Chapter 3: The way out

The next morning, Yohan reported to the office for his first assignment. The wooden floor creaked behind his footsteps. Then, the silence set in. He raised his arm and knocked his knuckles against the door. 

"Please enter," A voice from inside projected permission.

"Excuse me," twisting the knob, he entered the office.

A figure stood at the side of the long wooden desk, her fingers lightly moving the top papers aside. She lifted her head and tucked her lilac hair behind her ears, greeting Yohan.

"Good morning Yohan. I'm Gara, the manager of extended collaboration and resources. Please take a seat." 

Yohan sat at the dark-red leather sofa, observing his surroundings. The forested green wallpapers complimented the Black Walnut wood furniture, creating a cosy, luxurious space. The warm light lamp at the table desk lighted the meticulous arrangement of papers and pens, giving an aesthetically pleasant feeling.

An aroma of earthly tea filled the room, with the clanking sound of teaspoon and cups, Gara poured the hot water into the cup and brought the tray over to the coffee table.

"Here, have some Iris Tea."

Holding onto the ceramic cup, the cardamom smell wafted through the room.

"This is from the South right?" Yohan asked.

"Oh you're well versed in tea?"

"Not really. I had a chance to be introduced to it by a street vendor."

Yohan delicately held the teacup as he took a few sips to test the temperature. It had an aromatic, flowery taste, leaving a melty sweet nectar aftertaste.

Placing the cup down, he pulled the document out and a ticket fell to the ground at the corner of his eyes. He immediately bent down and picked the ticket, flipping over to see a familiar printed emblazoned symbol. 

'All Aboard! You Are Invited To A Party. 

For Mr Yohan

Date: 19th Vanir in the Year of Equilibrium 

Time: 9 a.m.

Location: Vidar, Vine

Yours Sincerely, The Orient Express.'

'The Orient Express? Is this a vacation?'

Yohan jokingly thought, remembering the resemblance between his past life.

In his past life, The Orient Express was a luxurious sleeping car with utmost accommodation to passengers' comfort. It stretched across Paris to Istanbul in Europe and it costs more than a thousand euros for a train ride. However, it was justifiable. It was extraordinary in its indulgence of the rich experience of a nobleman back in the 19th century or the historical significance the carriages provide.

He didn't expect it to be reflected in the game world, proving the connection and inspiration taken from the real world.

"I heard from Owen that you want to be posted to Ordin Guild right? So your first assignment is to deliver a collaboration letter to Duke Vidar, who resided at Vines. Since it is privately owned land, only renowned train services could operate there. Hence, The Guild has offered to cover all the travelling and living expenses. This includes your stay at Duke Vidar's mansion for a year-long contract." Gara explained. 

"You should have a read through the content. If there's no further questions, please sign here."

Vines was well known for their grape wines, earning a reputable icon. Duke Vidar wished to expand his wine business towards affluent nobles, and utilise The Guild's delivery service to deliver wines for tasting. This benefitted The Guild to extend its sphere of influence of its extended service, providing a more inclusive image. 

"More information about your job will be given once you reach Vines. For the time being before your trip, you can prepare the essential things and finalise your business here in New Eternal. Owen will oversee the rest." Gara informed him.

Nodding his head, he grabbed the fountain pen and signed his name across the beige paper. After confirming the details, Gara dismissed Yohan.

Walking down the stairs, he met Owen.

Wrapping the bandages around his hand, he pulled Yohan's arm and asked, "Yohan, are you going to the training area?"

"Yes, and what happened to your hand?" 

"There was an explosion at the training area. Apparently, some Calibre residue was left uncleared and erupted," Owen sighed.

"Usually The Cleaner Crew will thoroughly clean the training areas after the day, but, I guessed some was overlooked. Anyways, I'm fine, it's just a scorch mark. I'm heading upstairs to get it healed. Just letting know it's no longer in use" Owen shrugged.

"You can kill time at Times Square. I heard there are performances and activities to do. Maybe check out the food stalls for lunch, since today's your day off."

"Thank you, please rest well."

Returning back to his room, he took his bag and left for Time Square. Walking along the fabled bazaars, the herb-aromatic stalls filled the air as the people haggle the price. The colourful flowers of carnations and roses caught the people's attention, crowding to wipe out the stock in preparation of the coronation ceremony. A faraway music strolled into the atmosphere, heightening the festive spirit.

Closer, people were seen twirling around and singing, their shoes clicked and tapped, creating a harmonious symphony. Once it ended, the drinkers at the taverns clapped proudly, whistling while chatting the newest news. 

Rows of flowers were displayed at the stall, mainly carnations because it meant celebration. Most importantly, the citizens regard its warm tone colours as the sun hence it was a perfect symbol of the royal family. Yohan decided to get himself a bouquet of flowers and picked a few stems from the buckets when he noticed a corner of blooming white hydrangeas.

Thoughtlessly, he picked the hydrangeas and mixed them into his batch of carnations. The owner realised this and stopped him.

"Sorry sir, these are leftover hydrangeas. They're not meant for the celebration," the owner informed him.

Gazing at the hydrangeas, he asked, "Are there any other colours?" 

"Unfortunately, the others are out of stock."

"Then, I will have this wrapped up."

"Together? You sure?" The owner raised his eyebrows in confusion. 

"Yes," Yohan reconfirmed, looking at the odd mix of white hydrangeas and orange carnations reminded him of one of the sunsets. 

— — —

It was an ephemeral moment. Holding a watering can, the flowers in the Obsidian's palace twinkled under the sun. Laurent hummed a melody, enjoying his hobby of gardening. He wore a simple white shirt with sleeves rolled up and black trousers, his hair leisurely flowing with the wind. On his way to report his duties, Yohan stopped and turned to find a flattering smile in his direction. 

Approaching His Highness, who was bending down, he pulled Yohan's arm to his eye level; they closely inspected the imperfect white hydrangeas. They clustered and expanded beyond the view, brightly tamed and free.

Laurent's fingers touched the petals and shared. "These suit you the best."

Yohan watched him lovingly teasing the water droplets, dewing the wet soil.

Intrigued, Yohan asked. "Is this your favourite flower?"

"Mhm, they're bundled like balls, which is very cute." He complimented its nature.

"I have received many flowers that represent the warm tones of the sun. Contrary to belief, the sun is actually white, which is my personal favourite colour." He let out a small laugh.

"Then, what's your favourite flower?"

Yohan took a while to think, unable to answer. He only knew popular flowers, but he didn't have any thoughts about their beauty.

"I don't know a lot about flowers," he frankly responded. 

"Is that so? Why not meet me here after your report? I can bring you around and explain the various plant species planted in my personal garden. I always wanted to share my ethnobotany," Laurent chuckled.

Seeing the genuine happiness on his face, Yohan agreed to his arrangement. 

———

"Yohan? Earth to Yohan? Hello?" A worried voice resounded in his mind.

Opening his eyes, the headache resided, facing an ashen grey hair contrasted by his tan skin, waving his hand while holding the barbecue skewer he bought for Owen. 

"Is everything alright? The weather now is getting hotter and hotter, so please drink more water," Owen flapped his hand.

Yohan sluggishly placed his chin on his palm, his eyes drifting to the side.

"Nothing. I'm just restless about the appearance of the second prince. It has been the talk of the town with many guessing his looks." 

"True, what do you think he will look like?"

"The sun."

"Other than that, of course. He is part of the bloodline of the Sun God," Owen responded matter-of-factly.

"No, I mean it literally. Once you get a glance of him tomorrow, you'll get what I mean."

"You sound sure about that," Owen pointed out.

"… you won't believe how otherworldly he is."

"Right, you sound like those hopeless romantic maidens fantasising the prince's look. Imagine he is just an average human," Owen joked.

The remaining time was filled with filler, incessant chattering till the early morning of the 18th Vanir.

The excited citizens gathered and occupied their spots at the palace parade, trying to get a closer look at the royal family. Anticipating the moment when the second prince would officially show his face for the first time.

Carrying his bouquet, Yohan met up with the trio and Owen. 

"I'm still loyal to the crown prince. He had been making an effort to address the public's concerns and  opinions. Even though he was not born a scholar, he has the experience under his belt!" Gerald rumbled.

"Nah, I'm sure the second prince is a dark horse. He must have his reason for not outshining the crown prince. After all, he hasn't been crowned yet, but people naturally called him the crown prince due to him being the eldest," Herrace refuted. 

"Do you think a drama will stir up? What if the second prince is crowned instead?" Elliot asked, eating his sandwich along the way.

In front of them was a massive crowd, gathering like bees to a hive.

The buzzing noises gradually increased as the sun rose. Squeezing their way through, they stood shoulder to shoulder, with a competition of heights to get a wider view of the palace's balcony. 

"Hey Yohan, do you want to switch places with me?" Elliot offered, seeing Yohan being blocked by a head taller man in front of him.

"It's okay," Yohan kindly turned off the offer, staring directly at the man's back. He did it intentionally— not because he wasn't interested but he didn't want to be seen.

Although he was within millions of people and no one could recognise him, he didn't know how he would react when he saw Laurent.

Ten years together wasn't a short period, that was a decade of understanding each others' complexity. It only boiled down to this moment where they reconciled; but only he remembered their time together.

It was lonely and deserved. 

Yohan knew it was difficult to meet old faces, those he shared, taught and experienced with. He decided to leave them behind in this lifetime, so that they walked a different path— one without him.

His thoughts were interrupted by trumpets blowing loudly, signalling the start of the coronation ceremony. Everyone quietened down their voices, their heads uniformly raised towards the balcony. Speeches were made with ceremonial marches. The new recruits strided in, holding the imperial flag of Eir. The white horses stomped majestically alongside the professional knights, marching and reciting the commands perfectly. Yohan moved slightly enough to spot familiar faces. 

As expected, the arrangement of the recruits didn't change.

In the second row and second column stood the famous twins: Elosie and Elio. They were exceptional physical enhancers. Elosie mainly buffed stamina and Elio applied durability on weapons, customised to the weapon users' strength.

A few rows down was Sorelle. She had a unique ability to create barriers, acting as a defence shield and imprisoned attackers. Her walls have a set of properties and neutralise or rebound Calibre within its inner walls.

Next to Sorelle was supposed to be Yohan, if he had joined the Imperial Knights. However, the spot was left empty with no replacement. Even though it was strange, he dismissed it as an act of respect to the unfortunate recruit who couldn't participate in the event.

Standing at the front, the polished badge shined as Nathan was dressed in a different attire. It had appeared that he successfully joined the Imperial Knight and was promoted to the commander of a division. Feeling proud that he successfully changed one variable different from his previous life.

Letting out a small sigh of relief, he was glad that his friends were still in the Imperial Knights, thriving to serve. 

After the military march, the pope stood forth and addressed the crowd in his empowering speech. 

"Shall the sun shine eternal and bless our souls! Let it shed and eject, absorbed by the chosen one who shall lead the Empire of Eir to glory and divinity!"

The crowd applauded and cheered, throwing petals and whistles. Yohan uncovered his hood to have a clear view. His heart pumped with adrenaline, almost as if it could jump out his chest anytime. The throbbing sensation was felt in his throat as he anxiously watched. 

The door opened and the esteemed royal family stepped out, waving their hands.

However, the crowd died down. Only the sharp inhalation of air could be heard, most of them stoned and rooted to the ground. 

One by one, they dropped onto their knees with noises of realisation of what they had seen.

Adorned with golden ornaments, his tailored white coat clasped with emeralds— signifying his respective eye colour. The exquisite cape draped over his right shoulder, exposing the delicate design of golden linings, swirled rhythmically across his body. It hugged his proportions, outlining his fit-figure prominently. His slicked faded hair, sharpened his defined facial features.

Clad in stellar radiance, his colours reflected the parable of the sun; his eyes shine brilliantly, like a crystal chalice. Rays of divinity streaked the sky, captivating the devout crowd— beholding the unparalleled beauty in their gazes.

They stretched and reached their arms, desperately grasping the fleeting incarnation of the Sun God. There he stood, magnificently above the rest— Laurent Carlos La Eir. 

"No wonder he never shows his face!"

"Is he even real? Oh my days!"

"He's the embodiment of our light! Everyone who's here to witness will be blessed for life!!"

The praises among the people grew louder and louder. Some felt a dawning moment of his worldly presence, tears streamed down their faces, while others found it difficult to deny that it transcended their faiths. He alone was enough to convince them that the sun descended physically before their eyes.

Standing amongst the enchanted masses, Yohan flipped his hood over and lowered his head to a degree that was enough to see Laurent.

Once, the sun saw the vanity darkness. The brilliant light it emitted gave the darkness a meaning to reason its existence. In its nature, the indelible void enshrouded the sun, slowly overshadowing its light. 

Yet, the sun embraced it. Soon, the world plunged into total obscurity— where the sun can no longer be seen in the chasm of nothingness. 

However, the gods gave them a chance. Reverting back to the past, they were found the furthest away from each other. 

As it should be.

If Yohan represented the darkness, he understood his standing after experiencing the gravity of his desire. Watching from afar, he handed his bouquet to a ragged mother who was praying wholeheartedly. Her child, curious of her mother's action, pulled her clothes to no response.

Not to interrupt her prayers, Yohan placed the bouquet in front of the mother, who didn't move an inch. Hanging her head low, her body trembled and the ground absorbed her falling tears. Grabbing the bouquet, she hugged it tightly like a baby. The child next to her poked her fingers through the petals, lightly fiddling it. She broke into a smile and told her mother.

"These flowers fit the Sun the most!"

Yohan's eyes widened in surprise. Before the girl could continue to thank him, he placed his index finger to his lips, gesturing a silent sign.

After a while, the mother wished to express her gratitude. Lifting her head, she found no one was near her except her child. Patting her head, she asked her child who was the kind stranger who gave the bouquet. The child cheekily hugged her mother and snuggled her head between the flowers and her body, shaking her head. 

"That… That…" Gerald shuttered, his knees gave up and his body dropped. Caught off guard, Elliot and Herrace quickly supported his slumping body.

"What's wrong?" Elliot asked.

"No way… He should have kept his face hidden. His Highness's presence literally wiped out all my memories of the first prince! Oh no, I can't remember how he looks!"

"I wish I could say you're overreacting but no one can justify that," Herrace sobbed. 

"Stop! You're so ugly when you cry," Gerald said while hiccuping, unable to recover from the shock of his life.

Yohan stared at them, covering his face in embarrassment. A hand from behind pressed his shoulder, his  arm covered his eyes as he admitted. 

"I take back my words. Whatever you say about him being otherworldly is an understatement! Holy..."

Yohan arched his eyebrow in concern. He faced Laurent's face for over a decade, but he had never reacted this extreme. However, he agreed that Laurent had a bewitching charm.

Finally getting a proper sight of the balcony, he noticed Laurent's eyes busily scanning around, placing his gloved hand on the railing.

Underneath his friendly smile, his eyes glared at the hypnotised crowd as if searching for a person.

Suddenly his eyes locked in with Yohan's, sending numbing heat down his back. He instantly avoided eye contact and focused on his companions on the ground. Ignoring the attention from the balcony, he distracted himself and assisted Gerald. Then, he proposed to leave for fresh air.

Walking down to a nearby tavern, the group sat down and ordered excess mugs more than a person needed to drink.

"Ah! So refreshing. I thought eyes got blinded," Herrace laughed.

"Man, we still have to watch the ceremony. At this point, the second prince might as well take the crown!" Gerald exclaimed. 

Yohan gripped the handle and drank hurriedly. 

'I never thought of this day when Laurent will be the crown pince. That's a big change.'

He knew Laurent enough that he never intended to be involved in politics. It was already proven in his previous life. Hence, the sudden change of the crown prince might lead to a new future path he couldn't predict.

This caused him great anxiety and nervousness.

He thought what would change was within him, and not the whole history of the Empire of Eir. Although he had yet to be involved with the storyline, the world seemed to deviate itself from its designed setting.

"So when is the ceremony?" Owen asked. 

"Around 11? Don't worry, we can just sit here and watch the nearest broadcast screen," Gerald replied. 

Just as he said, a flick appeared and a screen expanded. Everyone immediately stopped and their eyes glued to the screen. There, the most beloved face of the Empire walked along the red carpet in his heavy velvet cape.  

"No way, it's really him!" 

"But wait dear. Isn't it supposed to be the first prince regardless of achievement?"

"You have a point. Speaking of that, I didn't see the first prince anywhere on the balcony!"

"Well, it's the official appearance of the second prince so he doesn't need to be there," the woman justified. 

The couple next to their table watched keenly, whispering among themselves. Yohan had happened to eavesdrop and realised a fact.

Skipping a monarch to crown the second-in-line heir to the throne was unusual. He knew the Empire of Eir was very traditional about their laws, so why was this occasion made special?

There were two reasons. Either the first prince is severely ill, or the first prince was abdicated.

At that moment, it dawned on Yohan.

It was an undesired realisation that he didn't want to admit. However, with the various changing factors revolving around that man, could it be possible that he…

'No way. That's not possible,' Yohan shut his thoughts.

On the screen, Laurent kneeled and received the crown named 'Solas Ventus'. Placing replicas on his hand, he vowed to the Empire of Eir that he would lead them closer to victory. 

His charismatic speech echoed through the quiet streets. After he ended his speech, everyone bursted into thunderous applause. 

All the remaining citizens came out to the streets, crowding the path where the royal family would wave in their carriages, receiving gifts and praises.

Pushing the chair out, Yohan placed his hand over his forehead.

"I wished to join but I feel a bit light headed," Yohan lied. "Since I have given away my bouquet , I will excuse myself."

Back in his room, he laid out his clothes and packed everything into a briefcase. Grabbing the unsealed document, the Orient Express ticket slipped out. Riding with the wind to the opened window, Yohan leaped onto his bed and catched it midair. 

Exhausted, his body collapsed onto the bed. 

Sinking into a cotton-like material, it wrapped his entirety, darkening his world.