The council obliged and luckily there were many veterans who weren't going to take part in the competition and who wanted to help the neighbouring Kingdom.

“Don’t forget to send us any sort of message or at least any way of communication at least once a week once you settle down there eh?” Aeson told Ian.

“Or else I might get worried and trash the competition just to reach you out.” I chided.

After the hugs and kisses, Ian left trailing many people who followed him. We decided on the way, he should send some people to patrol around the countryside near the big mass of water. Just to see if any of the Vortigen army was docking around there.

Aeson and I went back to the palace. I turned around, facing Aeson.

“So….. what are you going to do?” I asked.

“Well, do the usual and make sure that I handle society so that I can go.” he stopped for a moment thinking. “Ah, that's right. I have a question!”

“Yes, what is it?” I said, curious.

“Well, you see, I got a proposal from Ms. Hannah, daughter of the Marquess.” He clearly looked embarrassed, which I could relate to. I guess we were both suckers for romance.

I managed to keep a straight face.

“I see. So, what are you going to do?” I tried to not add any awkward-ness into my words.

“Well, won't it be rude to just decline? But to be honest I haven’t really hung out with her so..”

I pondered. It seemed like Aeson was really flustered but did he actually like her? Now I was able to easily change their fate by saying ‘Don't hang out with her, she doesn't really love men, there's a better match for her and a better match for you too’ or turning a blind eye and watching things unfold. Besides, if this was a novel, they would just be an extra….. But….

“How about you invite her to my tea party? I was planning to host one anyways, since the Choud kids insisted.”

“Really? Then that will be nice!” Aeson smiled.

“Well then, I’ll see you at dinner.” I said. I walked back to my room.

.

It was still Julio the 8th…. In two more months, things would get busier or rather, explode with busyness.

Talking about events, I realized I totally forgot about my brother’s birthdays! It already passed around a month ago. I wondered why I didn't notice. Guilt weighed my shoulders down. Maybe my brothers didn't care a lot, but I minded. This was only once a year where we can celebrate personally, a party or a day just for you. I should definitely buy them a gift.

“Hey Sara?” I called.

“Yes, Your Highness?”

“Prepare a carriage. I’m going out.” I said, wrapping up the paperwork. “Wait actually, not a carriage. Just bring me a horse and a few knights to patrol around the capital.”

“Right away.” She left.

I quickly brought out a small pouch and stuffed some money. I had to move quickly before Aeson found out and started insisting that I should bring more knights. Or maybe, just a slight, maybe he might go with me making a weird excuse of why he goes with me. I ran outside.

I stared at the sword I held. It had a nice edge to it, probably can cut a tree in half, but it didn’t spark joy*. Plus it was expensive. I should browse other shops.

CLANG CLANG

The square was bustling with people. People here for business. I walked towards the center fountain and tripped. I must’ve been tired after riding the horse at top speed. I looked around. The knights were wary of me, taking occasional glances but I didn't mind.

Now, let's find the last shop…… A secret shop only real swordsmanship people go.