FIC IDEA : contain spoiler for chev romantic ending.
Sooo mc and chevalier had sex before she left the castle right? And ikemen prince is set in medieval times. And there was no reliable contraception at that time. Soooo what if mc after leaving the castle found herself pregnant with chevalier’s baby but the 99th clause forbide her from meeting chevalier to tell him and she was also scared of what would happen to the baby so she hid it with the help of rio and one year pass until cheva learn of his son/daughter existence thanks to clavis or by catching mc holding a blond baby during a parade (like the one on chap 23 when there eyes meet.).
Anyone is welcome to complete this plot or completely rewrite it in more details in the comment or in a post.
Ps: if u make a post pls tag me so i can read it !
It always disturbed me how Mc keeps calling cheva as prince chevalier/king chevalier even while they are being intimate so i decided to write a one shot about it. Hope you enjoy!
One night, Mc was having dinner with chevalier in his room like usual.
Their conversations as always revolved around what they did during the day, as well as books.
-“By the way, i received a new foreign romance book as a present from some noble ladies. Would you like to read it once i m done?”
He smiled at her and nodded. She smiled back at him and kept talking.
-“its a deep romance with a strong philosophical undertone. I m sure you ll like it King chevalier”
He frowned. They have been lovers for a while now. Yet she still called him king chevalier instead of just chevalier. He never prompted her to drop the honorifics, in case she felt uncomfortable. But she speaks to the other princes casually. So why was she so formal with him ?
After all she was his fiancee and soon to be queen. So why did she insist on calling him king even when they were alone.
-“Whats wrong, King Chevalier?”
-“Why do you keep adressing me so formally ? Just calling me by name is fine.”
She frowned and he almost regretted asking.
She must have a reason. But he’s been waiting for her for long enough. He decided that that night will be the night she starts calling his name without honorifics.
He stood up and grabbed her chin more roughly than he wanted to.
-“Tell me why?”
She hesitated for a few seconds before finally opening her mouth.
-“Its to remind myself that you are the king and that i should work hard to catch up with you.”
-“Ridiculous. You'v already caught up to me long time ago. Right now you are queen in everything but title. You possess all the knowledge and qualities to be an outsanding queen.”
-“I know that already…..but…” she averted her eyes, blushing.
-“MC”
He called her name and she couldnt help looking back at him. His icy blue eyes were searching her face for an answer and she saw them waver for a second. Was he feeling hurt because of such a trivial issue ?
But it was not trivial to him. He wanted her to be more comfortable and familiar with him than she was with any other man.
Everytime he heard her call Yves or Luke by their name he felt a pang of jealousy.
-“It’s because……ITS BECAUSE I’M FEELING SHY!”
He let go of her chin, surprised by her sudden outburst.
-“What was there to be shy about when we already saw everything of each other? ”
-“That’s not the point! After calling you king chevalier for such a long time it was weird for me to just suddenly start calling you with just your name! And- and i could never find the right moment to do it!”
She was out of breath and her face was deep red. He chuckled and let out a soft “simpelton” as he patted her head.
-“i m not a simpleton, your name is more precious to me than any other name so i have a harder time calling it.”
-“Then right now is the right moment. Go ahead and call my name. I m listening.”
He looked at her expectantly and waited. His heart was beating in anticipation.
She started playing with the hem of her skirt, a clear sign that she was nervous. After a minute or so she finally raised her head and started speaking.
-“I love you, Chevalier.”
She gave him the most magnificent smile. And at that moment he felt like that last remaining of ice in his heart has melted. For the first time ever he felt himself blushing but he did not try to hide it.
He considered it a reward and a privilege for her to see his blushing face. He smiled back at her and said
You wanted to fulfill the wishes of his majesty the king, who was always working hard for the country. But what Chevalier wanted from you was unexpected!
“For me, who used to be a beast, this is far too luxurious”
When you understand the king’s true intentions, endless love overflows.
PS: In this picture i can see he got a bit of resemblance with another one of his brothers. Or is it just me ?
I hate the fact that mc still call Chev “prince chevalier” even when they are being intimate. Isnt it about time chevalier asks her to drop formalities and just call him by his name ?
I hate the music ikemen prince use for their “smexy” moments. It sounds so sad and it make every love scene look like this is their last night together.
A Chevalier Michel fanfiction. Approx. 2200 words. This scene takes place in Chapter 2-3 of the main route and is told from Chevalier’s POV. Part 4 of a series.
Persistence was a trait Chevalier could admire, at least, when it wasn’t directed at him. When it was, that trait seemed far less admirable.
The Belle stood in front of his desk, lips pressed into a tight, bloodless line. Her hands gripped her skirts as if she thought the fabric a shield. “Prince Chevalier. I - I …”
He lets his lips slide into a frown, and placed his full attention on her. After the incident in the garden, he’d expected she would keep her distance. That had been part of Clavis’ gambit, he thought. Though he had more than one theory on Clavis’ end goals. Trust, he thought, but not too much. Regardless of his brother’s intent, here she was. Still watching him with her wide, innocent eyes. He felt something odd in his chest, a bit like a cough. A constriction of breath.
Chevalier Michel proposal event translation Premium ending
The ending was very long so it took me more time than i expected! But honestly it was so good i almost cried.
The whole ending is in chevalier’s pov! So i hope you enjoy!
Chevalier’s POV
Chevalier’s office
Rio: Excuse me! King Chevalier!
(Another noisy person came)
It’s been a few days since i decided to have an engagement ceremony with MC
And the butler, who came without warning, did not hide his displeased face.
Chev: State your business,briefly
Rio: Is it true that you did not propose to MC ?
(I was wondering what it was he wanted to say but….)
Chev: It’s unnecessary.
I answered him without taking my eyes off the documents in front of me.
Chev: If that’s all you have to say leave.
Rio: No way!! it’s not unnecessary!!
The butler banged his hand on the desk and several papers flew off the desk.
There is no other dog who would dare to speak like that to the king who was previously known as the brutal beast.
Rio: Listen, King chevalier! you might think you are conveying your love properly to MC but….
Rio: But i dont think MC really understands your love!
(I never thought of that)
I looked up from the documents.
Rio: Propose to MC right now!
Chev: It’s none of your business
Rio: Even if you say that, MC is my friend and master!! I-
Rio: Eh….?
I took a small box from the desk drawer and the butler interrupted himself.
Chev: That’s why I said it was not your business.
Rio: Huh? but you just said it was unnecessary.
Chev: Yes, it is in fact unnecessary.
Chev: ……But it will make MC happy.
Rio: ……!
Rio: I’m so sorry.
The butler picks up the papers from the floor and arrange them back on the desk.
(You know a lot about MC but so do I)
An official engagement was something I wanted for a while.
If I give her the ring, those feelings would be conveyed without a doubt.
Back to the throne room
I took out of my cape the engagement ring I had specially prepared for MC since a long time ago.
The truth is, I did not ask to get engaged to her in order to have her attend the festival ceremony.
I asked her to attend the festival ceremony in order to be able to ask her to get engaged to me.
TN : He means he used the festival ceremony as an excuse to get engaged to her and not the other way around.
(You have learned and matured enough. It was the right time.)
The festival ceremony was a very good excuse.
But the Butler was right. Mc does not really understand my love.
(That simpleton…..)
I took the ring out of the small box and kneeled down in front of the throne where MC was still sitting.
MC: Chevalier!! It’s wrong!!
Chev: What is?
MC: The king should not kneel down!!
Chev: When showing respect, it does not matter whether I am a King or not.
Chev: Regardless, I will never kneel down in front of anyone but you, for the rest of my life.
I understand that being King is a position where you should never get down on your knees.
But I am not doing this as a King but as a human being.
I took MC’s hand and put the ring on her ring finger.
The ring had a small diamond embedded in a rose pedestal and was specifically made for her.
MC: Thank you so much.
(You look like you want to say something else but a thank you is enough for me.)
I wrapped her slightly trembling hand in mine, carefully not to crush it.
Chev: Don’t ever misinterpret my actions again.
MC: Yes!
MC: I still want to be the kind of woman you would be proud of.
MC: But I want you to remember that it’s all because I purely and simply love you.
Chev: …..
MC: I’ve always loved you. Now and forever.
MC rose slightly from the throne to drop a kiss on my lips.
Chev: That’s fine.
Maybe it’s because she’s been working so hard in order to stand next to the King
but sometimes MC puts public affairs before her personal feelings
(But i hope you will sometime put your feelings first
and remember who you are being loved by.)
The day of the engagement ceremony, the sky was clear as if it was giving us its blessing
Clavis: Chevalier, are you there ?
But the second this person entered the chapel, the sky became cloudy
Chev: I knew you’d come anyways
The engagement ceremony was made simple, with only me, MC and the witness.
It is established that the witness should be a person of similar rank to the people getting engaged.
Well…..I don’t mind letting Clavis by our witness.
First the butler, then my stupid brother…..apparently many people want to talk to me.
Clavis: To think that you would specially wear a tuxedo just for today.
Chevalier: …….
Clavis: Haha, It seems you love MC so much you can’t help it!
Clavis: That’s very impressive coming from you who used to not care about anyone’s feelings.
He let out a long sight and sat on the chair.
FLASHBACK FROM CHEVALIER’S ROUTE WHEN HE TELLS HER LOVE IS UNNECESSARY FOR A KING. I SKIP CAUSE ME LAZY.
Certainly I have grown up as a person since those days.
This engagement ceremony itself is a symbol of that.
As i was ignoring the incessant rambling of my idiotic brother, the chapel door opened.
I saw her trying on that dress before but now that she’s wearing it officially it looks so different.
There was only one word in my mind to describe MC at that moment, she was like a diamond.
MC was dressed in a pure white engagement dress,
Her every gesture was refined to the point where the owner was as elegant as the dress.
The way she walked, the way she stood and most importantly the expression on her face….. It was all so beautiful I could not take my eyes away from her.
(I always thought you were like a raw gem that would shine after getting polished)
(But now that gem has become so beautiful that I couldn’t help but admire it.)
Clavis: Ah! you’re here at last! I was waiting for you!
MC: Eh? Clavis? Why are you here?
Clavis: That’s not important right now!
Chev: …….
(She’s wondering why I am wearing a tuxedo.)
Chev: Since you’re wearing an engagement dress I need to wear the tuxedo to match it.
MC: You look so good, I can’t take my eyes off you.
Chev: …..
(That’s my line.)
Chev: Ridiculous….
Clavis: This is when you should say “MC, you’re prettier! I m so in love with you my heart aches”!
Unexpectedly, my foolish brother was able to read my heart.
If I think of this as the result of me getting closer to other people, it is not a bad thing.
MC: Don’t tell me, Clavis, you are our witness?
Clavis: Yes, since my brother wants me to do it, I can not refuse.
Chev: Glasses must be struggling inside Clavis’s trap by now….
(As long as we have a witness, the engagement will be official even without Glasses)
TN: It means Sariel was supposed to be the witness but Clavis trapped him and came instead.
I took MC’s hand and led her toward the Altar.
There, on the wood table, the engagement pledge was waiting for us.
Clavis: An engagement ceremony is an event where you should express your love.
Clavis: Chevalier, you’re usually shy but at times like this you should tell MC how you feel.
(I knew he had a silly reason for suddenly wanting to be our witness….)
Clavis, just like that butler, wants me to confess my love to MC.
(This is not worth listening to…)
Chev: After you put your name on this document you will officially be my fiancee.
Clavis: Hey….
Ignoring my brother’s ridiculous words, I signed my name on the document.
I gave the pen to MC, and she signed her name right next to mine in neat handwriting.
The engagement ceremony’s whole purpose is signing the document,
but for MC who had an expression mixed between happiness and tension
It was worth having this engagement ceremony.
TN: He meant that they could have just signed the document in his office as long as they had a witness but he organized the ceremony just for MC.
Clavis: The whole thing is out of order….
Chevalier: It’s not the format that matters, it’s the content
After signing the pledge….
I grabbed MC by the waist and kissed her defenseless lips.
The kiss is supposed to seal the words of the pledge.
But the kiss i gave her was not to seal mere words but to express my feelings for MC
With the hope that MC will keep on loving me now and forever.
Clavis: Wait a minute!!
The moment the kiss ended, Clavis expressed his disappointment
Clavis: Don’t tell me this little kiss was meant to say “I love you.”!!
Chev: Is that a problem?
TN: Gosh MC is so silent and passive here to the point that I feel that this is Clavis and Chev engagement ceremony rather than Chev and MC.
Clavis: Yes! There is a big problem!! Why do you think MC dressed up so beautifully!?
Clavis: It was to hear you say those words!!
Chev: ……..
MC: I already received a lot of Love for him.
MC: Chevalier always expresses his love through his attitude and actions.
Clavis: You should be more selfish and demanding! Don’t spoil him too much!
Clavis: There is no such thing as “you don’t have to tell me, i know”. There is meaning in hearing those words.
Clavis: Emotions take shape when they are expressed in words.
Clavis: You won’t be able to truly understand my brother’s feelings unless he tells you.
At that, he gave me a meaningful look.
Back when I almost threw away my humanity, Clavis was the one who kept me a little bit human.
Clavis: Chevalier, people cannot read minds as well as you do. Don’t just depend on MC to understand you.
To think he would scold me….
Unfortunately for me, Clavis is a better human being than me.
He often hides his true feelings behind a suspicious smile but….
What he said just now…..I don’t think it was just to tease me.
It’s not logical at all…..but somehow he was right.
I thought I had proposed properly but….
But now that i think of it, i haven’t said any words to convey my love.
So normal people may not consider that a proper proposal.
Clavis: So, you know, you should say “I love you”!
Chev: Ridiculous. Let’s go.
I pulled MC by the hand and walked out of the chapel.
AT THE GARDEN
Chev: ……..
MC: ……..
Chev: You had some expectations, right?
MC’s shoulder jumped slightly
As expected, it seems MC wants to hear those words.
MC: That’s not it.
MC: You have already given me enough.
(But……that does not seem to be enough)
I have never felt the need to put my feelings into words
I was convinced that people understood me even without me doing such a thing.
because the beast did not need words in the first place.
But if a person’s feelings take shape with words then….
there is no point sealing that oath unless i put it into words.
TN: He means the oath on the engagement pledge
MC: Anyways, the festival ceremony will start soon. I’ll go change my dress.
MC let go of my hand and tried to return to the palace first.
Almost unconsciously, I grabbed her hand and stopped her from leaving.
Chev: MC…..
The words that came out of my mouth next were sweeter than I thought.
MC: Chevalier?
(Today is a special day so….)
Chev: You said that you were sad that you could only wear this dress once.
Chev: I’ll organize an engagement party so wear it again there and show it off to everyone.
Chev: you’re worth showing off……Since even the dazzling roses look hazy and dull next to you.
As I reveal bit by bit the content of my heart, surprise and joy paint MC’s beautiful face.
Chev: And…..
I pull her into my arms.
I put my lips to her ear and her skin turned bright red.
Chev: Now and forever, i will keep on loving you.
Chev: Because I, whom you loved and believed in, does not think love is unnecessary.
MC: Chevalier…..
Chev: Keep on loving me…..now and forever.
MC: Ah!
(Now that I think of it, I never said it clearly.)
(Ah, but it’s not bad to put it into words from time to time.)
I let go of MC’s red and shocked body and began to walk
But….i can already guess MC’s next move.
MC: Chevalier!!!
MC chased after me and held me back by the hand.
Then she stood up on her tip toes and landed a kiss on my cheek.
(As I expected….)
It surprisingly felt good….being able to express my feelings in this way.
MC: I will also always always love you!!
Chevalier: Indeed.
She grabbed my face and gave me a way deeper kiss than the little peck she just gave me.
(You are my one and only.)
Royal palace balcony, Festival ceremony
People’s cheer can be heard from below.
I looked down from the balcony with a panoramic view of the city, and MC stood next to me.
For the year when I was king and MC was gone, I stood here alone listening to the cheer of these people.
But now it’s different.
Right now, MC is next to me. And she will keep being by my side, always.
Now that she was officially my fiancee, I felt a stronger connection to her than ever before.
The simple engagement ceremony will last forever.
Suddenly, I glanced toward MC.
She was slightly nervous but when our eyes met she smiled at me.
She was standing in front of the people and was acknowledged as the King’s woman.
Even after understanding the heavy burden she now carried, she was smiling.
(Even at times like these, you look happy)
(You really are…..foolish)
I think it is fine to give her more responsibilities from now on.
Of course, i will not give her just responsibilities
I’ll also give her a lot of love.
Chev: Be proud. You are the only woman I’ve ever acknowledged.
MC: Yes!
With a big smile, MC grabs my hand discreetly so that the people won’t see her.
I squeezed her hand tightly.
This is not the end. It’s only the beginning.
The love story that will be told for generations to come is only starting a new chapter.
Chevalier Michel proposal event translation part 2
Omg this part got me on an emotional Roller coaster! Have a great read! The premium ending is a bit long so it will come out in around 24 hours after this post!
Ps: the premium ending is in chevalier’s pov.
At the palace rose garden
Ever since Chevalier and I became lovers, we’ve been spending time together every day after work.
Chev: What’s wrong?
MC: What?
Just as I turned the last page of the book in my hand, Chevalier’s deep voice reached my ears.
I looked up to see that the book on his lap was closed and that he was looking at me.
Chev: Lately you’ve been so excited
Chev: but today it’s even more
(was i showing it on my face that much?)
(Well, even if I didn’t show it on my face, Chevalier would know.)
When we first met I was surprised by how he was so easily able to read me but now I’m used to it.
MC: Something good happened.
MC: I was talking to the maids about the engagement dress….
FlashbackMC’s room
Anna: Lady MC you’re so wonderful
MC: Why are you saying that so suddenly?
Anna: Remember how i told you that the servants were divided into 2 factions
Anna: A faction that was supporting you and a faction that was against you.
Anna: But that’s not true anymore.
Anna: And even Cecilia who rejected you so strongly because you were a commoner….
Cecilia (who just entered the room): Here it is!! I’m sure this hair ornament will look so good with that dress.
Cecilia: Hey Anna!! How can you put that mediocre hair ornament on Lady MC?
TN: This is from a previous event where MC had to deal with the maids. Cecilia bullied her but in the end it all ended with MC confronting her and saying she will make all the maids accept her as future queen.
Cecilia : Lady MC looks better with lighter color so take it off right now!!
Cecilia: eh? Why are you two grinning?
Anna and MC: It’s nothing!
END OF FLASHBACK
MC and it’s not just the maids, lately I feel like the aristocrats are starting to accept me.
Chev: …….
Back when i first entered the palace as chevalier’s lover rather than as belle
They would stare at me meaningly
But as time goes by, the number of aristocrats hating me has decreased.
I feel like the court of Rhodolite has finally accepted me.
MC: It’s all thanks to you and your grandfather.
TN: Back at the valentine event Chev asked his grandfather, marquis michel, to put on a word for MC to the other nobles.
MC: It felt like I was told all my efforts were paying off so I was happy.
Chev: And you’ve only noticed this now?
Chevalier let out a stunned breath and crossed his long legs.
Chev: You have the talent to attract the people around you.
Chev: Even without my help, you would have been accepted eventually.
Chev: That talent is and will always be your most powerful weapon.
Chev: Just keep on polishing yourself.
MC: Yes
Every word he said penetrated deep in my heart
MC: But…. I wasn’t talented enough to be recognised by you.
Chevalier said I had the ability to attract people but….
it’s because i struggled so much to stay by his side, i am now here
There is a big difference between the me before i became belle and the me right now
MC: I owe it all to you, Chevalier.
MC: thank you for always watching over me and guiding me.
Chev: …..
Chevalier s face melted into a gentle expression
But….
MC: Once I officially become your fiance i ll have to work even harder!
MC: I wonder if you decided to make it official because you have those expectations in mind….
MC: I can’t let myself get carried away
Chev: ……
MC: ?
His icy blue eyes widened in surprise.
Chev: You…Do you really think I’m getting officially engaged to you just for that reason?
MC: That’s right, the engagement is necessary for me to be able to attend the ceremony.
Chevalier’s handsome face twisted into a frown.
Chev: that’s true but thats also not right
Chev: The butler was right….
MC: The butler?
Chev: No
Chev: I have changed my mind. Our reading session ends now.
(Eh? but the sky is still bright)
It’s part of our routine to read until the night fall completely
But today, chevalier suddenly got up and carried me on his shoulder
MC: Wah!? Chevalier?!
Chev: Don’t move. If you don’t wanna fall, that is.
After a short walk, Chev suddenly stopped as if he noticed something
he shifted me so i was in his arms and then started walking again
That gesture alone carried so much love I couldn’t help but loosen as I felt my cheek blush.
But….where are we going?
The heavy door of the throne room was pushed open and his footsteps echoed loudly.
as soon as we entered i felt the solemn air of the throne room
It’s not a place anyone can enter just like that
except for the king, Chevalier.
MC: Um….why are we here?
Chevalier approached the throne while still holding me in his arms
and then tried to put me down on the noble chair which was bright red
MC: Oh!! I can’t sit here!!!
I was so shocked that I hugged Chevalier’s neck tightly and resisted.
But he easily untied my arms from around his neck and sat me down on the chair.
Even when I tried to stand up he held me down by my shoulder.
MC: Chevalier!!
Chev: It’s not only the king who can sit on the throne
Chev: Eventually, two chairs will be lined up.
He’s right….
The reason why there is only one throne in the Rhodolite throne room is because the previous queen, chevalier’s mother had died.
The previous king did not marry another woman to succeed her as queen after her death.
For a long time, there was only one throne in this large room.
Chev: The previous king was alone, but I’m not.
MC: Yes
Chev: Then what’s the problem?
MC: It’s still too early for me
Chev: Becoming the king’s fiancee is tantamount to having the right to be here.
Him putting me on this chair carries that much meaning.
I will be carrying the weight of the country
Just accepting that fact is enough to make me lose my mind
But before I had time to overthink, Chevalier lifted my face in his hand and his beautiful ice blue eyes approached me.
Chev: it’s too heavy of a responsibility to you right ?
Chev: But I feel nothing.
Chev: This is natural for me, because i was born a royal and took it as part of my duty
Chevalier and I are that different
There is an absolute wall that I cannot climb no matter what I do.
Chev: A king can sit on this chair by himself. I have no need of a fiancee
Chev: The same goes for the ceremony. Without you, the atmosphere will freeze but it will not interfere with my responsibilities as a king.
Chev: Whether you do your best or not, that changes nothing for the King
The words he just said pierced my heart like sharp knives.
Chev: But that’s not true for “me”
(what?)
Then, Chevalier, who always had a cold face, laughed.
Chev: I dont think i ll ever get tired of seeing you sitting in that chair trying to shoulder the weight.
Chev: Even the boring ceremony will be enjoyable to me if you are there.
Chev: I have no official reason for your company.
Chev: I wanted to get engaged to you for personal reasons.
MC: personal reasons…..
Chev: You understand that, right?
Chev: The most unnecessary and worthless thing to a king…
Chev: is something that is necessary for me and that i find value at
TN: What do you think chevalier pulled out of his cloak
A- Clavis B-a thousand year old egg to show his everlasting love C- A red rose D- a ring that he will put on mc s finger as he get on his knees and sing words of love.
The winner shall win 10000dollars directly from Marquis Michel’s personal funds.
Chevalier Michel Proposal event translation Part 1
Hello everyone! I will be translating the proposal event for Chevalier!
I just enjoyed this event so much i wanted to share it with you guys! I’m sure you’ll be just as shocked as i was to see the romantic side of chevalier in this event!
Please note that this took me a lot of time and effort so a little thanks would be welcome!! Hope you enjoy!!
I can still vividly remember that day.
FLASHBACK
MC I’ll become a woman worthy of you
Chev: Yes, I’m looking forward to it.
END FLASHBACK
Some time has passed since then.
The road to catching up with Chevalier was filled with memories.
Some days were happy, some were sad….it was an arduous but pleasant road.
But Chevalier turned around and waited for me to catch up to him.
I was running toward him with all my might, even to this day
And from now on….
MC: Prince Chevalier, what do you think?
Chev: It’s not bad
A pure white cloth embroidered with a lace of roses
and a simple yet elegant dressed was envelopping my body
Prince Chevalier never flatters me so I’m glad he says he likes it.
I stared at myself in the mirror. Even though I did not do my hair properly, I already looked like a completely different person.
MC: What a lovely dress. It’s such a shame i’ll only be able to wear it once
Chev: That’s pretty much what an engagement dress is all about.
Chev: Mh….I think it would be better to raise the hem by about 2 cm
Tailor: Yes. I’ll do that.
This looks like a wedding dress.
But it’s actually an engagement dress.
I remember how this all started 1 week ago.
Flashback
MC: Are you going to attend a ceremony?
Chev: Yes, and I was thinking of taking you with me.
One day, chevalier summoned me to his office and told me this
Chev: The ceremony is not important. Once I give a congratulatory speech we’ll withdraw.
Chev: all you have to do is stand next to me
MC: But…
The ceremony Chevalier is talking about is most likely for the festival held on Rhodolite anniversary.
His majesty the king participated in a ceremony to pray for the prosperity and development of the country.
Usually, only the royal family relatives are allowed to accompany the king.
Which means, Chevalier asking me to stand next to him had a deep meaning.
He actually wants to introduce me to the citizens, right?
As I took a deep breath, Chevalier raised the corner of his mouth.
Chev: We are going to have an engagement ceremony before the day of the national anniversary.
MC: An engagement ceremony?
Chev: This is another ceremony that is part of the royal family traditions
Chev: Right now, you are only my fiance in word not in paper.
Chev: In order to be officially acknowledged as my fiance we need to sign our name on an engagement pledge in front of a witness.
Chev: After the ceremony, you will be allowed to attend any large event as my official fiancee.
I’ll be his official fiancee….
That would enable me to take one step closer toward Chevalier.
My heart trembles with joy and I breath out unconsciously.
Chev: If i attend the ceremony alone it will only freeze the festive mood.
Chev: So I’m counting on you
….
These words, coming for Chevalier who could do everything perfectly, were special.
MC: Yes!! Nothing makes me happier than helping you!!
Back to present
Chev: Simpleton.
Chevalier snorted and poked my forehead
Ah…I guess I was spacing out.
I noticed that the tailor had left the room and that Chevalier and I were alone in the room.
MC: I’m just so happy about everything.
When I first heard of it I thought it was a dream, but here I am trying on my engagement dress.
MC: It was my dream to stand up next to you.
Chev ……
MC: I know I’ m still in the middle of the road
MC: I can’t hide my joy when I think that I am getting closer to you.
Chev: I dont think there is any need for you to hide your joy.
(Ah)
Chevalier smiled a warm human smile and patted my head awkwardly.
My heart was full of joy.
Chev: I admit it. There is no woman who can stand next to me but you.
(Ah….)
To Chevalier, these words might seem like nothing much…but to me….
MC: Yes, and I am proud of that.
MC’S ROOM
The preparation for the ceremony and the engagement party are going well.
That night, I was telling Rio about my day while sipping the tea he made for me.
Rio, who was both my butler and friend,
usually listens to my stories with a smile but today he looked displeased.
Rio: Hey, MC. There is something I’ve been curious about for a while.
Rio: You’re going to have a formal engagement right?
MC: Yes, that’s what Chevalier said.
Rio: I’m surprised that it was only made official after such a long time but more importantly….
Rio: Did he propose to you?
MC: Propose ?
I was stunned by the absurd words that came out of my friend’s mouth.
Rio: You know, since you two are getting engaged, he must have proposed to you, right?
(A proposal….)
(there was one….or maybe not?)
Now that I think of it, he never proposed to me.
MC: To Chevalier the engagement ceremony is only a mean to an end so I don’t think there is anything more to it than that.
MC: He only needs the engagement ceremony in order for me to be able to attend events as his official fiancee
Aside from that, I don’t think it matters to him whether our engagement is made official or not.
He is a person who values what is between us rather than the title of fiancee.
MC: And the engagement ceremony itself is a proposal to me.
MC: Since Chevalier who hates wasting time made that much time for me.
Rio: No no no…! That’s all wrong! I’m not satisfied!
Rio: This is a once in a lifetime event!! it’s only one step away from marriage!!
Rio: So I can’t believe he didn’t even say “I love you”!!
MC: Chevalier is the kind of man who expresses his love with his actions rather than words.
MC: Even if he doesn’t say it, I know he loves me.
Rio: But, MC, don’t you wanna be told “I love you”?
MC: That….
(Honestly, I want to hear those words from him….)
MC: It’s fine. I’m satisfied with just that.
Rio: …….
I pretended not to notice Rio who seemed like he had more to say and sipped my tea.
The black tea flavored with fruits and sugar was sweet enough
Bureaucrat 1: It seems Duke Frederique is trying to marry his daughter to his majesty the king.
Bureaucrats 2: He is wasting his time. Anyone who saw King chevalier and queen MC together can say that he would never take a second queen or even a concubine.
Bureaucrat 1: Well i feel like prime minister Sariel and head butler Rio would kill him before he even got the time to think about it.
Bureaucrat 3: The Duke came this morning to try to convince us to talk to his majesty about getting a second queen.
Bureaucrat 1: So annoying. He claimed that queen MC did not produce a heir to the throne despite the fact that she have been queen for a while.
Bureaucrat 2: Well that IS true. But thanks to her majesty, king chevalier is way less scary. Before she became queen every day used to be so stressfull. I’m forever gratefull.
Bureaucrat 3: Me too! Hail to queen MC! Now lets get back to work before the demon comes back.
♤♡◇♧♤♡◇♧
Meanwhile, somewhere in the palace rose garden, 4 maids were taking a break.
Maid 1 : As i was cleaning the corridor by the bureaucrats office, i heard them talking about Duke Frederique. It seems he is trying to pressure king Chevalier into taking his daughter as a second queen.
Maid 2: Haha. He is wasting his time! How dare he tries to replace our queen!
Maid 3: King chevalier is so smitten, there is no way he’ll ever look at another woman.
Maid 2: Thats right! The other day i saw them sitting on that bench over there. Her majesty was reading a book while the king was looking at her with loving eyes. They held hands and from time to time the queen would look up toward him and smile, he would smile back at her and squeeze her hand. They were so into their own word, they did not even notice all the palace workers watching them.
Maid 1: King chevalier used to be so scary but its like he’s been complitely tamed my her.
Maid 3: I am worried about her majesty though. They always spend the night together but even after such a long time there is no sign of pregnancy.
Maid 2: mh….maybe they do not actually “sleep” together that often if you get what i mean.
Maid 1: No way! Her majesty’s body is always full of hickeys when i help her dress up in the morning. We always have to choose dresses that hide her neck.
Maid 2: kyaaa~ as expected they are so in love! Watching their daily life is like reading a sweet romance novel.
Maid 3: But then, why is she not pregnant after all this time? If this goes on i fear the nobles will pressure the king into getting another woman.
Maid 4: Um….actually….it seems like Queen MC is drinking herbs to prevent pregnancy. I heard head butler Rio and Her majesty talk and she said her and the king decided it was too early for them to have kids. She said they wanted to enjoy each other’s compagny some more.
Maid 2: Is that so!!
Maid 1: I’m so relieved! As expected they are both so in love !
Maid 3: Oh my! Look at the time! Lets get back to work! I have a date tonight!
Maid 2: With prince jin?
Maid 3: No way! One night stands are not my thing!
♤♡◇♧♤♡◇♧
The next day, at the city marquet
Shopkeeper 1: Have you heard? The king is getting a second queen.
Shopkeeper 2: what are you saying? There is no way thats true.
Shopkeeper 1: But i heard it from a palace maid. We were on a date yesterday when she told me that Duke frederique is trying to marry his daughter to the king.
Shopkeeper 2: I dont believe that crap. The royal couple are just so in love with each other.
Bookstore owner: Thats true. The other day they came to my store on a date. They came wearing commoners clothes and capes but i recognised his majesty’s aura and her majesty’s beauty right away. They were both having a great time while picking books together.
Shopkeeper 1: Look at him bragging.
Shopkeeper 2: Well i would brag too if had the king and queen as regular customers.
Shopkeeper 1: I heard the queen was also a bookstore owner before she married the king. I also heard that store is still under her name.
Bookstore owner: Yes, it was actually a book rental store. Her majesty has been contributing to the country way before she was queen. As expected she’s so wonderfull.
Shopkeeper 2 : It feels like you have a crush on her or something.
Bookstore owner: How can i not? I never met someone so pure and beautiful. Her smile is enough to ease all my pain.
Shopkeeper 1: Well, i advise you keep those feeling to yourself and move on if you dont want the king to cut your head. People seem to have forgotten about it since he is way calmer now but he used to be called the brutal beast before he met her majesty.
Shopkeeper 2: That’s right! Let’s go have a drink tonight to forget about how bad our love life is!
Bookstore owner: I’m in!
Shopkeeper 1: No way! I have a date again tonight.
Shopkeeper 2: With that palace maid? But you just saw her yesterday?
Shopkeeper 1: And i already miss her.
Bookstore owner: Tch~ traitor.
It was another peaceful day at Rhodolite, full of roses, love and gossip.
A Chevalier Michel fanfiction. Approx. 2200 words. This scene takes place in Chapter 2-3 of the main route and is told from Chevalier’s POV. Part 4 of a series.
Persistence was a trait Chevalier could admire, at least, when it wasn’t directed at him. When it was, that trait seemed far less admirable.
The Belle stood in front of his desk, lips pressed into a tight, bloodless line. Her hands gripped her skirts as if she thought the fabric a shield. “Prince Chevalier. I - I …”
He lets his lips slide into a frown, and placed his full attention on her. After the incident in the garden, he’d expected she would keep her distance. That had been part of Clavis’ gambit, he thought. Though he had more than one theory on Clavis’ end goals. Trust, he thought, but not too much. Regardless of his brother’s intent, here she was. Still watching him with her wide, innocent eyes. He felt something odd in his chest, a bit like a cough. A constriction of breath.
She ducked her head, swallowed nervously.
Chevalier’s gaze grew colder. “You’re a disruption to my work. Leave.”
“But …”
“Do you want me to lose my temper as I did yesterday? Then by all means, continue.” His words made her flinch.
The Belle wavered for a moment, clearly fighting herself. Her fear was obvious under the thin veneer of courtesy, as was this odd sense of duty she clung to. She slipped into a graceful curtsy. “Then … another time, Prince Chevalier.”
Chev watched her hurry away. He could not understand why she insisted on forcing herself into his presence again. His reputation alone kept most gentle folk away. And that was good, he reminded himself. A king had no time to waste on wilting violets.
He sat back down and reached for the report on Obsidianite border incursions. They were growing bolder, it seemed. That heralded a change. He picked up a bulging, leatherbound document carrier. Notes from spies and other sources.
It would be a long day, he thought. And he had yet to read up on the changes to the Jadeite court this past month. Somewhere, he had intelligence on Benitoite’s arrangements with Obsidian too. With all of this to consider, his mind should be firmly on his duties. Yet he couldn’t help the way his thoughts drifted back to the Belle. Emma.
Why was she so persistent? Did she see some gain in this for herself? She didn’t strike him as a social climber or a schemer. Just a frightened young woman, thrust into a position she neither expected nor wanted. He wondered if she knew how much of a target she would become, should her duty become common knowledge. And even if no one suspected she was the Belle, there was risk. One did not become close to the royal family without gaining the notice of its enemies.
He did not see the Belle again that day, and eventually he was able to banish her from his thoughts as he considered weightier things.
The next day, Chevalier set off to meet with some of the nobles that had their lands on the borders. Most supported his aggressive stance. They understood the danger Obsidian posed. They suffered the losses from raids, lost loved ones, lived with the threat of more violence.
Clavis, Luke, and Nokto accompanied him to the meeting, though Nokto quickly disappeared with some lively widow. Luke grew bored and wandered off down another garden path. Probably for a nap.
Chevalier didn’t need his brothers to assist, but presenting a united front for his faction lent an image of strength. He could appreciate that.
The meeting didn’t take long. Enough time to learn the latest reports were accurate, so far as these men and women knew. Chev let Clavis handle the questioning, for the most part, as well as the courtesies. It seemed to set them at ease.
When the nobles finally took their leave, Chevalier let himself relax a fraction. He settled himself on the grass as he had when he was a boy. Laying back on the soft, springy turf. He closed his eyes and let his mind drift. It helped him draw in the bits of information he had to create a full picture.
Clavis snorted, used to this behavior. “I’ll just walk a bit,” he called over to his brother. “Don’t get assassinated, hm?”
Chev didn’t waste time with a reply. In the warm afternoon sun, with the smell of flowers and the music of flowing water, he was able to submerge himself in his thoughts. The world faded and there was only the narrative - aggression, submission, resources, troops, allies, weapons - a tumult of thinly connected ideas. A girlish shriek pulled him out of his meditation. Then -
“Ahahaha! That was a perfect reaction!” Clavis’ laughter.
The rustle of a lady’s gown. “Clavis!”
“Relax! I was just checking to see that you’re doing alright. Yesterday it looked as if all the blood drained from your face, but as red as you look now, I’ve no need to worry!”
Chevalier’s frown deepened. What had his brother done just now?
The Belle cleared her throat. “So. You came here to pick on me then?”
“Oh no. I just had something to give to Chev.”
The second prince felt his eye twitch. What was Clavis up to now? And why did his brother feel it necessary to pull him into his games?
“Okay. But Prince Chevalier isn’t here.”
Chev realized then that she couldn’t see him from where she stood. He opened his eyes and turned his head. He could just make out her profile through the branches of a nearby rose bush. If he sat up, she’d be able to see him easily, but from here, he was hidden.
Clavis laughed again. “Oh ho, you haven’t noticed. My goodness! Well, this is a great opportunity. Why don’t you come along with me and have a chat with Chev too?”
“No! I mean, no thank you.”
“Awww what’s with that sour face? Does he really frighten you so much?”
Chevalier could see the way she flinched at his mention, and her look now was one of great reluctance. He supposed that was normal after watching him kill a man in cold blood. Such innocents could not bear the burden of their own defense. He realized as he watched her tense expression that he wished she hadn’t seen that. Before, she’d looked intimidated by him - but most people did - now, she was actually frightened. As if Chev were a true beast that could not be trusted around gentle folk.
Belle nodded agreement.
“My goodness! You are such a cute little rabbit.” Clavis reached out to touch a gloved thumb to her chin.
It bothered Chevalier to see his brother touch her. It was … inappropriate.
She pulled back from his touch. “What?”
“Oh yes,” Clavis’ smile widened. “You’re so awkward and adorable right now that it makes me want to pounce on you.”
The Belle’s fist clenched. “Even if I was a rabbit, rabbits still have teeth - ah!” She shrieked as Clavis grabbed her hand and pulled her against his chest. She barely held him back with the palm of her hand.
Chevalier nearly sat up but he knew this was all theater for his benefit. Part of some scheme or running joke. He could not give his brother the satisfaction of a reaction, even anger.
Clavis took her chin between his fingers and tilted her face towards his. He examined her as one might an item at market. “Hm. Maybe there is some truth to what Chev said about you.”
“What are you talking about,” she asked breathlessly.
“No one is more a fool than one who freezes in every confrontation, as you are now.” Clavis shook his head and sighed. “At any rate, it would be out of the question for a noble beast to want to talk to a quivering rabbit like an equal.”
“I -” She swallowed, searching for what she ought to say.
Clavis let her go and she stumbled back from him. “You’ll never be a Belle if you act like this. At the most, you are just an insignificant little bunny to Chev right now. Is that what you want?”
Chevalier sighed. His brother wasn’t wrong, precisely, but it was a waste of time to explain it. The Belle was a fragile thing and he had no interest or need in breaking her. Let her have her month in the palace. When it ended, Chev would be king and she could return to wherever she came from. She didn’t need to do more than stay out of his way.
The Belle was quiet for a moment but her shoulders squared after a deep breath. “Of course not! I amthe Belle and I willdo my duty!”
“Then be bold. Be brash. Like the tamer of a wild animal! Do you understand?” Clavis clapped his hands gleefully. “Don’t fear the beast, Emma. Even the Bloody Tiger will become a pet cat if you can tame him.” Clavis’ gaze darted to where he knew his brother lay. “If you truly want to choose the next king, you must be prepared to venture into the beast’s lair. Are you prepared to tame the wild beast?”
It was so melodramatic that Chevalier almost snorted. A pile of complete -
“Yes! I’ll give it everything I have. I will make him accept me as Belle!”
Complete nonsense. Chevalier couldn’t help the way his lips curved into a small smile. She sounded so determined. He heard notes of steel in her voice and an undercurrent of excitement.
“Hear that, Chev?” Clavis cackled. “Belle is going to tame you.”
Chevalier pushed himself up onto a nearby bench, eyes narrowed at the pair. What kind of mad woman would claim she could tame him? “Don’t drag me into your ridiculous conversations.”
“Oh … oh no …” The Belle turned to look at him, her expression one of abject horror. Her cheeks flushed with the heat of embarrassment now. She bit at her lower lip as if she might hold back more foolish pronouncements. As she met his gaze, a hint of defiance entered her expression. A determination that overtook her fear.
Chev felt a smile curl the edges of his lips. So she had some steel left in her afterall. “I don’t believe you have what it takes to tame a beast.”
At his challenge, her chin firmed and her shoulders drew back. She lifted her head a fraction as if to reply that she would prove him wrong.
Before she could say more, Chevalier stood. He forced the smile from his lips. He had wasted enough time already, he thought. Lying in the grass like a boy without a care in the world. Listening in on this, this ridiculous girl. He regarded her a moment longer before moving his attention to Clavis. “Summon the clown to the office later.”
His brother shrugged. “Sure. I can. But why don’t you speak with the Belle a little longer, since you’re both here?”
“I have no interest in this simpleton.” Chevalier wasn’t sure himself if he intended the insult as a challenge or if he truly wished to dismiss her. Both, perhaps. He disliked the sudden uncertainty he felt, a sensation he was not accustomed to. He adjusted his cloak and turned to leave before his brother could needle him again.
The Belle reached for him. “Wait!” Her fingers caught the edge of his cloak.
Chevalier responded to the tone of command in her voice, not because he must, but rather that it surprised him. Only moments ago, she’d been ready to flee the mention of him and now she thought to make demands. She was a strange girl, fascinating in her contradictions. He turned to face her. “What do you want?”
She let go of his cloak. Her hands smoothed her gown as she tilted her head to regard him. Then she gave a slight nod. “Yes. You’re right. When it comes to evaluating the future king, I may be out of my element right now. But I refuse to abandon this task just because some might think I’ll never be capable of fulfilling my role.”
The Belle paused, searching his face for something. Chevalier wasn’t sure what. Surely she knew better than to look to him for some confirmation or approval. He kept his lips pressed tight, resisting the urge to curl up at the corners.
“As the newly appointed Belle, I’d like to formally introduce myself -”
“Unnecessary.”
Her eyes widened slightly at his interruption. “What do you mean?”
Chevalier almost smiled again. “Instead of giving me your name, show me your worth. Show me why you deserve to have me listen to what you say.”
A hint of confusion clouded her brow.
“This is going nowhere.” He poked her just below the collarbone to emphasize the point. A gentle, physical reinforcement as he’d done with his brothers when they were younger. But touching her was different. The contact sent a slight prickling up his arm and down his back, though he showed no visible reaction. Soft to the touch, delicate. He could feel how fragile she was under even that light pressure. And how strong. A creature of spun silk and hidden steel. He pulled his hand back quickly.
“What was that for?”
“For wasting my time.” Chevalier turned and this time kept walking. He didn’t like leaving her alone with Clavis but staying was worse. His own thoughts were a bit disordered as he retreated. He couldn’t say why it pleased him that the Belle had not backed down. That she met his words with defiance and determination.
He didn’t realize as he walked back to the palace that he was smiling again.
A Chevalier Michel fanfiction. Approx. 1900 words. This scene takes place in Chapter 1-2 of the main route and is told from Chevalier’s POV. Part 3 of a series.
Chevalier wanted this over with quickly. Such brash assassins deserved little enough of his time. That they could not see this obvious trap only made him more annoyed. He sprawled across a stone bench, sitting like he imagined Jin must sit in a common tavern. Legs stretched long, arms wide, wearing a smirk that said he had nothing to worry about. His fingers brushed the hilt of his sword.
The crimson roses swayed in a light afternoon breeze. They scented the air with sweetness, and loose petals swirled in little ribbons of color before falling to the ground. The palace felt like a world away from this silent space. Only the sound of birdsong disturbed the quiet. Then it came.
Gravel crunching under heavy boots. The ring of metal on metal.
Chev’s smile went wide. His patience was thin and he had no more for these would be assassins. It was time for them to die.
“Brutal Beast! You’ll pay for your -”
His mouth still moved after Chevalier’s sword pierced his chest, but there was no sound. Chev kicked the assassin back and spun to the next threat. His strike caught a sneaking assassin in the ribs and sent him back into the tangle of rose bushes. Blood and flowers stained the grass in splashes of bright red.
A third assassin nearly caught Chev with a low swipe at his legs, but the second prince had been training for fights like this since he could walk. He leapt back and lashed out with a kick that caught the assassin in the thigh. Chevalier didn’t let up as his attacker fell. He slashed but the assassin parried.
Impatience blossomed in Chevalier. There were more important things for him to be doing in the wake of the King’s death. Amateur assassins be damned. The anger lent speed to his reflexes and it took only another lunge to pin the unfortunate attacker to the ground.
Chevalier examined his blood-drenched blade. No knicks, no cracks. He would need to clean it later. A tool had to be cared for properly to continue being useful. His thoughts were interrupted by footsteps on the garden path. One stride he recognized. The slouching, cheerful step of his brother and rival. The other …
He turned. The timid, dainty steps belonged to the Belle. She looked as if she were ready to run away. Every line of her posture told him she didn’t want to be there. But she gripped her skirts in white-knuckled fists and met his gaze with clear eyes. How interesting.
She began to curtesy. Her lips were pale and thin, twisted into a tense smile that looked more like a grimace. Then she stopped mid-motion. Her mouth opened. Closed again. She straightened awkwardly. Her eyes fixed on a part of his cloak.
Chevalier could see the thoughts as they crossed her mind reflected in her expression. First, confusion. Then worry. Then certainty. Followed by horror. Her head turned slightly, taking in the flowerbeds. The leaves were splashed with crimson stains, the blossoms crushed, roots torn from the soft earth.
The Belle’s eyes settled on one of the bodies. Her shoulders drew up and in a small voice she asked, “Prince Chevalier, what happened here?”
Clavis was laughing behind his hand. His eyes danced with merriment as they went from the Belle to his brother and back again.
Chevalier felt a tick of annoyance. Clavis was in his faction and should yield instead of playing these endless games. He glanced from his brother down to the dead man. “If you can’t tell with your own eyes then you are beyond foolish.”
Her gaze lifted from the dead to Chevalier’s sword. He still held it loosely in his offhand. A drop of blood glistened in the late afternoon light as it fell from the tip to water the grass below him. The Belle began to tremble. She looked like a fawn, too weak to run or fight. Too frightened to do more than watch with her wide, innocent eyes.
Clavis shook his head. “Ah, you’ve made a big show of it again, eh Chev?”
So that was it. Chev’s lips curved in a cruel smile. “Get this cleaned up, Clavis.”
“Awww, that’s no way to treat your little brother! But then again, some things never change.” He chuckled. His eyes never strayed far from the Belle, though he didn’t address her directly.
Chevalier was sure there was nothing he could say that would make a difference here. And no point to the effort. He gestured to the dead. “My clothes are stained because of this vermin.” He would need to waste even more time changing into something clean. Bloodstains tended to frighten soft nobles and palace servants - delay in either direction.
The Belle took a sharp breath. “H-how could you?!” She bit her lip and closed her eyes, breathing through her nose in slow, deep draughts.
She seemed … angry. Chevalier watched the play of emotions across her taut features. The fear subsided beneath a wash of outrage then she mastered herself. The anger faded to determination as she opened her eyes again.
“Wise choice.” Chev stepped close, his gaze focused beyond her as she gasped. There wasn’t time to explain and he didn’t want to waste breath on more. He grabbed the Belle’s arm and threw her aside, out of harm’s way.
The girl shrieked as she tumbled to the ground, limbs flailing. Had Chevalier not been preoccupied with the assassin behind her, it might have been amusing. Clavis seemed to think so, judging by his merry look. None of that mattered though. Only the sword gutting his assailant held weight in this moment.
A simple lunge and thrust, the tug of muscle and fat parting as he swept the cut up and then it was over.
With a final gasp, the assassin crumpled to the ground. A spray of fine, red mist spattered the three of them. Clavis took out a kerchief, dabbing at his face. The Belle reached for her cheek with a look of disbelief.
One would think she’d never seen a man die, Chevalier thought. But then, that was likely true. The Belle seemed a gentle sort. Much too soft and naive to face the noble beasts that made the palace their lair. Her trembling lips parted to speak, but he interrupted before she could begin. “The words you were about to speak would have been a grave error on your part.” His gaze set a new tremor through her.
A kind man might have offered her comfort. A good man might have told her it was all going to be alright. Chevalier was none of those things. If she was to be their Belle, she needed to understand that palace life was not all blossoms and no thorns. It was vicious and bloody and now she was caught up in it whether she liked it or not. Chev gestured at the bodies. “If you don’t wish to end up like these, I suggest you learn your place little fool.”
Clavis’ lips turned up in a small, triumphant smile.
Chevalier ignored him as he wiped his sword clean on a dead man’s clothes. “So. What business do you have with me?”
She looked as if she could not breathe. As if the mere pressure of his gaze pinned her to the ground. Her mouth opened and then closed again soundlessly.
Apparently, her bravery at the festival was an isolated moment. One instance of courage in a life of cowering. Perhaps she truly was a fool, only able to show backbone when she didn’t know the risks. The thought left him with an odd feeling of loss. He shook it off and frowned down at her. “If you have nothing to say, then leave. You’re in the way.”
The Belle gave a jerky nod of agreement and scrambled to her feet. Without another word to either prince, she bolted.
Chevalier watched her for a moment then turned his cold gaze onto his brother. “Clavis. Why did you bring her here?”
“Well given your anti-social tendencies, I’m very concerned about your future.” He grinned, his expression at odds with his pitying tone. “I thought engaging with some new people would do you good.”
Of course he wouldn’t give a serious answer. Chev’s eyes narrowed.
Clavis waved a hand at him. “Oh come on! Don’t give me that look. I’m only telling you the truth, hard as it is to hear.” He tapped his chin. “Of course, then again, I really thought the Belle would be able to handle seeing beastly deeds for herself …”
There would be more than one angle to this approach, Chevalier thought. Clavis’ machinations and pranks were never simple or straightforward. He was cursed with idealistic idiots and devious schemers for brothers, and damn them all for getting in his way at every turn. He turned his eyes toward the palace. “So in other words, you intended for the Belle to find me in this situation?”
His brother said nothing in reply, only watched him with his inscrutable golden eyes.
“You must have become very prescient indeed to predict this attack.”
Clavis laughed and held up his hands in a gesture of surrender. “Oh no no no! Not at all! I couldn’t have anticipated such carnage! No - this was a complete accident. Really.”
“Lies.” Chevalier nudged the nearest dead man with his boot. “No matter how I look at this, it appears to be your doing.” He did not see any obvious signs of allegiance to any house, but there was something familiar about the man’s face. “Tell me, Clavis. Did you hire these yourself? Or did you have help from some disgruntled noble?”
“I haven’t the faintest idea of what you could possibly mean.” His smile said otherwise. Taunting. Provoking.
Chevalier wasn’t sure what his brother wanted from this. Was it a serious attempt or was there some hidden objective Chev could not see the end goals from where he stood.
Clavis took his silence as an answer and laughed. “You know, you could try asking these fellows. They might be able to speak to you yet …”
Whatever Clavis suggested, Chevalier knew it would only lead him astray. He gave his head a definitive shake. “No. I don’t want to waste time on such trifles.” He swept his cloak over his shoulder and met his brother’s gaze. “If one day I find your behavior to be intolerable, it will be your blood staining this blade.” He slid his sword into the sheath with a little more force than necessary.
“Right. I’ll keep that in mind … for now at least.”
Chevalier gave him one last parting look of warning and then left. Clavis was a trial. If not for his usefulness … that threat he’d left with was not an idle one. And now there was an innocent party to consider.
The Belle. It irritated him that she could not see how she was being used. That she’d fallen right into Clavis’ plans. He wanted to ignore her plight, but there was something about her that drew him. Perhaps it was the books. Regardless, he would have to keep the Belle out of his brother’s manipulations.
Purely for practical reasons, he told himself. The Belle could not be compromised. That was all. What other reasons could the Brutal Beast have? The scent of blood and roses followed him through the palace, and the memory of wide, frightened eyes.
As part of Act 2 release campaign, we are getting a series 3 LINE Chats!
Chat #1 “My Friends” features Gilbert, Chevalier, Clavis, and Luke.
Chat #2 “Let’s have a tea party!” features Keith, Yves, and Licht.
Chat #3 “Absolute Obedience” features Silvio, Nokto, and Rio.
―
My Friends (4)
Gilbert: Hey, after having gone to greet you all, I became friends with Luke too but (20:12) 3 Read
Gilbert: When are you going to hold my welcome party? (20:12) 3 Read
Luke: Why are you assuming that we would (20:15)
Clavis: Don’t say something so cold. If our guest of honor desire a welcome party then we shall do our utmost to give him one (20:16)
Clavis: If we talk about welcome party then it’s food. I’ll let you choose (20:16)
Clavis: ① Clavis’ Homemade Cooking ② Clavis’ Affectionate Cooking ③ Food made by Clavis (20:17)
Clavis: Well then, which would you prefer? (20:17)
Gilbert: ④ Luke’s Homemade Cooking (20:20) 3 Read
Clavis: ⑤ Clavis’ Original Cooking (20:20)
Gilbert: Are you trying to keep this barren conversation going? (20:20) 3 Read
Clavis: That’s because you won’t choose (20:21)
Gilbert: I chose didn’t I? Choice ④ (20:21) 3 Read
Luke: Rejected (20:21)
Gilbert: I’m a guest of honor though? A super guest of honor that would put the country to ruin if you offend me? (20:22) 3 Read
Luke: Hell if I care (20:22)
Clavis: Why Luke’s homemade cooking. We’re both princes so mine would also do wouldn’t it? (20:22)
Gilbert: I heard Luke is good at cooking (20:24) 3 Read
Gilbert: Ah, of course, it’s not like I hate your cooking either (20:24) 3 Read
Gilbert: But Chevalier likes Clavis’ homemade cooking doesn’t he? It’s too good for me to accept that. How about feeding it to your older brother? (20:24) 3 Read
Clavis: No need to hold back. I’ll make such large quantities that you all can eat it to your heart’s content (20:24)
Gilbert: Wow I’m so happy (20:25) 3 Read
Gilbert: Would be nice if tomorrow Rhodolite is still around eh? (20:25) 3 Read
Luke: He hates it so much that he’s going to annihilate the country doesn’t he (20:26)
Clavis: You’re going to make me sulk here? (20:26)
Gilbert: Hey Chevalier, you’re seeing this conversation too aren’t you. You’re going to be equally guilty (20:27) 3 Read
Chevalier: Whatever (20:27)
(20:27)[Chevalier has left the chat]
Gilbert: Are you all really part of the Foreign Affairs Faction? Your diplomatic skills are way too bad (20:28) 2 Read
Clavis: He’s the type who specializes in war. I’m showing you hospitality with all my heart here aren’t I? (20:29)
Luke: By the way Gilbert, you’re being strangely aggressive (20:30)
Gilbert: I’m happy. You see, there’s hardly anyone who can talk to me properly in my country (20:30) 2 Read
Gilbert: I don’t know why but everyone were trembling. Well, there aren’t many people left alive after the conversation ends though (20:31) 2 Read
Gilbert: With you all we’re able to talk as equals aren’t we? (20:31) 2 Read
Gilbert: Friends really are great (20:31) 2 Read
Gilbert:{I love you sticker} (20:31) 2 Read
Luke: I don’t need friends like you. That’s too scary (20:33)
Clavis: He’s an example of how not to behave. Luke, don’t become like that. Be like me (20:33)
Luke: No, that’s even more displeasing (20:33)
Clavis: Alright, let’s hold the welcome party tomorrow. I’ll prepare a special entertainment for our special guest so don’t run away (20:34)
Gilbert: Yeah, thanks. I look forward to see the future of Rhodolite tomorrow (20:34) 2 Read
![hakuoyuki:Ikemen Prince - Act 2 LINE Chat #1 [Translation]As part of Act 2 release campaign, we are](https://64.media.tumblr.com/35daf57bf7779c6d021eefe39ea1dd0a/234cca91f58f73c0-70/s1280x1920/5fe572aeb0ce71216ac9ef4b382eb46284428298.png "hakuoyuki:Ikemen Prince - Act 2 LINE Chat #1 [Translation]As part of Act 2 release campaign, we are")
![hakuoyuki:Ikemen Prince - Act 2 LINE Chat #1 [Translation]As part of Act 2 release campaign, we are](https://64.media.tumblr.com/664eec2de46562103d989f44d606062e/234cca91f58f73c0-b8/s1280x1920/0d1337a7f1013f23cdb8400525753b03e813bdcc.png "hakuoyuki:Ikemen Prince - Act 2 LINE Chat #1 [Translation]As part of Act 2 release campaign, we are")
![hakuoyuki:Ikemen Prince - Act 2 LINE Chat #1 [Translation]As part of Act 2 release campaign, we are](https://64.media.tumblr.com/e0ffb7e287a8637f39cdfecb5caecf29/234cca91f58f73c0-aa/s1280x1920/c7e87cdf3b693ed7a48ac2edad419c37ce54e744.png "hakuoyuki:Ikemen Prince - Act 2 LINE Chat #1 [Translation]As part of Act 2 release campaign, we are")
