Vanieza: The Captured Kingdom

Humming a tune, black haired blue eyed Princess Luvelia observes her reflection. It was said that the vanity mirror in the room is an heirloom. Therefore it has a lot of value. Value, often this associated with the royal household. But what does define value? Is it proof of resilience despite adversity? Maturity gained from experience? Exquisite execution of craftsmanship? Or maybe good timing and luck? Like her who was born into the bloodline of the Vanieza. How can worth be known? Who has the right to evaluate? And just because one is in position, is it right to equate it to their worth as an individual? How about those who are not? What would be the weight of their existence? Aira the handmaid is meticulously brushes her hair. Each stroke is like a light scalp massage. Easing the migraine building up due to over thinking. ”Your highness, would you like it braided?” The monarch nodded, the tightness of that hairstyle improves blood flow on the crown. “Milady, you shall head to library again?” The lass mumbled an affirmation. What is left to do but spend time in studying? “Princess, should I prepare your favorite chamomile tea an hour after your studies commence?” The monarch bobbed her head to agree. That variant always provides extra calm after a grueling day of reading. For the past weeks, the monarch has finished seven books. Out of all the volumes scrutinized, the recent is most interesting. The knowledge from the texts, made her lost in thoughts. "It would not hurt to use your voice." The servant mused. The lady is an individual of few words. The past week however takes the cake. Something was really bothering her. Being in the royal family does have a lot of expectations. Aren’t they supposed to be good in speaking too? Aira would over hear those talking tasks are called diplomatic relations. Well the princess is still young and inexperienced, there is no need to rush. That is the king’s responsibility for now. “Princess has anything displeased you? Allow me to correct it.” The aristocrat swayed her head in negation. Why is the royalty withdrawn today? The lady despite being the silent type, has an open communication with the hand maid. The lady often manages to express concerns when necessary. Yet this day something is out of place. Then a revelation came into the maid’s mind. The memory caused gasp and her eyes widen in horror. “Your highness isn’t your eighteenth birthday today?” The master did not respond. Blue eyes devoid of emotion. “Milady, forgive me it slipped off my mind.”The servant muttered nervously. How could she have forgotten? She is the her highness personal aid? “Princess, would you prefer to do something more fun perhaps?” The servant offered. ”Maybe it is the reason the mistress is feeling gloomy?” “Milady, do you want me to forward a request to Governess Mathilda.” Aira offered as the braid was done. “Your highness, we can insert your desire to the itinerary today.” Indeed today is the day Princess Luvelia Vanieza turns eighteen. An important milestone in a woman’s life, as the grown ups would say. Honestly in a kingdom such as this, how could such a number be that significant? Truth be told, in other lands a grand ball would have been prepared a year in advance. Rulers from all over would have received invitations. Gifts should have flooded in a month before. Along with it, potential suitors would dress up and work on creating a good impression. But in the secluded kingdom of Vanieza events like births and birthdays are not celebrated. The practice lead to neighboring countries clueless of Luvelia’s age. It has been the practice of the royal house to hand pick the future marriage partners. Keeping the member’s age away from the world gives extra breathing room which lessen the pressure. Plus the journey to the territory is perilous. Unwanted visitors could end up in a very gruesome demise. Trade is not the strong point of land. It’s secluded location with a contrasting cool weather and continuous sunlight made it a distinct habitat for rare fauna and flora. The region’s most precious foliage is the rare Volhan blossom trees. A kilogram of this sweet scented flower is worth an average man’s yearly salary. Considered as extreme luxury by people of power. It is one of the many reasons of Vanieza’s source of riches. The royalty’s shoulders uncharacteristically slouched. Later that night, a private dinner was supposedly scheduled. The King, Queen and younger princess Nathalia are in attendance. It was one of the few gatherings the monarchs could enjoy. However, of all the days to have a new moon why today? “Things are already mundane, why did it have to get worst?’” The ladyship gently muttered. “Milady, today is your day. Tell me how I can help to make it better.” The handmaid begged once again. Surely there is something they can do. The servant was trying to be sweet and considerate. Unfortunately there is nothing to be done. Dinner plans had to be canceled, King Kieth has to go on a short expedition. “The useless astronomer, predicting the wrong moon patterns.” The princess sneered in dissatisfaction. “Such negligence is unforgivable.” Out of frustration the royalty face palmed. “Father should have punished the old geezer more astringently.” “May I speak milady?” The aid inquired softly. After receiving a nod, the woman continued. “Your highness, Lord Ratel has served the kingdom faithfully. I believe it was the reason of gracious act of the king.” “I know his contributions.” The brunette confirmed. “It’s just that, barely anything is celebrated. All I ask is for one day.” Blues burned in anguish. For her birthday is it too much ask to have a family dinner?  “Milady, I am sure the King and Queen will reschedule your affair. Please do not worry.” The princess sighed. As much as royalty wants to believe that, she is highly aware of the head’s schedule. After the short expedition, planning for the longer ones will commence. It will take six months at minimum. Managing the spoils will take two months. Making profit with it will take another two months. Then the king would want to take a rest undisturbed. The year would pass by just like that. Why are births and birthday festivities have long been forgotten in the house of Vaniezia? Ever since the absence of male heirs, feasting on the said dates has ceased according to records. Even for the king this abstinence of merry making is applied. The practice was said to be a solemn vow of mourning. It was believed, the curse that befallen the main house during a grand gathering. For such a scheme to victimize the whole house, all males lined up for succession had to be present. It was not just the adult heirs but even the children. The feat was unnoticed for two generations as the complied context say. Once the ugly truth surfaced, the moments have passed too much a through investigation was impossible. The royal family hired mystic healers to seek advise on how to break the misfortune. However the magical arts practitioners declared that the poison has already mixed with the blood. Therefore extraction of it is impossible.Since its pure form is not known, an antidote cannot be formulated. The house of Vanieza will be doomed of not having male spawns. Intermarriages to other noble families within the kingdom did not work either. All that were born are female children. Having a woman as head of the family is not really the problem. It is rather the manifestation of the abilities the lineage has to offer. The success of Vaniezia is founded by the strength provided by the male Vaniezian heir and Volhan flowers. This power has made the land resilient from the threat of werewolves inhabiting the land. The first male in line of succession would eat at least one hundred grams of Volhan blossoms at the age of seven. So far that is what the princess recalled from here long periods of study. “Let’s proceed to the library.” The handmaid bowed and followed her mistress to their destination. Despite the sunlight, the hallways appear to be gloomy. Perhaps the atmosphere is one with Luvelia’s sadness. How she wished to go beyond the kingdom’s walls. But due to the dangers lurking around, it is impossible. Not even in the time of year when sun is up for twenty four hours.  Alas in a few moments more she is once again in front of library. The servant pushed the wooden door to open. The ladyship let out a sigh. There is no other choice but make herself useful but by learning what she can. “Aira you may leave and bring the tea after an hour.” Bowing, the handmaid went on her way to prepare the request. Tonight new moon shall again arise. Is there a way to contribute and lessen the burden? Eyeing the familiar table with stacked books the brunette approached the space. Sitting on the familiar chair, once settled she took a quill on hand. Writing the date on her notes, her other dainty hand reached a piece entitled “Passage to Arms”. It was a the guide book for future kings. The lass has been reading it thoroughly for the past two weeks. Assessing what was written, the contents were grueling . The notes gives a detailed account of how an heir shall prove his eligibility to the succession. Volhan blossoms taste bitter. Of course that is the least of the challenges. To test the effectiveness of the consummation by age ten, the male candidates backs are whipped until bleeding. If the body is responding well to the flora, healing will be overnight. But just because it recovers fast, does not equate it to be painless. This ritual shall be practiced daily to evaluate efficacy. If the schedule is late, the trainee would have to consume more flowers. The danger is that overdose of the plant can lead to food poisoning. Vomiting, body pain, fever and involuntary shivering. At the age of twelve, the heir shall start learning combat. Like the routine lashing, battle training is meant to beat the crowned prince to a pulp. This is the next step of testing how well the Volhan is integrated to in the veins. During this period, the male is expected to heal in six hours. By the time the crowned prince turns sixteen, he shall go harvest a werewolf to prove readiness. The situations may vary. He can join an expedition, be on the front line of the hunt or await his prey by the boundaries of the kingdom. After succeeding the task, for two years the man is expected to join small expeditions to protect the land. He shall be guided by the first knight of the court. He is to be separated from the king. Since based on records, werewolves can smell the scent of Volhan in the blood. By placing the king and crown prince in different locations, it can cause confusion to the enemy. On the day the heir turns eighteen, the prince will be responsible for his own squad. The knights to accompany him is deemed the strongest. They are the first line of defense specially when a new moon is set to rise. Such tedious tasks in order to defeat the enemy. Werewolves, beasts with bodies of wolves but walk upright like men. These creatures have immense strength, fanged teeth and sharp claws. Their only known language is grunt and howls. There are no known evidences that they can talk. Seasoned knights would decipher their sounds but to the common folk it is nothing but noise. These monsters are vile that feed on the flesh of their prey. Occasionally they attack and consume helpless animals. However as the new moon comes their cravings heighten. Scent of human blood drives them mad. At this rate these beings flock and ready to attack the walled kingdom. In these dire times the gallant head of the house Vanieza with his chosen knights shall take the lead into battle. So far as history proves, these creatures are always beaten. The blue orbed princess rubbed her temples. Too much information. Mathilda, the governess would always emphasize that knowledge is as good as any weapon. Unlike other women before her, Princess Luvelia Vanieza is shouldering a huge burden. Her father, the king is the last male in succession to the throne. Meaning one day, Luvelia will have to defend Vanieza from all the dangers that will threaten the land. Frail and naive first born crowned princess will be queen. At eighteen year how can she fight the mythical brute monstrosity? On cue her personal handmaid came in with two other servants refreshments in tow. “Milady, we took the liberty of bringing in freshly baked scones.” A make shift tea table was set beside the royal. One aid carefully poured a cup. The chamomile fragrance was soothing, very therapeutic. “Your highness, sugar, milk or tea perhaps?” Aira offered. The princess swayed her head. “Majesty, would you want anything else.” The princess swayed her hand to signal the three to leave. “Princess, let me assist as you take your break.” The servant suggested. Her ladyship should not be alone sulking in a library on her eighteenth birthday.  “I prefer to be alone. I’ll use the bell if I need anything.” The maid could not hide the sadness from rejection on her face. Seeing the display Luvelia tried to ease her aid’s worries. “Aira, I am fine. Go to my room and prepare the red dress I was to wear tonight.” The mistress ordered with a smile. “I am still wearing when I eat eat dinner later.” Seeing the smile appear on her master’s face, Aira bowed and went on her way. The assistant carried the relief that at least the princess till had plans to celebrate her day. Even if its as trivial as dressing up and eating supper. Sipping the tea, the lady recalled her preadolescent years. In those days, she begged her father for lessons in basic combative skills. But even if she gives it all her strength, it could not even cause the lowest knight to flinch. Plus the swords were too heavy. Same goes with the armor. Sure she can ride a horse for leisure, however for battle is a different story. To both the father and daughter’s dismay, they accepted the fact that she cannot fight. Despite this truth Luvelia has a different asset. The eldest daughter is very intelligent that it brings some scholars to shame. The misinterpretation of the moon pattern was corrected by the princess. Based on the inventories of the werewolves killed, the lady is able to decipher which lands need more attention. Using wind patterns, the heiress aids to secure the kingdom from severe damage during monsoons. This knowledge is also useful in their agricultural strategies to maximize food harvest. Helpful as she was, the woman wants more. The greatest wish is to find a way to equip their army weapons that can defeat werewolves easier. In every expedition, the kingdom of Vanieza would lose a hundred men. The future queen worries that when the time the royals has no representative in the battle field, the people will remorse them. If that happens, it will not only threaten the crowned household, but also the civilians if an internal war arises. Luvelia gently placed down her cup. Decisions and strategies must be made as early as now. In order to avoid the ill predictions, she has to study and find a way. There should be a path on how a female member can aid in the battle. Unfortunately, women of the house of Vanieza cannot consume Volhan blossoms. Doing so would lead to death. Many of their ancestors have tried. The ways varied from direct consumption to extraction of essence. Despite those efforts, ingestion is deemed impossible. This fact concluded that the Volhan blossom is not the culprit if the Vaniezian curse. Unless the schemer, particularly separated the food of the male and female royal household in that forsaken gala. But what mysterious concoction can cause a lineage not to bear male children? Maybe she can find way to break the curse? Will it be easier than making Volhan weapons? The lady allowed herself to collapse on the table, arms cushioning her head . Another thing that is bothering, she is of age to be introduced to a suitor. Honestly marriage is the least of concerns now. How can she bring in a defenseless man to this damned kingdom? If an outsider becomes the head of the army, can he really win against the monstrous enemy? Of course she is not belittling the capabilities of other kingdoms. But Vaniezia is totally a different level of danger. Would a man in the right man want to jump into a challenge all for a girl he only met once? The queen would tease Luvelia that she must be in best behavior when a suitor comes. The meeting should be love at first sight to make things a success. The realistic daughter would argue that no strategic warrior would fall into that type of fairy tale. Definitely the men who will be coming are either the second in line or the youngest sibling. Meaning they are less trained than the elder which makes their qualifications for the territory lesser. The mother would console the lady that the knights have been loyal to kingdom for centuries. She should have more faith in their subordinates. However for the princess, nothing is set in stone.Human hearts are fickle and will side with what they consider as convenient. Vanieza is important to her, so its not sin to overthink on how to defend and preserve the land. The deep thoughts made the female oblivious to the heavy footsteps approaching. “Milady, if an assassin came in, you would be dead by know.” A deep male voice reprimanded.  “Shut up Irvald.” The lady hissed and sat straightened up again. “Ever since the knight awarding, your arrogance heightened up more.”  The man smirked his onyx eyes glistened. “Irate as ever princess?” “Honestly, just because we are friends. It does not gives the right piss me off.” The monarch sneered her nose cutely crunching.  “Milady, know my loyalty is for this house.” The tanned knight reaffirmed casually. “Plus, milady likes it when someone contests her authority.” The lad with black hair explained in a teasing tone.  “I can get your head chopped off for speaking so casually with me.” The royalty threatened the tall muscled man. Irvald Koane, a boy she grew up within the castles walls. They are of same age. The Koane family is a line of first nights serving the court since the kingdom was built. However, none of their kin came into the succession of the throne. Their ancestors made a vow to denounce it. The lad’s skin has turned tan due to the grueling days outside in the sun. As a youngster Irvald showed immense strength and high combative skills. As early as thirteen, the male was already aiding expeditions. It is a mystery how he managed to survive. Maybe his stealth had something to do about it to. The current captain of the first knights is Irvald’s uncle. His father was forced to retirement after losing his right arm in battle. It was unfortunate. But at least during that time, all were thankful he made it home alive. After the demise of his father, Irvald took into responsibility to raise their family’s reputation. For them to live a comfortable life, there must be an active knight in the household. Hence in his tender age, dark circles are already evident beneath his eyes. “Why are you here again pray tell?” The brunette woman huffed. Nonchalantly the man pulled out a dagger from his belt. The design is quite slimmer to the hunting ones the princess has seen before. But it looks more fatal than one being used to open letters. It seems to also have a double edge. The man continued to approach her and gently suddenly kneel down at a safe distance. With both hands, Irvald presented the weapon. “Happy birthday your majesty.” The knight greeted with his head down. “Your highness have always wanted your own means of defense. It’s not as fancy as a sword, but it will be able to protect you just the same.” Luvelia stared at the contraption. Irvald bought it for her? How did he managed to have one made? Or is it one of his hand me down pieces? Noticing the woman is not picking up the gift, the man continued to explain.  “Milady, the material of this dagger is from molten canis, werewolf bones. I was awarded a portion in last year’s harvest. I used it to make new armor and some small partition for this knife.” It seems the lad had prepared for this gift a year ago. “This dagger from your first major hunting assignment?” The woman questioned again.  “Yes milady.” Cautiously the royal took the object from the male’s palm. Its cold, a bit heavy and up close the blade is not metallic in color. The hue is of ivory color, similar to the armor of the knights of Vanezia. This present is the product of second knight Sir Koane’s bravery and hard work.  “Thank you Vald, its beautiful. I will cherish it always.” That nick name, just like when they were young. “Glad to be of service milady.” The later replied. “Excuse my hastiness my liege, tonight I shall accompany the King. I need to prepare.” The man gently explained.  “May the light of our ancestors guide you in battle Sir Irvald.” The knight stood up and bowed. “Your kindness overwhelms me milady.” Smiling Luvelia gently spoke. “Comeback safely.” It has always been like this. In every mission, he would personally good bye. Every time she would wish him good luck.  As the lad is to exit the door, he looked back with a smirk, “Once I am done, I promise to fulfill our deal of riding with you by the meadows Lia.” The woman was speechless with the declaration. It was something they vowed to do once he reached the ranks. With warm reddened cheeks the lady nodded in agreement. Receiving the acceptance he was aiming for, Irvald went on his way. It was five years ago, when the boy was knighted. Irvald was the youngest Koane to receive such honor. On that day he made a pact to grow strong. Once awarded second knight or higher, he can be qualified to escort royalty to safe sites. Irvald excitedly proclaimed to Luvelia that they can go on an adventure together. The girl with enthusiasm accepted his offer. Biting off their thumbs to bleed a little, they pressed it together for a blood compact. However due to Irvald’s age, he had to stay in the fifth level until the turning sixteen to be promoted. Toiling nonstop, as reaching seventeen the male jumped to third level. Then joining a major expedition in clearing up a werewolf nest the previous year, a week ago second knight title was bestowed to him. Luvelia placed her right hand and clutched it towards the chest. Vald has not forgotten their promise. The thought brought out a giggle, joy was overflowing in her heart. He really has always been a dependable and honorable friend. Someone who shares her enthusiasm for travel. They both dreamed that one day, everyone in Vanieza can freely move from place to place to their hearts content. This sense of freedom, away from threats is the best type of life. After securely placing the dagger on the safe side of the study table. The princess continued her task looking for ways and means to serve the kingdom. As she turned the pages of the notebook, her thoughts wondered. Inside the lady’s head is a memory an auburn haired man with golden eyes. As loud as his color features was, that guy was the most gentle person she knew. The princess halted writing as the memories of their parting plagued her thoughts. He had to leave for learning purposes. Based on experience, werewolves hate the scent of pure Volhan blossoms. In order to utilize this fact, a grove was created and experimented by the clan which suggested the idea. The house of Maal, known for their scholastic prowess took the main responsibility. The brightest of the youth of the family took residence in the grove to observe the beasts behavior. Rumor has it that they have developed fast healing salves. It can heal wounds of werewolf battle injured men a week less than normal. Plus a serum was developed to inject to the war horses, increasing tolerance to werewolf saliva. This heightens the chance of finishing the fight earlier with fewer casualties. “How are you doing Kaema?” The princess muttered out suddenly. “Are you still mapping the stars?” The lady let out a sigh, it has been ten years since he left. That time the scholar was eighteen and assigned as her math tutor. Recognizing her intelligence, the teacher thought the princess to read the night sky as a bonus. The learned lad believed it will be critical in making decisions for the kingdom. During that time she did not understand the point. But as she matured, there is no argument. Reading the skies is a staple for Vanieza. Could he be married by now? To a fellow scholar too perhaps? Maybe the man has a child or two by now. Considering his age it is possible. From what she can recall, Kaema was quite dashing. His skin was fair and porcelain like a female. His voice is always calming. Those golden orbs always exude sincerity. And under the light of the sun the male’s auburn hair would glisten like fire. Involuntarily the maiden touched the crown of her head. The tutor would pat the monarch’s head whenever she did well in studies. Would he be patting her again if the scholar knew how hard she had been working? Part of Luvelia had constantly prayed that Kaema return back to the kingdom. Isn’t ten years in the wilderness enough for a person? Can’t they switch who need to go on duty in that grove? Or can’t they be given vacation breaks to enjoy inside the kingdom? Such thoughts, why is she considering these things? Maybe its about time to inquire her father about it once the chance presents itself. Surely all their subjects are entitled to rest after grueling years of work. Building up her resolve, the heiress took a mental note. It will be the first topic to be brought up when her father is no longer busy. Maybe the queen can humor her on the matter at tonight’s dinner. Mother probably has idea about it too right? From her knowledge, the matriarch is the ruler’s closest confidant. Hopefully the a small spark of enlightenment she seeks can be provided by the consort. It feels like two hours has passed since the tea was brought in. The contents of the pot is cold now. The scone was left untouched. She felt guilty to wasting the refreshments prepared for her. All she could consume was a cup of tea. Concerned that the servants will feel dejected, Luvelia forced herself to eat the scone and drink the cold tea. Food is still food even if it’s no longer warm. After finishing up the meal, the princess decided to call it a day. Ringing the bell, in mere seconds Aira appeared. “Milady, what could I be of assistance?” The handmaid inquired with a smile.  “Have the tea set cleared. I would like to walk around the garden to breathe in some fresh air.” Standing up from her seat, the maiden took the dagger by the handle.  “Your highness forgive my boldness, I am afraid you should not be bringing that knife with you.” The servant explained nervously.  “Why not? I have no intentions of hurting anyone.” “Majesty, apologies the intrusion and unsolicited advise.” The assistant spoke in shame.  “Thank you for always worrying about me. Trust me it will be okay.” The heiress assured. “Plus I am sure Nathalia will be thrilled to see this. Her affinity for knife and sabers is a notch above anyone in this kingdom.” The servant bowed as the royal prepared to exit the door. “As you wish my liege. Enjoy your time with Princess Nathalia.” Nodding with mirth in her eyes, Luvelia headed to the main garden. Anticipating great quality time with her one and only little sister.