in any way possible. I had four little siblings, my four little lights…it was a pretty peaceful life. I had loving parents, great siblings even though sometimes work was too much we always tried to support our father…but life wasn't always fair…

my mother died due to illness, my father became depressed and started drinking…I always tried to protect my siblings from his drunk tendencies…one day someone from our village came and informed me that my father was drunk and got in a fight with royal knights which led him to his death…I started working at multiple places to earn money for my siblings…but…it all came crashing down…

It was midnight when I returned from work and found all my siblings…my only light in darkness….they were all murdered by some wanted criminal…I was broken…I lost all reason to live…our house which was already destroyed couldn't be used…I started living on streets and barely surviving…I thought…that was it…this was my end…

until ... .one day a new light came to rescue me out of darkness…he was simply beautiful…and warm…he was my only hope…in this cursed world…He offered me a hand and told me to join him…when I told him I didn't have any purpose in this life anymore…he said ‘then I'll be your purpose…protect me. That'll be your life's new reason to live.’...and that was when I realized.... that I would do anything for this person…

I didn't hesitate as I held his hand…later I found out he was the prince of our empire…he supported me in having knights and assassin's training…I greatly respect him…as he gave me last name Ashbourne…now…I shall give my whole life to him…and protect his future. 

It doesn't matter if it's that duke standing in his way….I will kill everyone. Who'll be in his way. And try to stop his success.

Matilda pov

My earliest memories…are of my crying mother…who loved me greatly…I thought of reasons that were making her cry but the only thing I found was my father…while I was growing…I couldn't understand my mother…she was a mage, and she's supposed to be Powerful so why was she crying over a man who didn't care about her? My father was a baron who had a mistress and neglected my mother who was a great mage. 

Mother taught me all the magic she knew, but I still couldn't understand her. Why did that man matter so much that she wasted her tears on him?
I asked her one day about that and she told me ‘my darling…once you'll experience a curse named love…you'll never be same again…and do foolish things for it …sometimes it makes you happy…sometimes it makes you sad…and if unfortunate like me…sometimes it makes you feel pain…’

I still didn't understand…until my own father had chained me with magic nullification chains and killed my mother who just welcomed her death in front of me…I wanted to snap…I wanted to yell, to kill, TO DESTROY…but in the end I was powerless…

My father was selling me on black market for my magic…that's when my master found me…He was simply eternal for me and he asked me if I wanted freedom to live and take revenge ... .my answer was yes.  He didn't shy away from truth and my dark twisted revengeful personality…no…he accepted me, embraced my magic and acknowledged me, something my father has never done…

he simply became my one and only. Person whom I shall always protect and help him succeed in the throne…I will do anything in my power to do it…even if it costs many lives. When I heard and saw my master's body had infused black magic I felt panic for the first time after 5 years. I immediately get to work and finally safely took that shit out of my master's body.

How dare they. Touch. My master. They all need to die. Die. Die. Die. DIE. DIE. DIE.

Master explained situation to us, it seems someone's ass will get burned in close future as they tried to harm my master...Hmmm...which torture methods should I use I was wondering. Anyways it seems Anne will take charge of running guild smoothly while me and Alaric will be busy. My opinion of her is...that her warmth reminds me of my mom...same goes for Alaric. She acts too much like mother. Especially to master but that's understandable I guess after all she did raised him.

Currently I'm on a mission to deliver letters and gain more information about the Duke Alpheus household…I was quickly accepted and a few days later assigned to little girl Jeanette and goddess! She basically reeked of black magic! It was difficult to take care of her with that In her body! On our first meeting my impression of her was…greatly decreased…she was too shy, too soft, too weak. But I understood that she was important pawn for my master which is why I kept my mouth shut. 

I had to pretend to be kind and soft with her…ugh. Disgusting. Anyways. The only important thing I've gotten so far is that one man keeps visiting duke. He had black hair and eyes….hmmm mystery~...I shall report to my master.

anne pov

my name is annette greenwood, i am a simple baron's daughter who has later on became a count. my parents were kind as they loved me very much. my grandfather often spent time with me, he always trained me saying men are very cruel creatures and i can't trust anyone easily. which is why he taught me skills of assassin,  as he was one in past. i also had a little brother who's name is liam. the first time i met him i knew i would have protected him with all my life. that's how i started loving babies. then one day i was suggested to work in palace by one of my close friends.

i decided it wouldn't be too bad if i worked for a good salary. for a few months i worked just like a normal maid, but then i was chosen as private maid of concubine who was newly pregnant with emperor's child. i was expecting to see either spoiled cruel woman or a pushover who's just too clueless. but i was surprised when i first saw her. she was as beautiful as a goddess from fairy tails, her gorgeous golden locks falling to her waist, her eyes sharp as knife and pretty as gold. 

then she spoke, her voice was calm, smooth, angelic. she was known as best singer not only among concubines but also in empire. for few months i got to know her i fell for her charms, she was as warm as sun. her kindness knew no bounds but that didn't meant she was a fool. despite all the smiles she was giving out she was always calculative woman who knew her own worth.  emperor didn't visited her at all. he only had eyes for one pink eyed concubine which made me hate both of them.

how could anyone be so cold! especially to unborn baby! it was making me mad. despite being only 16 i already knew of ways harem worked. everyone had eyes for my dear lady leticia, they all knew she wasn't favored by emperor but if she were to give birth to a boy it would be problem for their status. which is why i decided to use my skills to protect my lady.

then as months went by my lady became colder and more distanced from everyone, even from me which hurt me. but i never questioned her. i knew deep down she had her own worries that she wouldn't say aloud, she always looked at her yellow rose garden the only thing that was gifted to her by emperor. her eyes always seem to search someone, but she never found that someone... then one day some man from church visited her, i was dismissed so i did not know what they talked about. but after he left she seemed sadder. like she was mourning.  

she grew sadder but she always sang lullaby to unborn child. 

then came prince's birth. it was a mess. my lovely lady i swore to protect was dying in front of me. as she died i have made a promise to myself, my lady and even god that i would have raised this prince and protect him. no matter what. 

years passed by and i noticed my prince is very intelligent which made me smile, despite living in cold place, being with him was everything. i didn't disliked the princess neither her mother...but they were a threat...and i knew emperor would always favor her instead of my poor prince who had to suffer...that incident will never leave my brain...i was praying to god, to make that man's every waking day a hell, a pain like he gave my prince and my lady. 

as he grew up well he formed a guild named hyuna. i remember him saying that name in his sleep. i didn't knew who it was, perhaps a bird name or something. he helped alaric and matilda. they were also young. younger than me, so i took them in like my little siblings. 

when emperor started paying attention to my prince i didn't trusted him at all...that man...he deserves death. i was always by prince's side to protect him. he even got sick and coughed blood because of using too much magic for his weak body. now he had a traces of black magic i'm even more worried. i'm no magic expert but i will try to eliminate anyone who threatens to take his life. 

after all...he is the only thing that was left to me after my lady leticia's death...

Chapter Text

Ambroise was sleeping when he suddenly felt a weight on his stomach. He woke up and saw a two brown cat with grey eyes looking at him. The cats reminded him of Them. it seems these creatures were made out of his mana. He needed to get rid of them fast. he got ready for the day and went to the garden where he first found Lucas, who was still sleeping there.

"Hey homeless man you're still asleep?"

Lucas eyes twitched "I'm not homeless for fucks sake you little brat!"

"Yea whatever. I bought you a meal."

Yes. Those cats reminded him of a hyuna and hyunwoo but these things were very dangerous to his already weak body. And not only that he had two instead of one. So he wished to keep one cat as a reminder but he really needed to get rid of another one for his own health. Lucas smirked and consumed one cat, and letting out a sigh of pleasure, then he was staring at another one which was hidden behind Ambroise.

"You can let that one live"

"It'll kill you."

"I know."

Lucas was confused as he started at Ambroise. If he knew that, why would he still keep that thing? Whatever it wasn't his place to say.

"Anyways. As a payment I also got you cookies."

Ambroise threw the pouch of cookies at Lucas face which irritated him but said nothing as he ate them.

"The other brat also seemed to get her beast."

"Athy did?"

"Yea. So what's your plans?"

"...nothing yet...but...I have a question for you."

"What is it" Lucas asked with boredom

"If someone had 70-80% black magic in their body instead of mana. What would that mean?"

This question made Lucas pause and was in thoughts before saying

"Then there might be two cases. One, they are influenced by black magic meaning someone has inserted it in their body. Or. Two. They were made by black magic."

"I see..."

"From your question I suppose you met someone like that."

"Family drama, seriously. It's tiring at this point..."

Ambroise sighs and leaned against Lucas' shoulder. Lucas looked at him but didn't moved away. soon after he fell asleep and Lucas glanced at him, then he moved his hand and pulled one strand of Ambroise's hair behind his ear. 'he smells nice...wait...what the fuck did I just thought?!'

Lucas wanted to slap himself, there was no way he thought that about this brat. In the end Lucas got tired of thinking and fell asleep as well. No matter what he couldn't lie to himself, this brat was always making him somehow calm no matter what...

Next day Lucas appears in Ambroise's room which made Anne startled and was about to attack him when his voice stopped her

"He's an ally. No worries. What brings you here Lucas?"

"Cookies."

In truth Lucas wanted to see him but was too proud to say it so he took cookies as an excuse to visit

"Anne. Bring some cookies and tea please."

"As you wish your highness."

Anne didn't trust this mage but since her dear prince said so she couldn't go against him. Ambroise was writing paperwork as Claude gave him some to prepare him for being crown prince. Unknowingly he started humming the lullaby again. Lucas paused and listened to his humming before said "I didn't knew you inserted magic in your singing"

That made Ambroise pause "what do you mean?"

Lucas was confused before saying "there is magic inserted in your singing which makes the songmore dazzling, calming and charming. You didn't knew?"

"...no..."

"Hmmm...it seems that is a genetic trait then. Did any of your parents sing?" Now Ambroise remembered Anne did always say his mother was a singer "yes. My mother..."

"Then there might be two possibilities. One. Your mom has trained her whole life to insert magic in her singing to control other people's feelings or mind. Or. Two, she might be a mixed blood or not even human."

Ambroise was in thoughts when Anne entered with tea and cookies.

"Anne. How long have you known your mother?"

"Lady Leticia?... I first met her when she was pregnant in the ruby palace and was assigned to her. Why are you asking your highness..."

"Was mother In any way behaving weird sometimes or had weird habits?"

Anne was thinking "I guess so?...she always liked to visit the lake at night and sit beside it and rest...that was one habit she had." Lucas spoke curiously "well then it might be water related thing" Anne was confused what Lucas meant with that

"Anne. Bring me books about creatures of the world. Every single one of them, especially water ones."

"Alright your highness."

"Well here's your plot twist. Your family is a real drama at this point." Lucas said munching on cookies

"When it isn't you tell me." Ambroise rolled his eyes and was in thoughts. If his suspicion was right then this opened a whole new world to him.

Ambroise was in his study when Anne entered “your highness. A letters has come.” he looked up and took the letters. One was from Jeanette and the other was from Matilda. “Lucas.” At the mention of the name a magician appeared. Ambroise knew Lucas had been nearby lately.
“What?” Lucas plopped down bored on the couch.
“Check this letter”
Ambroise gave him a letter of Jeanette and when he held it Lucas brows were furrowed 

“Black magic again?...”
“Can you remove it?” “Of course I can.” Lucas said arrogantly as he removed black magic 

Lucas returns letter and Ambroise opens it to read

‘Dear brother,

How are you? I'm doing well! Ijekiel and I had tea together today! I've also learnt many things! I also met Linda! She's very kind to me. I saw no one that could harm brother though but I will still send letters.
With love, your sister jeanette.’

Ambroise threw letter at Lucas “burn it” he rolled his eyes at being ordered but still obeyed. Then Ambroise opened Matilda's letter 

‘your highness,

How's areee youuuu~ I missed you greatly! This place is so boring! And this girl is annoying too~ acting kind isn't my suit~ anyways! This girl really reeks of black magic and might need some potions to neutralise, assometimes my magic isn't enough ~
also I saw one black haired and eyed man coming to manor often, he also wears disguise magic. I'll keep observing him.
Meanwhile take care of yourself your highness ~

Your dear lovely servant Matilda.’

'a man...great. even more confusing situation...just what are you planning duke alpheus...how more annoying can you be...' ambroise sighs and started reading books about creatures. he has been searching for any creatures of sea and found few creatures.

“Lucas. Out of these creatures. Which one might be?”

he leaned down on Ambroise shoulder while munching on cookies as always “hmmmm…dffhh wun (this one).”

ambroise looked at him in disgust before looking down which words he was pointing at. all the word said was ‘siren’

“You think my mom might be that?...”

“Similar but not exactly. She might not be a mixed blood at all who knows…”

“I see…can you make money or similar to that type of magic?....”

Lucas narrowed his eyes “I can…what are you planning?...”

“I need money to buy potions, but I can't expose anything to my family.”

Lucas sighs and nods as he made money appear

“Anne.”

Anne immediately entered “yes your highness?”

“take this money and buy healing and mana potions and send it to Alaric. Tell him Matilda needs it.”

“I understand your highness. I shall leave.”

Ambroise took paperwork and went to Claude's office. He dumped on table.
“All done. I'm taking a day off tomorrow.”
Claude raised an eyebrow 
Ambroise gave him a face that said ‘I don't care what you say. I'm done with your shit.’
Claude sighs then was in thoughts for a moment, he seemed to say something and when he looked up Ambroise was already gone. 
Claude looked at Felix
“His highness left 5 seconds ago….”
Claude sighs again tiredly and continued to bury himself in paperwork.

hmmm~....my little s#####....you must be ###### so no one will ######...my sweet sweet child~....sleep tight~....my hope~

suddenly ambroise woke up to see it was still night time and he was drenched in sweats. he finally sighs and tries to remember what he dreamt about... he heard a woman...she was saying something to someone but her voice wasn't clear at all. it was as if something was in way of understanding that stranger...

'it doesn't matter right now...i have to work again...'

ambroise glanced hatefully at his study table which was full of paperwork sent by claude. now he hated even more that man. soon sun came up and anne entered with serious face which caught prince's attention

"your highness....a rumor started spreading...that you're unloved and unfavored...nobles started taking princess side...what will be your order?...''

ambroise looked irritated before sighing " for now we can do nothing...emperor favors athy more but....i won't lose...the throne will be mine." as he finished saying those words he sat at his work table. he wouldn't let those puny pests disrespect him...he will make them regret one day.

and then he started working....

soon it became afternoon and excited smiley felix entered room
"your highness! emperor is inviting you to have a tea in garden!"

ambroise was about to reject offer when felix added "her highness will be there too!" felix already figured out that ambroise was weak when matter came to athy so he agreed with hesitation. soon they arrived, athy was already sitting there and her 'happy' face lighted up even more when she saw ambroise "big brother! i missed you! how are you?"

ambroise just nods and says " i'm fine..." then he went to start munching on cookies.

claude looked at him with stoic face though his thoughts were more than cold face he has. 'he still looks too skinny...'

athy was drinking milk and talking about various things. then ambroise felt something was wrong with him...he felt...pain?...in his body...and immenese headaches started kicking in. then he looked up to see blood dripping from athy's mouth...

no....no....no, no, no, No, NO, NO ,NO, NOT AGAIN! "HYUNA!"

athy's magic burst out, ambroise immediately got up and hugged athy, taking her magic in his body. ambroise started coughing up so much blood that he lost consciousness and only thing he remembered was athy's passed out body on grass...

claude pov:

it was boring day so he decided to have a tea with his children. athy was talking as always energetic, sometimes he wonders where does all her energy even comes from. ambroise was eating cookies and keeping quiet as always. it was just normal day...at least it was supposed to be one...

suddenly blood dripped from athy's mouth, he panicked but before he could have done anything ambroise stood up yelling hyuna...who was hyuna...and was that person that important to him...he didn't knew...but what he knew was shock and worry that was a result of ambroise's unthinkable decision.

he hugged athy and started taking in her magic...i tried stopping it and when i did...ambroise fell on ground fully coughing out blood and both of his kids has passed out

''FELIX! BRING SORCORRERS! RIGHT NOW!"

felix ran immediately to get healers as fast as they could. many of them couldn't help his children before one kid came to him, he had long black hair and red innocent eyes. in the end he had saved his kids. but what he was told afterwards left him shocked.

"i healed them both your majesty....but it seems like prince's body is getting weaker....so we have to limit his magic's 80% so it won't harm his body...also...it seems like he was starved in past your majesty which makes current situation much more difficult...we have to be extra careful..."

how could it be....his son...starved?...

then claude remembered all the time ambroise was always skinny no matter what and he always ate whenever they would meet....

"felix...investigate this, and report it to me..."

felix gaze turned sharp "understood your majesty'' as soon as felix left he looked at ambroise and slightly caressed his head "get well...''

Chapter Text

'....it hurts...i hate pain....' Ambroise felt like his entire body was being burned, but it still couldn't match the pain which his disease gave when he was trained by his guardian heperu or when he lost her...

hyuna...his lovely hyuna...he still misses her and could never forget the sweet moments they shared when he was still alive...he only felt guilty about them...especially to him...hyunwoo...

if he was being honest, it happened on accident....yes they were fighting...but he didn't want him dead yet it all happened so fast...

in the end he never knew of how much hyuna suffered because of him...

he knows he is a worthless...a clone...a manipulative monster...yet...he still wish to be loved....he still wanted that warm feeling in his chest...

he only felt athy giving that to him...so she was very important to him...at first she reminded him of hyuna with her energetic and bright personality...but then...he started warming up to her...he loved her hugs which sometimes was suffocating...her attention which he relished in...and her affection which he found a comfort in...

she was his everything in this world...he didn't wanted her to suffer like hyuna did...or die like hyunwoo..

he can't take that...no. he wouldn't take that...he would do everything in his power to protect her...even if it means dying...

he was never afraid of death...the only reason he kept going in his last life was because of hyuna...and now his reason of living became his little half-sister whose smile was brighter than any smile...and he'll make sure her innocence is protected...at all cost...

then unexpectedly he felt all his pain was gone and he felt warm presence beside his floating body in void.

"...#@#$%& *@$^%#%$%^&%#!&(&^$"

ambroise heard someone talking but he couldn't clearly hear their voice or words. as if something was stopping it before it got to his ears. he couldn't open his eyes either. 

then he felt a warm smooth hand caressing his face gently...he didn't knew who this was but his instincts were telling him he could trust them. ambroise unconsciously slowly tried leaning more into hand of someone.

then he felt this person kissed his forehead and disappeared. 

all warmness was gone and cold feeling of void returned.

meanwhile in outside world it's been a 2 months already. athy already been awake for a month, she still spend time with claude and she would often visit ambroise who was sleeping peacefully in bed while half of his hands were purple.

athy remembers when she asked the reason of that...and reason why claude doesn't visits him anymore...

FLASHBACK 

a month ago

athy had woken up and it's been 3 days finally. now she could go and see ambroise, claude surprisingly tagged along and they entered room. there stood Lucas to bed in his child form healing ambroise.

when he saw royals he bowed to them innocently. claude immediately asked "how is ambroise?..."

"it seems prince had quiet rough time with his mana. due to his disease and weak body. his body can't take too much mana which makes his cough or in worst case vomit blood. as obelians are born with huge amount of mana, it seems prince was gifted a little more than that which makes it a lot more difficult for him. it'll be better if i take half of his mana everyday for his body's safety and he needs a lot of rest as i see signs of insomnia."

athy looked at Lucas confused "what do you mean weak body and disease? is brother ill?"

"it seems prince was born a bit difficultly as from what i've heard his mother couldn't handle all that mana which caused her death, and while birthing prince his body got weakened. as for disease, prince has heart disease and it was more likely he was born with it. in case of high stress his fingers and now half of his hand is purple instead of natural colour. also he isn't supposed to be overworking himself physically such as running or training."

daughter-father duo were frozen on place after knowing this. claude then turned to anne who was standing on other side of bed and said coldly

"why wasn't i aware of the fact my son had disease?"

anne fearlessly looked him in the eye and glared back as her icy voice was heard

 "it seems your majesty has a memory loss. well then since you insist i will remind you gladly. eight years ago, in winter, i desperately asked for a meeting with his majesty. i told you prince was sick and he needed healer but you ignored me and said 'don't bother me with such unimportant matters'. and now. you dare to ask why i didn't told you? you never cared for his highness. you don't know how he lived 9 years in that cold place. even when you acknowledged him, it took you a whole year before you decided he to live in sapphire palace. while princess got in a month. you always treated his highness coldly. i don't blame princess at all. i blame you. you are the reason he's in this condition. and i don't wish to see you near prince because in the end you're going to hurt and abandon him."

athy stood there in shock, so anne went to claude for help and he declined. it seemed he was much of a bastard than she thought. how dare he risk a child's life, her brother's life. 

claude was silent, his face stoic but felix could see his hand clenching a bit. he let go of athy's hand and left the room. 

FLASHBACK END

since that day claude hasn't visited ambroise and locked himself up in study room. well, she didn't cared about that bastard anyways. what was more important was ambroise. 

soon it became night and everyone was asleep. suddenly ambroise's room's balcony door was opened using magic and someone came in. the person went closer to ambroise and caressed his head. 

this person appears to be claude. it turns out he still did visit ambroise but only at times when everyone was asleep. claude buried himself in paperwork at day time and visited ambroise at night.

he couldn't sleep at all, every time he did he was reminded of anne's words and the moment when ambroise fainted. he was tormented by it to the point he almost became insomniac.

he leaned down and kissed ambroise's head and quietly muttured under his breath

"i'm sorry..."

a few minutes later he left.

ambroise was still stuck in a void, he was still lost in restless memories of his past life...

FLASHBACK

Luka was at one big tree, in anakt garden. after he 'freed' his clones. he got a punishment from heperu to do more training. currently he was counting on his fingers. he was all alone and no one wanted to be with a 'weirdo' like him....

until....she appeared right before him, counting alongside him. she had beautiful brown hair and warm grey eyes that shone brightly...it made him feel a warm sensation in his heart...he didn't understood what it was but he unconsciously smiled brightly back at her...

he liked her a lot and didn't wanted to be separated...after all...she was his only light...then he met her brother, hyunwoo. he, just like hyuna was warm but rude at the same time. whenever he nibbled on his own sleeves because of hunger hyunwoo would look at him in disgust and would tell him how weird he was...

that made luka feel a string in his heart but hyuna always defended him and his weird habits which he was thankful for even though he never says anything...

luka later on read in a book that if you kiss someone that shows your love and affection towards that person, so one day he tried to kiss hyuna to show his affection just like hyuna showed with him like hugging him or petting his head...but when he was going to do that hyunwoo pushed him away and looked at luka more strangely...

'...why...why are you looking at me like that....with that look...like everyone else does...i'm not...weird...' luka that day felt a great pain in his chest more than ever as hyunwoo looked at him in disgust and hatred...

hyunwoo never understood luka's actions no matter what he would do. their relationship became more tense as day passed until...that happened...

hyunwoo finally had enough as luka kept behaving weird around his sister and as her brother he wanted to protect her even from luka. it started with a small argument when hyunwoo pushed luka backwards who fell and had his arm broken and scrapped. hyunwoo was glaring at him like he was a monster...

luka then in anger pushed back and hyunwoo couldn't balance himself making his head hit on rock. both boys were on ground bleeding. luka could only look and watch as hyunwoo's life disappeared in front of him...

then suddenly hyuna arrived...and he saw how she looked at him...grief....fear...hatred...luka was smiling but he wanted to die...out of stress and panic his fingers turned purple and his collar flashed red light but that didn't matted to hyuna.

in the end luka could only cling to hyuna everyday as his comfort...

then she ran away from him in 49th season of alien stage...he felt relief that she escaped from this hell hole...but also betrayal...she left him behind...he kept reassuring himself that hyuna must had been in difficult situation and that's why she didn't helped him...he kept this hope...even though even he knew it was all a lie...

then came new season...there were many talents such as that black haired girl and ivan...if he would have lived, in 7th round it would've been more difficult but he died for his love...at that time i thought he was a fool for doing that...but now i truly understood why he did that....

as i watched my only light fading away in front of my very eyes while i could do nothing but watch...just like when hyunwoo died...

FLASHBACK END

i wish...i wish that day i would have been killed...i wish i would have understood her suffering from beginning...i...i wish i was never born...

sometimes i keep thinking...if i was born in another universe with them...would me and hyuna be together?....would me and hyunwoo finally be friends?...

in  the end it was all my fault...hyunwoo was right....i am a monster...but...now i've been reborn...i found new light....and...i will use this chance to protect what is dear to me...

i hope you'll be proud of me...hyuna...hyunwoo...

Chapter Text

then ambroise heard a voice again...this time it was more clearer to understand

"....o-....and you....my.....follow...waves...truth...reveal...find...magic...tread....voice....sing!"

and voice stopped before light blinded his eyes. he slowly opened his eyes and adjusted to light only to see he woke up finally. he looked around and saw lucas beside him layed down "finally sleeping beauty woke up"
ambroise tried speaking but his throat appeared to be dry. in a second a water was in front of him. lucas gave him glass of water and finally he spoke ''how long..."

" almost 4 moths 109 days to be exact."

ambroise sighs "what happened?..."
"mana outbrust. you almost died. do you realise how weak your body has gotten?"
ambroise didn't said anything and slowly he remembered words he heard from voice "lucas...while i was sleeping...i heard voice..."

lucas raised eyebrow "voice?..."
ambroise nodded "yes...at first i couldn't understand anything...but then a bit parts of words could be understood..."

"what did it said?..."

"follow, waves, truth, reveal, find, magic, tread, voice and sing..."

lucas was in thoughts before saying "i think it might be about your and your mother's connection to magic usage in voice. since it mentioned waves it is connected to sea, which creature is still unknown."

ambroise finally said "lucas...will you follow me to find out truth?..."

"you want to travel?..."

"yes...i will make excuse to him and will be gone for three years before my debut..."

and a second later door was open as anne and athy entered, upon seeing ambroise awake athy rushed to him and hug him. he immediatly returned hug and buried his face in her golden locks

"wahhh! big brother! you are finally awake!" 

"your highness...i'm glad..." anne had tears in her eyes which never fell.

"brother you made athy so worried!"

ambroise gently and warmly smiled at her for the first time which made her freeze but then blush. even anne was surprised as ambroise never smiled this warmly at someone. even to her.

"really? then i'll try not to worry you anymore, athy"

"big brother's smile is so bright! big brother should smile more!" ambroise patted her head and hummed "i see...then i will only to athy though, what do you say? hm?" athy nodded energetically "okay!" after quick chat they left him alone. in afternoon alaric and matilda came rushing, matilda had jumped on him and cried like a baby 

"you highnesssss! wahhhh! i thought i lost youuuuu! don't scare me like that again!!!!"

alaric got on one knee "your highness! how are you feeling now?"

ambroise finally made matilda let go of him "i'm fine. how is mission going?"

finally matilda got serious and sighs 

"that man is very suspicious, he often visits manor and now i found a bit parts of black magic on him and sometimes his pupils turn slightly red."

that interested ambroise more "red?..."

alaric added "from what i found out that man was a viscount vellastor, he raised up in nobelity 9 years ago."

"matilda...how old was she?..." ambroise asked about jeanatte

"9 years old your highness..."

ambroise immediatly connected that viscount and jeanatte has more closer relations than he has thought.

"countinue looking after her and that man. i wish to travel soon for 3 years"

matilda was surprised and then started whining "Nooooooo~ your highness don't leaveeeeeee~"

alaric dragged matilda away "that's enough tilda. his highness must be tired from dealing with your antics. let's go we have a mission to do." as they left ambroise he kept thinking about words of unknown voice. a few hours later claude finally entered. he seemed tired as he sat beside ambroise's bed. little boy just looked at him with usual stoic face.

"how are you..."

"i'm fine your majesty. though i wish to ask for a permission from you." claude looked at him curiously 

"i wish to travel for 3 years-"

"no."

"i'll be safe warlock will be with me-"

"i said. no. you're in dangerous condition. you won't go."

ambroise's face got colder, his face looked alike that of claude's own glare "i will once ask this. next time i will just go."

"i won't let you.-"

"you can't stop me."

claude seemed conflicted "what is all of this reason?"

"i wish to find out more about my mother."

claude looking at ambroise realized he wouldn't be able to win in this discussion with him and finally lets out a sighs "...fine. but take at least 40 knights with you."

"alright..."

"now sleep." as claude puts his hand over ambroise's face he fell asleep. claude then gently carrased his face and puts a big powerful protection barrier over ambroise's body

"be safe..."

then claude left unknow to him there was a faint figure of someone made up by sun rays, figure smiled and it soon quietly dissapeared leaving our prince in deep calm slumber.

Next day, in early morning Ambroise got up and maid's get him ready. Everyone was outside beside carriage. Ambroise walked and saw Athy sad which made him smile faintly. Ambroise patted her head "don't be sad...three years will fly soon and I'll be back..." Athy was always used to Ambroise's warm smiles but same couldn't be said about Claude and Felix.

"Big brother why are you even going! Can't you stay here?..."

"I have to go Athy...but I promise I'll be back... before that stay safe, listen to lily, and study hard...okay?"

Athy nods and hugs him which Ambroise gladly returned it back. Claude was looking at siblings interaction '...he never smiled like that with anyone....'

(I smell jealous Claude ~)

Felix sniffed "your highness please stay safe! I'm going to miss you so much!" Ambroise was reminded of Matilda at Felix behaviour...but compared to her Felix was always genuine while Matilda was often being dramatic. Plus Felix was more of a puppy type. Athy glared at Lucas child form and whispered to him "if I see my brother's even a single hair strand harmed... I'll kill you." Lucas rolled his eyes at her as he knew she was just an ant in size of his power. "Yea, yea whatever"

Ambroise looked at Claude stoically, people around them sweat dropped at akward looks of father-son as they looked each others copy.

"Stay safe... Here... If anything use teleportation ring."

Claude gave Ambroise a ring with yellow gem in middle, this ring was from empire's treasury!

"Okay." Ambroise only said that and went to sat in carriage.

Lucas dramatically bowed to Claude and Felix and went to carriage. Soon they left palace with 40 knights protecting carriage. Lucas put a sound protection in carriage and finally layed down comfortably and lazily

"So what's your plan?"

Ambroise pulled out a map "We have two options. Either to travel to Arlanta empire or to travel in Xionea empire. Both has strong connection to water and nature..."

Lucas seemed in thoughts
"True...how about this? We can spend a year and a half each place and then return if we found nothing..."

"Good idea... first will be xionea empire...have you traveled there before?"

Lucas shrugged "a few times when I was going to world tree."

Ambroise already guessed Lucas would have travelled there due to his powerful magic

"What was it like?..."

"Xionea is mostly connected with nature, that place is basically a home for elves, it's strongly enchanted and have most wisdom though I have found none in them."

"I see..."

"Your talent in inserting magic in voice might be coming from there or Arlanta. Either way it's weird."

Ambroise raised an eyebrow "are you calling me weird"

Lucas looked away "no?...maybe yes?..."

Ambroise sighs "whatever."

Meanwhile in obelia

Claude was in his study room only staring at paperwork.
Felix sweat dropped at Claude's behavior "you majesty...?..."
Claude looked at Felix and sighs for the 75th time since Ambroise left.
'his majesty seems missed prince already...I don't blame him I do too missed prince...'
Felix thought as he stood gloomy at door.

at Alpheus manor

Two man sat in room. Duke Alpheus was working on paperwork while a handsome black haired man sat in couch, calmly sipping tea.

"So what news comes from the palace?"

Duke Alpheus sighs "prince has gone to travel for three years, he is planning to go to Arlanta, reason is unknown. Though it seems emperor treasures him enough to gift him something from empire's treasury."

Black haired man raised eyebrow curiously "Oho? He cares?...how... hilarious..."

"What is your next plan?..."

"Nothing as for now, I will just open new businesses to gain more money, and by then who knows... maybe I'll pay a little visit to emperor's dear prince..."

Duke tensed up "if emperor caught you-"

"Calm down roger...he won't...besides what a child like him can do to me even if I tried to harm him?..."

Duke sighs "just be careful."

"Yea yea, you don't have to worry about that..."

2 years has passed since ambroise started traveling. currently he was in arlanta staying and visiting multiple locations. it was night time and he was asleep when he opened his eyes he was in water, or rather in still in dream that had a scene of underground of the ocean. 

he was all alone until he saw something shinning in distance, he went closer and saw many crowns made with sharp coral and opaline shell shards—beautiful, but almost painful to look at too closely. then he saw a woman with a long blond a bit wavy hair who's face was unknown and hidden but her voice was very familiar. it was his mother.

"mother..."

woman smiled softly and said "you're close to your goal..."

ambroise eyes sharpened "mother...where is it?..."

woman pointed at crowns "stories will forever live close by sea...though only men who experienced sea truly know of them..."

ambroise looked in thoughts "will you give me another hint?"

woman nods and says "They say her name is lost, hidden in the hush between the waves and the breath you hold when you think you hear singing where no one stands. But if you listen closely to the sea when it mourns—truly mourns—you'll hear it. A name like gold dripping through water. A name that tastes like mercy until you realize it was never yours to speak. Five letters, soft as foam, bright as betrayal. The first sound is a sigh, the last is what you make when you surrender."

then woman hugged ambroise who accepted it and closed eyes and the next he knew he was awake. ambroise stared at his hands that hugged a ghost of his dear mother, it was still warm from her touch. soon he got ready and went down to see lucas. they sat at table and ambroise told him everything he knew. 

"so it's five letter, neither good or bad creature and people who already traveled to sea know of them...the most obvious place where you can find those kind of people and easily get information out of them will be tavern. 

after they ate they went to nearest tavern. lucas ordered drinks and ambroise looked around before one of the man who was drinking said to him "goddess, you're just like them..."

ambroise eyes sharpened "excuse me sir...what do you mean?..."

man drank and sighs "you're new here huh...i thought for a moment you were one of those creatures...you know...aurelines" he whispered name a bit low.

ambroise and lucas sat at his table "sir we are young travelers who are just searching for an adventure. could you tell us more about them?"

man sighs and starts a story telling:

They say there once was a prince, born under a blood moon, with eyes too kind for the court and a heart too soft for the sea. The crown weighed on him like chains, so he fled—took a ship beyond the reefs, seeking answers the stars would not give him.

On the seventh night, the storm came. Not of wind or lightning—but of silence.

The waves stilled. The crew fell into sleep. Only the prince remained awake, watching as a glow rose from beneath the keel.

And then—she rose.

Not from the sky, but from the water like a dream peeled into reality. Hair like spun sun, golden and flowing. Eyes like twin coins of fate. And a voice... oh, gods, the voice. It wasn't a sound. It was a feeling. A memory. A truth you didn't know you believed.

she asked him one question:

"Do you want to be free?"

He said yes, of course he did.

She smiled—not cruelly. Not kindly. Just... knowingly.

"Then I will take everything that binds you."

And so she sang.

She sang of kings who wept alone, of wars fought for vanity, of crowns that corroded the soul. The prince listened and agreed with every word—until he realized that with each note, something in him faded.

His duty. His name. His memories. His voice.
He wasn't dying. He was becoming something else.

By the time dawn touched the waves, the ship was gone. No wreckage. No bodies. Just a new reef, blooming where the keel had last rested.

Some say he's still alive, down there. A chorister of the deep, humming the songs she taught him. Others say she swallowed his soul and wears it like a pearl.

And some—like me—know better.

Because I saw her once.
She looked at me through the waves.

And I swear to the tides...
I almost begged her to take me too.

man ended story telling and fell asleep too drunk already lucas sighs " well at least we know what you are now. then we just have to go in sea..." ambroise nodded. it was soon evening and ambroise and lucas were together, lucas created a barrier that helps having oxygen and keeps water out as they walked in sea.  it wasn't anything interesting for a few kilometers until ambroise saw a shinning thing in distance and he felt a sense of deja vu. it was same as his dream except instead of his mother it was lucas with him.

ambroise kept walking and once again saw a hoard of crowns. then he saw a lonely crown away from all others, it was beautiful with a topaz in middle like his own eyes. he slowly walked towards it and picked it up which made a strong wind appear and soon many blond haired mermaids showed up. they stared at ambroise in curiosity and intrigue. they all looked same. blond with yellow eyes. then one old man came foward "so you came at last..."

ambroise looked at him "who are you?..."

old man bowed "i was previous king of aureline species, and now this title shall be yours."

ambroise was confused as to how he was a king and when old man saw this he explained "in aureline species no matter how many woman give birth it'll always be a girl, once every 100 year a boy is born to one woman, it will be raised and taught our ways and become one with us as he is born to rule our city and species."

lucas inturuppted "sorry to disappoint you old man but he is already an obelian crown prince"

at that they were all taken aback because no one expected aureline to mate with an emperor or much less with a human. soon then amboise said "i will stay a year here and learn everything. once my fate in human world will be decided i will inform you and i will lead this people as my duty asks of me."

in all honesty ambroise was doing all of this just because of his mother, because she seemed to care about her people, otherwise why visit him in dreams and ask him to visit this place?.
and that's how he stayed in underwater for a year....

drip....drip....drip....

there was a woman with golden hair, all alone in dark alley, she was wet from head to toe. her arms in chains while her eyes was covered by her bangs.

tired....just...how long...how long do i have to do this....

then woman's eyes were revialed, it was pure yellow with a slit pupils. it was simply majestic and unreal...but...it was terrebly dulled...that what made others scared of her. many passerby thought she was a criminal or worse a beast. but she was none of those...after all...she was just trying to survive...

far from alley there was a noise of music and dance. but after a while she saw footsteps of someone. she looked at newcomer, it was a woman, she had dance outfit. she had long wavy blond hair and pink eyes like morganite...her smile was dazzling and warm...

"hello...are you alright?..." 

beauty asked her. she gave a small nod. beauty then got closer and crouched down 

"you seem to be cold. how about you follow me. i'm sure you might be hungry as well."

woman had trust issues especially after she has been betrayed. so she decided to test beauty's kindness and showed her cold dull eyes. beauty was surprised and woman was waiting another scared reaction, another disgusted look-

"Oh my! your eyes are so gorgeous! it's like i'm looking at yellow sapphires!"

woman was taken aback, this was first time someone had complimented her eyes after all. she stared at beauty's eyes and only saw kindness...her guard slowly went down and decided, once again to trust someone with her life. 

beauty bought her food and clothes, soon they build an amazing relationship. one day woman decided to reveal her past

"my name...you already know is Leticia Aurelmare...i'm...i'm an Aureline...a creature of sea... i was raised in sea and had great life...until...some black magician started hunting for our kind...you see...we have a voice of angels that can persuade anything and anyone to do as we say...black magician wanted to have one of us as his servant or...our power...one day i got caught by him...i watched how my kind was being tortured and experimented on...i was one of them...until...one of them gave me a chance to escape...i run as fast as i could as far as i could...never looking back because if i did...i knew i would hesitate...then i started wandering around...people got afraid of my eyes...and i was all alone destined to die either by body or my mind...but...then you appeared...and saved me...thank you for that...i will forever be loyal to you...diana."

diana promised to keep leticia's past a secret and she became a part of their group where all she had to do was to sing. her talent brought many nobles in to watch. one day they met a young prince. leticia noticed how prince was attracted to diana so she went to him fearlessly and said sharply

"what business do you have with my friend?."

her attidue caught the attention of prince, she was beautiful, fearless and rude. he ignored her and walked past her which annoyed leticia greatly. their next meeting was in throne room where she and diana were taken in as concubines. 

leticia protected diana from others, keeping her safe from their schemes as diana got more popularity and attention from prince now knowns as emperor. 

"i'm telling you diana. i don't trust that guy!"

"come on leticia, let him live a bit."

but one night emperor visited leticia, he was pretty drunk as they got intimate and leticia couldn't exactly stop him as he would know of her abilities, she would have rather die than that to happen. after their intimacy emperor cried in his sleep unexpectedly which made started to make leticia feel empathy towards him...it seemed he didn't had great childhood either. so she did what she could do perfectly....she sang as he finally calmed down in his sleep.

since that day emperor would spend time with diana during the day and visit leticia at night. one day leticia found out she was pregnant. she was nervous, would her child be killed and how will emperor or her best friend diana react to this news. 

diana took news happily instead of being jealous of her "really! i'm so happy for you Cia!"

while emperor just accepted fact and just ordered maids to take extra care of her. months passed and while walking around rose garden leticia noticed a man, it was gardener but he had red pupils...just like that black magician!

he attacked her but leticia focused all her magic to make a shield especially around her womb. she screamed and gardeners eyes turned to normal to see her on grass holding her womb painfully. guards immediatly came and arrested gardener, while leticia was taken to physicians and magicians. 

her pregnancy was painful especially as her body was already injured heavily with black magic, she knew she wouldn't survive birth. but she still gave birth to her dear child...her second sun in world...ambroise...since she was dying she wanted to give her son all royal power she could have given him. and died...

what she didn't knew was that while ambroise being in her womb black magic has affected with his body making it more weaker than any newborns and had given heart disease to him. 

when diana heard news she started grieving but claude's visits made her overcome it...that didn;t meant she would forget her though. 

claude felt nothing for leticias death neither ambroise, he just forbidded diana to visit newborn that was all...but every time he had nightmares at night he had no one who would help him sleep anymore...he felt confused...he knew he felt somehing for leticia later on...but what was it he didn't knew...it was not hate...nor love like he felt towards diana...it was something entirely different...something he couldn't explain....

leticia before death made sure to leave her soul remains to her son's body so whenever he would need her presence, she would visit him in dreams and sing lullaby as she sang in past....

after all...her son was most precious to her...her little immortal child...

it was all dark...ambroise felt he was floating in void when he heard a voice he had missed so dearly "i see you haven't changed much." ambroise opened eyes and saw hyuna with hyunwoo both standing in front of him. they were both smiling....and hyunwoo...he had growned up...he wasn't able to see that in his last life...

"so are you gonna just stare at me or say anything?" hyunwoo teased as ambroise felt something wet coming from his eyes, and rushed to hug them both. he couldn't control himself as tears kept coming out of his eyes.

both hyunwoo and hyuna smiled and hugged back. she said softly "i'm glad you moved on and forgave yourself..." ambroise did moved on but he never forgave himself anything...after all...she was right...he didn't deserved to be saved...but he didn't said this aloud.

(have y'all watched karma? gosh it was depressing! not me using words from karma already-)

hyunwoo said "true...and i forgave you long ago so that doesn't matter...luka...no...ambroise was it?...keep going forward in life....protect your loved ones...and be careful of him." ambroise was confused, who was he?

"hyunwoo is right...you have to be careful...you need to make decisions...and...what's more important...you need to change his and their fate despite everything."

"what...who are they and him?..."

hyunwoo smiled "you'll see and figure it out in time..."

hyuna nodded "yes...ambroise...we are happy...and i want you to be happy too...so...keep moving...despite being in different places...we will be with you...always." hyuna pointed at amroise's chest where his heart was locate.

soon they disappeared and turned into a golden dust, ambroise tried to held on dust but he couldn't when suddenly he felt darkness was swallowing him whole. he couldn't breath!-

ambroise woke up and saw a shadow jumping out of balcony into thin air. normally ambroise would have stood up and go after figure to investigate but currently he couldn't breath, it seems like that someone placed a big amount of magic in him which caused his current condition which was...heart attack. 

yep. he was having a heart attack. yay. 

ambroise made his insane amount of mana spread in his room to alert lucas. soon lucas brust in room and panicked as he saw ambroise. he immediatly started healing and taking away ambroise's excess mana.

half an hour later ambroise was finally in stable condition and passed out with exhaustion. lucas picked him up and gently puts him in bed. then he started making powerful protection spells around room and alerted guards to see if they see anyone suspicious walking in or out.

then he spent entire night besides ambroise's bed "sigh....why do you always make me worry hm? i only took my eyes off you for an hour...how troublesome you are....you trouble magnet brat..."

lucas gently puts his forehead against ambroise's. meanwhile ambroise was getting his mother's fragment memories... next morning ambroise woke up and saw lucas munching on his cookies. "give it back...traitor..."

lucas rolled his eyes at dramatic ambroise and answered while having his mouth full "newer" ambroise looked at him in disgust "eat first speak later. don't you know basic manners?"

lucas glared playfully at him "hey be grateful now i was the one who saved your ass. again." ambroise then got serious "now you reminded me of, what happened to me yesterday?"

"you had heart attack, and big amount of excess magic mixed with black magic. bad combination. really."

"i saw someone when i woke up...but is was too dark and i couldn't see his face...only figure though."

lucas was in thoughts "yesterday i ordered all knights to search for anyone suspicious..it looks like the got away with magic transportation scroll, which means they have money enough to buy that thing...."

"they didn't had any scrolls."

lucas blinked before furrowing his eyebrows "they didn't?...then they must be quiet talented...but one thing is for sure...they are your enemy from dark...have you pissed off anyone lately?"

ambroise shrugged "i only piss nobles off with my actions and they can go f##k themselves."

lucas looked at him with a face that said 'and you were the one lecturing me about manners?'.

they bickered around for a while...

meanwhile

roger alpheus was stressing out, and it was not from work. rather it was from man in front of him.

"you almost got caught. you're being too reckless!"

"calm down roger. your nagging is getting annoying already. everything ended well. the end."

"what are you planning now?"

"why you want to know? to get away from my plans? anyways. besides. when are you planning on firing that mage spy? it's getting very tedious now."

roger froze "what spy?."

man smiled "mage spy, the new nanny of jeanette. she's our dear prince's servant."

"and you're telling me this now?"

"no worries. i took care of her memories already. she won't remember ever seeing me or anything. though she stayed here for too long for a spy."

roger sighs tiredly as he truly wanted to strangle man in front of him but restrained himself as he summoned a butler to inform of firing matilda.

man meanwhile sippped on tea as if nothing has happened, he met dear prince but it seems he was rather fragile. pathetic. exactly like claude...though boy reminded him of her more than claude. truly he was her son.

Chapter Text

Finally at last Lucas and Ambroise were returning back to the obelian kingdom. It has been a long time, he has grown a lot so has his hair too. Ambroise was becoming more and more feminine and looked like his mother. After a week of traveling they arrived at the palace.

At palace

Lily rushed to Athy's lesson "your highness! His highness has returned!"

Athy who has grown a bit looked up with excitement and she ran out of room to greet Ambroise. On the other side of the palace Felix informed Claude who was working. Felix was basically buzzing with excitement like a golden retriever. Claude looked up and stood up as he walked a bit faster than normal which made Felix smile knowing how much Claude missed Ambroise. As they arrived outside at the same time the carriage door was opened and Lucas came down first and then helped Ambroise with coming down.

As he came down everyone was surprised with his new look. Lucas forgot to let go of Ambroise's hand which didn't escape Claude's view. it was least to say he regretted letting lucas go with his son and felt he wanted to rip a magician in front of him for touching his son for way too long.

Finally Athy runs to Ambroise and tackles him in a big hug. Ambroise accepted the hug and smiled warmly.

"Big brother! I missed you soooo muchhhh"

Ambroise caresses her head "I missed you too Athy.... you've grown well..."

Athy smiled widely "yes! And big brother has gotten more pretty and handsome too!"

While everyone was watching siblings reunion Claude was throwing glares at Lucas who immediately excused himself as he noticed he was in a little danger.

"Your highness welcome back!" Then Felix and lily greeted him. Finally Claude stepped closer

'he took after her so much....'

"Welcome back..."

Ambroise stoically nodded at Claude. Felix sensing awkwardness between father&son duo decided to chime in

"I'm sure your highness is tired and hungry! "

Lily nodded and ordered maids to get lunch ready. Athy and Ambroise started walking inside the palace without looking back. As everyone left Felix smiled and said "his highness has grown a lot...he looks like lady Leticia more and more..."

Claude couldn't agree more, he has even inherited his mother's personality it seems...that stoic quiet nods...that something Leticia was often doing when her time with Diana was interrupted by him..... As Ambroise entered his room Anne rushed and hugged him, Ambroise hugged her back "Anne..."

"Your highness...I missed you so much...how are you? Did you travel safe? Did anything happen?..."

Anne grilled him with questions but when Ambroise just smiled at her she froze before smiling back brightly.

"I'm fine Anne... just a bit tired..."

As Anne started fussing over him Ambroise smiled more at her.... despite his mother being dead Anne was always his protector and mother figure in this life... After meeting with hyunwoo and hyuna in the dream he has realised to move on...but never to forgive.... especially to himself...so he decided that for now Anne and Athy was all he needed in this life...

A few minutes later the door burst open and Matilda came in rushing like an excited puppy, while Alaric was coming behind her calmly.

"Your highneessssssssssssss! ~ I missed youuuuuuuuu, I can't believe I had to wait for this longgggggg~ I just wanted to visit you but Alaric wouldn't let meeeeee!~ "

Matilda whined at Alaric who just rolled his eyes and got on one knee in front of Ambroise

"Your highness, I am glad you are back."

Ambroise just nodded at Alaric and Matilda who was squeezing him from the hug.

"Matilda! Get off of his highness! Can't you see he's uncomfortable!" Anne's mother instincts were on as Matilda immediately let go of Ambroise.

"I'm sorry, your highness ~"

"It's fine. Anyways. How are your missions going?"

Alaric started first "our guild is getting bigger, I am training every newbie and looking after Matilda."

Anne continued "I on the other hand am testing their loyalty towards the guild and give a mission to them while having financial issues solved." Then Matilda said "I was doing as you ordered your highness, serving that girl but a week ago I was suddenly fired by Duke saying that he had enough maids and he didn't need to spend more money on more people." Ambroise was in thoughts "he's a rich cunning man, he wouldn't have such little problem. It seems he has discovered your identity and connection to me. And he wanted to cut it off as soon as he could..."

"It seems so but your highness why did they let me stay that long if he noticed it?"

"There are two assumptions. One. He was trying to figure out your connection to me all this time or. Two. Someone told him. In this case most realistic seems the second one. Did perhaps that black haired man visit him again?"

Matilda thought about it and nodded "yea, a day before I saw that black haired man again."

"Well there's your answer then. He seemed to be magical as well...we need to be careful. Matilda. You will be teaching magic to other members of our guild. Then later on I will decide what to do..."

The trio nodded as they left him alone.

"Let's see if I can figure you out...." Ambroise said about black haired man.

ambroise has returned to his duties as a prince and his debut in noble society would be in two weeks. in fact claude had taken up job to design and decorate ballroom for ambroise's debut personally which surprised even ambroise himself.

then a knock was heard "come in." ambroise said without looking up from paperwork athy came in which made ambroise smile and leaning back in chair comfortably "athy, did you finished your lessons?"

athy nodded while smiling widely as she hugged him "yes big brother! how about we have a tea?"

ambroise nods at anne and she immediatly went away to get tea and deserts. siblings sat down and started having conversation about their day

"brother your debut is coming up soon right? who will be your dancing partner then? daddy said i can't come since i'm not of age yet. "

ambroise was in thoughts before answering "well, since i am a prince and first in line to throne i can't pick any partners easily. if i were to choose some noble lady, others will think i favour her or her family which will create misunderstandings. and if i were to choose a man from other families, they will think i prefer men which they will try to use against me to overthrow me as 'i won't have any heirs' so for now i haven't chosen anyone"

athy nodded, as years went by she understood that she had to be more careful of her reputation and actions than in her past life which was pretty difficult, especially around nobles, so she has an idea of how difficult is it to be a prince and first in line to throne.

"big brother how about you ask daddy to be your partner?"

ambroise raised eyebrow at that and scoffed "him? no. i prefer if i won't dance at all."

athy sweat dropped, despite both of them despised claude, she started to warm up to him, while amboise was away, traveling, she and claude got pretty close. soon another knock was heard and felix entered being all smiley

"hello your highnesses, emperor wishes to have tea with his highness."

athy nodded and left while ambroise sighs and started walking towards claude's room. on the way there he asked

"felix, what does he want?"

"i think his majesty wishes to talk to you about your upcoming debut"

ambroise resisted to roll his eyes at that. he soon entered and claude was already on couch with teas and deserts all out on table. ambroise bowed and sat down in front of him. for a few minutes it was an akward silence before claude spoke 

"have you chosen partner for your debut?"

ambroise replied stoically "no. i don't plan on dancing."

claude narrowed his eyes before sipping tea calmly as if he didn't said anything weird "why? if you haven't chosen if you want i can be your partner..." 

ambroise stopped his movements before looking straight at claude and finally couldn't hold his curiosity and suspicious back 

"what do you want?"

claude raised eyebrow "what do you mean?"

"lately you're being too...nice? it is so unlike you. and you pay more attention to me than usual. why?" ambroise narrowed his eyes at him 

"can't i be nice to my son?"

"no. because you never were that type of person. what are you planning truly?"

"you think i'm planning something? you don't trust me that much?"

ambroise said coldly " i never placed my trust in you in the first place."

suddenly room was too quiet and felix was panicking as he wanted everything to be fine. ambroise coldly continued 

"i never trusted you or even felix. i don't trust anyone palace either. except athy and anne. "

felix chimed in trying to make situation better "your highness, his majesty is only trying to help you and i-"

ambroise cutted him off while glaring coldly at felix "help? don't make me laugh. if he wanted to help me or care for me i would never be placed in cold palace in the first place, i wouldn't have starved, i wouldn't have been sick, anne wouldn't have to worry everyday about my survival. he was no help neither i consider him as my father. you are only father in title nothing more, nothing less. as for you felix. i know you will do as he says and how much loyalty you have towards him. so i simply don't trust you."

felix looked down and claude was glaring at ambroise "it seems i was too soft with you to disrespect me in my face like this."

ambroise stood up "i don't care. just pretend i never existed in the first place. after all, that is the only thing you're good in. i don't need your love. neither anything from you." ambroise went out as he slammed door behind him.

claude was silent and felix was tense.

"felix leave."

"yes your majesty"

as claude was all alone in room he looked out in window towards to yellow rose garden, he felt a string of pain in his heart, his eyes were distance '...he just takes after your fierceness...you are dead yet your ghost still haunts me that is alive till this day...'

ambroise returned to his room, he laid on bed and looking at ceiling 'i don't need him...i only need anne and athy...that is all...'

it was night time and our dear protagonist was sleeping peacefully in his room, when unexpectedly a figure slowly came closer to balcony window. figure was wearing cloak so no one could see their face. 

"Tch. this barrier is built by him isn't it?...well...lucky for us it isn't that strong that i can't break it."

figure used magic and broke barrier, then entered room and walked to ambroise's bed. figure's eyes were suddenly revealed, it was jewel blue eyes! but with a tint of red in it. man sneered "so this boy is precious to him huh? he can't even use his magic properly....how frustrating..."

suddenly red tint disappeared as man's face finally relaxed as he looked down at sleeping figure. behind him grew shadow that took a form of eyes and mouth 

"you....did you just protected this brat?...."

man replied to figure all emotionless "no. if we kill him it'll leave a trace of us. besides, if we were to kill him wouldn't be more satisfying to do so in front of emperor's and his eyes as they can do nothing but helplessly watch as their beloved prince dies?..."

shadow was quiet "if i didn't knew you better i would have thought you have betrayed me...but...i also know how your manipulation works. yes it might be satisfying but you're trying to give this boy time to live aren't you?...."

man was silent as shadow finally sighs "fine. i will give him a time to live...for now. but when needed i will be killing him." shadow finally disappeared leaving man alone with young prince.

man unexpectedly touched prince in gentle way as his eyes slightly soften up that of a recognition. ' how terrifying...for you to be exactly almost like her...if things were different i wonder what would have happened....' 

man closed his eyes only to remember a blurry face of a golden haired woman, whose eyes were blurry and she seemed to be smiling and saying something...but he couldn't hear anything. man opened his eyes and caressed boy's soft hair last time before restoring barrier and leaving.

ambroise opened his eyes and looked around, in his sleep he could feel something akin to warmness of someone's hand. then he sighs and started painting until sun came up. 

anne entered room "your highness good morning-" then she took a notice of painting....it was a breathtakingly beautiful woman...it was lady Leticia. her breath hitched a bit before smiling sadly. she went to ambroise and caressed his head "how are you feeling your highness?..."

ambroise leaned into anne and closed eyes to rest for a bit "tired...how is guild going?"

"it's growing significantly fast. other guilds are noticing us. some even chellanged matilda but of course they lost...our newbies are getting better in sleath and assasination...soon they will be able to carry out missions. "

ambroise hums when a knock was heard and athy peeked in "hi! ah brother i thought you might be sleeping! did i interrupted anything?"

ambroise smiled warmly at her "no i wasn't sleeping neither you were interrupting anything, come in athy..."

 athy smiled as she greeted anne and saw painting "woah! brother did you paint this? you're soo talented! by the way i heard about your meeting with dad from felix"

at the mention of felix's name ambroise rolled his eyes "he just had to run his mouth to you didn't he?" anne seemed annoyed as well but stayed silent while athy sweat dropped

"brother...felix is truly kind...how about you give him a chance?..."

"yes. he may be kind. but loyal to him. so clearly i don't see any reason to trust him."

athy tried persuading him "come on brotherrrr, i know you hate him but spare felixxxx. besides....how about you hear him (claude) out?..." athy looked away as soon as ambroise looked at her like she lost her mind 

"no."

"pleaseeeeeeeeee, pretty pretty pleaseeeee with lil' cherry on top?~" athy used her ultimate skill. cuteness attack.

ambroise stared at her as she seemed to be somehow sparkling? anyways after staring at her for a long time he finally sighs "fine. but as soon as he starts bullshiting i'm out."

athy smiled widely "yayyyyy! thank you brother! you're the best!" ambroise caressed her as she kissed him on cheek which made him freeze. athy runs out happily while ambroise's brain was going trough a literal storm.

'....did she just....kissed on my cheek?...me?....so....this is what 'kiss' feels like...it's....warm...'

anne stared at ambroise who was just getting redder unknowingly and his hands shaking a bit. anne just sighs and smiles fondly 'it seems princess has good influence on him...i hope she won't change...or else...i'm afraid for his highness...but for now...i want him to enjoy this moments....i'm sure lady Leticia would've been happy knowing this....'

It was a calm afternoon and Claude was sitting on the couch while thinking. For a whole two nights he's been thinking about Ambroise's words over and over again.

Claude felt this heartache, no matter what he has done it wouldn't go away, even if he drinks or if he uses black magic to relieve pain...it still haunts him, especially his dreams as it kept showing Ambroise over and over again....and her....

Finally Claude decided with the help of Athy he will talk it out with him...and...try his best...which he doubts will succeed... Then a knock was heard as Ambroise entered...his face was still cold and stoic as he sat down in front of him quietly while Felix was standing tensely. Claude after a minute started speaking...for the first time he was letting himself be vulnerable in front of someone else...who wasn't her...

"Ambroise....I....I was wrong..." He decided to start with admitting his mistakes

"I shouldn't have done that...I...I should've been better...I...I know you hate me...and....I...I don't blame you..."

Claude looked at Ambroise who was quite yet slightly surprised how Claude was behaving.

"....you know.... every time I look at you...even your actions...it all reminds me of...your mother..."

At the mention of Leticia Ambroise froze.

"Your mother...she was always cold... fierce...she never tried doing anything to gain my favour...she was always sticking with.... Athy's mother...like sisters....like you two act.... you're the same....you...you never try to get close to me..."

Ambroise kept listening

"But.... despite everything....she...she was the only one who would make me see reality and who would comfort me...somehow....and now..... you're the one...who made me see my mistakes.... I'm sorry....for being a bad father....but....as we spent time....I... slowly realised that I...I loved my children...."

Ambroise's eyes widened as he started at Claude.

"I know you'll never forgive me...but.... Ambroise.....give me last chance....to be your father...not only in name....but heart too..."

Ambroise was shocked. Did he really regret his actions?...will....will he love him?...at the thought of that Ambroise didn't know what to do. Because he never got to have motherly love properly and now his good for nothing father was asking for a chance... Chance to be a family...he...he felt warm...but...how could he trust him?....he will abandon him in the end... everyone did.... everyone will...

Ambroise was so dazed that Claude called his name trice and finally made him snap out of it

Ambroise looked at Claude and said "I....fine...I will give you a chance....but....I still won't trust you. So don't get it wrong."

Claude nodded and Ambroise quickly left room which confused Felix a bit.

"Was I....too much Felix?"

"Your majesty I think you did well... I'm sure his highness only needs time to process all of this..."

Meanwhile Ambroise got back in the room and locked the door. He slides down to the floor lost in his thoughts.

Will....will I get abandoned by Athy too....hyuna and hyunwoo left me....mother also left me...will Athy betray me?....I...I can't breathe-....

Ambroise fell across the floor putting his hand on his chest which beat quickly and loudly enough to deafen his ears. Then Lucas appeared as he was here to just hang out with him. When he saw his condition he immediately runs to him and looks at what was the issue. There was no mana change nor explosion....then he remembered one random person when he was still young and traveling....they had the same symptoms.... it was a panic attack.

Lucas tried snapping him out

"Ambroise! Ambroise!"

Ambroise was crying unknowingly while saying "everyone will leave me...."

Lucas then realised that Ambroise was afraid.... afraid of abandonment...no... everyone may leave him all alone...but he will never. Lucas grabbed his shoulders, making him face him properly before saying loudly and keep repeating

"Ambroise. I will never leave you."

Ambroise slowly calmed down before asking quietly "...do you promise?..."

Lucas with all seriousness said "I promise."

Ambroise tiredly leaned into Lucas as he soon fell asleep. Lucas tucked him in his bed while staring at him. "Don't worry....i won't leave you....ever."

Later on Lucas found out Ambroise had a meeting with Claude which he thought was his fault. Which kind of in a way was as he unknowingly triggered panic attack Ambroise didn't even know he had one. Lucas kept quiet about this because he knew Ambroise wouldn't want anyone knowing about this.

ambroise was buried in his paperwork in early morning while lucas was laying on couch munching on cookies. then he sighs and leans back 

'age of coming ball is in two days...i don't need any woman to give them even some kind of power from me...neither him....but dancing is a must....but who...' then ambroise noticed lucas on couch 'hmmm...this might work despite them making rumors about me...and if anything he's the best option...'

"lucas."

"hm?" lucas hummed while chewing and having face full of boredom.

"be my dancing partner during my debut."

lucas froze then quickly swallowed cookie and looked at ambroise surprised, because out of all people you chose him. not anyone. but him. then he grinned "sure."

"do you want to practice it together before my debut?"

"why not."

in next second a calming music was played with magic as lucas grew himself in size so he could be consider around same age as ambroise. now lucas was taller than him. two began dancing.

"despite everything you sure are a good dancer...but it seems your skills a bit rusted..."

"well because this is my first time dancing with anyone..." that caught ambroise's attention 

"you never danced with anyone before?..."

"no...i never attended my debut..."

"i see...." ambroise didn't pressed on subject since he felt lucas was uncomfortable with sharing his past. then ambroise looked up to him, despite only growing taller his hair has grown as well a bit. lucas looked handsome especially with those ruby eyes that always enchanted ambroise which made him stare in lucas eyes.

lucas got flustered "what are you staring at?"

"your eyes...i never see this colour before..." lucas tensed slightly because in his past he was often disliked because of his eyes too apart from his big talent in magic.

ambroise stopped dancing, he grabbed lucas cheeks, looked deeper in his eyes  and continued speaking "their beautiful....like a ruby..." ambroise's finger caressed lucas side of the eye "...very.....unique..."

lucas froze at words and touch of ambroise's hands. his eyes wide, never in his life anyone has told him that his eyes were unique and beautiful...lucas ear tips became red as he slightly leaned in amrboise's hands. it was warm...

"can i touch your hair?"

lucas blinked before nodding not trusting his voice as he may sound weak if he spoke to ambroise right now. ambroise touched lucas hair and in few minutes two were on couch as ambroise was braiding lucas long hair which lucas made it grow more noticing how he liked his longer hair. 

then slowly amrbroise got sleepy as he leaned into lucas back slightly. lucas sat properly and placed ambroise's head on his lap. he started caressing his hair slightly and staring down at him.

never in his entire life he felt this warm being with someone or affected by their words or actions...but every time he was with ambroise he forgets all that happens...and focuses on him only...like he was under some unknown spell...he didn't knew what this feeling was called...but it felt nice...

then lucas remembered how his master was describing feeling 'love' to him...so...does that means he loves ambroise?....perhaps...because that seemed to be the only explanation for him...

lucas slowly leaned down and kissed amrboise's forehead slightly before pulling away. he knew ambroise didn't felt anything towards him...so...he was willing to wait for him..until he will be ready...until he will accept him...meanwhile he will always protect him from harm...and will try to get any warmth he can from him...even a smile....

TWO DAYS LATER

ambroise was woken up by anne in early morning as his debut was today so whole day he needs to get ready. it sucks but what can he do? despite being tired he followed anne's orders. now you may ask why are you tired?

well...for two days straight ambroise has been searching a suitable clothes for lucas something  that make his looks stand out at the same time matches his own debut clothes. he hasn't told anyone who his dancing partner will be expect anne who helped in all clothes preparations.

(outfit for ambroise will be on top of the page. if it not shown please to inform me to fix it. lucas outfit will be same but instead of blue it will be red colour.) 

currently ambroise was surrounded by maids putting bunch of masks on him and his hair it was ridiculous, even in his past life he has never gotten all of this care but he still remained pretty. but now i guess because his hair is longer it needs a certain type of care.

for next unknown hours before dubut amrboise was getting ready by maids. his clothes was a black and blue match to match with lucas who had same style of clothes but with black and red. maids tied ambroise's hair while leaving few strands free for beauty.

soon ambroise was done and went out to meet claude. when claude saw him his eyes widened a bit '...he's like a mirror of her...'  they didn't said anything as they entered ballroom, their arrival was announced

"GREET HIS MAJESTY, EMPEROR CLAUDE DE ALGER OBELIA AND HIS HIGHNESS, PRINCE AMBROISE DE ALGER OBELIA!"

that made the crowd silent. they all stared at ambroise who just stared back with his cold yellow jewel eyes, his looks maybe different from claude but he was a copy of claude with actions no matter how much he might deny. everyone bowed in fear seeing prince wasn't someone they could fool to.

slowly ambroise and claude walked down and people were waiting to see who was prince's dancing partner. claude was standing as he was waiting for either he or felix be asked for a dance from ambroise in which his expectations were very wrong.

suddenly lucas came out of crowd, his hair neatly brushed as he and ambroise stood in middle of ballroom. that shocked everyone because no one knew of lucas identity and what was more that he was a man! (yea homo ppl probably in that time so deal with it dear readers)

their matching outfits was noticed by everyone and claude looked like he wanted to kill lucas on spot but was holding back. soon music started and lucas and ambroise started dancing. lucas for cool effects used his magic to make red and blue butterflies appear and danced alongside them. scene was simply magical for people.

soon dance ended and lucas kissed ambroise's hand. after that he disappeared for his own safety from claude. then whole night ambroise didn't danced with anyone and just talked with nobles. what no one saw though was a man with black hair and eyes staring at ambroise from the very start he appeared. he was in shadows staring at him.

'...he really takes after your habit of doing something no one expects 'cia....'

as midnight slowly came ambroise, claude and felix were returning to palace when claude spoke "why didn't you told me warlock was going to be your partner?..."

"because you would be against it. besides. it was my choice." with that ambroise left claude and felix alone. as soon as ambroise entered room he changed into simple clothes and layed on bed, falling asleep fast.

a second later door of balcony was opened and lucas came in, he smiles slightly at ambroise "you're really careless...what if you catch a cold?..." lucas tucked him in bed and caressed his face last time before leaving and closing balcony door so cold air wouldn't enter in room anymore.....

Chapter Text

Alpheus manor

"Who would have thought that Prince's preference would be that kind? It seems ijekiel might have a slight chance..." Duke Alpheus said as black haired man sipped tea in the duke's study room. "So you're planning on using him now?...but if he will be accepted neither Alpheus house nor he will have any heirs... biological at least..."

"That is what is stopping me from sending a marriage proposal to him..."

"From what I've seen he is pretty cautious...are you sure he will even accept that?..."

"That is also true...I will visit the palace in a few days...I can only hope to meet the prince on the way..."

"What if he will accept ijekiel but not as his consort but concubine. Then what will you do?..."

Duke Alpheus was in thoughts "then simply he has to gain the prince's favour to be his favourite." Black haired man finished his tea and stood up "I'll be in my room. Warn everyone not to bother me." Black haired man entered his room after a bit of a walk which was the farthest room in the whole manor. As soon as he closed the door he locked it and put a soundproof magic barrier around the whole room. Then he went to the bookshelf as he pulled one yellow coloured book down and a secret passage opened. He entered and the first thing anyone would notice in the secret room was a giant portrait.

The portrait had a picture of a yellow haired woman with beautiful yellow eyes and pale skin. She wore a yellow siodonnian dress. Her smile was warm and gentle as well as her eyes clear and all seeing.

Black haired man went closer and touched a portrait gently as if caressing a real person. He leaned his forehead on it and closed eyes "How I wish you could be here with me... guiding me as you always did... Leticia..." He said her name in desperation as he then looked at the newly painted portrait of Ambroise which was done by artists during the ball, The man stole one of three portraits of Ambroise.

"Ambroise...yet she was always saying a different name she had in mind...but she did it so you could survive...I wonder...If everything would've been different....what would have happened..."

The man went deep in thoughts as he remembered the woman once again.

Girl was making a flower crown in a field, she looked very young around 17-18 years old.
She was smiling warmly at him and putting a flower crown on his head

"Stacy! You know what I thought of! What that woman asked me today what would I name my future child! If it'll be a girl I said it definitely has to be Aisha like a free bird but if it's a boy then XXXXXXXX!"

The man came back to reality as he sighed and looked at wilted flower crown which was made with yellow roses...

'her favourites...'

Meanwhile in palace

Lucas was as always hanging around Ambroise who was sighing loudly which made Lucas look at him in curiosity

"What's up with you?"

"Marriage proposals came..."

That made Lucas freeze "and
...what are you planning on doing?..."

"Well since I showed basically my 'preference' by you being my partner they keep coming after me like flies. So mostly likely I will choose someone I already know and trust my life with them..."

Lucas gulped "and who would that be?..."

Ambroise looked at him like he was stupid

"you. Who else? I don't know them enough. But I was gonna make this proposal to you anyways cause you're the only one I trust who I can marry. You will be my consort, have power and everything. If you want you can have a mistress as well but make sure to hide it well. So what do you say?"

Lucas couldn't believe his ears. Ambroise had proposed to him to be his consort...was this a dream?...when Ambroise mentioned mistress part Lucas face became disgusted. There was no way he would ever take in the mistress when his crush was literally deciding to marry him.

"Sure. I'm not against it. Though he (Claude) might be."

Ambroise rolled his eyes "no one's asking him opinion about my marriage. If he tries to control me he can say goodbye to his only chance. Anyways. For now I will announce we are engaged. But when I'll be 18 I will marry you. "

Lucas nodded though what he heard next made him freeze

"Also. I need to gather allies meaning I might have concubines. But you do not need to worry. You're the only one I trust with my life."

That didn't eased Lucas worry at all. What if Ambroise fell in love with one of them!?

"...do you plan on loving them?...in future?..."

"No. At most I might be friends with them. Love? Never."

That calmed Lucas a bit but he would still be wary of everyone.

The next day Ambroise was visiting Claude's room who was buried in a mountain of paperwork. He just straight up went to him and said

"I'm going to get engaged."

That made Felix choke on his split and Claude freeze like a statue before looking up

"...what do you mean getting engaged?..."

"Exactly what it means. I'm going to get engaged with warlock Lucas."

Claude broke the pen he was holding in his hand

"No."

"You will have to accept it. You have no choice."

"I won't. I am your father."

"But that doesn't give you the right to control me."

"Yes I do."

"Then say goodbye to that chance."

That made Claude shut his mouth up and Felix was looking between father-son duo being all tense

"Your highness how about you give his majesty a time to process everything....this is too sudden for us, please understand it..."

"A day. In 24 hours. Either you say yes or we'll be done."

Ambroise left the office without letting any of them speak. Claude was speechless in thoughts and depression

"Felix...tell everyone not to bother me....or the next person who enters this damn door will be killed on the spot."

Felix gulped as he nodded and immediately informed all maids butlers guards and even nobles that his majesty was in a bad mood enough to kill someone.

On the way Felix met Athy and told her everything that happened

It was least to say she was surprised which is why she basically barged in Ambroise's room who was working on paperwork and Lucas who was laying on the couch like he owed the place. Ambroise without looking up said

"I'm guessing Felix ran his mouth to you which is why you're here."

"Brother! Are you seriously marrying him! This lazy old man?!" Athy pointed at Lucas like he killed a man and was some kind of criminal to her.

Lucas in return grinned and put out his tongue to mock her

"Lucas stop aggravating Athy. And Athy stop yelling. "

Both of them stopped having a staring contest and she went to Ambroise

"Brother I don't understand why you are marrying him!"

"First of all for now it's only engagement. Second of all. It is needed because I will have concubines In future and he's the only one who can defend me and I can trust him with my life. Third of all. I don't care at least in my presence you two will tolerate each other and if you two will fight in public I will personally punish you and I won't go easy on you Athy despite being my favourite."

Athy sat in armchair sulking like a kicked cat

"Does Anne even know of this?"

"Yes. She knew of everything. She's my nanny and personal maid after all."

"And even she doesn't opposite this?"

"In this case her opinion doesn't matter. So Athy you can go back to Felix and deliver him all the gossip now."

Athy froze and nervously laughed as she was caught slipping information about Ambroise to Felix so he can use it and build a relationship between father-son duo.

"I think I have a lesson now. Bye brother."

Athy bolted out of the room.

"Lucas. Continue monitoring others actions. Especially hers. She's becoming too unpredictable for her own good."

"Aye, aye captain." Lucas stood up and teleported to spy on Athy and others.

Meanwhile Anne came in with Matilda and Alaric. Matilda was full of crying mode

"Nooooooooo, your highnessssss! Why do you have to marryyyyyyy!"

"Matilda cut it out already. His highness has his own agenda which definitely doesn't include  you interfering with his plans."

Alaric scolded her which made her pout more. Then Anne dragged and held Matilda by her collar as she reported

"Your highness seems like someone stole one of your newly painted portrait."

Ambroise looked up "what?...why would they need it for?..."

"We do not know. We are still investigating. Matilda here says there were traces of magic around the place where portraits were being kept."

Matilda nodded "yes. There were traces of magic someone deliberately left there as if to mock or tell us that this someone is keeping an eye on your highness."

Alaric's eyes narrowed "your highness shall I guard you?"

Ambroise was in thoughts "if they are keeping an eye on me then they knew most things...for now Anne, don't inform me of the guild situation until it's an emergency. We need to be careful....and Alaric, Matilda. You two will lead an investigation."

Three of them nodded "understood your highness."

"Now leave."

Anne dragged Matilda away while Alaric was walking very warily looking for anything suspicious.

It was a beautiful morning and everyone was busy and happy.... except Claude who was having a mid-life crisis called 'Ambroise's engagement decision'.

Claude hasn't slept a wink even in the morning or at night. He seemed so dazed to the point Felix became worried for him

"Your majesty.....are you...okay?..."

Felix noticing Claude was still in thoughts called him 6 times before Claude snapped out of it

"What?..."

"Your majesty I asked you if you're feeling alright... should I call physicians?..."

"No..."

Then as if a death bell had rang the door opened without knocking and Ambroise entered the room. His face was stoic as he sat In front of claude.

"So. What have you decided."

"....."

Claude's face was dark as he finally said words he knew he regretted ever saying in his life.

"Fine."

"Great. Now sign this. An engagement and marriage paper. Just in case something may happen."

Claude's face darkened more as he signed both papers and then the pen broke again. This was his 18th pen that was broken.

Ambroise looked over papers and left the room "have a good day. I'll be announcing my engagement."

As soon as Ambroise left Felix could feel Claude's rage by spreading his mana.

Meanwhile Ambroise went back to how work room and both Lucas and him signed papers there only for engagement.

"Anne. Keep this marriage papers safe. And get my outfit ready in 3."

Anne immediately kept away marriage paper and started preparing Ambroise's outfit while Lucas was staring at himself in the mirror. He still couldn't believe he had become engaged with Ambroise.

"Lucas. Come here."

Lucas went to Ambroise who took his hand and slid one silver ring with one big diamond on his finger "this will be your engagement ring. I have mine here with a similar design."

Lucas felt his heart beating fast as he nodded. "Lucas...go and look after the palace people....I feel like there might be someone who is planning something against me..."

Lucas face became serious immediately "understood... I'll be going then..."

Soon Ambroise got clothed and went to a nobles meeting, one that he had appointed.

As soon as he entered everyone bowed

"Rise. I have come to announce an important decision of mine."

That caught everyone's attention especially roger Alpheus

"I'm sure you all are aware of my 'preference' which is why I'm announcing that I have become engaged with my partner who was at my debut."

That made everyone freeze. It seems Ambroise was moving faster than they thought!

Duke Alpheus then carefully decided to sly in question "your highness...I congratulate you on your engagement... though I may have a question that everyone has...will you perhaps have a harem....?..."

Ambroise looked at him with sharp eyes "that is correct. Though I won't take in anyone for now until my marriage with my fiance will be done. But I won't mind speaking to them."

"We understand your highness, thank you for responding."

After that meeting an event was scheduled for engagement. Anne has started preparing all sorts of clothes to match them.

Meanwhile

Duke Alpheus gets back to his manor and goes to ijekiel who has just arrived from studying in Arlanta for the holidays.

"Ijekiel. I need to speak to you."

Ijekiel noticing his father's seriousness immediately obeyed and listened

"Ijekiel...prince is getting engaged to a man..."

That made ijekiel freeze '....his highness....his angel was getting engaged...'

"But he also said in future he will take in concubines to have harem. In a week he is planning an event to show his fiancé as well as getting known to future concubine candidates. At most currently he will be 'friends' with them. And ijekiel. I need you to get closer to the prince and become one of his concubines. A favourite as much as you can which is why I told you all of this."

'that means....I also have a chance....I will be close to angel...even if it means to be concubine...I will do everything for my angel.'

"Okay father...I will do as you say..." Ijekiel knew his father was a bit greedy but he didn't care because he would be his angel's after all....

It's been a week and the ball will soon begin. Lucas and Ambroise were getting ready the whole day, for the first time Lucas experienced what it is like to be a prince who needs to get ready. And he wasn't thrilled at all.

"Ambroise."

"Yes."

"I will never laugh at you again about this."

Ambroise smirked "it's good that you're learning your lesson."

After an unknown amount of time Ambroise and Lucas were ready, both having matching outfits. Anne now stood in front of them. She was in charge of teaching Lucas manners and etiquette of prince consort which was tiring but necessary so he couldn't exactly complain.

"Always remember you have to be besides his highness but a step back. And don't think or eat unless his highness does it first."

"Yes yes I remember."

"Anne I think it's time to go now. Your lectures can wait."

"As you wish your highness."

Two went out. Claude had gone earlier because he had to be sitting on throne when couple arrives to give his blessing which he greatly curses at in his mind.

As soon as they entered they were announced

"HIS HIGHNESS, PRINCE AMBROISE DE ALGER OBELIA AND HIS FIANCE, PRINCE CONSORT LUCAS DE ALGER OBELIA ARE ENTERING"

You must be confused about Lucas last name. Well, Ambroise couldn't have said he was over 200+ years without last name, besides Lucas didn't seem comfortable remembering his past which is why he let him borrow royal last name which caused a silent uproar in nobles.

Giving royal last name to someone is basically saying they are a part of it already. Which means that Lucas power has grown more than anything thought he would have.

Among crowd stood duke Alpheus and ijekiel who was eyeing and staring at Lucas like he had to kill or delete his existence from Ambroise's side.

Ambroise and Lucas went straight to throne and bowed down as Claude stood up. He put both of his hands on their heads, his hand was tighter upon Lucas head who said nothing and didn't even moved.

Claude began while staring intensely at Lucas head "today, I, emperor Claude de Alger obelia, bless prince Ambroise de alger obelia and prince consort Lucas de Alger obelia union. May God give them strength and show way to rule obelian empire with bright future."

After blessings both stood up and bowed one last time to Claude before going in crowd. Lucas didn't leave Ambroise's side even for a minute.

Soon duke Alpheus came forward with ijekiel who both bowed 

"Your highness congratulations once again. I'm guessing you are well with such charming companion such as prince consort..." Duke Alpheus began his sly flattering.

"Also I almost forgot. I'm sure you remember my son ijekiel."

Ambroise nodded towards ijekiel who bowed once again "greetings your highness."

"Ah yes. I remember you, ijekiel. We were quite little when we met at Alpheus manor. I have heard of your traveling for studies in Arlanta. "

"Yes your highness. I am still studying in Arlanta, I just have summer holidays for a month."

"I see...then good luck on your studies ijekiel."

"Thank you your highness. Also congratulations on getting engaged."

Ijekiel smiled but once his eyes were on Lucas his eyes got colder where his smile didn't reached.

Lucas normally would mock him or anything but he was in public and Ambroise's reputation was on line so he held back and fakely smiled back.

After a lots of talk some nobles were brave enough to ask about concubine matter in presence of Lucas and under stare of Claude who was scaring off nobles from his throne.

Soon ball ended and Ambroise and Lucas went back to Ambroise's room as both of them immediately layed on queen sized bed

"Fuck these events I'm never doing that shit again." Lucas grumbled making Ambroise roll his eyes

"Well you signed a contract. Deal with it drama queen."

"Rude. Anyways... I'll get going now. Change your clothes and sleep in bed. Not on it."

"So you do check on me at night." Ambroise teasingly asked which made Lucas ears flush as he denied

"I'm just checking in you to see if you're still breathing."

"Yea yea whatever. Go away now."

"Goodnight."

Lucas teleported and soon Ambroise got in bed with his pyjamas as he fell asleep peacefully not noticing two ghostly figures beside him which had brown hairs and they were smiling before disappearing.

time has passed now athy was 15 and ambroise turned 18. before athy's debut there was ambroise's marriage which anne has been preparing for years. she taught lucas everything and dragged him to designers which made ambroise laugh at helpless lucas.

yes. now ambroise was taller (still not taller than Lucas ) and his hair more longer about to his waist. he looked an exact copy of his mother now expect jewel eyes despite being yellow. he has also gotten busier as half of the paperworks went to him now as a prince and he attended every meeting with nobles to solve problems and plan everything. 

just like that ambroise had managed to build a school and university in obelia empire so all people be commoners nor nobles could learn in empire rather than going away. although nobles were against it at first due to needing a lot of money to build one and cover all other payments, they couldn't go against claude. 

In the end both were open by Lucas and Ambroise at opening ceremony. Slowly commoners started viewing couple as god given gifts to them.

Ijekiel has also been visiting Ambroise and talking with him often. Lucas has been attending every one of their meetings so nothing will happen.

Currently they are getting ready in different rooms as tradition asks for. Anne strictly forbade them even a single peek at each other.

On the other hand Claude has been cursing this day and getting ready also. While Athy was still sulking that Lucas was stealing her brother.

Soon people gathered in the ceremony hall where all the royals got married. First appeared Ambroise who looked stunning and with a touch of femininity he could pass as a woman.

And then Lucas came out whose eyes went wide when he saw beautiful Ambroise waiting for him at the altar.

Lucas was wearing a white suit with red lines and white veil on while Ambroise wore white suit with golden lines on. He walked down as the priest began talking.

"...Ambroise de alger obelia, do you take Lucas de Alger obelia as your lawful consort. "

"I do."

"Lucas de Alger obelia, do you take Ambroise de Alger obelia as your lawful husband."

"I do."

"Then today from now on, you will be each other's life partner, may God bless your union and give a bright future. You may kiss now."

Ambroise took the veil back from Lucas face who had red ears as he waited for his this moment.

Ambroise leaned in and kissed Lucas. As soon as this happened glass in Claude's hand broke taking all attention away and Ambroise stopped kissing Lucas. Lucas was all red but glared secretly at Claude who interrupted his moment with Ambroise. Ijekiel smirked under his smile since Lucas couldn't kiss Ambroise for way too long in return Ambroise showed off his marriage ring to him making him remember he was Ambroise's. And not ijekiel.

Ijekiel glared back in return as the clap sounded forced. Soon they sat in carriage as they were seeing commoners who were congratulating and having time of their life. Ambroise waved along with Lucas and he even threw handful of gold coins to them which made them happier. Soon couple was taken to palace. Anne on purpose told all servants to leave them alone.

Ambroise went straight to shower as Lucas sat on bed nervously. Anne had told everything about how newly married couple's first night should go. It's not like he had done it before but he had that kind of knowledge okay?

But what he was nervous about was if Ambroise will reject that.

Door opened again as Ambroise came out with robe and towel on his head. He sat besides nervous Lucas.

It was silent so Ambroise spoke "why are you nervous?..."

"Who said I was nervous?"

Ambroise grabbed his chin and his finger caressed Lucas lower lip "you always bite your lip when you're anxious or nervous..."

Lucas ears were flushed "I... I'm not nervous okay."

"Sure...so.... What's all this about..."

"...what are we supposed to do?...since.... it's our first night and all..." He decided to test waters first to see if Ambroise was willing to go with it.

Ambroise glanced at him before saying

" That depends on you...do you want us to do and indulge in things?...or sleep?..."

Lucas was silent before saying quietly "...do... something..."

Ambroise nodded "alright then..."

SLIGHT 🍋 AHEAD. IF YOU'RE NOT COMFORTABLE SKIP CHAPTER. (also i am not a good writer for these kind of scenes, if it's bad i accept any criticism. thank you.)

Lucas leaned in and kissed Ambroise on lips who tried kissing back but clearly he was inexperienced fellow. Lucas grabbed his waist and pulled him in his lap.

He kept kissing him deeply until they could no longer breathe. Ambroise felt dizzy from lack of air as he steadied himself on Lucas shoulder.

Lucas slowly started kissing his neck and leaving hickeys which made Ambroise gasp at times due to high sensitivity.

Lucas then grabbed him and pinned him down on bed. Ambroise's face was flushed and out of breath, his robe was pulled away only covering the lower half.

Lucas began teasing his nipples with his lips and fingers, his other hand worked rubbing and stroking Ambroise's private part. His hands continued working as he took over making Ambroise letting out moans which he himself was surprised by.

Lucas smirked "get ready because this is only the beginning...."

Night was still young and beautiful as were the stars in the sky....