Opposing Kingdoms

Clairemont is a diverse kingdom northern of Arcana. From what I have heard, the kingdom is kind and welcoming to all creatures. But of course, there is no kingdom that is that perfect.

Which makes Clairemont strange. They never had gone to war. They also are more of a traditional Northern power, rebuking the newer ideas.

They could be seen as a neutral kingdom, but a while back ago there was something suspicious about the form of government they were using. There was almost too much freedom in a sense. And that gives creatures a lot of leeway to become unjust and greedy.

I need to take this up to my father to hear his thoughts on it. I don't recall having heard my father talking bad about this kingdom, but I am sure he has more intel on the kingdom that I do.

According to more traditional Northern powers, vampires are not supposed to be in the North. Everyone living here knows better; it is more of a rumor held as the standard rather than law. The kingdoms near Clairemont and further North cannot seem to get that into their heads.

"But the thing that was strange was that I never heard of your kingdom here, your highness. It was a surprise to find a huge wall in the middle of my journey to the South."

Her comment made my guards go up. However, I am not surprised. The kingdoms further up North tend to keep messy things hidden. And obviously, they liked to preach lies that vampires and other creatures were illegal when they're not.

"When I was growing up, I thought that ghouls, vampires, and such were not allowed to cross the North lands. A friend of mine here taught me that the teachings of Clairemont were wrong, however."

A friend here? Were they corresponding with Lady Ardele during her time in Clairemont? Or did she meet the friend here?

Lady Ardele answers my unasked question with an irritated huff.

"I made an acquaintance the first day here in Arcana. Lady Coralie knows her. Miss Nora Lancaster. She is a dressmaker here in Arcana."

I slowly nod. "I see. So, you were going to the south, Lady Ardele?"

She gives a fiery glare back before answering.

"Yes, I was. In the middle of my journey, I stumbled upon Arcana."

"Why were you leaving Clairemont?"

She tries to walk around me, but I block her. She shoves me, but I stand my ground.

"If I am done here, I would love to leave."

"You are not. Answer my questions please, Lady Ardele."

Her fists makes contact with my chest and I am forced to take a gust of air. She can definitely deal some damage if unsupervised. I spin her around, trapping her legs in between the fabric of her dress skirt, and pin her wrists behind her.

I know full well that she's trying to use her magic, failing miserably. She changes her tactic, struggling against me attempting to break free with physical force. Eventually, she leans back on her heels, trying to get as far as she can from me.

"You oaf," she mutters.

I smirk. "Carry on, darling. I have been called worse. Does this have to do with the murder?"

"Yes. The murder that I did not commit. Now stop asking questions."

"Do you know who framed you?"

She rolls her eyes at me before answering.

"Most likely the neighbors. They hated witches. King Maximus, the ruler of Clairemont, was already on his last thread with witches and I knew this was going to tip him off. I worked for the man, so I knew he was going to send some mercenaries after me personally. And he did."

"You worked under the king there?"

"Yes. I was a mercenary under his care."

I lean in closer to nudge her jaw with my nose. "Interesting."

She tries to break free from my hold, gritting her teeth.

"Well believe it. I was capable and still am capable of being a mercenary. If I were you, I would be watching my neck."

Setting my chin on the top of her head, I do not respond. She tries to pull out of my embrace many times, but I am enjoying her warmth. Even her anger emits heat. She is fairly petite compared to me, her head barely reaching my shoulders.

After a while, she shoves me, and I let her. Stomping around me, she throws me a glacial glare, but her blush makes it worth it. Lady Ardele leaves the room, taking her warmth with her and after a while, I do as well.