Chapter Text
Alecto, the crown prince, was once a child full of passion. He wanted nothing but love and care as a child. Something his parents could never give.
His father, the emperor, doesn’t care about him at all. To him, Alec was just the heir to his throne. And his mother, the empress, was throughout cold with him. He wasn’t showered with affection as a child. He was simply ‘The crown prince’ to everyone. No matter what Alecto does, his parents never payed attention.
Then comes Helena. The daughter of his nanny. Helena looked like an angel. And has a personality of an angel too. She was the one who showered Alecto affection. She payed attention to him and didn’t befriend him just because he was the crown prince. Alecto wanted to protect Helena at all cost. From anything and anyone. That includes his very own fiancee, Eris Miserian.
Eris is the daughter of the Marquis Miserian whom he despises the most. Unlike Helena who was clumsy and cute, Eris was the exact opposite. Eris was elegant and graceful. Alecto hated the fact that she always acts like she’s perfect. That she has no flaws. Eris doesn’t like Helena. Alec knows it’s because of jealousy. Alecto hates Eris as much as he hates her father. Eris visits him almost everyday. She always smiles at him and would offer to spend time together. She would always follow him around with the reason that she was his fiancee. Eris was always by his side. Alecto hated it. Alecto hated her act. The way she always smile even though he pushes her away. Even if he would always humiliate her and throw hurtful words at her. Without notice, Alecto started enjoying doing it to Eris. Maybe because he was desperate to know what she really feels. He doesn’t want to see that fake smile anymore. He always hated her facade.
And as if the gods could hear his secret desire, Alecto saw Eris. He saw her again in the palace garden, a few minutes after they had fought. Eris was leaning on a wall, crouched down and crying.
It was the first time he saw her cry. He didn’t even notice that he had started walking towards her. But as soon as Eris noticed him, he wiped his tears and stood up, greeting him. She excused herself as if nothing had happened.
Alecto didn’t see her for several days after that. Alec thought it’s one of her skims again. Soon after, he found out that Eris was truly sick and was bedridden for days. When it was reported to him that she’s gotten better, Alecto expected she’d come running to him again.
No one came that day. Alec had thought that maybe she was waiting for him to visit her. Of course, Alec didn’t go. The next day she heard about Eris getting into an accident, it was said that she had been stabbed. Alecto could hear the servants gossip.
“I haven’t seen the lady for a while..”
“Maybe she had died? I heard she was stabbed by a stranger”
Alecto froze. Eris...dies? Alecto, for the very first time, panicked.
He couldn’t sleep that night. He sent out someone to check on the Miserian estate. After hearing that she was fine and is recovering quickly, Alecto was relieved.
Confused why he was feeling that way, Alecto brushed the thought off.
The next day, Alecto decided to visit her. With an excuse that his father was the one who insisted. He was glad that the Marquis was away for a while. He didn’t want to see that vile man. It would ruin his day completely. It was the servants that welcomed him. They told him that Eris didn’t want to be disturbed so they will let her know that Alec came to visit later. They served him tea and sweets and left him alone then. Alecto noticed that the servants in the Miserian estate are extremely loyal to their lords. Seeing that they are willing to make him wait, In some cases, Alecto sure knows that they value Eris’ well-being more than him, the Crown prince.
But Alec was extremely impatient. So he went to see her himself. Surely, she wouldn’t get mad at him. After all, she was desperate for his affection. Alec remembered the direction to her room. He used to come here when they were young.
When he arrived at her door, Alec knocked. There was no answer. So he let himself in. He carefully opened the door and closed it. When he turned around, Eris was fast asleep. He stepped a little closer to her bed, deciding to startle the lady.
Unfortunately, Eris wasn’t actually asleep. It was Alec who got startled when she decided to sat up.
The crown prince froze, staring at Eris who took her time to clear her vision. “Emma? Is it time to change the bandage already?” She softly asked. Alec still couldn’t move.
He didn’t know what was happening. His body refused to turn around. Even his eyes refused to avert somewhere else. He just watched as the blanket that was covering his fiancee’s body fell, fully exposing her naked upper body. A bandage wrapped around her exposed waist.
Alecto was mesmerized.
“Y-your highness?” Eris stuttered. “Ah,” As if realizing she wasn’t wearing anything, Eris calmly took the blanket to cover her body again.
Alecto came back to his senses. His face feeling hot. “... I’ll wait for you outside.” He said scurrying out and closing the door.
Alecto was fully aware of Eris’ beauty. She was a fine woman. Alecto was sure that if Eris wasn’t already engaged to him, many noble men would pursue her. But Alecto didn’t really care. Because he sees her everyday. She was surrounded with beautiful women after all. The empress, noble ladies, Helena, and his fiancee Eris. Which he sees almost everyday. Alec also had seen a fair amount of naked women. As he was the crown prince, he had some privilege. But he doesn’t feel an ounce of desire for them or find their body beautiful.
Unlike what he feels right now after seeing Eris’ body.
Eris always wore dresses that doesn’t really expose much skin. In her dresses, it was only her arms and neck that is exposed. Nothing less, nothing more. Other women would wear dresses a little too exposing. Their chest and legs seen. Eris wore more. And yet, it was enough to drive wild imaginations to other men. Alecto never had such thoughts.
At least until now.
Eris’ skin was fair like snow. Emerald eyes deep like forest leaves. Natural pink lips and long eye lashes. She doesn’t need make up to be called beautiful, pretty, or elegant. It was natural that she was desirable. Other noble men would always praise her beauty and elegance. She was superior among women in many ways.
And Alec couldn’t remove the image of her naked upper body inside his head. Her skin. Her face, her neck, arms, and lips.
Her chest even. It was big. Just right for Alecto’s liking.
‘She has pink nubs…’ Alecto thought. But as soon as it came to his head, he quickly brushed it off.
Alecto suddenly felt some strange urges. Desires.
Alecto went back to where the servants told him to wait. He sat down and contemplate. He doesn’t know if he should apologize or not. He doesn’t remember apologizing to her before. So it feels strange.
What should he say?
“I apologize for the wait, your highness.” Alecto flinched, startled. He averted his gaze at Eris who was now fully clothed by a night gown. Alecto unconsciously stared. She was wearing a simple night gown, not even exposing her legs. But it sure did showoff her cleavage. Alecto blushed. What’s wrong with him? “You should’ve informed us of your visit earlier for notice. We could’ve prepared something for you. Strangely enough, the emperor also didn’t inform us that you were visiting.” Eris spoke, sitting down across Alecto.
‘She’s limping…’ He took note.
“...” Alecto felt like sweating with how awkward the situation was. He doesn’t what to say to her at all. ‘Is she gonna pretend that nothing happened?’ Why did he even visit?
“Your highness, why aren’t you saying anything?” Eris questioned looking at the crown prince who was looking everywhere except to her. “It is because of what happened earlier?” She asked again.
“...”
“I don’t mind.” With that, Alecto raised his head and stared at her in disbelief. “It doesn’t really matter. After all, you’re my fiance. In the future, once we get married, you’ll see this body more often. I just hope that it didn’t disgust you, your highness.”
Not at all. Rather than disgust, it was desire that Alecto had felt－
“Don’t think too much.” Was what Alecto had replied. ‘How can she be insecure with that body of hers?’
“Well then, what brings you here, your highness?” Eris finally changed the topic. Seemingly unaffected.
“Rather than that. Is it okay for you to get up and walk around already?” Alecto asked, remembering that she had a wound.
“It’s fine. The wound isn’t deep. It’s healed. But I do think it’ll scar..” She answered, caressing her waist to where the said wound was.
Alecto hummed in response. Not knowing what to say anymore.
“Shall we go take a walk in the garden?” He asked to free himself from the awkwardness. But contrary to what Alecto expected, Eris didn’t react excitedly.
“Alright.” But she did agree. She held on to the couch as she stood up. Alecto had already walked to open the door. Eris took slow steps, limping.
Alec felt embarrassed. He felt stupid for offering a walk seeing as she is injured. “Should I call a servant to help you?” Alec asked, watching Eris.
“...” She looked at him in disbelief and soon sighed, “Do whatever you want.” She said and continued on to walk clumsily.
Alecto also sighed. He hesitated for a while but decided to help her. He grabbed her other hand and the right side of her waist where there is no injury to guide her in the stairs. It was a long, slow walk. Eris didn’t react with his actions.
‘It seems that she’s really tired.’ Alec thought.
“Should I just carry you?” He asked impulsively.
“I am not disabled, your highness. If you don’t want to help me, then don’t. Just call a servant like you had suggested earlier.” Alec was taken a back with her words.
Sure, there were times that Eris had snapped at him. But it was only a few times. About two or three times. But she had always cut herself off before she can offend him. So Alecto surely is shocked.
“...I’m just trying to help. What’s with your attitude today?” Alecto questioned, raising a brow. He had to be patient and at least nice today. He can’t bully an injured person.
“No. What’s with you today? Suddenly visiting and insisting a walk. You don’t do that thing with me.” Eris had mumbled the last part. Eyes focused on the stairs.
“... Maybe I should just go home.” He sighed, frustrated.
Because he also don’t know why.
“Then go. His majesty isn’t here nor has he have servants in here. If he persuaded you to do this, you don’t have to in this place. No one will say a word to him.” Eris said, pushing his hand away.
Alec panicked, grabbing her hand again and holding her closer. “Don’t do that! You might fall!”
“Wouldn’t you be pleased if I did fall? After all, you once wished I was never born. Maybe you also wished I’d die early, right?” Alecto was speechless. How could Eris say such things..
He didn’t expect for her to remember such words..
“...” Alecto was upset by now. But even so, he patiently waited until they arrived down the stairs. “Are you doing this on purpose?” He asked, irritated.
“Doing what on purpose?” Eris stared at him blankly.
“Making me mad!”
Eris didn’t respond. She only averted her eyes outside as if refusing to answer. Alec was about to speak when Eris had cut him off. “I just feel like it’s unfair..” Eris had said. Voice low, almost sounding like a whisper.
She looked at him and continued, “Since you always speak to me so informally, I should start doing it too, don’t you think? I hate that you’re always so cocky with me. If you don’t want me to be nice to you, just say it.”
Alec chuckled nonchalantly, amused. “You also got your head hit? Was it that hard for it to make you like this?”
“No. I just came to my senses after almost getting stabbed.” Eris responded, shrugging.
...
After those happenings, their relationship changed a bit. Always getting into each others nerves a lot more with no filter this time. It’s either they’d argue or do things that would annoy the latter.
Eris also recovered quickly after finding a mage that would heal her wound in no time. She went back to her daily routine and that includes visiting the palace everyday for crown princess lessons. But after her recovery, even if she’s in the palace everyday, she only sees Alecto a few times because she’s gotten busier. She had no time for tea anymore. She’ll go to the palace for lessons and works, go home to eat and sleep, exhausted.
Meanwhile, Alecto was confused to why Eris wasn’t seeing him even though he always hears about her arrival. He doesn’t know if he should be glad cause he has more alone time with Helena now. Speaking of Helena,
Alecto snapped out of his thoughts when Helena had called him.
“I’ve been calling you for the 5th time now… Are you perhaps unwell today?” Helena asked pouring him a cup of tea.
Alecto stood up and waved his hand, dismissing the tea time. “Do you know where Miserian is?” Alecto suddenly asked.
“I think I saw her with Lord Kazaar earlier.?” Helena responded.
“Jason? What is he doing here?” Alec’s brows creased.
‘She has no time to visit me yet spending time with another man?’
“Well, isn’t it natural for friends to visit each other?”
Alec huffed, and bid goodbye to Helena saying he needs to do something.
Helena chuckled. She knew he cared for her.
Alec asked the servants if they had seen the two. They all answered that they were in the garden, having tea. Alecto was even more upset.
When Alecto arrived at the said garden, Eris and Jason was indeed there, having tea. Alec was baffled. Eris was laughing. Genuinely. Doesn’t look forced or anything. She was laughing her heart out and Jason was watching her with a smile on his lips.
Alecto frowned. As far as he remembers, those two were not close or friendly at all. Because Eris had only looked at Alecto. Not Jason or any other men. They were insignificant to her...
“What could be so amusing for you to laugh like a donkey?” Alecto spoke, stepping closer to where they are. Both Eris and Jason looked up to him, not expecting his presence.
“... Do you not have tea time with Helena by this hour? You usually ask her－”
“So you actually planned to see each other behind my back?” Alec had cut Jason off.
Jason frowned at Alec’s tone. “What do you mean behind your back? I’m sure this is none of your concern. It’s not like we’re doing something illegal, no?”
“None of my concern? As far as I’m aware, the lady you’re with is the crown princess. My fiancee.” Alec responded, annoyed. He averted his gaze to Eris and continued, “And what kind of woman would go off meet another man without her fiance’s knowledge?”
Jason, even Eris, stared blankly at Alecto. “Since when did you care?” Jason said in pure disbelief.
“Gentlemen.” Eris speaks.
‘Way to address two aggressive men. There is no such gentle in their being.’ Eris thought to herself, standing up and smiling. “Your highness, you’d best calm down. That is no way to greet a friend of yours.” She started, grabbing Alecto and making him sit to where she was sitting earlier. She placed her hands in the crown prince’s shoulder and continued,
“Like Lord Kazaar had said, We’re not doing something illegal. I was just trying to entertain your guest since you seemed to be very busy earlier. And anyway, I also had a favor to ask him. So, please don’t do anything that would make our guest upset, your highness.”
“...What favor?” Alec asked, looking at Eris.
“Oh... never thought you’d ask.” Eris chuckled. “Well, after thinking for awhile, I’ve come to a conclusion that Lord Kazaar would be the best fit if I wanted to learn about the Empire’s Military strategy. I’d like to learn from the World’s hero. Also, isn’t this a good chance to make good connections? Lord Kazaar is soon to be the Duke. And you are to be an Emperor. You need trusted people by your side, your highness.” Eris stated.
Alecto had never thought that Eris had think so far. Even mentioning about the Empire’s military strategy and their connections. It seems that she had been taking her role more seriously now.
“No need to flatter me at all Milady. Even if the crown prince is rude and vulgar with me, rest assured, I’ll always be loyal to him... and to you, the future Empress.” Jason said, smiling.
“We’ve been friends since childhood. It’s a given that he’ll serve us. Don’t concern yourself with him anymore.” Alec also said, shrugging.
Eris sighed. “Alright. You can leave now then, your highness.”
Alec stood up, “Why did you even give your seat to me, crazy woman. Also, I’m leaving with you.” Alec grabbed Eris’ wrist and started dragging her away.
“What are you doing?!” Eris questioned, struggling to free herself from his grip.
“We’re going to see the emperor.” Alec said, slowing down so she won’t fall.
After hearing it, Eris stopped struggling. “I see. You could’ve just told me that he wanted to see us. No need to forcefully drag me like this.”
Alec didn’t answer as they finally arrived at the Emperor’s office. Alec knocked and was greeted by his father’s assistant. The man bowed at the pair and informed the emperor with his son’s presence. He let them in and Alec stood in front of his father’s desk, finally letting go of Eris who greeted the emperor. The emperor looked up, noticing Eris, he smiled. “What brings my dear daughter in here?” He asked, ignoring his son.
“It’s me who wants to ask you a favor, your majesty.” Alec said.
The emperor sighed as if he’s so done with his own son. “What is it?” He asked tiredly.
“I just noticed that Lady Miserian had become more busy. I wanted to suggest that it’d be best if she just stay in the palace for a while so she won’t have to exhaust herself, going back and fourth here and to their estate.”
The emperor was silent for a while. He was quite surprised. Even Eris was speechless. “That’s a great suggestion. Well, what do you think dear?” The emperor then looked at Eris to ask.
“I’m fine your majesty. You don’t have to bother preparing a room for me. I can just go home.” Eris politely declined.
“Nonsense. Anything for you is not a bother at all. You are the future empress, feel free to order everyone around here. Well then, crown prince, you take care of this matter son.” The emperor said, smiling proudly at his son whom, once and for all, finally thought of concerning himself with his fiancee.
With the emperor’s statement, it was obvious that Eris was given no chance to decline. She sighed internally and excused herself along with Alecto.
“You should’ve informed me beforehand.” Eris said, walking with Alecto.
“Why, do you hate the idea?” Alec asked, averting his gaze at his who shook her head.
“Not at all. I’m just worried. You see, I’ve been invited in many social gatherings and I’m planning to attend. I won’t be able to prepare much if I’m here, seeing as all my clothes can’t be delivered here.” Eris answered.
“We’ll just invite madam Twirose here then. She’ll prepare our clothes in no time.”
“...? Our?”
“Hm? Are you not planning to tag me along? Won’t it be better to go with your fiance?”
...
And that’s how Eris ended up attending a social gathering with her fiance, the crown prince.
Everyone was surprised to see them attending together. For many reasons at that.
First, Alecto never attends social gatherings. Second, Eris also only ever attends if she wants to provoke someone. Third, they would never attend together. To them both, a social gathering like this is insignificant.
So why?
At that, the crown prince was even smiling like a child upon arriving with his fiance linked in his arm. Everyone had bowed and greeted them.
“You must be delighted, Lady Miserian. You finally convinced his highness to attend with you.” A noble lady Eris doesn’t recognize, had said.
The sentence was rather normal. But it was obvious that it’s meant to provoke Eris. The girl sneered behind her hand fan.
Before Eris could speak though, Alecto, who was beside her, did. With a chuckle, “She was rather annoyed with me.” He cleared and continued, “She never ask me to attend such gatherings at all. She said she wanted to attend every gathering that she was invited to because she wanted to establish good relationship with everyone now seeing as she’s going to be empress someday. I begged her to let me come. After all, wouldn’t it be better if she’s always with me?”
Everyone was baffled. The lady who spoke started sweating and fanning herself. “O-of course your highness.” She said and looked away.
Eris raised her brow at the situation. She didn’t know if Alec had said that on purpose or he was just being honest today. Eris could even hear the murmurs. “Oh my, I guess the rumors that the crown prince and lady miserian’s relationship had improved is true. I wonder what happened?” Eris also wonders the same. Alecto had been acting different.
Soon, the party’s host invited them outside. After all, it was a social gathering meant for married couples. Most of them are noble couples who are in their 40’s and 50’s. But some young noble men and ladies in a marriageable age are also invited. Today’s gathering will include hunting. Noble men will be showing off their talents in shooting.
Eris sat down among the elder noble ladies. Their company is a bit more better than women her age.
“It’s nice to see the crown prince attend gatherings. Moreover, he looks happy hanging out with our husbands.” A woman said as they watch their husbands and noble men gather to prepare their guns.
“He insisted to come. The crown prince is rather busy, you see. But he wanted to meet the other nobles. It’s a good chance for him to establish good relationships so I let him.” Eris responded.
“He seems to be enjoying this too.”
“It is a good thing. He’s going to be the emperor soon.”
“Oh my, Milady, he’s waving at you” Eris then looked at Alecto and waved back
“He’s excited since it’s his first time.” Eris said and smiled at Alecto who saluted at her.
Soon, the hunting began. The ladies are indeed fascinated. “Must be nice to have a young, energetic, and skillful husband to be. The crown prince is great at this.”
“Right? I’m envious”
Eris could only chuckle. Alecto was a trained shooter and can even swing his sword as good as a swords-master. But no one really knows other than the people in the palace.
The gathering soon came to an end. It was almost sun down so Alec and Eris also decided to go back. “You were a showoff.” Eris said when they were walking back to their carriage. Alecto laughed and shrugged.
“They wanted to see my skills.”
Ever since then, their relationship has truly changed.
Alec, who was cold to Eris, was now warm and open to her. He was more expressive and loving.
It was weird though.
Because this was what Eris had wanted. Yet she never gets used to it.
So Eris didn’t know how to act towards him.
Because Alec seemed to be tending his past mistakes now.
Even Helena was happy with the development. Now she can freely do her work better. Though sometimes, Alec still looks for her. To consult and and ask things about women. Specifically, about Eris. They were still friends.
“You’ve been distant.” Alec had said.
He and Eris were in the balcony. It was night and Alec decided to visit Eris in her room and get some fresh air in the balcony.
“...”
“Perhaps I’m making you uncomfortable?” Alec asked, looking at Eris whose eyes were glued in the far distance.
She still didn’t respond. So Alec gently grabbed her hand. “You know, I’ve always wanted to apologize.. for the things that I did in the past... and the things that had hurt your feelings－”
“Are you doing this because you’re guilty?” Eris cuts him off.
“...What?”
“Your highness, I don’t need your guilt. You can keep acting like how you did before. If you’re forcing yourself to be nice to me, please don’t. Afterall, the person you love is Helena. Not me.” She said, pulling her hand away from the crown prince’s grasp.
“That’s not －” Alec paused. Eris wasn’t looking at him. “You…don’t you love me?”
“...”
“Eris I－”
“It’s late your highness. You should go back. I’m tired.” With that, she walks away.
“...”
Alecto had stood there for a long time that night.
Today was Alecto’s birthday. He’s turning 21 now.
It’s been several days since that night and Eris kept avoiding him. But today, she can’t because it’s his birthday and they decided to host a banquet. A party. So Eris was required to go there with Alecto.
“Your highness, are you gonna wear a couple outfit with the lady today too?”
Alec nodded.
Whenever there were occasions or parties, it’s already a custom to Alec and Eris to wear matching outfits. People finds it cute. Even the emperor was amused with the development. There was one person who was unhappy though.
The empress.
Whom tried so hard to have Alecto and Helena to get along.
His son rarely listens to her now.
Alecto changed.
And he was happier.
Soon enough, the party was about to begin. Alecto excitedly trudges to where Eris was. She slammed the door open and saw Eris talking to Jason. Again.
Alec scowled.
“What are you doing here?” He asked the dragon slayer, Jason.
“You invited me to your party???” Jason answered confusedly.
“I know.” Alec said, he walked closer and continued, “What I meant is what are you doing in this room, with her?”
“... Well, I figured you were going with Helena so I offered to assist the lady.” Jason answered, gesturing to Eris.
“The hell are you talking about?” Alec angrily uttered stepping in front of Eris. “It’s my day. Don’t ruin it.” Alec said and pulled Eris away.
Once they were away, Alec lets her go. “I’m sorry” He said, embarrassed.
Eris sighed and smiled. “No, it’s fine. Thank you for saving me, your highness. I really didn’t want to accept his offer.” She said and finally looked at him.
“Then, shall we go?” Alec then offered his arm. Eris nodded and accepted it. “You look beautiful.” He muttered.
Eris chuckled and mumbled a thanks.
Once they entered, the announcer spoke loudly. “Behold, His Royal Highness, the crown prince, Alecto! With her highness, Lady Miserian!”
Everyone then bowed.
It was a long and tiring event. Alecto and Eris had to entertain every guests who came. Once it was time to dance, the two finally sighed in relief. “Do you wanna dance?” Alecto suddenly asked.
“As much as I want to, I think I’m too tired for a dance.” Eris said. “The heels are killing me.” She added.
“Let’s go rest then.”
“No. This is your party. Why would you leave?”
“No one will notice. They’re too busy.” Alec answered and again pulled Eris to the nearest balcony. They closed the door, blocking the loud sound of music. “It’s a beautiful night.” Alec stated looking up in the stars.
“Of course it is. It’s the day that you were born.” Eris said agreeing. “Now, can you lift me up? I wanna sit here.”
“You might fall!”
“I won’t. It’s not that high either. If I don’t sit, my feet will bleed.”
Hesitating, Alec did what Eris asked for and lifted her up so she could sit down in the railings.
They were silent for a while. Alec removing Eris’ shoes and then them enjoying the view. “Why were you avoiding me?” Alec asked. A question Eris had expected.
After a minute of Eris not answering, Alec looked at her. “You really don’t love me anymore?” The crown prince asked. The sound of his voice, quiet and a bit.. desparate.
“I didn’t want to keep being attached to you. I know, everyone knows, that you like Helena. You’re just being nice to me because of the emperor. But I told you many times to stop. Because It hurts. I finally managed to make this feelings for you disappear. And yet you keep doing things… It makes me hate you so much.” Eris answered, looking down. “You know so well that no one cares for me. My father doesn’t love me, everyone is nice to me because they need to. How can you be so cruel?”
“I wasn’t-- Why would you think that? I wasn’t being nice to you! I don’t like Helena. It’s you that I like! Why can’t you see that?” Alec grabbed her out of Impulse. Eris was crying. But he also wanted to.
So he hugged her. His head against his chest. “I just couldn’t tell you. Because I’m a coward. I was scared. That if the moment I tell you, you’d leave like everyone else did. I’m sorry. I was wrong. Please forgive me. I’ll be better so please…” Alec cried.
He buries his face against her and whispered,
“I wish you’d love me again...
like before.
When you said you loved me the most.”
“...Whoever said I stopped loving you?”
Alec sniffed, looking up to see Eris smiling, tears in her eyes.
Alec let out a relieved laugh. “I love you too. I love you the most. Please let me love you too.”