Shiro's skin prickled, a shiver running down his spine. The man before him, Leo, spoke with an unsettling nonchalance, a mocking smirk playing on his lips. Yet, beneath that casual demeanor, a palpable tension hinted ulterior motives, intentions utterly foreign to Shiro.
If Leo sought information regarding his father's medicinal research, Shiro would readily offer it. After all, those tomes held no personal value for him. The essential knowledge he truly needed had been ingrained in his very being since childhood.
With a gentle, almost hesitant tone, Shiro suggested, "Your Royal Highness, if what you need is insight into my father's most recent advanced studies," a dry swallow punctuated his words, "I won't hesitate to furnish you with them."
At Shiro's sudden offer, a soft, unexpected chuckle escaped Leo's lips. It was a simple sound, yet potent enough to leave Shiro utterly bewildered.
"Hahaha!... You truly are his son!" Leo responded, catching his breath. "Your facial expressions are remarkably identical," he added, a hint of amusement still lingering in his voice.
Shiro, however, found it really difficult to take the openly laughing man seriously. He felt as though this young prince had no intention of giving him a break.
Leo then adopted a more serious tone, adding, "While it's true that Ayato's latest research might prove beneficial," he leaned closer to Shiro, his voice dropping, "your mind would be even more so," he concluded, a sober smile gracing his features.
Shiro instinctively recoiled, taking a small step back. Leo had invaded his personal space, leaving him feeling both uncomfortable and profoundly unnerved. His gaze, searching for an escape, finally settled on the ground. In a soft, barely audible voice, he murmured, "How could I possibly be of service to Your Royal Highness?"
At that precise moment, Leo's eyes seemed to pierce through him. Despite Shiro's retreating steps, Leo pursued him relentlessly, cornering him against a heavy wooden table. Without breaking eye contact, he deliberately placed his toned, muscular arms on the table, effectively trapping Shiro. The latter, swallowing hard, nervously managed to whisper, "Your Royal Highness?..."
"Whatever your utility may be, it will become clear in the days to come," Leo murmured, his voice a low thrum. "By then, I expect you to carefully follow my orders, no matter their nature."
Leo finally withdrew his arms, and Shiro, who had momentarily forgotten how to breathe, exhaled a long, shaky sigh. Yet, he remained acutely on edge until the man who had just pinned him had retreated to a safe distance.
Leo, seemingly entertained by Shiro's reactions, observed him intently one last time. He couldn't quite pinpoint what it was about the young man, but something about him was profoundly captivating, so much so that Leo found himself contemplating ways to ensure Shiro's continued presence in the capital.
Finally, Leo approached the grand, elegant office door, preparing to make his exit. "Ah, right," he said, pausing. "Don't attempt to escape. That would only complicate matters, both for you and for me."
With the message clearly delivered, he offered one last glance, a faint smile playing on his lips, before finally departing.
"..."
Shiro's mind was a tumultuous storm of thoughts. Questions swirled, countless and unanswered, yet at the same time, he couldn't stop replaying the recent encounter.
He felt a dizzying mix of perplexity, surprise, and profound exhaustion, too weary to continue his reflections.
Throughout his life, his family had instilled in him an image of the royal family steeped in respect and honor.
He sighed, a heavy sound.
Has the prince always been this audacious?
He began to doubt, a unsettling thought taking root. Could it be that he is actually notorious for his promiscuity, and I've simply never been informed? Shiro wondered .
He was still burdened by a multitude of questions and uncertainties. "He is utterly disrespectful... I don't like that guy." He finally concluded.
....
Following that unexpected confrontation with the empire's prince, Shiro was gently escorted to another carriage, where he received further detailed instructions regarding his stay.
For the time, he would be a direct guest of the prince, residing within the opulent royal palace. Upon his arrival, he would be informed of various necessary activities he'd need to complete during his initial days.
He was also notified that someone would approach him later for a more formal discussion concerning complex matters related to his homeland and the grand empire.
The intricate relationship between the land of Ryuzan and the Concordat Empire was a delicate balance.
While the empire consistently relied on Ryuzan's renowned medicinal families, the much-needed imperial investments never fully absorbed Ryuzan into the empire's fold.
It remained a remarkably independent entity, managing to sustain itself for many years against all odds.
Two distinct languages thrived in Ryuzan: one, known as 'Levies', was a modern tongue shared with the Concordat Empire, proving essential for commerce, markets, and formal occasions. However, the ancient language spoken by the inhabitants of this smaller region was called 'Hyogen', a tongue mastered by only a select few. Naturally, Shiro was one of those rare individuals.
Once inside the palace, Shiro's gaze swept across his magnificent new surroundings. The sheer grandeur of the place was dazzling. Not only was it of an unimaginable scale, but it was also embraced by sprawling, exquisite gardens.
This particularly piqued Shiro's interest, given his fervent dedication to the study of herbs and plants. Beyond his academic pursuits, he found profound wonder in flowers. He cherished moments escaping his home to simply gaze upon them, often finding them to be the muses for his poems.
Thus, encountering such an abundant variety of blooms within the palace grounds, he couldn't help but show his genuine fascination.
After a considerable walk, he finally arrived at his chambers. The accompanying servants bowed respectfully before withdrawing, assuring that if he needed anything to not hesitate calling them.
Shiro, having witnessed the lavishness outside, already had a clear expectation. And true to form, upon entering, he discovered a generously sized room that offered a breathtaking view of the beautiful garden.
Inside, a grand bed, crafted from the finest materials called his attention. A small table laden with tempting snacks sat nearby, alongside a beautifully crafted desk.
However, in that moment, the plush bed was Shiro's sole focus. Without a second thought, he practically collapsed onto its soft sheets. It was incredibly yielding and comfortable; even its subtle honey-like scent was pleasant. Shiro, utterly exhausted, dove into the bed and peaceful slumber. He was tired.
The unresolved questions and the intriguing, albeit annoying appearance of a significant figure would simply have to wait for the next day. For now, all he desired was to recharge his energy and indulge in undisturbed sleep.