25

Fortunately, week passed and I didn’t encounter nor hear anything about the prince which made my week quite peaceful and energized. Its not that I’m even looking for any news about him or that I’m even interested at whatever it is that’s happening with his life. Like.Not. At. All. But its a constant bother whenever I get fidget-y when some random person comes up to me. So it really helped my self and my whole system calm down when he didn't show up in front of me for the past days.

As for the Choosing Ceremony. A lot of rumors had been circulating but none of them were proven true so they hardly even last. The royal family are all busy with their daily lives and the maids told me that they are all preparing themselves for the upcoming ceremony, its just that they are preparing too much.

The other Princes are also busy attending their studies and their training that they don’t usually hang out around the palace. So its been really silent around the inner palace, which was very new and very much appreciated.

However, something did happen this week and that’s when I received a message from the crownprincess. At first, I didn’t know it was her because her message came from an unknown number and I was doubtful, but when she explained who she was and how she got my number, things made sense. She only wanted to ask me if I was willing to "hang out" and spend some time with David during the weekend. Of course i'm pretty sure this is considered baby sitting but I didn't say that or the princess might take it offensive.

Weekends are like the busiest schedule for every royal member, they usually attend multiple events during those days and they usually start from morning to evening. I know its weird that I even know this kind of things but I’ve been here for quite some time now and its not that hard to figure out when you always witness lady maids going back and forth whenever a royals present and when they would slack around and gossip when they are not. There’s always a pattern with their day to day activity and I am such a good observant that I always notice everything.

Anyways, so the princess wanted me to ‘hang-out’ with David, well she said it like, if I could accompany his son then she’d be assured that David's in good hands. That kid has serious talent at slipping away so to avoid that, Princess Amber thinks he would behave when he is with me. Plus she did allow me to help David look for books that are new and also educational for his age. In a way, it would look like I’m the young princes’ tutor. Whatever it is, I did agree because I don’t really have anything else to do inside the palace and I did promise David to help him with his dilemma.

As for my own problem, aka, my not-so-sure feelings towards the Prince, well let’s just say, I am still on the cliff thinking whether I should jump or just see things move on. Its actually quite peaceful not seeing him around. Whatever happened between us, still has a little effect on me. So the time I spend without him, it helped me a lot.

They say space will make things look little clearer, I guess that what's happening between me and the Prince.

Nevertheless, I can’t harbor any sort of feelings towards him, he’s about to choose his wife and I don’t want things to be complicated.

Today is a Saturday and as scheduled I am now on my way to the second gate, since the Prince’s study and the royal library is located there, with those facts on the table, we decided its the perfect place to meet. By we, meaning the Princess, the team leader of the guards handling the prince's protection and me. They wanted to keep the Prince safe and secured so the best choice was to just stay at the prince's study and inside the wall of the second palace.

I did plan to bring David to the royal library so he could look for books he is interested into. And if its suitable for his age then I’ll help him borrow it and then we can just go back to his study and there we can peacefully read or whatever it is that he wishes to do.

Princess Amber warned me about the guards that will be following us. Its for the young Prince of course, though we are still inside the palace, there are other people roaming and working inside the second gate. It is only natural that the youngest of the family be protected at all times.

I of course asked one of the guards to help me get to the second gate since I don’t really like walking from the inner palace to the second or third gate, so they gave me a ride. The rides are always available to anyone who travels from the inner palace, just ask the guards and they’ll help you go to anywhere you need to be. Getting back to the inner palace is another story, in order for anyone to get pass the gates, they at least need to be confirmed and checked from head to toe. But since i’ve been staying here for awhile, the guards practically know me. I even know a few of them now by name.

Minutes later I’m already in the area where the royals usually do their studies, yes its an area and not just simple room. I still don’t know the reason why they did this but anyways, I’m enjoying the area myself, so I'm not complaining. They actually call this area the Island of Wisdom, which made sense with all the separate gazebos, pavillions and quarters where any royal can comfortably do their own studying at a scenery that they need. The place is also filled with flowers and trees, hence the name, plus the quarters and pavilions were placed far away from each other, giving enough space for anyone who wishes to have their own space and peacefulness.

I followed the path going to where Princess Amber instructed me to go and so far no one has stopped me from going forward. This area are like one of the places that is heavily guarded and they just don’t let anyone enter. Despite the fact that I already know some of the guards roaming around the palace, the guards whose tasked to guard the Island of Wisdom are the ones that I haven't met yet. Princess Amber must have instructed someone to inform the guards about my visit. That’s the only reasonable explanation, otherwise, some people might think the guards are slacking off.

“Hi, I was instructed by Princess Amber to wait in this quarters?” As soon as reached the quarters Princess Amber told me about, I went to the lady maid in-charge of the place to inform her of my agenda. The lady maid then raise her head to properly look at me, she then gave me a humble smile before talking.

“May I see your identification, my lady?” I only responded with a nod before giving her my phone where all my identification id’s are. The lady maid took out the palace scanners and scanned my ID making sure that I am who I claim to be.

With the help of technological advancements, things such as storing identification id’s and other things became possible. Despite that fact, there is always a risk of someone trying to gain access to what you already have in store, this is why, one should always make an update to their accounts security which by the way is required by the King. A whole week in every month are spent just for the sake of updating every royal subjects cyber security. This is also to make sure that the security of the kingdom are maintained, so that no peeping tom could ever get pass the security of the kingdom.

“Welcome Lady Danielle, the Crownprincess arranged a snack for you while you wait for the young prince to arrive. In the meanwhile let me take you inside, I will be the one assisting you and the prince if you two ever need anything. Please follow me.” The lady maid gave me back my phone and led me inside the quarters. She didn’t tell me her name but I wished she did, that way I’ll know how to address her. But they have laws to follow as well and I hate to put her in any sort of trouble when somebody finds out.

She led me inside the room and I was surprised to see shelves filled with books and a view that was refreshing. I didn’t really appreciate how the quarters looked when we were outside but just as you enter the room, aside from the calming nature themed paint colors surrounding the room, there’s this big glass window where you could see just enough blooming flowers and trees. Its refreshing and feels like you're in a different zone.

This is just one of those things the royal family have in advantage. They have the luxury of seeing something so beautiful and refreshing everyday.

The lady maid left me after seeing that I was comfortable and I guess, enjoying the things around me. I did thank her before she completely left me alone.

I of course went and check the books that was in the shelves, just so I have an idea what kind of books would be great for the young prince. Despite that, I am still going to take him to the Royal Library so he’ll have an idea how to check books. This is to also broaden his knowledge. He is a curious child and its easier to just guide them than prevent them from doing what they wish to do.

I rummaged through the books and found five novels that could be entertaining for the young prince. I know he is still young but I kind of feel that his mind is ready for some books that has deeper meaning and lessons of life.

I also know that his mind is still delicate and that he could easily be manipulated by the things he read or hear. But the young prince is also someone that’s loved by many good people that I believe that with this love he’ll be molded to someone that’s respectable and wise. Books are merely tools that could help him understand what life is, true learning comes from experience and I believe that he’ll eventually see that on his own.

“DANIELLE!” I heard someone scream my name outside of the room, which means the young prince is already here.

I fixed my dress, yes I chose to wear a dress today since I was in the mood and I need to look at least a tad bit presentable when I go around with the young prince. God if only my mom could see me now, she’ll be happy as a cloud.

The door opened and I bowed to whoever it was that’s in the door. It might be the young prince or his mom, or simply one of the maids, nevertheless, its better to be respectful no matter who it was.

“Lady Danielle… thank you so much for accompanying my son today” Princess Amber made me raise my head and welcomed me with her subtle but angelic smile, I also smiled back.

“Its really my pleasure your Highness. Thank you for trusting me” I again bowed in respect to her words and decision.

“The palace guards are already informed so they shouldn’t be a bother to you when you go to places with David. I will leave two of my lady maids to assist you as well so you won’t need to worry about anything. If something does happen and my little one doesn’t listen to you, you can always reach me through my phone.” Princess Amber instructed and I just kept on nodding as I accept her orders.

She was looking radiant like she always does, she even wore this dress that highlighted her almost perfect features. She has her hair down and her make up light. If you don’t know anything about her, you’d think she’s someone who doesn’t have a child.

“Your highness, I’m sorry but we really should be going right now” A woman dressed in gray suit and matching pointed heels came in and bowed behind the princess. My guess, she’s the personal assistant of the crownprincess, someone like Master Drey. Though unlike him, I don’t usually see the Crownprincess’ assistant roaming and freely making a name for herself. She looks more sophisticated and a little upright.

“Oh relax Gianne, we still have time. By the way, Danielle, this is my most trusted person Gianne” Princess Amber introduces, and the lady bowed in front of me afterwards. I also did the same, so to show my own respect towards her. “Gianne is usually uptight but she’s reliable so in the future, when you need something from me and I can’t get to you sooner, feel free to approach Gianne and she’ll know what to do” Gianne nods, looking pleased that the Princess sees her as someone who knows best.

“Its really wonderful to meet you lady Danielle, I really hope to know you more but sadly we really have to go now” Gianne said in a sad tone. She looks desperate and ready to pull the princess out of the room just so they could go on with their schedule.

Princess Amber shakes her head nevertheless she did slump down, eye-level, face to face with her son.

“You behave while I’m gone. You know I meant what I said about taking your gadgets and your books if you don’t behave. Don’t make Lady Danielle regret accompanying you today. Do you understand?” Princess Amber sternly talked to the young prince and if my assumptions about the young Prince right? He actually feared getting separated with books.

“Yes mommy. Now can I please go and look for new books with Danielle like you promised?” I smiled as he mentioned my name and when he pouted, acting cute in front of his mother.

“Fine, now kiss mommy” Princess Amber pointed at her cheek where David could kiss her and we all slightly turned our heads to the side to give two of the royals some space.

“Come now Gianne, we have a whole day of pleasing people. Danielle…” I turn back around to look at her highness and see her already standing. “I hope you teach my son something good today and I really wish you luck” I smiled at her words and with one last smile and look on her child, she finally left with Gianne in tow.

David looked at me while waiting for me to say something. He seemed a little unsure and I was contemplating whether I should play cuckoo with this child or start the whole day of fun?

“So?”I stoop down and looked at David eye to eye. He’s actually quite tall for kids his age. In my guess, he’s almost as tall as Prince Matthew. Kids and their growth spurt are just fascinating. “How about we make a little tour of the royal library and see what kind of books should be fine for you?” I suggested and that perked him up.

“Mom said I’m now allowed other books, as long as it’s the one that you recommended.”

I smiled and nod at how cute he sounded like. Because of his mature side I tend to overlook this part of him, this cute and little kid that’s always been curious of his surroundings. He looks like he knows a lot of things but he’s always been a kid that’s very likely to get so curious about everything. I awfully feel pressure on my shoulders. Not because I’m going to hang out with the prince but because I have this opportunity of introducing the future leader of the kingdom things that could someday help him. Whatever book I introduce him today could eventually help him someday. I know the risk maybe this is why I suddenly feel afraid. But things can always change, its just a matter of how you teach the things you want them to learn, the rest is up to them. At least that’s what I learned from my own mom.

I only smiled at his words and instructed his maids of our plans. They need to accompany us since it’s the day time and its required that someone assists the Prince incase he might need something plus someone has to keep an eye on him incase something happens. Its fine with me since its is the customs of the palace.

Its no surprise to me that a ride was waiting for us when we got outside. The guards were also waiting outside looking ready for anything and anyone that might attack the prince. In my opinion, they all look like someone whose overthinking this little trip. No one would really dare attack the prince inside the second gate. That’s just suicide. Every official and guards are here, guarding and training for the safety of the inner palace. Whoever thinks they could just randomly attack the prince without risking their own lives is stupid.

I made a proper greeting to the guards and the ones in charge of the Prince’s safety, then they all nod at in respect before guiding both me and the prince to the car and driving us to the royal library.

It’s the weekend so if I’m not mistaken, the scholars are probably back in their personal quarters or they might be in town since weekends are usually their free day so they must be enjoying every bit of their freedom right now.

“Welcome young highness” One of librarians greeted Prince David as soon as we entered the royal library. I stay standing at the sides as Prince David walked inside with his maids and that’s when I followed after.

“Danielle?”

While everyone is still bowing at the presence of a royal, I walked besides the young prince and stoop down so he could talk to me properly.

“Could you please tell them to act natural. I don’t like them like this, they look like old women that’s about to fall asleep” He whispered and it sounded a little louder than a usual whisper should be so everyone that was near to us heard what David said. Some of them smiled while others tried their best not to laugh. I couldn’t help it either and smiled with what he said. I looked at the maids and gave them nod so they could spread the word of their prince and we can move on to our real goal.

“How about we go and look for fictional books?” I suggested so we could both start and he could calm down and enjoy this little trip. “Now this place is big and you could get lost, if that happens, just stay wherever you are and I’ll be the one looking for you. Okay?” Prince David nods at my instruction, with that I stood up and led his to the aisle that holds thousands of books of fiction and for all ages.

The librarian returned to her sit and the rest of the maids went outside. There’s only me and prince roaming inside the library so its was safe for him to relax and explore the maze of wisdom.

I was caught up with what I was reading that I didn’t notice Prince David already reading a book in his hand. I close book that I was reading and went to his side so I could clearly see what he was reading. That’s my sole purpose here so I must do what was tasked from me.

“Can I see that?” I asked the young Prince and for a second he was reluctant to give me the book but eventually he handed it to me.

“Mist of Sorrow Fairies” I smiled as I remembered the first time I read this book and I really thought it was something that’s dark and full of agony, but it wasn’t. It’s a book full of great learnings, a book that’s suitable to anyone with power. I gave Prince David a genuine smile and kneeled down in front of him. “Did you find this book interesting?” I asked

“The plot had hard words so I thought they weren’t good, but I was curious how the fairies would feel sorrow when they are creatures that always seen as fun and full of light. So I read the first part to find out…” he explained then he pouted. He must have felt like I was taking the book away from him. This book thus contain words and situations that are deep and hard to understand for someone his age. But I have a feeling that Prince David is an actual genius. Someone who has deep understanding and would go another mile just so he could learn and understand things more. This is why I have decided to help him. If he is interested with this novel, then I can just guide him with thing he could not understand and help him see the morals of the story.

“Here” I gave it back to him and he confusedly took it from my hand. “This is the first book you chose on your own so I believe that you’ll be responsible and patient with this book. If you encounter things and words that you don’t understand you can always ask me. Once you’re done reading this books we’ll both talk about it and see what you’ve learned from it. Do you like that idea?”

He gave me the cutest smile and then he hugged the book. He agreed with my terms so we both went to the librarian so we could both borrow the books that we like. I taught him from borrowing the books to writing his name on the list of people that borrowed the same book in the past. He was enjoying and I could see that. I must have looked exactly like him the first time I was brought in to a library by my mother. I realize I also started young and I might just be the same as the prince.

All the way back to the Island of Wisdom, the prince scanned through the chapter while smiling like he won a war. I’ll of course inform the crownprincess about this. Its only proper that I inform her of whatever happened during the time I have with the prince.

The maids in-charge of the quarters welcome us as soon as we arrived and then we were led inside so we can both comfortably read the books we borrowed. Though the Prince only borrowed one, I took the liberty of getting two more books for him and one for me. This is so after he reads the Mist of Sorrow Fairies, he’ll have another book to read, a some what continuation of the one he is reading right now.

The maids prepared some snack for both me and the prince so I said my thanks to them and taught the prince to do that as well because he was so engrossed by what he was reading that he didn’t even bat an eye when the maids came in and served the snacks. I saw the maids smile when they heard the young prince appreciating their work and after that they also left us to continue with our little reading date.

Prince David laughed through some of the chapters and I couldn’t help but smile while looking at how he appreciated every chapter that he read. So far he haven’t asked me anything or made me explain about some of the things that happened in the books, he just kept reading while constantly making facial expressions depending on the scenario he was reading. He didn’t notice that he was already whispering each word that he read that’s how I got to see the facial expressions, its almost like he wanted to act out the things that he was reading. He also made this sound where he gets disappointed and then he would perked up when the story gets to its peak. He looked really cute that the next I did was take a video of him and send it to his mother. I am sure that as much as I enjoy just selfishly watching him be captivated, I’m quite positive that his mother would feel twice as much as I felt.

“Danielle? When I grow up, I want to be Sassily, he’s really brave and he’s also funny. I want to protect my people just like he did, and I also want to make them happy. Just like daddy did used to do when he was still here” Prince David looked proud when he said those things but his eyes says something else at the mention of his father. It was sorrow. Just like in the story of the sorrow fairies, he too wanted something that’s attainable. Just like a mist, reality blocks his way. And I know it too.