Draft

Once upon a time, there lived a gorgeous crown prince who possessed everything one was to wish for in a lifetime far in the distant continent of Serene where peace was unvarnished to its population.

Born as the eldest successor to the imperial empire throne of Yulbrecht, he lives with a silver spoon in his mouth lacking nothing nor anything or so they denoted.

His incessant unconquerable visual entranced both sexes, alluring them into his illusional captivity. None would persist truce as one shall be flustered in daze bafflingly at the sight of the royal prince.

His lustrous long hair of the fairest shade of pure gold slightly curly voiced dignifiedly the royal crown he bears on his slender shoulder. Deep passionate amethyst with a hint of arctic blue-tinted eyes with long fluttering eyelashes. Smooth delicate pale skin whiter than melting snows.

Scarlet red lips the tone of blood enunciating graces stolen the limelight among aristocrats became the most sought bachelor among his peers. A trademark beauty that jostled others in vague.

He is the honourable crown prince of Yulbrecht often moniker as the emblem of elegance and dignity, Crown Prince Icarus Eleazer Augustine de Cyrillus Yulbrecht. A title distinguished for shouldering the honour of the empire.

***

The dazzling sunshine shone through the huge glass pane, accentuating the royal silhouettes lounging on his seat with hands moving rapidly from papers to papers while placidly planting his signature.

By nature quest, he was occupied in his suite attended by his accompaniment.

The young crown prince's daily life revolved around the obligation he managed, and his focus is something refined throughout years of authorizing his ensign and verifying official documents.

The wonder of laying inside his chamber, lazing all day oblivious to the notion of works itself is far fetched and laughable.

Though, that feasibly is possible if he wasn't the crown prince of the great empire that functioned through the accomplishments of its leading people.

“Your Royal Highness, the letters from the noble house of Emerson arrived just now.”

Icarus's attendant, his personal maid Carabelle bows, drop a curtsy as she handed the splendidly decorated letter that fiddled by the apparent insight of the contain.

Talk about the beauty of those externally and unsightly internally, a perfect depiction of the addresser.

Responding to the call of his name, his noble hand paused on inscribing and laid down the feathery pen onto the white table.

“Barony of Emerson. Ought to be regarding his unprofitable salon shrieking for auspices.” Nonchalantly, Icarus reasoned the letter simply by scrutinising the five pages crowded with superfluous flattery and adornment on the advanced report.

If he was, to be frank, he would have had the letter thrown into the trash undeviatingly even before his hands reached it. By best, the trashes would evermore belong with other trashes.

The baron is going overboard with his unconditional pleads of ‘economical’ supports when his salons had nevermore to reach their pre-requested aims at accomplishing their sales. He sleazily breached the contract while still aiming to fool others into providing him with more commodity forehand. A gluttonous character not knowing when to halt.

Does he really desire to be beheaded by him as a stop sign in his small marbles? Icarus gently massaged his throbbing temple lightly, sensing another headache coming from the thought of reading the letters alone.

“Ezra.”

A figure in his complete armour of ebony knelt on the floor after emerging out of the thin air.

He is dressed in a thick protection garment without a slight discomfort showing on his expression although those pile of armours is heavier than his weight with no sweat shed as his unwavering eyes fixed down obediently.

The other on-duty maidservants no longer are intimidated by his impromptu arrival, keeping in mind the fellow was His Royal Highness's personal guarding knight.

“I under your summon hereby am to attend to your service, Your Royal Highness,” he stated without moving his eyes nor his body.

“Ezra, narrate me through your genuine belief. Would you publicly ashamed one out of sheer annoyance or would you clandestinely had his crops stripped out of rampant animosity?”

Icarus's words are puzzlingly complex, enlightening his natural offhand knacks in braiding his words into a twist.

Nevertheless, if one was to listen attentively, they would soon figure his actual meanings. He is talking about the proper way to handle the farcical baron who beyond doubt had struck a nerve of the prince.

The servants writhed into a ball, evading their eye contacts as if being muted out spontaneously as soon as the prince's facial darkened.

“In all honesty, I would privately have his crops stolen, Your Royal Highness. To exhibit one's annoyance in public of this predicament is not a particularly good move as it concurrently unfolds a broad chance for a counterattack. In my opinion, the public image is much predominant rather than hasty fury.”

The knight unflappable disclosures without intent engrossed the worker with the conception of the crown prince's interest.

This daily occurrence dawn one speechless, almost flabbergasted as they normally had a laborious time coming up with a clarification and answer for Icarus's question despite been serving him for a long time.

They would break into sweat tons, attempting to please the prince with a decent response that he desires to hear as no one would dare to incur the wrath of the crown prince's whose hands is draped in trickling red blood from mercilessly defeating his adversaries, the other candidates that are reckoned to be his step-siblings.

Throne fight typically exists in every royal family and that applied to the imperial empire too.

Naturally, the subject had nevermore been brought up to the light so no one truly apprehends the truth behind the fleeting rumours of their magnificent crown prince.

They however can validate that the prince is relentless and unyielding when it came to serving him. That is owing to the first greetings expressed by their employer which is;

"Generally, I wasn't allowed to kill the servants at wishes but that doesn't mean that it's necessary to stick to the rules if they thread the wrong route," he warned them with eyes radiating of apathy if looks could kill the servants would positively be slaughtered on point.

That prompted the attendants labouring under the crown prince shaking like a leaf, utterly scared to their wits ends.

Nonetheless, one will be guaranteed their survival if they obey his every command devotedly with utmost loyalty because he had no difficulty at slashing the throat of whom irritated him.

“It's a hassle to clean up after the commotion if I were to wield my swords anyhow. Perhaps... I should I remove him from his post soundlessly?" Icarus leaned back against his soft seat and start spinning the quill pen as his thoughts stray aimlessly in the realm farther than his hands could reach.

The further he coveted the scene for, the lesser his eyes were to behold the spectacle... what is buried distant in the faraway land for it to be called so? Splendacious? Peril?

"I won't agree less to whatever your decision is, Crown Prince Icarus," said the kneeling knight on his feet after processing the suggestion made by his lord, neither agreeing nor is disagreeing.

"I guess much... Although, I still ponder when will I be able to leap over this intoxicating endless loop? Breathtakingly lethal, lovely yet deadly,” muttered Icarus in a distant tone.

He shut his eyes only to be present with his memory... a nightmare he's yet to extinguish the fire, inflicting an impeccable source of dread in his heart as long as it lit.

A burning sentiment un-extinguished shielded by his elaborate predilection regardless of his meticulous attempts.

“Pardon my extrusion, Your Royal Highness. The emperor requests your presence in the nobility council of the judiciary.”

“I shall be there shortly. Sheila, would you bring me that?”

“Your command's my wish, Your Royal Highness.”

“Announcing, His Royal Highness, the honourable crown prince of the empire, Crown Prince Icarus Eleazer Augustine de Cyrillus Yulbrecht!!!”

“I gave my greeting to the sun of the empire Yulbrecht, Emperor of Yulbrecht.”

“Crown Prince Icarus, is it safe to presume that you have the solution for the Yushea kingdom situation?”

“I do, Your Majesty. Regardless, the Yushea kingdom itself is known for its dignity in dominating and sustaining equal trades. For them to authorize us to cross over part of their reign, an equal transition had to be offered in return. There only is one difficulty in it.”

“And what is that difficulty, crown prince?”

“The fair trade only is possible if the alliance between the two existed.

Based on my understanding, the empire and Yushea kingdom used to be on a good term until the recent news regarding the problem with the first prince of the kingdom. ”

“Go on. Clarified the details.”

“Yushea's first prince, Adalric Alastair Blaise de Yushea abode disapproval from his people due to his questionable reputation and multiple affairs resulting in dragging the royal family's name through the mud.

The king was anguished by the news and wished to betrothed his son in haste.”

“The quickest feasible way to mend the relationship would be either lousy support or nuptials. I proposed to Your Majesty that I, the crown prince and the first prince shall be betrothed as a symbol of the country alliance.”

“That implies for the long-awaited engagement of the people beloved crown prince. Prince Adalric is known for his arrogance, which doesn't sit well with you, the crown prince. For what reason are you getting a betrothal?”

“Simply enough, it is the quickest way to build an alliance between the two great reigning in the province. Additionally, a royal marriage will generate decent benefits for us. Do others have any query?”

“Excellent speech, Crown Prince Icarus. May I inquire about my predicament?”

“Very well, you may, Chancellor Geraldine.”

“Crown prince, as you might have figured, Prince Adalric is problematic to the core and might be hazardous to your reputation. That'll dishearten the others who waited for your brand engagement.

What would you do if some were to dismiss the idea of the betrothal?”

“Haha... That is hilarious, chancellor as I, have never been unable to usurp anything as my possessions the moment I laid my eyes on it. Fret not, as I have equipped the proper preparation if that is to transpire.”

“T-That is satisfactory then. I thanked your grace, Your Royal Highness.”

“My crown prince, accounting the confidence you exhibit, I reckoned that I'll have the issue with Yushea done soon.

I shall grant you full permission on this case and an approved personal excursion to the kingdom to deal with the proposals. I expect great results as always from your trip, the crown prince.”

“I'm deeply honoured and grateful for your insight, Your Majesty. If you may, I will be retiring from the council now.”

“Excuse me, Your Royal Highness. The emperor's imperial consort, His Majesty, summoned you to his royal pavilion glasshouse.”

“The news travelled fast in the Emperor's consort palace, I see. For His Majesty to send his personal guard literally tell me he's in a hurry, no?”

“Leave, I wouldn't want to add another person on my manslaughter lists unless you're inclined to?”

“I greet His Majesty, the emperor consort. For what reason is my appearance needed for, Your Majesty?”

“Crown Prince Icarus, why are you suddenly requesting a royal engagement from His Majesty? Did something happened?”

“It merely is a political engagement that I won't be able to avoid sooner or later. Besides, I'm elated to be able to choose my soon-to-be partner, Your Majesty.”

“Prince Icarus, are you certain of this proposal? With the prince of Yushea?”

“Aha, the skirt-chaser prince isn't the main concern. I sincerely suggested that Your Majesty laid back and relax since this had been approved by the emperor himself.”

“Icarus... ”

“It will be all right, father.”

“I wished you the best, my prince. Please take gentle care of yourself.”

“I will.”

***

“Your Highness! Breaking news!!!”

“What are you wagging your tails so eagerly for early in the morning?”

“You are engaged!!! Your Highness, the reputable casanova is going to get engaged!!!!”

“It looks like my reputation still soaring high, becoming the ladies desires.”

“No, no, no! Not some ladies from a noble house, it's the crown prince of Yulbrecht empire you're going to be betrothed to!”

*shatters*

“Say that again.”

“Umm... you're getting engaged with the crown prince of Yulbrecht politically?”

“Where did you hear that from, shorty?”

“Your Highness was slumbering at the time and His Majesty made a decree in the break of the dawn, announcing your betrothal and the union of the Yulbrecht empire and Yushea empire.”

“Eh? He's agreeing to it without even asking me? Did the empire sent a diplomat or an ambassador here?”

“I think it's the crown prince himself that shows up, making negotiations with His Majesty. Few maids over there keep chattering about the crown prince's beauty.”

“Prepare my royal attire. I'm going to greet His Majesty this instant.”

.

.

.

“Greetings to the emperor of Yushea, Your Majesty. I am Icarus Eleazer Augustine de Cyrillus Yulbrecht, the crown prince of the Yulbrecht empire. It's an honour to be present on this land of prosperity today.”

“My words, Crown Prince Yulbrecht. I receive information about the empire ambassador paying a visit to our kingdom yet I've never thought it would be the honourable crown prince to grant us his visit.”

“Like I asserted, Your Majesty. I would love to personally deal with our compromise myself as well as enjoying the beautiful scenery of this land. I believe it's my first time officially visiting the royal palace of Yushea.”

“Haha, as expected of the crown prince, brandishing your words wisely. I welcomed your arrival today to our land of prosperity. If so then, shall we began our endeavour today?”

***

“Announcing, the first prince, Prince Adalric Alastair Blaise de Yushea!!”

“I gave my greetings to Your Majesty, the emperor of Yushea.”

“Prince Adalric. It appears that the news of the royal verdict had reached your ears, am I right?”

“Yes. It questioned me why I am being offered as the engagement tools to the empire for the union without my acknowledgement. Would you care to clarify, Your Majesty?”

“The ambassador himself beseeched for your hand in marriage to the crown prince of the great empire, granting both reigning a political union.

Aside from that, I, the king have full control over your head, Prince Adalric who spent his time mooching over some unknown ladies. I ordered for you to find your partner yet you refused so I've decided that the request from the empire is a coincidental blessing.”

“Nonetheless, Your Majesty, wasn't it too cruel on me if I can't even have a peek of my own fiancé? I heard that the ambassador is the crown prince of the empire himself.”

“Unfortunately for you, prince. Crown Prince Icarus is occupied unlike you who lazed around all day. He is currently lounging by somewhere in the south and only will return late in the evening.”

“I see... then I shall withdraw now since it doesn't look like my sudden coming pleased you, Your Majesty.”

“You should've known better before barging in. You can go now... and remember not to offend the crown prince, understood?”

“Of course, who do you think I am?”

“An etiquette-less listless slacking prince, certainly.”

“That's excessively harsh, Your Majesty.”

***

“Icarus, I keep wondering what are we doing over here and you're just trying to eavesdrop on their conversation?”

“Essentially, yeah. Being the crown princess here certainly privilege you for stuff like this, huh?”

“Are you joking with me right now? Literally, said the crown prince.”

“Artemis, would you mellow out? It's not like we're going to be stealing something.”

“And why would we? Again, quoted by the crown prince. I can't believe that I'm squatting in my royal dress inelegantly alongside the empire's crown prince while eavesdropping to a confidential conversation.”

“Fine, already. Let's head to your palace then.”

“Now, tell me truthfully, Icarus. What are you getting engaged to my silly brother for? I thought you despise getting politically betrothed?”

“The kingdom coalition, we had to cross the border of your kingdom to a gemstone mine by the southeast on your kingdom pathway. Political marriage benefits both parties too, so yes...”

“Stop jesting, would you? Even a fool would know that the kingdom would permit a mere crossing solely by a letter of approval. What are you scheming this time?”

“Every so often, I despise that you are so keen at spotting the bait of pit, Crown Princess Artemis.”

“Likewise, Crown Prince Icarus. I'm genuinely moved.”

“Regardless, in the wonder of ulterior motives, I don't really have one... at least for now. Though, I do wish to solve the vexatious suitors and swiftly grasped enough authority over the empire with aid of my connections.”

“Icarus, if that isn't motives, I don't know what is. Also, I noticed that lately, you're being extra insatiable over the regime leverage unlike me who's pretty lenient concerning that.”

“Frankly speaking, I don't think anything you execute would manage making the influences to switch forces.”

“Haha, I don't know whether to feel hallowed or offended by your words, Icarus."

"Which reminded me that you've been unusually merciful toward the surviving princes at present which is very unlike you, Icarus. The recent occurrences reached my heeds too, hence is our oblivious prince going to be part of it?"

“Naturally, I supposed so. In order for me to install my snare, I would require one proper bait and I kind of lucked out, didn't I?”

“I'm conflicted for him. But hey, Icarus careful not to tumble on your bait since we, Yushea are all are raised as predators, so beware not to fall prey alright, my dear old playdate?”

“For once, I wish that you would stop applying those menacing words toward me.”

“My, my how could I when it gets this interesting? It is my sole opportunity to ignited the shallow flames of yours.”

"I dare you so."

*open*

"Artemis!"

"Oh my, I wonder for what reason would you be here, prince? At the present moment, I am engaged with courting my guest, Prince Adalric, may I ask what is of your manner?"

"... I gave my greetings to the Crown Princess of Yushea, Crown Princess Artemis Imogen Delilah de Yushea. Pardon the hastiness of this brother of yours, I ask of you, my dear sister."

"That's more fitting of you, prince. Tell me, what urges you so greatly for you to nonchalantly barge into Dahlia Palace while I was tending to our royal guest?"

"Ah, silly me. I almost forgot to introduce you to each other. Our royal guest, a delegate from Yulbrecht, Crown Prince Icarus Eleazer, a former playdate of mine and your future soulmates."

"I, Prince Adalric greet the Crown Prince of Yulbrecht. I used to yearn meeting the utmost beauty of the whole continent, the empire's crown prince whose beauty is impenetrable and sumptuous and today I truly believe you are solely the one to deserve those titles, Your Royal Highness."

"Supposedly, I'm flattered. Likewise, Prince Adalric as you also live up to your reputation that even managed to reach our ears from Yulbrecht."

"It would be my honour to even be of mention towards the empire of Yulbrecht."

"Indeed, as a famous womanizer socialite prince who can't be pleased with only one person, I would love to learn your ideas of this federal betrothal, Prince Adalric."

"Haha...There's no way would I be dissatisfied when the great beauty was in my line of sight. Besides, your charming temperament is plenty for me to play with. In any case, I agree with His Majesty's word before, to be betrothed to such an astounding figure is a blessing to me and to us too.

"Pfft!! I can't believe the great chemistry between the two of you, I'm sure you both make an ideal pair. Briefly before, have you decide on your marriage date or the formal engagement ceremony arranged?"

"Per the exchange I had with His Majesty the king of Yushea, it is determined that in a week period or so, both the empire and kingdom will be officially releasing the news of our betrothal also their alliance through a banquet night that'll be held at our palace in Yulbrecht."

"I see... The following week is going to be hectic days, then. Am I invited too, Icarus?"

"I wish you aren't but it's not like I could hold the future monarch of Yushea from attending, can I, Artemis?"

"Hoho, what great praise from you, Icarus. And you, Adalric, are you going to keep lingering here listening to our conversation?"

"Can't I?"

"I reckoned the kingdom prince is quite lenient with his time or is it that the prince is given no restriction over his work, Prince Yushea?"

"No... of course not. Very well then, I'll take my leave first. It is nice meeting you today, Crown Prince Yulbrecht and I'll look forward to seeing the gem of the empire soon.”

“Likewise, we shall meet again, my future partner.”

“Geez, somehow you two keep shirking my presence here. Sigh, pity me for having to give up both my friend and brother to this something called marriage."

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