Chapter 89: Alberto's First Trip (1)
Barta
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It's the most populous city in the Britannia Kingdom. Most of the buildings in the city are medieval and Renaissance-style. The capital is divided into four districts. The Royal District, The Commerce District, The Residential District, and The Military District.
Currently the whole capital is being arranged in various ways. You can see people cleaning their houses, some started decorating their houses. Since the engagement ceremony of the princess will be held in a few days. So the capital is being decorated on this occasion. The streets of Barta are adorned with vibrant decorations, floral arrangements, and twinkling lanterns. You can also see people building stalls where they are planning to put their businesses, the town guards and Royal knights have become more vigilant in their patrols to ensure the safety of the people who are gonna attend the celebration.
More carriages were also entering the city; most of them were tourists from neighbouring cities, even foreigners from other countries. Some are also businessmen who are not letting this opportunity slip as they know how much money they could earn.
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Britannia Kingdom's Royal palace
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Princess Elina is sitting on her balcony. Beside him is a small table, cluttered with an array of books, some stacked precariously, others opened with pages fluttering in the wind.
There are dark spots in her eyes which indicate that she has not slept properly. As the princess sat idly, a 12-year-old boy ran up to her. He is Oriento Von Britannia. Elina's younger brother. His eyes are blue like the sea, and his hair is white like their father, who died 5 years ago.
"Big sis," Oriento's youthful voice carried a note of genuine worry, "You haven't been sleeping, have you?"
Elina turned to him, "Hmm... Oriento, it's nothing like that. I was just reading some books. But what are you doing here? Shouldn't you be at the academy right now?" Her voice was gentle, but the weariness seeped through.
Elina looked at the maid standing behind Oriento. Ami is Oriento's personal maid. She manages all the affairs of Oriento.
Ami politely replied seeing the princess looking at her. She stepped forward, bowing slightly, "I apologize, Princess. I tried to keep him at the academy, but he insisted on seeing you."
Elina's gaze softened as she looked at her brother. "Oriento, you shouldn't skip class. You need to focus on your studies."
"Ah! Big Sis, don't worry. I'm the top student in my class!" he proclaimed proudly, a childlike blend of innocence and ambition.
But his expression quickly shifted to one of concern. "But big sis, I heard you don't want to marry big brother Strom." His innocent eyes searched hers, filled with worry.
Elina felt a pang in her heart at his words. Because it's true that she was not completely agreeable to this marriage. But still, she looked at her brother and said with a reassuring smile, but it never quite reached her eyes, "Eh, Oriento, I look like this because I haven't slept properly. So my face seems Don't worry"
"Hmmm... of course it will," he replied, though his expression remained sceptical. "Big bro Strom is very intelligent. The swordsmanship he taught me is great! Even after he graduated from the Academy a few years ago, his popularity hasn't faded. He's so awesome! I'm really happy that you're going to marry him."
Elina also tries to smile involuntarily at her brother's expression. She felt a flicker of warmth at her brother's enthusiasm. "Of course, Oriento. But you should return to the academy now. Once I'm married, I'll have to leave the palace, and you'll be responsible for everything here. You are the future ruler of this country, and you must be strong."
"Of course, sis. I will be very strong," he replied, his youthful determination shining through. But then he hesitated, his brow furrowing in concern. "Um... Big sis... if you get married, can't I see you again?" His voice trembled slightly, the innocence of childhood.
Elina's heart ached at his question. She leaned down, enveloping him in a warm embrace, her voice soft and soothing. "Oriento, I will always be by your side. You can come and see me whenever you want. Nothing will change that."
"Ya! You are the best Big sis! I love you so much!" he exclaimed, his face lighting up with joy as he hugged her tightly.
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Bernard Empire
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Capital City: Rafa
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The nobles brought the highlight of their wares - magic stones reputed to enhance weapons. Duke Gorge demonstrated its use before officials.
With a flourish, Duke Gorge revealed a knife adorned with intricate engravings on its handle. He carefully inserted a vibrant red stone into a small, round socket embedded in the knife's grip. In an instant, the blade ignited, flames licking the air as Duke Gorge wielded it with confidence. With a swift motion, he conjured a fireball, leaving the officials in awe.
One military officer, a burly man with a stern expression, leaned forward, "Was this knife really almost the same as a small flamethrower?"
Another Officer said, "Yes, it is not as strong as the flamethrower we use, but imagine the potential! If we were to scale this up and use a larger weapon with a more powerful stone, the possibilities are endless."
Milana, on the contrary, sat in the corner and talked about precious stones and the jewels that Britannia has. Aqua was also with her, helping her explain what kind of gems and jewels they had. Meanwhile, Sam introduced some peculiar products to the Bernard official, showcasing the unique craftsmanship of their homeland.
After this day, everyone returned to their rooms and rested.
Duke Gorge found it hard to believe that they would be leaving the Bernard Empire tomorrow. Although they traveled to many places here, but it felt like it wasn't enough. He wanted to stay here longer, to explore this entire country better. He wanted to enjoy every food and every convenience of this country. Yet, he reminded himself that if the alliance was successfully forged, he would have the opportunity to return whenever he wished. The thought brought him a measure of comfort as he prepared.
In stark contrast, the slaves brought by the nobles were filled with a profound sense of sorrow. They huddled together, their faces etched with despair as they learned of their imminent departure. For many, the Bernard Empire had been a sanctuary, a place where they had experienced kindness for the first time. They had enjoyed clean living conditions, nourishing meals, and a semblance of dignity that had long been denied to them. The thought of leaving this oasis behind was unbearable, yet they knew they had no choice but to obey their masters. Still, a flicker of hope remained in their hearts—a belief that one day they might return to this haven.
The Port of Athens was now busy again as they prepared for the departure of the nobles and Alberto.
Continue your saga on empire
In the palace , Alberto prepared for his journey to the Kingdom of Britannia, where he would formally sign the alliance agreement. It was crucial for him to demonstrate the Bernard Empire's commitment to this partnership. Additionally, he had received an invitation to Princess Elina's engagement, which would take place on the same day as the signing of the alliance.