|Jude|
(A/N: Dense mc trope no more.)
As I woke up in my spacious and slightly luxurious bedroom in the palace, I felt a sense of ennui wash over me. The routine of daily training with Galahad had become tedious, and I longed for something to break the monotony.
I reluctantly made my way to the training ground, where Galahad was already waiting for me. Though I considered him to be my Master, having taught me many valuable mana techniques to complement my swordsmanship, I couldn't shake the feeling that something was off today.
Galahad surprised me by announcing that our training would only last an hour. This was highly unusual, and I couldn't help but feel curious about the sudden change in schedule. However, I knew better than to question my Master and simply nodded in agreement.
Our training began, and I pushed myself to keep up with Galahad's rigorous pace. Despite my efforts, exhaustion soon overtook me, and I collapsed to the ground. Galahad seemed equally drained and suggested we take a break.
After resting for a few minutes, Galahad declared that it was time to go. Confused but intrigued, I followed him to my room, where he presented me with fancy clothing to wear. I quickly changed into the garments and joined Galahad outside, where an envoy was waiting for us.
Galahad nodded his approval at my appearance, and we set off on our mysterious errand, the anticipation making me feel alive with excitement for the first time in what felt like ages.
|Kathyln|
As the princess of Sapin, I had met countless noble boys who lacked maturity and behaved impulsively, much like my own brother. But then, there was Jude. His presence in the VIP seating immediately caught my attention. His sharp features, jet black hair, and striking emerald eyes made for a truly handsome appearance.
Jude exuded confidence and didn't bow down to royalty. He even stood up to my father, defeating the Royal Guards with ease. While he showed a lack of composure when it came to his family, he still had a cool mind and knew his limits. He calculated that he could insult my father without consequences, but also that the Royal Guards would attack him and bring shame upon themselves.
Seeing a true man in action was an amazing feeling. Jude was hot-blooded, but knew when to strike, and had the composure and strength to back it up. Even Master Galahad had taken notice of Jude's potential and took him in as a disciple, which only added to my interest in him.
Master Galahad wasn't interested in training me as a conjurer, but he did see potential in my brother and occasionally trained him. He was another great man in Dicathen, with strength that could easily pressure even my father.
Despite being intrigued by Jude, I knew it would be improper for a princess to meet with a commoner. But after he became Master Galahad's disciple, his status rose above even high nobles, so I seized the opportunity to formally invite him to meet with me.
I had a sudden urge to invite Jude to a mini tea party, to get to know him better. It wasn't a grand event, just an intimate gathering between the three of us. I spent hours picking out the perfect dress and styling my hair to look my best for him.
My brother caught wind of the plan and insisted on joining in, despite my reservations. I reluctantly agreed, hoping he wouldn't ruin the atmosphere.
As we waited for Jude's arrival, I couldn't help but feel nervous. I caught a glimpse of him walking in with Master Galahad, and my heart skipped a beat. Why was I feeling this way? I couldn't quite understand the emotions stirring inside me.
|Jude|
I received a surprise from my Master Galahad that day: an invitation to a tea party with the Prince and Princess of the kingdom. It was an unexpected honor, considering my commoner status and brief interaction with them in the past. However, my Master explained that the royal siblings preferred spending time with individuals who valued humility and integrity, traits that were highly valued by their mother, the Queen.
As it turned out, my status as Master Galahad's disciple granted me a higher rank than most nobles in the kingdom, as he was the highest-ranking noble. I was both humbled and nervous, but determined to make a good impression.
Upon arriving at the courtyard where the tea party was to be held, I saw Princess Kathyln again. At only nine years old, she was breathtaking. Her long black hair cascaded down her shoulders and her striking features were highlighted by her pale complexion. Her cold demeanor was tinged with a blush, as if she were embarrassed by her outfit.
Her dress, while not extravagant, reminded me of Cordelia's Fairy Dress in its serene simplicity. The pure white dress fit her young body perfectly, with white jewels embedded in it that accentuated her beauty.
As I was lost in my thoughts, Master Galahad cleared his throat to get my attention. I quickly bowed my head and greeted the Prince and Princess. Prince Curtis nodded in response, while Princess Kathyln blushed even more.
After we all sat down, Prince Curtis and Princess Kathyln surprised me by apologizing for their father's behavior towards my family. I was grateful for their apology, but didn't want them to feel obligated to do so. After a bit of flustered back-and-forth, the tea party continued with talk of our families and training.
I was pleasantly surprised to learn that I had already broken through to the yellow stage, while Prince Curtis had only reached the red stage after awakening a few years ago. Princess Kathyln, who had only recently awakened, was already at the black stage, which was considered genius by human standards.
As we continued our conversation, I couldn't help but wonder if Princess Kathyln felt the same way I did. Was she blushing because she liked me? But I quickly dismissed the thought, knowing that it was unlikely given our different statuses. Despite that, I felt grateful for the opportunity to spend time with the Prince and Princess, and hoped that it wouldn't be the last.
|Kathyln|
As I caught sight of Jude walking in with Master Galahad, my heart rate spiked and my breathing became more difficult. I had dressed up for this mini tea party, putting in a lot of effort to look my best for him. But now that he was actually here, I found myself struggling to maintain my composure.
Despite my best efforts to focus solely on Jude, I couldn't help but notice Curtis's presence as well. I had only intended for Jude to be there with me, but my brother had insisted on joining us. I had reluctantly agreed, not wanting to cause any conflict.
As the tea party continued, I couldn't help but feel disappointed that there wasn't much conversation happening. I could sense Master Galahad's restlessness and his intention to take Jude away for training. In my mind, I began to think less of him and labeled him as a mere thief, taking Jude away from me.
But then, a sudden realization hit me. I had no claim on Jude. He wasn't mine to begin with, and the thought of him being "taken away" from me was foolish. I blushed at my own silly thoughts.
Just then, Jude caught my eye, and I could feel my face turn even redder. To my surprise, I noticed a slight blush on his cheeks as well. I wondered what was going through his mind, but Curtis seemed oblivious to the situation. Thank goodness for small blessings, I thought.
|Jude|
I couldn't help but notice the redness that crept up on Kathyln's face when she looked at me. My mind raced with the thought of whether she had feelings for me or not. I nervously chuckled to myself, trying to dismiss the idea as absurd.
Master Galahad interrupted my thoughts with a tap on my shoulder. "It's time to go now, Jude," he reminded me. I nodded and got up from my seat.
"Thank you for having me, Prince Curtis and Princess Kathyln," I said, bowing perfectly. "But it's time for me to take my leave."
As I walked out with Master Galahad, Kathyln called out to him. "Ah, Jude!" she said, fidgeting nervously. She handed me a napkin. "I knitted this myself. Please take it as a gift."
I was taken aback by the kind gesture. "Thank you," I said, feeling a little overwhelmed.
"And, please don't talk to me formally," Kathyln added hastily. "I'd like to be your friend."
Curtis chimed in, "Same goes for me, Jude. Let's drop the titles when it's just us three."
I was touched by their genuine offer of friendship. "Thank you," I said, bowing once again. "I'd be honoured to be your friend."
Master Galahad chuckled as they walked away. "Looks like our little Jude is making a name for himself," he teased.
I rolled my eyes. "You're mistaken, Master. A princess couldn't possibly have feelings for a commoner like me."
Master Galahad shook his head, frowning. "Don't sell yourself short, Jude. You're more than worthy of being her partner."
I muttered under my breath, "That's not what I meant."
"What was that?" Master Galahad asked.
"Nothing," I said quickly. "Let's just go."
(A/N: Revamping the Kathyln arc. This is the new first chapter.)