Lysanthal Clan

Elias, feeling a mix of nervousness and anticipation, carefully passed his paper to the King, addressing him respectfully, "Your Majesty."

Kaiser took the paper, his lavender eyes scanning the solutions. His expression was thoughtful, his gloved fingers tracing over Elias's calculations. He first focused on the correct answers Elias had provided for the first two problems, nodding in approval at his grasp of the concepts.

When Kaiser reached the third problem, he noticed the mistake Elias had made. He glanced up at Elias, a small smile playing on his lips, "Let's work on this together, Elias."

The King picked up a fresh piece of paper and a pen. With deliberate movements, he started solving the problem step by step, explaining his thought process aloud as he went.

"First, let's label the sides of the larger hexagon as a, b, c, d, e, and f, and the sides of the smaller hexagon as p, q, r, s, t, and u. We know that corresponding sides of similar figures are in proportion. So, we can set up the following ratios based on the given information:

pa = qb = rc = sd = te = uf

Kaiser continued to explain the calculations, cross-multiplying and solving for the variables. He guided Elias through each step, ensuring he understood the process thoroughly.

As they worked through the problem, Elias couldn't help but steal glances at the King. He couldn't take his eyes off the King's hands as they moved across the paper, the subtle movements of his lips as he spoke, the way his lavender eyes gleamed in the dim light of the room. Elias felt a knot forming in his stomach, a mix of excitement and nervousness.

"As you can see, Elias," Kaiser said, his tone gentle yet instructive, "Proportionality is crucial in similar figures. Understanding these ratios helps us find the relationships between corresponding sides. Always be meticulous with your calculations; a small mistake can lead to significant errors."

Elias listened attentively, absorbing the King's words. He felt a mixture of gratitude and admiration for the King's patience and willingness to teach. As the lesson continued, Elias found himself not only learning geometry but also appreciating the depth of knowledge and kindness in Kaiser, the King he admired so deeply.

This man is truly what every person will ask for. He was struck by how elegant and precise the King's movements were as he wrote out the solution step by step, explaining each calculation in a clear and concise manner. It was as if the King was painting a picture on the paper before their eyes.

But it was not just the King's mathematical prowess that impressed Elias. He was captivated by the King's gentle and patient manner, his willingness to work through the problem with him even though Elias was just a student. The King seemed to genuinely care about helping Elias understand the concepts, and Elias felt grateful for the King's guidance.

Elias knew that this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to study under such an accomplished and intelligent man. But more than that, he felt drawn to the King as a person, to the kindness and compassion he exuded. Elias thought about coming here literally after school, so he could be with the King everyday, since he's alone in the house anyway. But his problem is it's the King who has a lot of responsibilities, how could he possibly always be here?

Elias thought for a moment, considering the King's busy schedule. He knew that the King had many responsibilities and a very demanding job, and he didn't want to impose on his time. But at the same time, he couldn't help but wish that he could spend more time with the King, to learn from him and to be in his presence.

Elias knew that the King was always willing to make time for him, to help him with his studies or to have a conversation. But he also knew that he couldn't expect the King to be there for him all the time.

As he sat in the King's study, Elias couldn't help but feel a sense of sadness and longing. He knew that one day, this opportunity to be in the King's presence, to learn from him and to be guided by him, would come to an end. And he wasn't sure when that day would be, or how he would cope with it when it came, but he resolved to treasure every moment he had with the King, whether it was in this room, in the palace, or anywhere else.

Then, a snapping sound pulled him into reality as he heard the King's voice, "Elias, you've been staring at me in a daze, is there something you wanted to say?" 

Startled, Elias blinked rapidly, his cheeks flushing slightly. He hadn't realized he was lost in his thoughts for so long. He cleared his throat, trying to find the right words.

"I... Your Majesty, I just wanted to say... thank you," Elias said earnestly, his voice filled with sincerity, "Thank you for taking the time to teach me, for guiding me through these lessons. I know you have many important things to do, and yet you're here, helping me. I appreciate it more than words can express."

Kaiser regarded him with a soft smile, his eyes reflecting warmth and understanding. Elias couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions—surprise, happiness, and a touch of awe. It was a rare sight to see the usually stoic and formidable King smile, "Elias, you are a diligent student, and it's my pleasure to assist you. Knowledge is a gift, and sharing it brings fulfillment. I see potential in you, and I believe in nurturing that potential."

Elias's heart raced as he absorbed the King's words. It was an odd and yet profoundly gratifying moment. He had expected their lessons to be serious and stern, but here he was, witnessing a side of the King he had never imagined.

"Your Majesty, I won't forget this kindness. I'll make the most of the knowledge you share with me," Elias said, his voice steady with determination.

Elias, feeling an unexpected surge of confidence, blurted out, "Your Majesty, would it be too bold of me to ask if I could braid your hair?" His eyes sparkled with a mix of excitement and a hint of mischief.

The King's eyebrows raised in surprise at the unexpected request. He was taken aback for a moment, considering the implications of such an intimate act. But then, as he met Elias's gaze, those captivating ocean blue eyes filled with anticipation and curiosity, Kaiser found himself unable to resist.

A faint smile tugged at the corners of his lips, and he replied, "Well, Elias, that is an unusual request, but I suppose I could let you this once. But I warn you, I have quite a lot of hair."

Elias couldn't hide his delight as he nodded eagerly, "Thank you, Your Majesty! I promise I'll be gentle." His excitement was palpable, and the prospect of braiding the King's hair filled him with a sense of joy he hadn't expected.

Kaiser leaned back slightly in his chair, giving Elias the space to approach. With a graceful and fluid movement, he loosened his long, ebony hair, allowing it to cascade down his back like a waterfall of silk. He was accustomed to having his hair styled and cared for by servants, but this was an entirely different experience.

Elias moved closer, his fingers trembling with a mix of nerves and excitement. As he began to carefully braid the King's hair, he couldn't help but feel a sense of intimacy and connection that went beyond their roles as the King and the commoner. The soft, ebony strands slipped through his fingers, and he marveled at their silky texture.

The King sat in silence, his eyes occasionally closing in quiet relaxation as Elias continued his work. The atmosphere in the room shifted, becoming more intimate and personal, and Elias cherished every moment of it.

As the braid took shape, Elias couldn't help but glance up at the King, their eyes meeting for a brief, tender moment. It was a silent exchange of understanding, a connection that transcended words. And in that moment, Elias felt closer to the King than he had ever dared to hope.

He's like a puppy. Kaiser thought.

The comparison made him chuckle softly under his breath, though he did so with an affectionate smile. Elias's genuine enthusiasm and the endearing way he sought to please the King tugged at Kaiser's heartstrings. It was a rare and cherished moment of connection, one that allowed them to momentarily set aside the formalities and walls that usually separated a king from his subjects.

Kaiser felt Elias's hands move deftly through his hair, appreciating the care and attention he put into each braid. It was a simple act, yet it held a profound significance for both of them. It was a testament to their unique bond, a bond that transcended their respective roles and positions.

As the last braid was finished, Elias stepped back, a look of satisfaction and pride on his face. He had successfully braided the King's hair, and he couldn't have been happier with the result. It was a small achievement, but it felt like a victory to him.

Kaiser turned his head slightly to examine his braided hair in a mirror nearby, nodding in approval, "You did a fine job, Elias," he remarked, his voice warm and appreciative, "Perhaps you have a future as a hairstylist."

Elias blushed at the compliment, feeling a rush of pride at having pleased the King, "Thank you, Your Majesty. It was an honor to braid your hair."

The King smiled, his eyes holding a softness that was rarely seen by others, "The honor was mine, Elias," he replied, his tone sincere, "Thank you for this moment."

It was a waste that there's no flower or anything to be tucked behind the King's ear, he would absolutely look very pretty alongside that braided hair. Elias tsk'ed in the thought of it. Instead, he lowered his head and tucked the King's loosened hair strand behind his ear.

Then, his eyes averted to the King's desk and noticed a single rose in a vase, since when did the King start to learn to decorate his desk? Really, there's more that Elias awaits to meet the King's side. 

Elias's heart skipped a beat as he recognized the single rose in the vase on the King's desk. The vivid crimson petals were a stark contrast against the muted tones of the room, capturing his attention like a beacon in the darkness. His mind raced back to the night of the ball, to the moment when he had gathered his courage and offered the rose to the King.

A rush of emotions washed over him – embarrassment, nostalgia, and a strange sense of hope. The fact that the King had kept the rose, even days after the event, sent a warm flutter through Elias's chest. Could it mean something? Was it just a mere keepsake, or did it carry a deeper significance?

His eyes met the King's, seeking answers in those depths of ocean blue. But Kaiser's expression remained unreadable, his features composed in that regal mask Elias had come to know so well.

Instead of asking, Elias gently tucked a loose strand of hair behind the King's hair, his blush deepened. He couldn't help but notice the pleasant scent that surrounded the King, a scent that was both subtle and intoxicating. It was a scent that seemed to cling to the King's skin, making Elias's heart race and his thoughts turn feral.

HE SMELL SO DAMN GOOD, I WILL CRY. 

Elias couldn't help but think, his inner thoughts verging on the edge of sheer infatuation. The proximity to the King, the shared intimacy of the moment, it was all overwhelming in the most delightful way.

Elias's fingers lingered for a moment longer than necessary, his touch feather-light. He marveled at the softness of the King's skin beneath his fingertips, the warmth that radiated from his body. It was a sensation he never wanted to end.

But as reality began to creep back in, Elias reluctantly withdrew his hand, trying to mask his flushed cheeks with a bashful smile, "There, Your Majesty," he said softly, "Your hair is perfect now."

The King's eyes met Elias's, and for a moment, a wave of longing washed over him. He wished, more than anything, that the King could see beyond their friendship, that he could understand the depth of Elias's feelings. It wasn't just admiration or affection; it was love, a love that had grown steadily over time.

He yearned to reach out and cup the King's cheeks, to lean in and press their lips together in a sweet, stolen kiss. But he knew the consequences of such a bold move, and the risk was too great. Their love, if it could even be called that, existed in the shadows, a silent and unspoken truth that bound them together.

The reality was harsh and unforgiving. Elias was a commoner, and Kaiser was a king. Their worlds were impossibly far apart, and the idea of them being anything more than friends was laughable to society. Elias would be ridiculed, scorned, and likely imprisoned if he dared to pursue such a love.

So, he swallowed his desires, pushing them down deep inside, where they could fester and torment him in silence. He couldn't confess his feelings to the King, not when it could jeopardize everything they had. Instead, he would continue to treasure their moments together, their stolen glances and shared smiles, knowing that it was the closest he could ever get to the love he so desperately craved.

With a heavy heart, Elias averted his gaze, breaking the intense connection between them. He couldn't bear to linger on his unrequited love any longer, not when it brought him nothing but pain. So, he forced a smile, masking his inner turmoil, and spoke softly.

"Thank you for allowing me to braid your hair, Your Majesty," he said, his voice tinged with a hint of sadness, "It was an honor."

The King nodded in appreciation, and his thoughts were preoccupied by the gesture. There he goes with the double meaning gestures, his mind was influenced deeply by their culture, he couldn't just brush it away. 

'Tucking a Hair Behind the Ear' is a way for individuals to express their love and affection without words. It conveys a silent understanding and a bond that goes beyond spoken language.

Within romantic relationships, this gesture is an intimate and romantic act. It's a way for couples to express their deep love and desire for one another, often exchanged in moments of closeness and affection. Yet again, this kid is clueless to their culture. 

At that moment, Kaiser couldn't help but wonder if Elias understood the depth of the gesture he had just made. Did he know that 'tucking a hair behind the ear' was often reserved for romantic relationships, a way for couples to express their deep love and desire for each other? Or was it simply a gesture of kindness and friendship in Elias's eyes?

The King's thoughts were a whirlwind of curiosity, but he knew better than to assume anything. Elias had always been a bit of an enigma to him, a young man with hidden depths and a unique perspective on the world. Perhaps this was simply another aspect of his personality that Kaiser had yet to fully grasp.

Elias was back to his seat, arranging his papers and the King's scratch papers. He thought that keeping the King's solving solutions is a great note for the lesson, so he's planning to transfer it to his notebook. As he arrange his things, a thought popped up in his mind, "Your Majesty," he started, "Mid-autumn is near, have you heard of Lysanthal's Twilight Reverie?"

The King cocked his eyebrow, "What's that?"

"Actually, I do not know it either, Your Majesty," He replied with a small chuckle, "But I heard, it was a festival held during the waning days of autumn, typically on the night of the crescent moon in the 8th month of the Lysanthal calendar." 

"What's this 'Lysanthal' first?" the King furrowed his brow, thinking this is a new word for him.

"..I don't know Your Majesty, do you think you have a book about this? I only know it's a clan." 

The King pondered for a moment before replying, "A clan? That's very interesting, Elias. I do not recall ever hearing of a clan called Lysanthal. However, I will certainly look into it."

Kaiser rose from his chair and made his way to a nearby bookshelf, where an array of volumes on history, culture, and traditions were neatly arranged. He began to search through the books, hoping to find some information about Lysanthal's Twilight Reverie.

As he scanned the titles and pulled out a few volumes, he couldn't help but wonder what kind of festival it was and what significance it held for the Lysanthal clan. It was moments like these, when he delved into the rich tapestry of his kingdom's history, that Kaiser felt a deep connection to his people and their heritage.

After a few minutes of searching, the King finally found a book that seemed promising. It was an old tome with worn pages and a faded cover, there was no title or anything, just the cover itself and worn pages. 

Elias's attention switched to the old tome in the King's hand; he actually didn't expect that he would have a book about it. The King returned to his seat and opened the book with Elias beside him. The first pages are all blank, the papers are literally old, as if they're hundreds of years old or less.

Upon flipping a new page, there's a cursive handwriting that Kaiser could understand, except Elias. Elias's bows furrowed as he tried to read the handwriting. 

Kaiser's eyes scanned the cursive handwriting on the old page, his brows furrowing slightly as he deciphered the elegant script. Beside him, Elias leaned in, his curiosity piqued, although he struggled to make sense of the ancient writing.

"The Lysanthal Clan," Kaiser began, his voice steady as he read aloud the words on the page, "They are a reclusive and enigmatic group, known for their unique physical attributes and intellect."

Elias listened intently, his eyes fixed on the King as he continued reading the passage. The room was filled with a hushed reverence, as if the very air acknowledged the importance of the words being shared.

"Their lavender-colored eyes are a mark of their connection to the natural world and their heightened intuition," Kaiser continued, his voice holding a certain fascination, "And their raven-black hair symbolizes their unity and shared heritage."

As the King spoke, Elias couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder. Then, his azure eyes were once again fixated on the King. The book seemed to.. describe the King's features…? 

"They're considered seers and visionaries," Kaiser read on, his eyes glancing toward Elias, "with an uncanny ability to perceive hidden truths and foresee events. It's a gift integral to their decision-making and guidance."

Kaiser felt a shiver run down his spine at the notion of such mystical abilities, as if he felt that this notion is connected to his, but the idea of a clan possessing such foresight and wisdom seemed almost magical, like a tale spun from the pages of an epic.

"The Lysanthal Clan practices alchemy," Kaiser continued, "creating remedies, elixirs, and artifacts with mystical properties."

Elias's eyes widened with intrigue. Alchemy was a subject that fascinated him, and the prospect of a clan mastering such ancient arts was enthralling. "The clan isolates itself," The King read the final lines, "living in hidden settlements deep within lush forests, seldom seen by outsiders."

The room fell into a thoughtful silence as the words hung in the air.

The King closed the tome and looked at Elias, "If the Lysanthal Clan isolates themselves in the lust forests, how did you know about their festival?" 

—

NAPPEN'S EXTRAS:

Kaiser: Nappen, what is it this time?

Nappen: [trimming nails] What is what?

Kaiser: [sternly] Lysanthal Clan.

Nappen: Oh! [Chuckles] I.. A plot.

Kaiser: A plot? How does it connected to the story itself?

Nappen: [mischievously] You'll see.

Kaiser: [Face turned in disdain] Can you stop?

Kaiser: We're just getting to the exciting part.