13 I'm helping the Knights of the Cross?

As today's early sunrays streamed through the tall glass windows into the grand study, I found myself surrounded by vast shelves filled with books, scrolls, and other artifacts from across the world, each overflowing with knowledge waiting to be discovered. My half-brother and the Crown Prince, Arthur, stood beside me, holding a large stack of books, eager to show me the section on literature from other continents.

"Here we are," Arthur said, gesturing towards the shelves to our right. "This is where we keep literature from other continents. It's fascinating to see the different styles of storytelling across the world."

I could hardly contain my excitement as I walked towards the shelves, my eyes wide as I scanned the spines of each book. After a few moments of perusing, I picked up a peculiar book with a language I have never seen before, and I exclaimed.

"Arthur! What language is this?" I asked in awe.

"That's the Demon language," he replied with a chuckle. "It's not an easy one to learn, but if you're interested, I can teach you some words and phrases."

With a grin on my face, I nodded eagerly, and Arthur continued to give me a brief tour of the literature from other continents, pointing out some of his favorites.

"This book here," Arthur said, picking up a thick tome. "Is from the God Continent. It's called <<The Immortal's Journey>> and tells the story of an immortal being - Achrona, who goes on a quest to find the meaning of life."

My curiosity piqued, I flipped through the pages, feeling the weight of the story pressing against my fingertips. Suddenly, I couldn't wait to dive into it and experience the epic adventure myself.

"Over here," said Arthur, leading me to another shelf. "We have literature from the Dragon Continent. Have you ever heard of the <<Tales of the Dragon Warriors>> ?"

The title sounded familiar, and I realized that I had read it before. "Oh, yes! I remember that one. It's about a group of warriors who fight against evil dragons, right?"

"Exactly!" Arthur exclaimed with a pleased look on his face. "You've got a good memory. That's one of my all-time favorites."

As we continued to scan through the shelves, Arthur's explanations and descriptions of the literature in each continent became more exciting with every word. Every now and then, a funny remark would slip out from him, causing me to giggle and lift.

I was determined to learn the Demon language on my own and impress, Arthur. Every spare moment I had was spent gathering books, scrolls, and artifacts in the language.

"I'll write my own notes and practice speaking, just to be sure I get the pronunciations right." (Lumiere)

Arthur was impressed with my dedication. "It's not an easy language to learn," he said with a hint of pride. "The Demon language has its roots in the dark magic of the Demon Realm. It's a complex language full of nuances and hidden meanings. Many people don't even bother learning it because of how difficult it can be."

Arthur was proud of me and encouraged me to keep going. "You have a talent for education, Lumiere," he said. "Keep practicing and learning, and you'll be able to take on any language you set your mind to."

"Alright! I'll do it!" (Lumiere)

- - - - - - - - - -

In my room.

I'd already learnt a few words and sentences like:

- Kaltor (meaning "fire")

- Shalak (meaning "darkness")

- Deminok (meaning "demon")

- Zolnak ymmir den shalak (which translates to "The demon lord of darkness")

I leaned back on my chair.

"Alright! I'm exhausted, time for a break!" (Lumiere)

...

As I made my way to the training grounds, I couldn't help but chuckle at the sight before me. Genevieve had the knights running around like a bunch of headless chickens, and from the looks of it, they were struggling to keep up with her pace.

"Come on, you lazy bunch! Is this all you've got? I thought you were supposed to be knights!" Genevieve barked, her voice echoing across the grounds.

("Haaaa... I almost miss when she was a sweet little angel...") (Lumiere)

The knights grumbled and groaned, but they dared not disobey Genny's commands. They knew all too well that she was not to be messed with.

"What's going on here?" I asked, making my way over to her.

"Training," she replied, giving me a quick glance before turning her attention back to the knights. "These guys need to toughen up if they're going to continue calling themselves knights."

I nodded in agreement, impressed with her dedication and unwillingness to tolerate laziness. "What's the name of your faction again?"

"The Knights of the Cross," Genevieve replied, arms crossed over her chest. "Our duty is to protect the estates and its inhabitants from any threats that may arise."

I nodded, impressed with the knowledge she possessed about her duties. "Very impressive, Genny. Keep up the good work."

"You think so! Thanks big brother!" (Genevieve)

("Again with the big brother?") (Lumiere)

Now and again, she'd still call me that.

"Wow, the Vice Captain can be sweet sometimes." (Random Knight)

She snapped instantly.

"What are you lazy slimes gawking at!" (Genevieve)

"Nothing ma'am!" (All the Knights)

I chuckled a bit, my mind wandered off to the realm of the Trifects. I wondered how Serena was doing and if she had managed to impress All-Father with our progress. Truth be told, I missed her company. I missed the way she would always tease me, her mischievous grin and her infectious laughter.

"I wonder when she'll be back," I whispered to myself, my thoughts consumed by Serena.

The captain of the Knights of the Cross, a towering man with broad shoulders and a shaved head, approached us. His armor gleamed in the sunlight, radiating power and prestige.

"Sir Garret," Genevieve greeted him with a respectful nod. "Is there something you need?"

"I've come with an urgent message from the Council," Garret said, his voice booming. "They require your presence immediately, Lady Genevieve. It appears that there's been an unusual surge in dark magical activity near the borders of our estates."

Genevieve's eyes widened in concern, and she turned to me. "Big brother, you'll be joining us right? We need all the help we can get if we're going to protect our people."

"Big brother?" (Garret)

Garret noticed the difference in age, wondering - 'why the hell is she calling him big brother..'

Well, that was only a guess based on the way other people who heard her call me that reacted.

"(~chuckles nervously) it's not important.." (Lumiere)

"Nevertheless, will you be joining us?" (Garret)

Aside the puppy dog eyes Genny secretly gave me, I wanted to make a change however possible - be it business or other effort demanding means.

I nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "Of course, I will. Lead the way."

I was actually surprised Garret was okay with the idea of me joining, then again, I was almost an adult.

Garret led us to the Council's chamber, and we wasted no time in briefing them on the situation. They listened intently and then conferred with each other in hushed tones.

"It seems that this may be the work of the Dark Mage," one of the council members said gravely.

Genevieve clenched her fists, determination etched on her face. "We'll stop him, no matter what it takes. The Knights of the Cross won't rest until our people are safe."

With that, Garret barked out orders, and our group set out towards the borders. As we rode hard, I couldn't help but feel a sense of exhilaration wash over me. This was what being a knight was all about, protecting the people and standing against those who threaten their safety.

And I knew, with Genevieve and the Knights of the Cross by my side, we could face anything that came our way.