The Healer of the Serpent—Chapter 3—

Victoria Leal

THE HEALER OF THE SERPENT FIRST PART—CHAPTER 3—

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3.About the Discomfort of Always being so Correct.

Wilhelm continued with long strides. He was frowning, lowering his head slightly at the servants and guards who silently bowed to greet him. The previous words of Benedikt managed to concentrate him on his work but that did not mean that, under the golden tiara on his forehead, the desire for freedom, to travel beyond Älmandur and to know new lands and customs, other languages or plants had been dissipated. He wanted to confirm or discount the stories in his books about High Ones hiding in nameless villages.Wilhelm was going through the guest list at his palace when his voice took on the strength necessary to speak coherently.

—I have read little of the Klotzbach house. Inform me, please.

Benedikt straightened his back, rummaging through his memories of all the books there had been and to be. From time to time, stories were mixed between family trees, Fritz's speeches, and the blood of various past battles.

—Klotzbach's house is recent. Ferdinand Klotzbach, father of Lord Stuart; was the one who started the Dynasty by joining the Academy of Knights, graduating with great honors upon conquering the eastern lands.

—Sebastian's grandfather was a brave man. If I'm not mistaken, his excellent performance in the War of Fire was rewarded with part of the conquered lands in the east.

Crossing the long corridor parallel to the one that led to the library, Wilhelm and Benedikt entered the heir's private chambers.

—You are correct, Your Highness. What else you need to know?

—Just keep going.

—Very well. As he has said, Lord Ferdinand, then Knight of the Crown of Älmandur; was rewarded for his bravery and named a Baron, the eastern lands being his domain. After that, he married ...

Two maids proceeded to exchange Wilhelm's thin shirt and brown pants for bright blue ones. The shirt was replaced by a white tunic, covered by another blue tunic embroidered with gold thread.

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—With the Illustrious Lady, Agnes von Freiherr.

—Right.

—And from that union, Lord Stuart was born, who acquired the title of Count when he married Catherine von Freiherr. And now Sebastian, after participating in the three battles for the defense of the eastern lands, has earned the title of Marquis of the East... —The servant placed a golden braid on the head of the heir whose shape was reminiscent of angels halos— He is currently engaged to the eldest daughter of the Neuenthurm, who currently lives in Orophël Village in the service of the lord of that site. In this way, he reaffirms their nobility ... no one can say that they are mere Knights.

Interesting family.

—Your Highness, if you already knew all this, why did you ask me?

Wilhelm felt ticklish as the maid tied the belt around her hips but avoided laughing, glaring at Benedikt.

—To remember my dear guests before dining with them. Quite a delight, don't you think?

—Certainly, Your Highness. They have earned their nobility by hand.

—Anyway, Beni, what does it mean to be Noble without the actions of helping others? Does our blood have a different color, are we born from cabbages in the field, is it because our language is incomprehensible or is it due to the fact that we come from Heaven? The only "Nobles" of true "lineage" are the von Freiherr because the other families are mere commoners who have made life easier for us here in Älmandur. But these families have done good in different ways, both for us and for the so-­‐called vulgar ... what separates us, the Von Freiherr, from other men? We are exactly the same. A blind man could touch my face, Helmut's and Sebastian's and could never be sure which he is the human of this world and which he came from Heaven. Tell me Beni, what does it mean to be "Noble"?

The servants bowed silently back through a secondary door hidden behind a curtain of green brocatos. Benedikt adjusted the tiara on his master's head, noticing a malicious glint in the boy's eyes.

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—That question will be answered in his time, Little Highness. All I can tell you is... I will ask you not to say these things in front of the public, especially your parents. It might make them see your little interest in the crown.

—Pff, it's okay. But I'm not cut out for this, maybe my cousin or Sebastian can do better, they both know how to smile at the exact moment and never ...

—Never...

—They never screw up. Instead, all I do is embarrass my father. If he was more strict with me he would have busted my ass with the belt. Good thing Fritz has that espadrille, my best character coach.

Ugh, I'm too soft and the worst thing is that it is obvious. You will see that, when I am king, everyone will make fun of me. Anyone will imitate the Klotzbach careerists and they will be filled with titles at the expense of the people's taxes. Now that I remember, the Neuenthurm are of the same ilk.

—Friends of your father, Little Highness. They have saved him from poisonings and stab wounds. To compensate for his loyalty, Mr. Ritter Neuenthurm was appointed Seneschal. It is worth mentioning that soon, he will be a father for the second time. The healer looked at the shape of Mrs. Näurie Neuenthurm's belly, announcing the arrival of a male.

Wilhelm looked at himself in the mirror. Behind him, on a desk, lay the book given by his mother. He stared at the reflection of the diary with bright eyes, a fact noted by Benedikt.

—Has he married a relative of mine? I have noticed that it is the best way to steal the titles. Now I understand the rush for my wedding to Frauke, surely some dandy Knight is after her, maybe Helmut's Squire who looks like a fly around honey. What was his name?—Wilhelm scratched his chin for a second hesitating, registering in his memory the face of the said man— Ah, Nikola.

Rumor has it that he was a miserable bandit before entering the Academy, and now he is a Squire. Let the Highs take him away from Frauke, he gives me a bad feeling.

—Little Highness, you should deal with Ritter Neuenthurm, not some paltry Squire.

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—If you say it...

—Returning the titles of nobility, the case of Lord Ritter is different as he was married when the title of Steward was granted.

—What a terrible situation, I am forced to be Frauke's husband to avoid another scoundrel in the family. And me thinking about Lotus ... now I understand why Fritz sighs every time I tell him something about her. I am naive, but with capital letters.

—If Miss Lotus were his wife, you would be giving the house of Klotzbach more power, Your Highness. They already own three strongholds plus the territory in the east, consider it.

—Very unfavorable, they have the power to enter goods across the border.

—But remember that the most relevant thing is this: the Klotzbach house owns the territories in the east. The von Freiherr house does not have much sovereignty in them and, a marriage with Lotus Klotzbach would propitiate ...

Wilhelm turned his head quickly, fixing his eyes on Benedikt.

—The lands to the east are adjacent to Äingidh territory... in fact, the present Klotzbach fortress was the stronghold of such creatures.

—That's right, Your Highness. But the Klotzbach family is wildly brave.

—Please don't continue. Fritz is right, the Majesties have chosen my wife correctly. If my marriage to Lotus were real, the lands to the east would belong to me, and it would be the kingdom's responsibility to deal with the Äingidh in an endless war that would lead to economic meltdown.

—Yes, you are correct.

—Yet Frauke is my cousin. By all the High Ones, the idea does not convince me.

Wilhelm blew all the air inside him, rehearsing the smile he was supposed to wear at dinner. He imitated the grimace that Fritz used in ceremonies, a gesture he had learned since his youth.

—How does Fritz make him look natural?

—My good friend was born pretending to smile, Little Highness. I have known him since I was seven years old and even then he was

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looking in the mirror practicing the little smile that he has today.

Quite a sweet ... but he had happy times when ... forget it.

—I need his secret, I'm sure Sebastian already handles it by heart.

—I think so, don't even go so far as to ask young Ritter because he's as heavy as Fritz. Sorry, I meant that Master Ritter is hard to get along.

—But Ritter is only twenty years old, can he really be as heavy as Fritz?

—He didn't smile even for his wedding day.

—Who's smiling on the wedding day? Nor that it was synonymous with joy, is just a contract.

—Little Highness ...

The prince was advancing towards the corridor when he was reached by Benedikt who handed him the green-­‐capped journal along with an inked pen.

—Your Highness, as it is officially your own, I would ask you to sign it.

—I won't sign a blank page after hearing such stories from the Klotzbachs and the Neuenthurms.

Benedikt gave a laugh that constipated his ribs. He barely caught the air, knelt to offer his back as a desk.

—In any case, Your Highness, I assure you that Ritter is someone worthy of your trust. He appreciates you very much and will do whatever it takes to take care of you.

—Nor tied up I would trust someone like that.

—Forget our talk, Little Highness, just put on the first page that the book belongs to you, that way no one can fool it. Come on, do it!

Wilhelm took the journal, holding it to Benedikt's back, who felt the prince's fine hand write on the old, yellowish, crisp paper.

—Do I put my full name?

—Titles and all, Your Highness. And add the drawing of a leaf to finish, remember that this is the symbol of his lineage.

—Buff, I'll finish tomorrow. I hope you don't suffer from your knees.

—The girls have been good today. The healer gave me an ointment that looks like the work of the Clover Dancers, Your Highness. Even

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gave me the courage to climb stairs, I feel your age! I am ready to go back to find a wife, so many years of mourning are killing me.

—Aren't we too late?

With that said, Wilhelm felt a shadow on his back. He lifted the pen from the paper, handing it over to the journal, turning to notice the image of a man dressed in silver.

—Your Highness...

—Hello, Fritz. Nice suit, match your desire to smile at life.

Benedikt covered his mouth with his hand as he stood up and turned around. He cleared his throat to cover his laughter, straightening up. Fritz stood calm and expressionless, holding a scroll sealed with a red ribbon.

—I appreciate your praise, Your Highness.

—One must recognize when things are done well. No Fritz, seriously, why is the face so sour? It's supposed to be a party but it looks like you're going to a funeral.

—Time to join in the drinks leading up to the Welcome Party, Your Highness. I recommend a measured tone of conversation and a special interest in the guest, the Ambassador of the Millennial Kingdom of Siam.

—Really, we have a different guest. What is the name of our Celestial Guest?

The three men began their march down the corridor carpeted in burgundy and gold, passing through paintings of nearby landscapes.

Some exhibited names such as Green Leaf Village or Cascade Village, but others only had a bare frame and it was difficult to guess the portrayed site since the thickness of the forest was similar in all directions and the villas stood there.

Benedikt was last in line, his gait heavy but joyous. He patiently read the scroll handed over by Fritz, who answered his master's question in a grave tone.

—Oceanic Jade, Your Highness. Royal Commander of Siam Navy.

—I have read that in the Millennial Kingdom of Siam, children are baptized when they are already aware of their character.

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—That's right, Your Highness. In this case, Oceanic Jade was baptized by his school instructor at the age of eight. Before that, his parents called him Light, since they begot him late in life.

Wilhelm lowered his gaze involuntarily, pondering the little information available about the Ambassador from the distant realm.

Without a word, the group crossed the last corridor towards the room where the presence of the child was expected, who sighed trying to mitigate the insecurity in his chest and the butterflies in his stomach. He massaged his belly going over names, his locations at the table, what he was allowed to drink and what would be out of his reach.

The boy breathed deeply and calmly when they arrived at the portico guarded by four guards in chain mail. Fritz and Benedikt noticed the nervousness in his little master, the man in gray being the one in charge of encouraging him, although with little result.

—Oceanic Jade is second in line to the throne of Siam, Your Highness. He is currently the Commander of the kingdom's shipping fleet. Belonging to the royal family, his hair is somewhat peculiar.

—Is it so amazing that you need to mention it?

—Your Highness, have you read about Siam?

—So is. The people of those parts have hair like oil and their eyes like bark of old trees. His skin is pale and his eyes are slanted, and royalty is taller.

—Oceanic Jade's hair is pale as a full moon, Your Highness. His eyes like pearls of dawn highlighted with black and red ink.

—A singular piece, I would like to have my notebook to illustrate him.

—Your Highness, he is not a specimen. You, moderate your comments.

—Oh Fritz, what a way to help me.

Wilhelm smiled patting Fritz's arm, nodding to Benedikt who understood the secretly said message, an "okay" that the prince often gave away to avoid arguments.

—I suppose they will have their way of explaining the phenomenon as we explain here the origin of my family.

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—You will remember what we have studied about it, Your Highness. Time to enter the party.

Wilhelm exhaled deeply, accommodating his arms at his sides while Benedikt combed the blonde hair up at the nape of his neck.

—Well, open the door.

—One moment, Your Highness— Fritz placed his hand on the boy's shoulder—Wait for the Majesties— You must enter with them or you will steal all the attention.

—Is it possible to steal the king's attention?

Wilhelm slid his gaze to the corridor, there he saw four lackeys accompanying the kings dressed in red who slowly advanced towards the guarded portico, smiling when they saw his child. Both felt that they were seeing the little one for the first time but they did not dare to comment on it, they simply held hands smiling. The queen measured her gesture, adjusting the veil on her shoulders falling from the crown of golden branches but the king did not have much qualms, he accelerated the march to grab his heir as if it were a bundle, carrying it on his right shoulder and giving go round in circles.

—How is my future king!

—Your Majesty, please make me lose my sense of direction!

Albert lowered the boy, who was holding his head with both hands trying to focus the eyes of his father.

—Look at you, a man before my eyes. You grew up so fast I can't believe it. I remember when you ran down the hallways pulling Benedikt's sleeves!

—Ahem, Your Majesty—Benedikt held the prince by the shoulders, noticing the evident dizziness—The Little Highness continues to play at pulling on my sleeve. Without going any further, today we tripped up the successor of the Klotzbachs. Excuse him if he shows a cut on his forehead, it was our oversight.

—Ah, that young man, always opportune—The king waved his hand in the air —Let's not talk about him, we admire my son!

—Father...

—Son—Albert spread his arms energetically—I love you all this!

—Oh, dad ... don't start with this, please ...

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—And you, how much do you love me?

Wilhelm looked at the arms of the person who was looking at him with lively eyes. After a moment of doubt, the boy spread his arms intensely as if at any second they were going to leave him and go away on his own. Fritz and Benedikt smiled when they saw the little boy's flushed cheeks, who felt that his nose was close to bleeding.

—All this...

—Oh, that's a lot, a lot, a lot! But do you know what?

—What thing?

—We have open arms and that means a hug!

—NOOOOOO! I FELL AGAIN! The king squeezed his son until the last breath was drawn from his entrails. He released him to rearrange the gold braid on his forehead.

—DON'T DENY YOU LOVE ME, WILHELM, DON'T DENY IT! The boy smiled happily but ashamed to admit that he liked the suffocating displays of affection from his father who glanced at behind the sleeve of his tunic. Wilhelm's nose bled, a fact that he repeated whenever the embarrassment took him as a victim.

—Your Majesty. The queen pampered the king's hand as she stroked Wilhelm's cheek —Let's not keep our guests waiting.

—Bah, you're right. Let's go in to eat, I'm already fading. Open the door!

The soldiers collided with their metal heels coordinating the opening of the honey-­‐varnished wooden portico. Simultaneously they took the handles, blinding the young prince with the vastness of the golden light that embraced everything. The boy advanced without knowing what to do for a few moments, smiling as he relaxed his back as his mother held him by the shoulder.

—Before our mortal existences, Their Majesties King Albert Johann Luther Wilhelm von Älmandur-­‐Freiherr and Queen Heidei Adalgisa Jenell Viveka von Älmandur-­‐Freiherr and the Crown Prince, His Royal Highness Dagmar Wilhelm Heinrich Burke von Älmandur-­‐ Freiherrr!

Wilhelm gulped air as he felt the weight of the words spoken by Otto, the aide to his father, King Albert.

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Mortal Existences? The boy recalled that the High have such a long life that they were considered immortal. Would they be related to the kings of Siam and, therefore, Oceanic Jade was part of a festival typical of the kingdom of Älmandur? So was it true that he would see six generations of subjects die before he began to look adult?

Applause received them, luckily for the prince the noise overshadowed his concerns. The musicians on the other side of the room set a slow rhythm that calmed the intense heart of the heir who stopped at a leaf embroidery on the carpet as his parents waved with laughter.

The nobles present were familiar faces through paintings and gossip. Some were relatives, others who were not even presented in painting.

—Those over there must be the Ackermanns and next to them must be the... what were their names? Ah! The Wolfen but those who are next to him, where did they come from? Did I skip an entire book?

Nor do I know who is there and here ... I need Fritz NOW! Wilhelm waved with a gentle wave of his hand without understanding what he was doing, despite the fact that his whole life studied for situations like that.

The kings were seated at the head of the table by Otto who made discreet faces to his colleagues Benedikt and Fritz offering Wilhelm a bow. The little one followed protocol, accommodating himself to the king's right.

Chin high, gaze clear, the king raised the cup of the sweetest must.

—I want to offer this dinner in honor of the High Ones but this toast is to commemorate the delight of your presence in these humble lands. Raise your glasses— The hands of the assistants followed the request, the one who did not drink was ready to do so— Drink with us, welcome to Älmandur!

The glasses were collided with the energy of the kingdom, in the game the must was thrown from one glass to another amid laughter and cheers for the king.

—Juahaha, I like it that way, my dear ones. Do not forgive the fruit or the meat, make every delicacy yours in front of your eyes and if you do not find what you want, ask for it to satisfy your desire.

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Wilhelm was taking the first sip from his goblet when he noticed that, right in front of him, was Seneschal Ritter zum Neuenthurm.

Left hand of the queen? As if he were a second heir, the Steward smiled drinking, looking at the prince clearly. His pale eyes prayed words in a language learned by hand by the little one because nobody spoke it fluently except Fritz and Benedikt but they never used it.

Wilhelm thought he heard whispers in his mind, as if Ritter were capable of looking at his soul and undressing him without consent.

The boy cut the visual to leave his glass on the table, whispering to Fritz.

—Why isn't Frauke in front of me? It would be a relief to share a position.

—Your Highness—Fritz leaned down to speak directly into his master's ear—The Steward takes the courage to supervise the food.

If he is in such an important place at the table it is to taste the delicacies that our Majesties and you will eat. Calm down, he'll only be there for about ten minutes. After that, his place will be taken by your fiancée.

—Ritter eats and drinks before we do?

—He's probably already tasted the foods before they were brought into the room, but one last try is never too much.

Wilhelm noticed the Steward offering him a little silent toast from his post. The prince smiled, secretly toasting the man with the sharp cold expression.

—Well, if he takes risks like that, he can be trusted.

—Your Highness, nothing in the world is black or white. Show a smile, but never leave the knife hidden in your clothes.

The heir to the throne kept a sweet, naive smile drinking the must as he reflected on the last words spoken by his silver friend.

When Wilhelm asked his beloved servant for a repeat of the wort, the king set his goblet on the table to raise his hands in the direction of the long-­‐haired, orange-­‐robed guest.

—My dear Oceanic Jade, I don't know if I have words to describe my surprise because your visit was scheduled for the wedding of my beloved first-­‐born.

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—I hope I do not offend you with my anticipated presence, Your Majesty—The Ambassador affirmed his hand on his chest, leaning slightly to show his respect—The winds of Siam have favored my ship, hence our speedy arrival.

—What the heck are you saying! Offend? If it is a pleasure to have you! I hope our food is to your liking and, of course—King Albert held out his glass to the attentive diners — everyone's taste. Cheers and bon appetit!

Benedikt and Fritz settled behind Wilhelm, watching the dinner as a maid filled their glasses with beer and warm wort, respectively.

The man in red approached his colleague laughing, whispering and mocking.

—Fritz, that Jade guy has a funny accent.

—Do not be rude. If it is difficult for her to pronounce the "R" it is because her language uses "L". I would bet that if you went to Siam you would be unable to pronounce so much "L" together ...

—Oh, but how tense you are. Everyone is already eating, relax a bit and drink. The king already said we could eat until we burst.

—Beni, you do that every day.

—You are so bad with me.

—Is it true that you need the help of two people to get out of bed and return to it at night?

Fritz raised his glass as his friend proceeded to tilt a offered vase.

—Maybe I'm getting a little chubby.

—Maybe? If I had a twin I could aspire to fill your clothes.

—I just enjoy my life!

Benedikt turned away to chat with a maid holding fruit-­‐filled sweet breads, at which point a boy with wavy hair left the table to lust for the same treat.

—Oh, young von Freiherr, do you like the Klöse? Because for me they are life, I hope I don't eat them all.

Helmut smiled a bit shyly, shielding his lips behind the steamy bread.

—Do not worry, one will zuffice me.

—What a joy you have given me!

—Benedikt, I want to azk you a favor... zomething zimple.

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—What is it about?

—You know me zince I waz little, why zo much formality? Call me Helmut, like alwayz.

Benedikt was devouring the third sweet bread but Helmut did not have the courage to bite the one in his hands, wrapped in a thin decorated paper.

—I called you that when you were a child, now you will be the brother-­‐in-­‐law of my dearest master. I think a little respect would do the trick.

—That zoundz like advice from Fritz.

The man in red gave a robust laugh that softened the spirits of the diners at the table, who were still in their places and well composed.

—Oh, that bitter old man. Everybody knows how it is like. The truth is that he asked me to do it. I'm sure he's asking Wilhelm for things right now, just look at him, he seems to be guiding the conversation between Ritter and my master.

—Zpeaking of Wilhelm—Helmut returned the panettone to the tray without a single touch—I'd love to chat with my couzin. Yezterday we talked but we were pending and, well, I zuppoze he haz not been given free time. Alzo, I'm looking for a rematch for the duel we had in the afternoon.

—Oh, it's true—Benedikt swallowed the beer that fell into his hands—The Äingidh seek to recover their lost strongholds and his family was entrusted with the defense of the southern bastion. I think so, you have a lot to talk about with my child.

—There were three battles due to attrition, they zurpassed uz in such a way that a confrontation zeemed ridiculous. But today, everyzing iz in our favor. I ask you not to speak of it as a great feat, it waz only bazic tactic.

—I hope the Congratulations Ceremony was up to the task, dear Captain!

—After all that, we just wanted a zoft bunk, I zwear. We almozt fell azleep in the middle of the king'z zpeech. Good thing Nikola waz next to me, hiz zlap kept me on my toez.

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—Oh yes, I can imagine. The honor of the family rests on your shoulders but excuse me, I am going to ask Seneschal zum Neuenthurm not to monopolize Wilhelm.

—Ritter haz that problem, when you give him confidence he won't let go. Many thankz for your kindness, Beni.

Benedikt bowed discreetly to the young man in fine burgundy and gold attire. His boots were completely flat and yet it was easy for him to stand out among the guests without mentioning that, despite his faulty incisor mounted on his companion; his favored face was a magnet for any woman who tried to ignore him.

His younger sister, Wilhelm's fiancée, used to feel jealous of her brother's beauty because she could never speak to him, if they were not the maidens, other Knights would crowd him to fill him with praise or he was requested by the king himself who patted him on the shoulder between laughter and beer they shared often.

Unfortunately, when she managed to catch him, she was rejected with contempt and for no apparent reason.

It must be said that the young man liked that special treatment but he concealed it, or at least tried to. However, when he was praised and invited to various demonstrations with or without reason, he lowered his spirits and the desire to chat. The young man was attacked by apathy and hid behind a curtain where his friend, leaked at the party, was waiting for him. The vilified squire also sought to disappear to go to the cot, but he stayed in the celebration solely and exclusively because his master requested it.

There, quite far apart in a corner without candles, the Knight and his faithful man shared a moment of peace between smiles and complicit whispers. Were they planning to sneak out at the first oversight, taking part of the dinner and a barrel of liquor with them, or did they recall antics done left and right without being detected?

Benedikt wanted to fulfill the request of his master, he walked the room to the place where the heir and the Seneschal shared a light talk about the decorations and lighting. The man in red approached the youngs, bowing respectfully.

—Seneschal, an honor to greet you.

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—I am the honored one, Benedikt von Orophël. If I have known a faithful man, that is you.

—I've had so many greetings from this guy today that I don't even know how to reply.

Wilhelm showed a sweetness of his own heart, feeling that the appearance of his servant was not random.

—Beni, do you want to join us in our talk about the detuning of musicians? They are a quarter of a tone down, I would love to correct them but my dear Ritter has suggested not to, saving us possible offenses —Oh no, what more would I like. My talent in music ends where my embroidery skills begin.

—Beni, you don't know how to embroider.

The Seneschal smothered his laughter in a mug of ale.

—It was a pleasure to share with you, I hope we will have a new opportunity shortly.

—The pleasure is ours, Ritter.

Wilhelm released a sigh as he was alone with Benedikt, taking a sip of wort before turning.

—By all the Hign Ones, Beni. Ritter only talks about frivolity. I wanted to know a bit about his travels, his family or what he think of my engagement—Wilhelm sighed reluctantly, looking at old Benedikt—He didn't even mention her pregnant wife and we have her sitting at the table. Oh, I would have loved to hear from Tëithriel who we haven't seen in a year. I feel that, despite having shared childhood, I do not know him.

—I don't think Ritter even knows who he is, don't ask nonsense.

—Nonsense is what he talks about, who cares if the tablecloth is mustard instead of gold? It's a tablecloth and it does the job of protecting the wood, what difference does it make! I don't even know what I'm saying anymore anyway, I'll stop drinking this deceptive wort.

—The conversation with Ritter may sound empty but keep in mind that this is your tactic to win people over.

—Is it a tactic?

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—Of course. When someone does not talk about themselves and only listens to you is attractive, it feels good that someone listens to you.

—Actually, he was very attentive to what I said but he didn't answer my questions.

—You want to know more and you ask for a chat to try to find out something. Be careful.

—Maybe you're right…

—Ah, I forgot—Benedikt directed the prince's gaze to the place where Helmut was waiting, accompanied by a glass of must and a curtain that separated him from the group—Helmut wants to see you. I think you will be more comfortable with him.

—Helmut, my dear cousin. To think that we will be closer in the near future.

—Consider him your brother, Little Highness.

—Don't be gross!

—Sorry?

—Then Frauke would be too.

—Oh, right.

—He better tell me more about his campaign in the south. I have noticed that she is very careful with his left side.

—It's easy to be careful after being hit with a wooden sword right where an ax was previously sunk, Little Highness. Helmut's wound was skillfully stitched up by Äweldüile but that doesn't make him invincible.

—Hack suture? I want to see that wound!

—Um… Wilhelm, don't think that's a pretty thing to see. Master Helmut was in bed for a full month and he should still rest. That ax broke the young man's bones and ...

—Do Äingidh use AXES?!

—Um ... yes, terrible sharp axes as tall as Fritz.

—I WANT TO SEE! Benedikt sighed, pampering the shoulder of his master.

—I will stay in this place, Your Highness. If you need me or Fritz, just state it.

—I'll do it if necessary, Beni. Thank you.

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Wilhelm placed his empty glass on a tray offered by a servant in black, who bowed his head, disappearing behind a door after completing his workday.

The prince managed to avoid the sea of people trying to capture his attention with praise, suggestions and improvised gifts, focusing his gaze on the conversation that Helmut had with his friend with such raised eyebrows that no one could imagine him in good spirits as they were see furious or evil. Wilhelm noticed that the young man had a close relationship with Helmut since he managed to hear a treatment on the same level that his cousin did not bother to correct and even laughed outright, drinking as if the world ended the next day.

Shyly Wilhelm approached his friends at which point Nikola, the Squire, gave a silent bow, meddling between ornaments and darkness in search of going unnoticed.

The boy greeted his aching cousin with a tight hug, who smiled at ease, patting the fragile shoulder of a wealthy heir.

—Um, sorry if I interrupted your fun, dear cousin.

Wilhelm scratched the back of his neck, showing embarrassment at his rudeness.

—Nah Willie, no worries—Helmut refilled his mug with more beer, smearing giste on his lips after taking the first sip—Even if you hadn't even thought about staying, Nikola would've smoked. He's a little shy.

—Shy? It does not seem like it, but quite the opposite. He has a hardened face and good posture, a clear look, a deep voice. If we were to look for someone shy, it would certainly not be him.

—Yeah, he lookz like a bad guy but everything you need iz to get along with him— Helmut used his palms, creating a length similar to that of a desk ruler—All you need iz to have it THIZ BIG. Wilhelm raised an eyebrow not understanding the joke of his cousin, whose mouth was shut by the hand of the furious Nikola.

—What's that long that I need to get along with you?

—Nothing, Your Highness—Helmut freed himself from the heavy hand of his servant, looking at him mischievously—I mean... you need a good will, is all.

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—Oh, that's simple ...

—HA, WILL! Good name, we'll call it like that from today ...

—Behave yourself, please. If you don't, I'll drag you to bed, you useless drunkard.

—Oh yes, babe Nik, go now. I'm fine, I promise you.

—You are so drunk… don't do any nonsense that will embarrass our prince, please.

—Oh, do not be zo ominous. They forgive me everything.

Nikola shook his head as he returned to his hiding place in the dark corner, leaving little Wilhelm intrigued.

—Um… Helmut, let's talk about more exciting matters, tell me more about your battle in the south!

The boy walked over to his cousin, noticing a certain change in relation to the previous day. Wilhelm kept his back straight and shoulders squared to look taller and try to reach Helmut's shoulder who was hunched over and using the wall of refuge. Suddenly the young man's despondency vanished, he affirmed his heavy and hard hands on Wilhelm's shoulders, who widened his eyes when he felt himself scrutinized.

—Couzin, how did I not realize before? I disappear for a few months and you become an adult! "The boy with the shoulder-­‐length wavy hair was shaking Wilhelm by the arms." I wonder what will happen next time I stop seeing you for a while.

—And what can I confess to you? One day you train how to wield a sword and the next, you return with honors and new territory. I have grown by a miracle because I do nothing but read and read.

Helmut put his arm around his cousin's neck, looking at him admiringly.

—All for the family, Willie.

—I haven't heard you call me that for a long time, the truth is that so much formality makes me anxious.

—I missed that too, but let'z talk less nonzenze, shall we?

—Hee hee… Sounds good to me.

—I want to propose something to you! Do not be nervous, nothing serious…

—Very well, make your request!

20

Wilhelm noticed that the wort went to his head despite its low alcohol content. If it weren't for Helmut's firm arm, the prince would surely roll off the carpet.

—Couzin, I miss thoze trainingz with the sword, let'z take advantage of tomorrow morning, I want my revenge! Bezidez, then we will have the Feazt of the High Onez and we will not even be able to talk with zo much activity and noise. Zo, ¿what do you zay?

—I am honored by your suggestion, dear Helmut! I'll tell Fritz to coordinate everything. The training area has been a bit deserted these days but your arrival kindled everyone's spirits.

The firm-­‐built boy noticed that Wilhelm's eyelids looked somewhat heavy. Helmut offered him a chair to rest, taking advantage of serving a few delicacies on a drifting plate.

The prince settled at the table, facing different steaming meals, observing the hard expression of a cousin with light scars on his hands and face.

—Willie, eat zomething. You have dedicated yourzelf to chat and drinking, which iz not good for your image. Here, eat it before it getz cold.

—Yes you're right. Looks like they put something in the drink and Ritter couldn't detect it.

—There iz nothing in the drink, little! I juzt you never drink and your gut haz nothing—Helmut poured the beer into his hand in a gulp, offering a tray of potatoes and sauerkraut to his cousin— Don't let anyone notice your light drunkenness or your Majezty won't ztop bothering you until the day you die.

—My father always finds a grip to annoy me ... now he grabs my weight and lifts me up like a sack of ... clouds.

—This is his way of showing affection. In your place, I would be grateful… Your father is the bezt, he never demand you what you cannot give.

Wilhelm noticed a slight change in the tone of his cousin's voice who looked to the side whenever he referred to his father. Ignoring the gesture, the boy ate what was offered, analyzing the measure of the Ambassador's movements.

—Helmut ...

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—Yez? —Why do the men of Siam look like women?

—Thiz... am… no idea. But it cannot be a woman, and if it were, it would be a very ugly one. Hiz voice zo deep that it seems that it came from a barrel ... and you should not say that thiz becauze you are not very righteous either ... Did you know that there iz a rumor in Älmandur that the kingdom haz princess and no prince?

—That doesn't offend me but it's weird, do I look like a princess?

—Take off your bangs. Ridiculous, Wilhelmine.

—It's not my decision ... but I'll tell Fritz that I want my hair to be wild.

—Just let it grow up normal, don't make him princely cuts.

—But I would like to wear Älmandur's hair.

—A braid, juzt like Zebaztian?

—No, you idiot! I like grandfather Älmandur's hair, long and with little braids set with jewels and…

—That iz even worse, tell me you want a dress and I'll get it for you.

—Helmut, you've suddenly become very unfriendly. Put down the beer you're already getting drunk.

—No, couzin, pleaze don't do it—Helmut didn't use his mug to drink but grabbed a jug filled to the brim, drinking directly from it and ignoring his cousin—Do you think… you'd better imitate the shaved half head of the Fiadhaish on the mountain and paint some tattooz...

—Hey, you—Wilhelm grabbed Helmut's wrist, who turned his head to look the prince in the eye—When can I talk to my future wife?

They don't even let me say good morning.

—Well, now will be your wife, not Little Frau anymore.

—All the more reason I must speak to her.

—Of courze not!

—I don't understand the logic!

—Iz to protect you from TEMPTATION, Willie!

—What temptation, I just want to TALK! —THAT IZ HOW PROBLEMZ ZTARTZ, YOU NOOB!

22

The diners at the party paused to look at the prince, who greeted with an awkward smile. The silence remained until the king struck Oceanic Jade’s shoulder.

—My dear Ambassador, can you tell us what the eastern seas are like? We are told that they are wild, but the sailors of Siam must be much rougher than those waters, are they not?

—Certainly, dear. You see, the only way to cross the sea of ...

Helmut slapped his cousin's neck.

—I told you not to act drunk and that'z the firzt thing you do!

—You didn't tell me that ...

—I told you politely!

—Sure, you are so polite…

—But it zeemz that it did not work, you are a bad drunkard, zo ztubborn.

—I'm not stubborn!

—Oh no, High Onez on Heavenz—Helmut tried to grab his cousin to take him in his arms.—I'll take you to bed!

—You won't take me anywhere!

The mouths of the young men were covered by the cold hands of Fritz and Nikola, respectively. They were joined by Benedikt as a guide to the adjoining room. Fritz and Nikola lifted the boys, dragging them into the next room between tugs and shoves, always covering their mouths.

Benedikt seated them in an armchair while Fritz stood facing them both. Nikola shook his head in disappointment at his master, leaning closer to whisper in his ear and adjust his collar.

—You don't even gave a minute's peace at the fucking party. My back cries for dragging you back, you weigh more than ten steeds.

—Oh, I zcrew you zo much, go away, I take care of myzelf.

—Yes, of course, the last time you said that to me and I obeyed you, you managed to drive a hoe into your forehead.

—The hoe crossed me!

—Sure, and the tree on the other side too, right? The Highs are testing my patience.

23

Showing to Helmut a disapproving gesture, Nikola paid his respects to Fritz, Benedikt and the prince, disappearing through a secondary door.

Fritz was the one who took control of the situation, cornering the boys thrown to their fate in the armchair in the center of the room.

The man took a firm step forward, his hands behind him and his brow turned into a thousand knots of an old tree.

— I do not spank your butts solely and exclusively because we are at an important party.

—But Fritz, he started it!

—Wilhelm!

—Wilhelm iz a nazty drunkard. Why zo much zcandal anyway? We didn't do anything wrong except… zpeaking a little loud.

—Hush, Helmut, you are drunk too.

—I don't! Well yez but a little bit, only Nikola haz zeen me completely drunk and he doez not recommend it.

—You drank all the beer in the keg, young man.

—A little beer won't hurt anyone. It iz zoft, you have to drink more to feel little dizzy.

—And you calling me drunk!

—I can still keep my back straight! What about you, princess!?

Benedikt raised an eyebrow as Helmut stood up to argue with Wilhelm, who was trying to focus his gaze on his cousin by standing on tiptoe.

Fritz arched his eyebrows closer together in the center, taking the leather belt from him and lashing it across Helmut's back.

—Enough!

The boy stroked his sore skin, turning to look at the silver man.

—You have a heavy hand but I'm uzed to blowz. Zend Wilhelm to bed —Go to sleep too if you don't want me to tidy up your head on a tray.

Helmut put both hands on his waist, challenging the prince in the armchair.

—I wouldn't be able to deal with that little boy, have you ever zeen zomeone beheaded in your life?

24

Benedikt took Helmut by the shoulders, dragging him across the carpet toward a portico.

—Good evening the shepherds say to the sheep!

—No, I'm a sheep, I'm a Knight!

—Good night, Benedikt. Thank you very much.

Reluctantly, the boy was led down the corridor to the guest wing where Nikola kicked his shins, dragging him into the bedroom.

Wilhelm clasped his hands as he was alone with Fritz, who was still holding the belt firmly.

—Your Highness. I suggest a break.

Wilhelm looked into Fritz's opaque eyes, searching for a nonexistent reflection. That cold gaze also had Ritter, did they share the same anger or was it sadness camouflaged with constant annoyance?

—Yes you're right. I will apologize in front of the diners, rest and then return to the celebration.

—Good thinking, Your Highness.

Fritz adjusted the belt around his hip, resuming the slenderness hidden by his tunic. Wilhelm walked slowly toward the porch that led to the party, head down, holding his fists hard as Fritz held the shutter.

—At your time, Your Highness.

—Open the door.

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