Chapter 5

As the days drew closer to his birthday celebration, Cornelius took a moment to escape the confines of royal duties and expectations. It was the day before his grand birthday event and the announcement of his engagement, a milestone that marked the end of his bachelorhood. Seeking solitude and a chance to clear his mind, he roamed the capital in disguise, blending in with the common folk.

Dressed in simple, unassuming attire, Cornelius wandered through the lively streets, taking in the vibrant energy of the city as it transitioned from day to night. The clamor of vendors and street performers provided a comforting background hum. He relished the freedom of roaming unaccompanied, a rare luxury in his usual life.

His meandering journey led him to a favorite restaurant known for its tranquil ambiance and excellent wine. Seeking solace and a moment of calm, Cornelius chose a table by the window, enjoying the view of the city lights as dusk settled. He ordered a glass of his favorite imported wine and began to unwind, savoring the peaceful atmosphere.

As he sipped his wine, Cornelius's attention was drawn to a figure seated at a distant table. The woman's golden hair, glowing softly in the dim light, was striking and unusual. She sat by the window, her gaze focused on the outside world. There was something about her that seemed oddly familiar, though he couldn't quite place why.

Curiosity overcame him, and Cornelius decided to move to a table closer to her. He chose a spot nearby, careful not to intrude upon her personal space. He approached her with a courteous smile, hoping to strike up a conversation without causing discomfort.

"Good evening," Cornelius greeted as he reached her table. "I hope I'm not intruding. May I sit at the table next to yours? The view here is quite lovely."

The woman looked up, her face brightening with a welcoming smile. "Of course," she replied graciously. "Feel free."

Cornelius settled into his seat and initiated the conversation. "I couldn't help but notice your golden hair. It's quite unique. Are you a tourist from abroad? I don't recall seeing anyone like you in the capital before."

The woman's smile widened. "Yes, I'm from abroad. I've been visiting the capital and am finding it quite enjoyable."

Cornelius, intrigued, continued, "I'm Gayhardt, just a common nobleman residing in the Andigre Kingdom. It's a pleasure to meet you. What brings you to the Andigre Kingdom?"

The woman's eyes sparkled as she responded, "I'm Abel. I'm here to attend a social event and explore the city. It's been a delightful experience so far."

Their conversation flowed smoothly, and Cornelius found himself captivated by Abel's insights and the ease of their dialogue. She spoke with a warmth and openness that made their interaction feel genuine and engaging.

The pleasant exchange was interrupted by the arrival of another guest. Duke Spencer of Massoumbert Kingdom entered the restaurant and made his way up to the floor where Cornelius and Abel were seated. His arrival was marked by a distinguished presence, and Cornelius recognized him immediately. The Duke's surprise at finding Abel in such company was evident.

"Abel, what a pleasant surprise to see you here," Duke Spencer said, his tone warm yet curious. "And who might this gentleman be?"

Cornelius, keen to maintain his undercover as a common nobleman, quickly responded, "I'm Gayhardt, just a common nobleman. It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance."

Duke Spencer's eyes met Cornelius's with a flicker of understanding, and he smoothly replied, "Ah, Gayhardt. It's a pleasure. I was merely surprised to see Abel here. I didn't expect to find her in such company."

As Duke Spencer began to take his leave, Cornelius felt a sudden urge to prevent any further awkwardness. "Please, don't let me keep you," Cornelius said, attempting to divert attention from himself. "I wouldn't want to disturb you any further."

Duke Spencer paused and looked at Cornelius with a knowing nod. "Thank you, Gayhardt. I'll take my leave. Enjoy your evening."

"Ah no no, I apologize. I'll take my leave now since it's nearly midnight, nice to meet you lady Abel. I hope you enjoy your time here in Andigre Kingdom, and to you too, Duke Spencer" With that, Cornelius rose from his table and quietly exited the restaurant, leaving Duke Spencer and Abel alone. As Cornelius stepped out into the crisp evening air, he reflected on the pleasant distraction of the night.

Moments after Cornelius had left, Duke Spencer burst into laughter, unable to contain his amusement. He shook his head in disbelief. "I can't believe what I just witnessed!" he exclaimed. "Of all places, to see Abel and Gayhardt—talk about an unexpected meeting!"

Duke Spencer's laughter echoed through the empty space as he glanced over at Christabel, who was still seated by the window. She watched him with a bemused expression, her gaze occasionally drifting outside as if lost in thought.

"Shut up, Spence," Christabel said with a hint of exasperation. "It's not as if you haven't seen surprises before."

Duke Spencer, still chuckling, nodded in agreement. "I know, I know. But it was quite the sight. I never imagined Abel would end up in such company, especially not here."

Christabel just looked back at Duke Spencer but remained focused on the view outside. The two of them, bound by years of friendship and shared experiences, understood each other well. As Duke Spencer's laughter gradually subsided, the restaurant returned to its quiet, serene state, with only the soft sounds of the night to fill the silence.

Christabel knows what tomorrow is, the reason why she is here in the Capital.

As Cornelius arrived at the Tartal Palace, the sprawling structure loomed majestically against the twilight sky. The soft murmur of activity within the palace was a reassuring reminder of the vibrant life that continued despite the weighty matters of royalty.

He was met at the entrance by Elrod, the King's right hand and esteemed chamberlain. Elrod's demeanor was as composed and formal as ever.

"Good evening, your Highness," Elrod greeted with a respectful nod. "His Majesty requests your presence in his chambers."

Cornelius was taken aback by this unusual request. Ordinarily, royal audiences with King Einar were held in the receiving hall—a formal, public setting. Being summoned to the King's private chambers was a rare and intimate occasion, which set Cornelius's mind racing with speculation.

Navigating the familiar corridors of the palace, Cornelius finally arrived at the door of his father's chambers. As he was granted entry, the sight that greeted him was both poignant and revealing. King Einar stood by a window, holding a framed portrait in his hands. The portrait depicted Queen Elara, his beloved mother, whose absence had cast a long shadow over their lives since her tragic death fifteen years ago. The King's expression was one of deep sorrow and nostalgia, a visible testament to his enduring grief.

Cornelius approached cautiously, his heart aching at the sight of his father's quiet mourning. He could feel the profound sense of loss that lingered in the room, a silent echo of the pain that had never truly faded since the mysterious ambush that claimed the Queen's life.

King Einar turned to face Cornelius, his eyes betraying the burden of his thoughts. The King's usually stern and commanding presence was softened by the weight of his emotions. He set the portrait down carefully on a nearby table before addressing his son.

"Cornelius," the King began, his voice steady but tinged with an undertone of gravity, "there are matters we need to discuss. Tomorrow marks not only your birthday but also a pivotal moment in our family's history. Your engagement will be announced, and with it, the expectations of your future responsibilities will come into sharper focus."

Cornelius nodded, understanding the significance of the upcoming events. His father's tone conveyed an urgency and concern that went beyond the ceremonial aspects of the celebration.

"I need you to prepare yourself," King Einar continued. "This is not just another birthday. Your actions and decisions from this point forward will shape the future of our kingdom. I expect you to carry out your duties with the utmost diligence and integrity."

The King's words were both a challenge and a command. Cornelius could sense the underlying pressure in his father's voice—a reminder that his role was not only ceremonial but also crucial to the stability and success of the kingdom.

"I understand, Father," Cornelius replied earnestly. "I will do my best to meet your expectations."

King Einar gave a curt nod, his gaze softening slightly. "Whatever decisions I make will always be for your good and the good of the kingdom. Trust that they come from a place of love and concern."

The conversation left Cornelius with a profound sense of responsibility. As he left the King's chambers, he carried with him the weight of his father's words and the enduring legacy of his mother. The palace, with its grand halls and flickering candlelight, seemed to close around him as he prepared himself for the challenges and expectations that lay ahead.