"Being human means to be constantly choosing, choosing to be good or bad, choosing to help or not, being human is making mistakes, and those choices and mistakes forge their path."
Light shines brighter in the darkest of spaces, at least that's what most humans learn when they find themselves lost and hopeless, they seek the light like water in a desert, they seek those who shine to lend them at least a little of their brightness so that they don't lose themselves in the darkness inside them.
However some humans are so deep within their own darkness that when they find the light they don't seek it to borrow their brightness, but to extinguish it.
And the pinnacle of those beings is the dark market, located at the heart of the Capital of the Exos Empire, they gather only those with the darkest of hearts, seeking their own desires, seeking to extinguish the light of the innocent.
''Can I do this?'' Nikias whispers to himself as he lays in bed, staring at his ceiling, just like that first day a week ago, yet the white decorations and fancy jewels are starting to feel familiar, such feeling makes the man wonder, if this is nothing but a dream and he'll wake up to the dirty air of the homeless shelter, surrounded by disgusting thugs trying to get a piece of him. But such worry is only lingering in his subconscious, right now he's more worried about his visit to the dark market later that evening.
He's set on acquiring the fairy in order to get another layer of protection, yet he's not sure what to do with the creature once it imprints on him. Should I send it to the Morke Kingdom? Maybe they can keep it safe there? If I keep it here, it could get killed by Rainier like it did before. In fact, he's not even sure on what the fairy looks like, its description in the novel was so vague that he doesn't even remember, and for someone that read those books countless times to forget details is quite troubling by itself.
To make things worse, he woke up that morning in a cold sweat after having another nightmare with a memory from the previous Nikias past.
The boy is around fourteen, his silver hair dripping wet from the rain as he slowly walks in the Palace gardens, his golden eyes dull with the growing anxiety inside his heart. His hands bruised and dirty from digging in the dirt, his clothes not much better, he seems to have spent quite some time outside, trying to find something he can't even remember anymore. What was the point? After he returned with two commoners and demanded for them to be hired, he was having a tough time dealing with the aftermath as maids bullied him, hiding his belongings and poorly washing his clothes.
He attempted to bring up the fact with his father, but his requests of an audience were denied, and he couldn't bring himself to seek his mother's help, as the last time she saw him she seemed angry for some reason. ''Maybe I deserve this'', he says, his voice muffled by the thunder as the rain becomes thicker. ''I am a bad boy after all'', his words are barely a repetition from what he heard so much growing up, the pain in his chest so unbearable that he can't help but stop walking, crouching on the floor, choking on his own tears. ''I don't want to be here anymore'', sobs are the only things that leave his lips after that, he doesn't get up or attempts to run from the rain, all he can do is cry, powerless in his own home, hated by those that should love him the most and with a pain so great he wants to give up everything.
''What are you doing there?'' After so long a voice is heard over the sound of the rain falling, the voice brings shivers down the silver haired child, he wants to run but he doesn't move, footsteps are heard and the figure gets closer, the man's face covered in darkness. The man's hand reaches to the boy, pulling him up, revealing the boy's red face, his eyes swollen by the crying and his lips bleeding from biting into it too hard. ''Your highness, you really enjoy disappointing your family, don't you?'', the grip on his arm becomes tighter, he can hear the sound of his bone breaking. ''Now, let's go somewhere dry, after all you need to be punished, don't you?'' His tone is firm as he drags the boy across the garden, his legs who were already bruised from crouching too long become weaker as they drag across the ground, blood left behind as the only clue of his presence there.
Similar to the previous time, he woke up sweating and in pain, as if he was the one who was beaten up, as if he was the one with the broken arm, and not only that, tears of sadness were rolling down his cheeks as naturally as if they were always there. The tight feeling in his chest still lingering even after he managed to calm down. The man in the memories must be the butler, but I wonder why he alienated Nikias so much? What was he hoping to accomplish? Thinking about it so much won't bring the answer to his questions that fast.
A noise fills the room, the noise of the arrival of a letter, Nikias sighs as he gets out of bed, the silk robe almost falling from his half-naked body, he can't ever get used to the feeling of fabric that doesn't make him itchy. He opens one of the drawers of his desk, where Lowe puts the magic circle for the direct line of communication between him and Lyor. He tried to learn how to cast the circle himself, but it seems he needs to grasp the basics of mana and mana manipulation before being able to.
He grabs the letter, leaning on the desk as he opens to read it.
Dear Nikias, I hope this letter reaches you well.
The flowers of spring are starting to disappear and fruits take their place, the sweet fragrance in the air lingers on the tip of my nose as I write this letter to you. Once the fruits become ripe I hope you'll be able to visit and try them out, as we are proud of our sweet fruits, I'm sure you'll come to love them as well.
I inquired with my aide, whom you met at the ball, about sending you fruits through the teleportation portal, however he informed me that it wouldn't be possible, so I hope you wait to try them out next month on your first visit. Since when you come the flowers will all be gone, I'm sending you one of my favorite together with this letter. I also put forth some information on how to dry it so it'll last you longer.
Before continuing to read the letter, Nikias reaches inside the envelope, finding a small flower, already flattened by the letter, he brings the flower closer to his nose, closing his eyes to breath in its fragrance, still fresh since the letter was sent with haste.
The flower is called Aster, and in our Kingdom it's given to those you wish to court as a symbol of fresh love and trust. I hope our future partnership also goes by such values. If you so wish, during your classes, one of the Priests that took care of me as a child, is known for their flower necklaces, he might teach you if you manage to get on his good side. He's fond of exotic plants.
As for what you asked of me in your first letter, I'll be gathering information on the slave trade in the Exos Empire, for such I'll be sending one of my knights soon, he'll be arriving in three days as a pretext to guard you as my future Queen. He'll be instructed to keep appearances as he investigates, please relay more information to him when he arrives.
Your information on the Kingdom of Osas seems to proceed, so I plan to invade before you come next month. If something happens I'll have my aide send you a letter on the delay of our meeting. I'll be leaving for battle in three days, if you have any urgent business with me, please ask for the knight to get in touch with my aide, he'll know how to contact him.
Farewell, I'll leave you with an excerpt from a book I read last night, hopeful that your health is well and your day is bright.
Fallen leaves rustling away
Beating heart from the faraway wind
As I come closer I grow seeds
The warmth, oh blissful change of weather
With care,
King Lyor Natrix Noir.
A small laugh leaves Nikias lips, it's the first letter he received from Lyor, and the tone is somewhat weird, if he were going from looks alone, the man had an aura of detachment, almost cold to the world. This is the Tyrant? He asks himself, finding amusing how the second page of the letter was a copy from a book on how to properly dry flowers, the calligraphy is the same as the letter itself, meaning that Lyor copied the book himself. It's a bit adorable, if you ask Nikias, not that he would admit thinking so out loud.
I should inform my father about the arrival of a knight from Morke. He thinks, still staring at the letter, he never witnessed war, only in movies or books, even 'Odd Eyes' had extensive description of wars once the Ancient God Vremes was rising, especially with the amount of deaths that it caused, even some allies dying. Maybe I should send him something… He ponders, they're not close yet, but if he wants to have a good and proper relationship with his future husband, he should put forth some effort, after all, to live with someone for the rest of your life is to make sure you both care equally about each other.
With such resolve in mind, Nikias rings his room's servant bell, as he waits for the arrival of one of his servants, he gets himself cleaned and changed. Once he's properly clothed, Raphael enters his bedroom, his eyes sunken and his clothes backwards.
''Did you party last night?'' Nikias asks, adjusting the collar of his button up shirt.
''My apologies, your highness, I haven't slept properly'', Raphael says, his voice is hoarse and his expression shows nothing but exhaustion, he seems to be telling the truth - not that he could lie if he wanted.
''And why is that?'' Even if the question shows interest, Nikias eyes are cold and detached, he doesn't seem actually interested in his servant's answer.
''Lord Abel appeared in my quarters last night, and as Lowe didn't return to our room, he insisted on keeping me company…'' His voice trails off, his eyes dull.
''If you want I can forbid him from entering the Main Palace'', Nikias says, putting his watch and necklace, walking back to his desk to finish preparing the flower by the instructions he was left with.
''That won't be necessary, I'll deal with him myself, your highness, thank you for your concern'', Raphael bows, the Prince nods.
''I'll help you if you change your mind'', he says simply, not aware of how his words sound touching to the servant, his only goal is to ensure a good work environment for his employees. ''I summoned you here because I'll go out, probably until the auction'', he continues, not looking at Raphael as he dries the flower he received from Lyor. ''Lowe will stay behind for his training and Fleuri is taking care of some documents for me, so we'll be leaving just the two of us, we'll be going to a mercenary company to hire a temporary guard and I also need to buy some stuff'', he sighs when he finishes setting the flower to dry per instructed. ''Please ask for a carriage, and change your clothes for a more inconspicuous one, I'll also be using the drops Lowe made, so that we can hide our identities.''
''Pardon, but I don't think changing your hair and eye color will be enough, your highness'', Raphael states.
''Don't worry, not many know my face, so it'll be enough.''
That's not the issue, Raphael thinks, your looks are the problem, you're way too good-looking. But he doesn't retort the Prince's remarks. ''As you wish, I'll prepare''.
''We leave in one hour'', he says before the servant leaves the room, his gaze goes back to the letter, litting up one of the candles on his desk, most of the lights are powered by mana stones, but the previous Nikias had a thing for scented candles, leaving them on his bathroom and bedroom for its calming effects. He uses the flame to burn the letter, tossing it on the empty trashcan by his desk before it completely turns into ashes. If he could he would keep the letter, but he can't risk others finding it.
After all, without the fox, the chickens will party.
❥
The mana stone powered carriage isn't much different from the first cars in Vahe's world, he only saw them in pictures, but it was quite similar, remnant of what a horse carriage is, with an engine made with mana stones and a panel where you input the coordinates, the biggest difference is that the carriage moves by itself, while a car needs to be driven. The carriage they'll be taking is different from the Royal carriage, it's similar to the one lower nobles use, with four seats and a rusty exterior made of low-quality aluminium and lead. At least we won't draw much attention. Nikias thinks.
Before leaving the Palace he gave some instructions to Fleuri and Lowe, he also used the changing drops Lowe concocted a few days prior, the solution changes Nikias' eye color and hair to a different one, he can't choose to what changes to, though, but regardless, it'll be enough to people not notice that he is the second Prince.
What he didn't anticipate was the shock he would go through when he looked at the mirror. His eyes turned hazel while his hair got a brownish tone, both exactly as Vahe had, and not only that, but his whole appearance. He was staring at Vahe, not Nikias, with only a change of eye and hair color, how could he not notice before? His appearance is exactly like Nikias, from the mole under his lip to the way his eyebrows move, he was so caught on how he was beautiful now, on how Nikias appearance was one of a kind, that he never even thought he could be exactly the same.
It took him half an hour to manage to stop staring at himself, his mind in shambles with the realization.
Raphael also used the potion, his brown eyes turning green and his brown hair becoming black, he still blends well in the crowd, while Nikias can't exactly become ugly with a change of eye and hair color.
''Remember, don't use my real name'', Nikias says after they enter the carriage, Raphael nods. ''Call me Vahe and I'll be calling you Noah, understood?'' It would be a waste to look like himself and not use his own name, being called Vahe may bring his mind to a clearer state since he arrived.
Maybe I'll stop wavering over those memories that don't belong to me.
The carriage starts moving, the technology still rocky, the feeling still not as smooth as using a car, but not rocky like horse moved carriages. He exchanges a few words with Raphael, inquiring about the Empire customs and streets they pass by. The Capital is exactly as he imagined while reading the novel.
Laughter and the sound of running steps fill the air of the Capital, the happiness of its residents reflect the kind ruling of Emperor Magnus and Empress Else, the sight of different styles and technologies are a perfect vision on the progress of the Empire and its technology using mana stones, the practical monopoly they have sure shows in the day-to-day lives of the people. The buildings are covered with fresh paint and the colorful streets are a must-see for those visiting from other Kingdoms, with street lamps powered by mana stones and top-notch carriages that only those born in the Empire of Revolution could dream to see.
The only thing the novel failed to mention was the back alleys, clearly visible from the carriage, where citizens of the same Empire were suffering from famine and disease. The children stealing to survive and halflings being beaten up while carrying on their backs a clear mark of slavery.
''Be careful as you step out, your hi-'' Raphael speaks when the carriage stops, he cuts himself off when he sees the warning gaze of the Prince, warning him to remember not to use his title so freely. ''Vahe''.
''Sure'', Nikias answers, putting on his cape and hoodie, the velvety fabric doesn't hide the fact that he is a noble, but hides his face just enough to not catch the attention of most, if he didn't hide half of his face at least, he would be turning heads left and right. If I wore a mask I would catch even more attention, so a hoodie is enough.
Behind him, Raphael also walks with the same cape, however his habit of walking behind Nikias, isn't good to avoid getting attention on them.
''Walk next to me'', he says to the man who hurries to his side, Raphael is clumsy, not sure how to act while hiding his identity, however he seems more worried about his master than himself, still doubting that his disguise is enough.
They visit a couple stores, not buying anything, just to appear normal. Nikias also uses this opportunity to see the Capital trends and new products, since he's looking to open a shop in order to gather more funds. Perhaps I can use it as a front to gather intel about the moves of the Vremes devotees. Since he's still at the beginning of the novel, their moves aren't too apparent, but soon they'll start gathering followers for the ritual of resurgence.
''Vahe, this store sells the strips you asked about'', Raphael points to a small store with a yellow front, most of the items in display are handmade, and a small sign says make here a farewell gift for your knight, since a lot of knights go to the borders for safety and are also dispatched to aid wars, a custom was born for those who were sending their loves to war. They enter the store, Nikias takes off the hood to look more attentively at the handcrafts, from toys to music boxes, they're all one of a kind. After checking the store for a few minutes, a warm and kind voice catches their attention.
''May I help you?'' A girl a bit younger than Nikias speaks, her hands are dirty from clay and her apron is painted in different colors.
''I want a knight stip'', he says curtly, by his tone the girl can assume he is a noble, after a while Nikias became used to speaking down to others, as he spends a lot of time speaking with his servants and didn't leave the Palace until that day, he can't really speak like a commoner as he never saw how they speak here. The same within the novel as it was from the perspective of nobles and within their social circles. Luckily for him, not many would assume the second Prince was out nor would they find strange nobles speaking down to them.
''You can follow me to the back'', the girl says, walking back to where she came, followed by the two men. The workshop behind the store is big, having from materials to pottery to carpentry, and at the very back there is a wall with different strips of fabric hanging. ''Have you ever made any knight strip?'' She asks, opening a box of materials on the table under the wall.
''No'', Nikias answers simply, watching as the girl gathers materials.
''To make one you must first choose a fabric'' she points at the wall, ''Then you use the tools to twist or knot the fabric to the shape you want, we also have beads and charms you can use to make your strip, if you pay extra I can also engrave a message in one of the charms.''
Nikias stares at the wall, unsure what to do at first. When he thought about getting Lyor a gift he didn't know it would be so… bothersome. He could back down now, but he already left the Palace early to do this, and since he's already there, what is a little more work?
''How much is the engraving?''
''One silver coin per word, it's quite strenuous'', she answers a bit apprehensively.
''I see'', Nikias gazes at the box of charms, he sees one in the shape of a curled fox made with a metal similar in color to gold, he picks up turning to the girl. ''Can you engrave something in this?''
''Yes, but only something small'', she answers, picking the charm from Nikias' hands. ''Do you know what message you want?''
''Yes''.
❥
The sound of something breaking grabs the attention of the two men as they walk past one of the many alleys in the Capital, Nikias stops on his tracks, turning his attention to the empty and dark place, the smell of blood reaching his nose before he can properly understand the scene before his eyes. Six men were plunging a boy with kicks and punches, the boy covering his face with his fists and curling onto himself to protect his vitals, but the men don`t seem to care as they continue to assault him.
''You slut, you should be thankful we didn't bring the boss with us!'' One of the men yells as they stop the assault, once they move a little, Nikias can see the boy more clearly, he doesn't seem much younger than himself, his body is completely covered in bruises and cuts, the boy moves his hands to look at his assailants.
His green eyes were dark in tone from the bruises, one of them even red from what Nikias assumes were punches, the boy's face had a cut on his lips that was bleeding quite profusely and his hair, which was clearly painted pastel pink as his platinum blonde roots were starting to show, is completely dirty from the ground and the men's shoes. But differently from what one may expect, the boy's eyes were filled with anger, he didn't seem intimidated by the men.
''Oh my, why are you so mad? Want a blowjob to calm down?'' The boy mocks the men with a laugh, making an obscene gesture with his hand and mouth with his suggestion. Raphael fights his own laugh next to Nikias, attempting to not make a sound.
''Shut up'', the man who was speaking earlier yells, kicking the boy's face again, blood splattering on the ground.
''If you're so eager to suck some cock, just sell your body to pay your debts'', another man says with a mocking smile. ''Maybe I'll become a client'', he grabs his dick over his pants, to make his point even more disgusting.
The boy laughs, ''I don't think your cock is big enough to even reach my tongue'', he says, showing his tongue with a smile, which only makes the man kick his stomach, even with the assault, the boy doesn't seem to lose his spirit, exchanging even more mocking remarks with the men.
He's quite the fearless lad, Nikias thinks with a smirk, he wonders if he should step in and try to help the boy, but he can't help but enjoy the show he is putting forth.
After a few more kicks, the man who spoke the most crouches next to the boy's face to speak, the boy already exhausted, his face puffed with the amount of bruises. ''You have a week Dacre, just 'cause your ma left doesn't mean the debt goes away'', he pulls the boy's hair with a tug so that their eyes meet. ''If you don't pay us until then, there are ways to bypass the no slavery law, so be warned''.
His words pick Nikias interest, he was already keen in finding more about the slavery trade within the Exos Empire, since even if it's against the law, he knows there are still those who practice it. The six men leave the alley through the other side, never bumping past Nikias and Raphael, after they leave for good, the Prince approaches the beaten up boy.
''You have it rough'', he comments, his tone is rude and his expression is one of amusement. Deep down he might feel pity or a sense of self as he sees the boy from the slums laying there completely beaten up, but he doesn't wish to look upon himself right now, or ever.
His swollen green eyes look up at Nikias, his gaze is dull and his cut lips are pursed together as if he's holding back his tears. ''What do I owe the honor of seeing a man of such high status?'' The boy mocks with a bloody smile. ''Your highness''.
Nikias bursts out laughing, in all of the stores no one recognized him, the people that passed through him on the streets and the employees of the restaurant he ate at also didn't seem to even suspect, but a boy from the slums knows?
''How did you know?'' Raphael is the one who asks, worried about the Prince's safety, since they still didn't hire someone to protect him, and even if Raphael is decent at fighting, he can't guarantee he would be enough to protect the Prince.
''I saw him at last year's parade. Who would be stupid enough to not recognize a Prince just because his eye and hair color are different?'' The boy scoffs, which is followed by coughing, blood leaving his mouth again.
''What's your name?'' Nikias asks, after laughing.
''Dacre'', the boy answers.
''How old are you?''
''18''.
Nikias smiles.
''How desperate are you?'' He asks, bending so his eyes are fixed on the boy's, his lips up on a smirk, not only the boy reminds him of himself when he was on the streets, but the way he talks and acts are refreshing and interesting. Enough for Nikias to want to recruit the boy.
Dacre's green eyes that were dull from the pain open with the realization of what Nikias' words mean, he's desperate, desperate enough to allow them to beat him up for a measly week extension to pay off his mother's debt. Desperate enough that when they said he should sell off his own body he considered a plausible option.
''Desperate enough'', the boy answers.
Nikias straightens up, grabbing a golden coin from the pouch in his pocket, he tosses the coin to the bruised boy. ''Patch yourself up and go find me at the Palace tomorrow''.
''They wouldn't allow me in'', Dacre retorts, staring at the gold coin, it was enough to get first aid, yet more than what he saves with a week of hard work, he wishes it would be enough to pay his debt, but his mother had some sort of noble disorder, spending more than what a commoner makes in a year in just one gambling den.
The Prince scoffs, ''Believe me, no one will stop you''. The boy nods, his gaze on the bright sky above them as he still lays there, unsure on how he will get up himself, but he needs to, after all he's desperate enough.
''How much are you offering?'' he asks at last, when he notices Nikias is still there, whispering something to the man next to him.
''More than what your body is worth'', the remark makes Dacre laugh.
''Are you sure? I'm quite the catch'', Nikias looks at him with amusement.
''You should look at a mirror, Dacre, look who you're talking to'', and sure enough, compared to the Prince, he is nothing more than a pebble on the side of the road, but in the slums he was the pretty and slutty boy, willing to exchange pleasure for money, not that he was going to admit sucking off strangers for silver coins to the man that just tossed him a golden coin as if its nothing.
''Fair'', the boy says simply.
''Do you know where we can find a good mercenary guild?'' Raphael asks, he's still unsure of why the Prince was helping the boy, maybe he has something to do with helping boys in the slums or maybe it's just charity.
Dacre sits up, his head spinning with pain and the sudden movement. ''Just keep walking the main street, next to a yellow roof flower shop, they're quite tight-lipped if you pay enough''. He coughs again, blood dripping on his hands.
Raphael scratches his head, unsure if he should offer help or not, since it could be a test Nikias is putting the boy through. ''I appreciate''.
''Help him up and let's go'', Nikias says, turning away, as if seeing the intent behind Raphael's worried eyes.
❥
The sky turns orange and the wind becomes chilly as the sun slowly sets, it took them a while to manage to get two mercenaries to guard them in the dark market auction, because not only most of them were already out in a similar job, but it's like they can sniff wealth, charging more than usual for an easy job.
One of the man was Gutierre Marin, a 36 year-old mercenary and also a baron, a rarity since most mercenaries were commoners with debts or those who look for thrilling life, but the brown eyes of that man were cold, almost as if nothing in life could surprise him anymore. Gutierre is triple the size of Nikias, not only in muscles but he was also really tall, maybe even more than Lyor, Nikias observes, the bulging muscles of the mercenary were visible through his clothes and his hands were filled with calluses and cuts from sword training. And the man was carrying a greatsword that even Nikias can tell that is expensive and high-quality.
The other mercenary was somewhat scrawny next to the other one, he had dark skin and clear blue eyes, his body was covered in scars and he was bald, by his clothes, Nikias can only assume that the 35 year-old man wasn't from that Empire, and his name confirmed, Ilori One, differently from the Exos Empire, other Kingdoms may provide surnames for the commoners, and one Empire that did it was the Eil Empire located in the Sokidm Continent was known for giving numerical surnames to their people. Their traditional clothing were tunics made with spider silk, giving it a distinct texture, similar to what Nikias is seeing Ilori use. And on his wais there are two mana guns, something way too expensive for a mere mercenary, but in the Eil Empire they're common.
In Vahe's world, guns are a cheat weapon, great firepower and almost no weaknesses, however in this world, guns lose quite easily to a swordmaster or even a great magician, and even a cheap shield spell can be used to protect yourself, but it was still a good weapon even if more weakened in the world of magic.
Raphael on the other hand became more uneasy as they approached the action site, not only he doesn't seem to trust the mercenaries, but he keeps looking around him, stopping a few times, as if he is recognizing the faces around them. Nikias puts his hand on Raphael's shoulder, getting the man's attention. ''Are they your old colleagues?'' He whispers just loud enough for his servant's ears, his eyes on the mercenaries they hired, but the two men don't seem too keen in paying attention to what the younglings are saying.
''Yes, from the tower'', Raphael whispers back, his hand trembling slightly.
''They won't recognize you, don't worry'', Nikias says, trying to comfort the man, but he himself isn't so sure of his own words.
The auction is taking place in a casino, the building is one of the tallest, losing only to the Palace itself, the walls are made of concrete and limestone, giving it an unique feel, the mana stone lights catch the attention of passerbys hoping to get lucky. A casino isn't illegal, neither is gambling, but underneath the completely legal building there is a black market where things are as illegal as it can get.
After entering Nikias feels sick, his eyes hurt with the amount of lights and signs around the place, and the people around them seemed almost like zombies, roaming around from one table to another, a dull gaze, just waiting to get lucky or lose it all.
''I hate this place'', the mercenary named Gutierre says, his expression is of pure disgust, but his appearance doesn't seem too out of place, as if he has a history with said place. ''Say it pretty boy, why hire us for a punny casino?''
Nikias looks at the man for a bit before answering. ''You just need to do your job and keep quiet'', he's rude but that's what he's paying the men to do, keep quiet and protect him, he doesn't need to cater to them and vice-versa.
''Noted'', the mercenary answers, his expression tells that he didn't like Nikias answer, but the money speaks louder.
''Vahe, we need to use that elevator'', Raphael says, pointing to an elevator with two guards in front, the elevator is mechanical and reminds Vahe of the old ones in his world, which he has only seen in old movies.
''Ticket'', one of the guards in front of the elevator says, stopping the four men from entering.
Raphael hands the two tickets to the guard, explaining that the other two men were there for guarding and not participating, a practice common for nobles that attend the auction, so the guards nod, allowing them to enter the elevator. Raphael presses the handle and closes the grid protecting the elevator, activating the device so they begin their descent.
''If you see something that catches your eye you can bet on it'', Nikias explains, removing his hood, he would get more attention this way, but that was his objective. After all, Evangelia is due to attend the auction and raid it at the end, seeing the Prince there could drive her to hesitate for enough time to give him time to leave. In the last three timelines Nikias sent a servant to buy the fairy, so him being there in person is a variable she couldn't have foreseen.
He instructs Raphael to keep his hood on, however, so that they don't risk the tower magicians recognizing him. The two mercenaries look at Nikias with suspicion, they seem to catch on that he is at least a high-ranking noble, but don't seem yet to connect the dots with the second Prince.
When they reach the underground, Nikias can't help but be surprised with the structure, endless doors and hallways leading to one place: a theatre with high-quality chairs and a stage that can be equivalent to those of theatres for nobility. They must have a lot of money, he thinks as he takes a seat in the middle of the audience, in front he would get too much attention and in the back he wouldn't get any.
''Noah, go get the paddles'', Nikias asks Raphael, who nods and goes to the front to get their number. Since the attendees are mostly anonymous, their bid is directly connected to their paddle number, but even so, some faces there are clear as day. He can recognize some that were at his coming of age ball and others he saw passing through the Palace, and one of those familiar faces is Margrave Larchier, the man with a smile that brings chills to Nikias spine. I hope he doesn't recognize me, but the man doesn't even look his way, for the Prince's relief, on the other side of the theatre, at the back, Nikias can see his target.
Evangelia is using a mask that covers her whole face, but how could someone not recognize that hair and figure? The Crown Princess isn't someone people forget easily, but even if people seem to know who she is, they're keeping their distance, her goal unclear, she could be there as a participant or as an enemy.
Raphael returns with the paddles, sitting back next to Nikias, each of the mercenaries sitting next to one of them. ''Vahe, I saw her'', Raphael whispers, the Prince nods, confirming that he saw her as well. Before arriving there he briefed the servant, saying that the Crown Princess was going to raid the auction and that their goal was to buy and get the goods before she did so by whatever means necessary.
But when you join two calculating people who aren't afraid of each other into an already unpredictable situation, you may get a situation neither expected.
''What are you doing here? Brother-in-law?'' Evangelia's voice may shock Nikias, who didn't expect her to approach him before the auction began, but he doesn't show it in his expression. Even if you end up in a bad situation, the way you react to it defines the outcome.
Nikias smiles innocently. ''Whatever do you mean?''
The woman hesitates, she seemed to wish to speak more clearly, but if she even mentioned his name, the situation could escalate. ''You should leave, for your safety, this isn't a place for children''. There isn't even an ounce of worry in her voice.
''I already hired someone to protect me, don't worry, sister-in-law'', the last words he says in a mockery tone, Raphael turns his head, his face red from the discussion of the two high-ranking nobles, unsure on how to act.
Evangelia looks at the two mercenaries with a disapproving expression, but in the end she only sighs out of frustration. ''Just don't get yourself in trouble, your brother is already a mess because of your last stunt'', she seemed to have pondered her options, if she made a scene there the operation. Nikias smiles, not replying to her. A man comes down the stairs and whispers something to Evangelia, he's wearing a hoodie, but the red hair slipping through and the marking red eyes under the mask tell that it was Rainier. The woman whispers back at the man, who then looks at Nikias, per usual his expression is one of pure hatred, his eyes waver for a moment when his eyes go to Raphael, but it doesn't last long, giving place to eyes of disappointment.
Well, I definitely didn't expect that, Nikias thinks, but doesn't dwell long on its meaning.
''Go straight home after here, and don't look back'', she says to the Prince before leaving. I wasn't intending to anyway.
''Here, your paddle and the list of products'', Raphael gives the pamphlet and paddle nº 34 to Nikias, who proceeds to read it quietly. Four products catch the attention of the second Prince, the one year old fairy, of course, a first-grade mana stone and two divine artifacts of unknown origin, one a book and the other a broken tiara. The mana stone would be a good gift to the Morke Kingdom which lacks mana mines, and the artifacts are always useful, he remembers that only one artifact would be actioned, but something changed. The book could be the Wisdom god's book or Aelius Diary, while the broken tiara could only be an artifact from the god of Love, who is known to like fairy tales and their artifacts are usually similar to objects from fairy tales. By the image of the tiara in the pamphlet, it seems to be similar to the tiara of the Princess Frog, from a fairy tale with origin in the Whisperia Kingdom.
Nikias and Raphael exchange their opinions of the products, agreeing on what they'll bid and how much, before the action starts, the mercenary Gutierre next to him speaks.
''Pretty boy, you shouldn't bid on relics'', his words seem the product of careful consideration, as a Baron he probably knows much about their significance. ''They're probably fake''.
''They're not'', Raphael is the one who replies, Nikias thought so as well, that's why he asked Raphael to research about the auction and verify the authenticity of the rumors surrounding it.
Gutierre stares at the two men with curiosity. ''It seems that I overstepped again''.
He could've kept quiet, he would be paid anyway, is he stupid or he was genuinely worried? Nikias wonders in silence.
The auction starts with a short ballet presentation followed by a piano and violin duet, if he didn't know better Nikias would think he's at a legitimate auction made for nobles. The host steps on the stage, he's wearing high-quality clothes and his stance is similar to those of other nobles, but his oily black hair and green eyes can't hide his lack of a surname. ''Goodnight esteemed guests! I'll be your Auctioneer tonight! The name is Elijah and I'll be the one guiding you to acquire the rare products we have here tonight!'' What he lacks in nobility the man makes up with charm, smiling and entertaining the audience. ''Let's go home with at least something! Don't be shy and spend away!'' His voice projects throughout the theatre, his eyes annoy Nikias, remembering the conmen he saw a lot in the streets back when his father lost a lot of money to gamblers and went back home to…
A pang in his head stops him from completely recalling the memory, only flashes of him and his older brother being beaten until they couldn't walk again going through his mind, the bloody hand of Zerah holding his and his eyes as they slowly became more and more…
''Pretty boy?'' Gutierre oversteps, touching Nikias shoulder, getting his attention, cold sweat covering his forehead, luckily for him, the auctioneer was still explaining the auction and didn't start the bidding part.
''Thank you'', he whispers, shoving the mercenary's hand away, Raphael seems to notice, turning to Nikias with worry.
''Do you need something?'' He asks.
''No, let's just pay attention'', Nikias whispers, his head still spinning from the sudden memory. He can't just forget again, he already did once, so even if he wishes to he can't stop thinking about it. The face his brother made when his father killed him, and the words that left his lips as he protected Vahe until the end. Save yourself. Ha, why would someone sacrifice themselves for another's safety? Why? Why would someone who had a way better future ahead, sacrifice their everything to protect someone like him?
I'm undeserving of his sacrifice, Nikias thinks, trying to pay attention to the auction.
Vahe, you look like our mother, that's why father hates you, but I think you're pretty like a flower, you just need to bloom.
Zerah keeps popping in his mind, his words swirling in his head, stop, I need to pay attention. He tells himself, trying to force those memories shut.
I brought you another bread, it's hard but it doesn't have a single speck of mold! I did good, right? No, brother, this one is for you. Happy birthday Vahe, I love you.
He can't stop sweating. Please, stop.
Just hide in the closet, so father can't find you. I heard he lost money again. What? Vahe he won't hit me, silly, I look like him. Don't worry, stay there until morning. Pinky promise?
A cold touch on Nikias' face brings him back to reality, the sweat from his face dripping on his hands and lap, he turns to Raphael, who is touching his face trying to check if the Prince has a fever.
''I was out of it, did it start?'' He whispers, his voice is choked by the dry throat.
''It'll start now'', Raphael whispers back, offering his handkerchief to the Prince so that he can dry his sweat, the man accepts, his attention back to the auctioneer.
At first they announced smaller and cheaper products like jewels and lower grade mana stones. After half an hour, they finally start the bidding on the first-grade mana stone.
''I know you were all eyeing this product! A first-grade mana stone, from the mines of the Exos Empire, our pride as a nation can't help but admire such purity!'' The auctioneer says as he removes the cloth that was over the glass case containing the stone. Mana stones are usually in different colors reflecting their properties, light stones are usually white in essence, while water stones are blue and fire stones are orange, and the list goes on, the purity of the stone can be assessed by the size and color, the strongest the color the purest the stone is, and the same goes for the size, the biggest, the purest.
The mana stone in the display was the size of an adult's arm, and the color was a deep blue.
''This mana stone has water properties, is 45cm and weighs 60kg, a true monster of a stone! So who'll take this pure beauty home?'' The audictioneer explains.
''I don't think we can carry it'', Raphael whispers.
''I agree'', Nikias sighs, ''A pity''.
It would be a good gift for the King together with the strip he made, but being too big means he wouldn't be able to teleport it discreetly. But it was truly a beautiful stone, too bad whoever buys it won't be receiving it, since Evangelia plans to raid the basement before they can get their goods.
The mana stone ends up being bought by 6000 gold coins, I wouldn't be able to buy it anyway, he thinks, it'll probably be the most expensive product there that night, even if it isn't the most sought after, since a mana stone can be used as fuel and a mana stone that size can last up to 10 years constantly being used, generating a lot of money to whoever buys it, but it all depends on how you use it.
''We will now begin the highlight of all of our auctions!'' The audience cheers. ''Beasts, less than humans, but still useful for our society!'' Nikias feels sick to his stomach with those words, a tall man enters the stage pulling a chain.
Attached to the chain are six slaves, the mark clear in their exposed collarbone, two seem to be male dwarves, two are female elves and one is a male elf, the last one is the fairy. The fairy is small, she's smaller than Nikias' hand, her wings flutter slowly as she floats in place, her body is covered in flower petals that seem glued to her skin, her small hair is long enough to reach her feet and the color is light yellow like the petals covering her body, and her eyes are a mix of green and yellow. She's so… small, Nikias thinks, the fairy is the only one without a slave mark, that's probably how the original Nikias was able to flaunt her around so easily. I can't just leave her in an annex room, he observes. Maybe I could let her stay in my room, but I don't think I can take care of something, especially not right now.
He finds himself in a crossroad, the fairy is useful, and after she imprints he won't exactly need to keep her around, but at the same time he can't toss something so small with some servants and call it a day. It is a lot of responsibility for protection, but just as he's doing with Lyor, he should take the risk.
The bidding starts with the dwarves, who are both sold to the same person for 400 gold coins each, the male elf is sold for 600 gold coins and the two female elves are sold for 1000 gold coins each.
He hears Gutierre clicking his tongue, ''Disgusting'', he whispers to himself, Nikias can't avoid but agree, it was clear what those men had in mind buying the female elves for so much money. It makes Nikias remember the scene he saw earlier with that boy from the slums, if the male elf was pretty like him and Nikias, maybe he would be bought with the same intentions.
At last, they begin the bidding on the fairy.
''An enchanting species, almost two years old, when a fairy imprints you'll be blessed and become almost invincible'', the auctioneer says, that's a bit of a stretch, but it is truly marvelous the fairy protection. ''We will start the bidding at 100 gold coins!'' It is the highest starting bid from all the species. A couple people start bidding, raising the price fast, Nikias waits until only two people start fighting for the bid. ''1000! Do I hear 1100?'' The auctioneer yells excitedly as the two people keep raising the price. ''1500! You're all on fire tonight! Do I hear 1600?''
Nikias raised his paddle. ''3000'' he says, he can hear the frustration of the others bidding as well as the excitement of the auctioneer.
''3000! Do I hear 3100? 3100 anyone? 3000, one, two… three! Sold for 3000 gold coins for the 34 lad!'' The auctioneer cheers and the man with the chains leaves the stage with the sold slaves.
Nikias turns to Raphael. ''Take my paddle and go pick the fairy up with him'', he points at Ilori. ''I don't think she'', he points at Evangelia at the back of the theatre who's whispering to Rainier next to her. ''Will wait for us to get our things''. At first he thought that maybe she would wait for him to leave, but after he bought the fairy she started moving, so he can forget being able to take the prizes home. He leans over to whisper in Raphael's ear only for him to hear. ''If possible steal the relics, meet me back at the carriage in an hour, this is your first mission as my Captain''. Raphael looks at Nikias with worry, as if reading his mind Nikias says, ''Don't worry I'll be fine, there are a lot of disguised knights here, just do as I say''.
Raphael nods, taking Nikias paddle and leaving with Ilori.
The Prince turns to the other mercenary next to him. ''We will be leaving as soon as the auction ends''. Gutierre only nods, his eyes show distrust and curiosity, but he doesn't say anything.
Time runs fast after that, and soon it's the last part of the auction, the relics. And when the cloth is removed, Nikias can't help but smile. Aelius Diary, the only relic described in the novel that the protagonist never managed to get her hands on, and not only that but it is what Nikias hoped deeply to find, the similarity in their mana could be the answer to finding out more about himself.
He doesn't bid on the items, but it makes him wonder, if it was there, why didn't the protagonists manage to get it? All the items in the auction were turned to the Palace. Maybe someone robbed it there or in the Palace… Hopefully he would be able to steal the relics before someone else does, but something inside him tells him that it won't be so easy.
However the Prince decides to trust Raphael, as he needs to prove himself worthy of Nikias' trust, and it'll be the perfect test of his capabilities as Captain of the Shadow Division of the Golden Phoenices. Such a big name, I need to shorten it.
The book is sold for 5000 gold coins, while the tiara is sold for 4300 gold coins, a low price of such relics, but since they didn't find out which god they were from, the price was well matched.
''We'll move now'', Nikias whispers, getting up, the auctioneer is still talking, but he shouldn't wait for the final words. He sees in the corner of his eyes Evangelia ordering Rainier a few other hooded figures, their eyes meet and Nikias smiles, nodding as he leaves, the woman doesn't do anything in response, turning her attention back to the disguised knights.
''You can't leave until the auction ends'', a guard in front of the elevator says, the corridors are empty and silent, as most must be protecting the items and the theatre. Nikias turns to Gutierre.
''Earn your keep'', he says simply, stepping back.
The mercenary nods, grabbing his greatsword and pointing at the guard.
''Ha, you nobles think you can hire any trash and try to ignore our rules?'' The guard scoffs, pulling his sleeves to reveal his arm filled with magic circles. For the first time, Nikias sees a true fight.
The guard uses the magic circles to protect himself against the mercenary, and at the same time attack the man with arrows made of wind and water, but every time he uses the magic circles turn gray and lose its power, clearly not made for long term fights. Gutierre swings the greatsword in the small space as if he's using a shortsword, his movements are precise and he doesn't need to use both hands, he switches from his right to left hand constantly to confuse the guard.
In the end, the mercenary slashes the guard's knees, making him fall on the ground with the greatsword on his neck.
''Should I kill him?'' He asks, Nikias stares at the guard, noticing that the man kept glancing at his legs.
''Yes'', he says simply, passing by and entering the elevator, he watches as Gutierre cleanly cuts off the guard's head and enters the elevator, his clothes drenched in blood.
''Why did you decide to kill him? I don't mind as long as I'm getting paid, but I don't think a Prince should be this merciless'', his words make Nikias pause for a moment.
''He had other magic circles in his leg, and a mark of subservience in his wrist, he would die anyway for letting us escape'', Nikias says, his expression tense. ''When did you find out?''
''Well, I would need to be stupid not to recognize the Crown Princess-to-be, and her only brother in law would be the Prince'', Gutierre shugs, cleaning his greatsword's blade on his clothes before placing it on his back.
''What do you want?'' The mercenary could ignore it and pretend not to know, letting Nikias know that he knows, shows that he has something to gain from it.
''Nothing much, I just want to be hired, I don't get paid much as a mercenary, you see''.
Nikias scoffs. ''Hired? By the useless Prince? I don't see why''.
''Well, the Palace pays a lot, even to serve their disappointment of a Prince'', his words are sarcastic, but still true.
''Go to the Palace tomorrow to talk to the Prince then'', Nikias says without looking at the mercenary.
''I don't think the knights would allow me that easily''.
''Don't worry about that, as you kindly reminded me, I'm a disappointment of a Prince'', Nikias retorts with a cold laugh. It's the second time someone pointed that out, showing further that his treatment as a Prince was a joke.
''Well then, it'll be my pleasure'', Gurtierre smiles as the elevator stops.
Four out of six done, Nikias thinks, I need to find the other two tomorrow at the latest.
❥
Chapter curiosities:
We have 2 new additions to the Golden Phoenices in this chapter! And I must say I absolutely adore Dacre, he'll be a good friend for Nikki, and Gutierre is a great addition as well.
Gutierre is a name of Spanish origin, and it means ''powerful army''.
And Dacre is an Old English name that means "trickling stream" or "stream flowing through nature", I wanted his name to mean something soft that flows calmly through the story yet leaving his mark. That's why I chose this name. He's also another addition for Nikias charity, he keeps going for the underdogs, and if they're from the slums then he can't help himself.
Also relating to the fairy, the yellow petals that cover her body symbolize happiness, joy, friendship and new beginnings, let's hope that Nikki won't treat this baby badly even if he doesn't know how to treat it well.