Raven smiled at the brooch for it was beautiful and was going to treasure it for the rest of her life. She may be simple and love simple gifts but receiving this was still a nice gesture from him. BUt once she heard him blurt out the question she looked at bit confused for the last time she asked about how she wanted to get to know the really Eliezer he siad he was who he was bit now was questioning it himself.

But she smiled at him. “I am having a great time with you Eliezer and I am glad we can get to do this to learn more about each other at least.” SHe said with a smile at him for she was truly happy to be with him but she still feared his brother after she told him the deal with off after she actually started to have true feelings for him but she decided for now to try to hold off on it for as long as she can or at least hold Mathazar off while she spent more time with Eliezer.

“Are you at least enjoying your time also?” She asked him wanting to know if he was at least having a good time also.

He dad did give everything to be with his mother due to it being frowned upon him owing someone that was not with Nobel blood to his her mother opened the world to him and gave him something important something to live for until it was taken by force.

Allister soon walked over with some tea ad snacks. Forgive me your highness I thought you and the young lady would like some tea and snacks while on your little date.” He said with a smile and Raven looked at him narrowing her eyes at him for she was not happy that he came to her home all of a sudden last night and then acted weird after wanting to learn about her parents for some odd reason. “I hope you two are enjoying this nice day together could not have asked for a better weather to be at the lake.” He said with a smile. “Though I must ask does someone have the time?’ He said looking at Raven knowing she had her families pocketwatch on her.

Raven groaned for she thought the guy was toying with her and she pulled her pocket watch out and told him the time saying how it was getting close to one in the afternoon. ‘Thank you so much dear and my what a lovely pocket watch I never seen designs like that before in this kingdom before.” He said and Raven growled a bit for he was ticking her off.

“I am not from this kingdom that is why I lived near a forest with my parents along with a few other families that wanted to live near the forest area.” Raven explained to him.” Raven said to him and Allister smirked a bit. “ANd what forest would that be perhaps it must have a name.” He said for he was prying more infor for himself to send back to the lunar king.

“Wynton Forest.” Raven sad all of sudden the same forest that was raided and many had fled from after the raid and death of hundred of innocent lives.

Eliezer nodded at Raven's question. "I am having a lovely time with you as always, my lady. Although I may not express this in a way that you are used to, I do hope that I can convince you that it is the truth. This location is somewhat playing a part in the way I feel as well, for it brings me back to a happier time, back when things were simpler."

The prince then turned to his butler in slight confusion as Allister appeared with a serving tray. The lake and the pavilion were some distance away from the palace, and it seemed rather strange that he would come all the way out here just to bring them refreshments. Granted, Allister appeared to have grown fond of him and Mathazar, and would usually be vigilant regarding the safeties of the princes, but he should have known that there were guards in the area even though they were out of sight. Perhaps it had been Mathazar who had sent him out to check if everything was fine.

"The gesture is much appreciated, Allister, but you did not have to trouble yourself in such a way. After all, this place is quite a long walk from the palace," Eliezer pointed out.

Allister seemed to take a significant amount of interest in Raven, even the day before when he mentioned her in the palace study. Raven, in turn, had an unexpectedly strong reaction to the butler's attempt at getting to know her. It was only natural to want to know more about the significant other of a prince that he served, which was why Eliezer was puzzled by her hostility towards him. However, as the conversation started to go towards Raven having to bring up traumatic memories, he decided that it was time to put it to a stop.

"Thank you for coming out here, Allister," Eliezer interjected after Raven's mention of Wynton Forest, his tone implying that he desired to be left alone with his lady.

His suspicions were correct after all. Raven was indeed a survivor of the Wynton Forest Raid, and her family was killed by order of his own. How was it that she could even bear to be close to him? That was the only thing that did not make sense. He did not want to question her motives any longer, but with such facts considered, what he currently had with her seemed to good to be true, unless she was motivated to do for the residents of Dainia what she felt his parents had failed to. She could most likely make a big difference if she married into the royal family.

Eliezer wanted the best for Dainia as well. It was his responsibility, and because of what she had revealed to him, he now knew how he could make things better for his people. He considered letting her know that he had discovered that she was of Lunar noble descent, but decided against it, thinking it would be best to address this one step at a time.

"Do not harbor animosity towards Allister, my lady. He is merely protective of me." He then took her hands into his and look her straight in the eyes before speaking again. "I have been made aware of what truly took place in Wynton Forest, and what my family had done to yours and many others. I can only apologize to you on their behalf, although I do acknowledge that it would do little to make up for the pain you have been put through. As heir to the throne of Dainia, I will give you my word to do my very best in ensuring that innocent people shall not suffer as they did then, and if you are to be the one to rule by me, I foresee you having a significant part in it all."

Raven was mainly annoyed by Allister for he never knew when to stop prying information from her and she hated it for she had no clue what Allister was up to. FOr he looked like a faithful servent but at the same time something seems off like he was there for his own reasons but she had no clue why. Alister soon smiled and bowed. “Of course your majesty forgive my intrusion I will take my leave now.” He siad and walked off but to go write his letter to the lunar king for he finally found her for he knew he could not keep this information any longer for he knew the king is waiting desperately for the information about Aster’s daughter.

Once he was gone Raven was glad for she did not like him one bit. But she looked at Eliezer when he started talking to her but was wondering how he found out already she was from Wynton Forest But Lao what really happened but when she told him how the king sent guards out into the night to kill innocent people it looked like he did not believe her. But what made he shocked was that he was basically considering her to rule by his side. She had blushed a bit for she did think it would not be a bad idea to be by his side since she had basically fallen for him. But she had wanted him to pick her not because she was the right fit for the kingdom but how she was also the right fit in his heart.

“Wow thank you Eliezer and true an apaology is not enough but it is a start along with helping those who once lived there and had to flee.” Raven said with a smile at him for she had to admit he was nothing like his father at all and was glad she got to know him more along with trying to break him out of his princely doll like shell. SHe had been able to chip at it little by little but she was glad to see him trying to open himself up more to the world around him. “I know with baby steps things will start to get better.” She said with a smile at him.

“I am really glad I got to meet you Eliezer and to be able to be with you like this I will be honest I did hate your family for what happened to me but after being with you and seeing you wanting to do these things I don;t really hate you, though your father he still a different story with me” Raven said basically admitting she did not like them but it did change after being with Eliezer but his father was still not on her good list more like he was still on her kill list. “You make me really Happy Eliezer ad honestly the dark place I was trapped in has been slowly fading away the more I spend time with you.” Raven explained to him.

While he conversed with Raven, Eliezer thought back to Allister's unusual request. Why would he ask for the time? As the palace butler, he would always be the one person concerned with keeping the time to ensure that everyone else was on schedule. It was very unlike him to come out here without his own watch on him. That was when he realized how that inquiry had led to the exchange about Raven's pocket watch and eventually about a little of her past. There was definitely something that Allister knew that he was not telling the prince, or perhaps, he had been trying to show him by making Raven take the watch out.

No, he already knew that Eliezer was aware of the significance of the watch. That was why he had taken so much interest in the fact that Eliezer was reading up on Lunar, and then proceeded to mention Raven at the library the day before. However, if his actions were not for the safety of the prince, then what was he trying to achieve? Regardless, apart from Eliezer and Mathazar, Allister also had knowledge of Raven's bloodline, and things were only going to get worse if this information was to reach his parents. Sure, Allister did keep the princes' secrets from the king and queen, but the crown prince considering marrying a noble of an enemy state was no ordinary secret. Eliezer had to have a talk with Allister regarding this whole situation.

He then took in what Raven said, finding the way she had expressed that particular thought to be rather strange. "After being with me? Well, it's quite a wonder that you even accepted the invitation to the palace ball where we had met for the first time, or protected my brother when you saw him in danger."

Eliezer did not want to sound accusing, but he had to admit that it did not quite add up. Her feelings for him did seem genuine, but what did he actually know when it came to romance or even just personal interaction? Unfortunately, she had been the one who had taught him everything he knew about the subject, and logically, seeing how this feeling of 'love' puts one in such a vulnerable state, he felt the need to ensure that she was hiding absolutely nothing before he placed his feelings for her above any other negative thoughts his mind might come up with.

"Making you happy? I'm not too sure how I'm actually doing such a thing, but I'm glad to have induced such positive feelings in you. That is the duty of a significant other, is it not?" He then paused, gesturing to the refreshments that the butler had brought them. "Please, help yourself."

“Well mainly your father I hate the most to be honest my plan was to use you to get close to him and all that junk but after being with you and spending time with you the feeling of wanting to confront your father or even take revenge upon him started to well disappear for thanks to you I am actually slowly even starting to become truly happy again.” Raven said to I’m with a smile. Raven basically let slip a small part of her pan but he still held no knowedge of who she was for being a killing machine basically. But it was true her need for revenge was no longer a desire of her for she found something else that gave her a reason to be happy and live. She looked at him for when he said that he was actually making her happy and she looked at him.

“Not making me happy you cant be serious right?” Raven asked him and smiled at him. “You basically went along with my crazy request to go into the village with me, trying to make up for what happened in my past, grave me this beautiful brooch, and just spending time with me like this I am actually at my happiest that I have ever been.” Raven said to him. “You have really made me happy so far that most of the darkness of my past I dwelled in has been fading thanks to you.” She said with a smile at him.

“You do have the ability to do it Eliezer for you have done it so far in my honest opinion.” She said to him with a smile before leaning over and gave him a kiss on the cheek. “You are amazing Eliezer and will make a great king in the future.” She siad before taking a sip from her cup and enjoyed the snacks that Allister brought them for at least the snacks and tea was good. She then smiled and just enjoyed her time with Eliezer taking things now one step at a time with him but in the back of her mind Mathazar did worry her for she was risking things and was worried he might try to pull something that will expose her or worst make Eliezer hate her all of a sudden.

She had planned to use him to get to his father? Eliezer nearly spat out the mouthful of tea he was conveniently about to swallow. Thankfully, he managed to keep it in, coughing lightly into his fist before taking a deep breath. Despite his success in preventing the embarrassing event from occurring, his discomfort was apparent. He had wanted to know the truth, and now that she had willingly given it to him, it all possibly made even less sense than before. If it was the truth, then why would she tell him such a thing? The fact that she had said it in such a casual manner made it all the more unbelievable. Could it be that it was her idea of humor?

It was not very often that Eliezer would be lost for words. In most cases, one would liken his eloquence to that of an actor who had learned a script by heart. It would not be strange, however, if one were to know that the prince had practically been learning his responses to most situations from 'scripts' his entire life. Almost every line spoken had been committed to memory, waiting for the right moment to be used. Unfortunately, he could find nothing this time as he searched his mind for an appropriate response to Raven's statement. Perhaps he should simply admit that to her. After all, the awkward silence had been lingering for long enough. He had to say something, even if it may not be the right thing to say.

"I- I don't know what to say... Pray tell me you jest, my lady..."

She did mention it was not longer the case, because of how happy he had made her. Apparently, it was the 'love' she had developed for him that inspired the change in her goals. He wanted to believe that he was truly witnessing the powerful influence of love on someone, and to some extent, he actually did, but that did not change the fact that obtaining his love was not her initial intention, and that she basically had him fooled the first time they met. Could he trust what she was saying now? Surely she knew the possible consequences of letting him know her initial goals? What if this was her trusting him to take the next step with such information in mind? He had been plagued by confusion ever since he had met Raven, but was that really a bad thing?

He then managed to snap out of his thoughts and return to the current conversation, for such things could be returned to at a later time. "I simply do what I know is right or appropriate, my lady, and if it all makes you happy, then I am glad to have succeeded in doing so. I also thank you for your encouragement, although there are many times when you have implied that I am inadequate in certain areas. I trust that you have seen an improvement?"

Her kiss felt... pleasant. All logic aside, his relationship with Raven was something he honestly wanted. It was the first thing he could remember desiring that he was not told he should desire. That was not wrong, was it? It could be, if the safety of his family was at risk. It was all very overwhelming at the moment, perhaps speaking with Allister and Mathazar might ease his mind a little.

“I wish I was jesting but I was so angry with your father and what he did to my family along with many others from where I lived I will admit rage and anger along with revenge had clouded my judgement so yes I did used you in the beginning I used Mathazar generosity to bring me to the palace after I saved him to get close to you since you are the heir and the heir fiancée has access to getting close to the king.....” Raven said as she looked down. “You must hate me now after learning the truth about my true intentions but I swear I no longer am after revenge or to shed any blood not after being with you and being with you and of course I have seen an improvement in you Eleiezer.” Raven said with a smile and took his hand.

“I really do like you a lot to the point were I even started falling in love with you even though I still dislike your father I do not wish for revenge I just wish to be happy with you and help protect people of this kingdom with you.” Raven said to him with a smile.

“I just hope you do not think to ill of me after what I told you but I just did not want to keep it a secret anymore and if I have to re earn your trust I am willing to do what I can to do so....I don’t want to lose being by your side Eliezer.” Raven said meaning it she just did not desire vegence or to go through with Mathazar bidding.

Raven soon just enjoyed her time with Eliezer just being with him for the past few days she could see him actually being truly happy an smiling more narutally and not that oh must smile for its my royalty thing to do. But after many hours of past Raven noticed the sun was setting and checked the time on her pocket watch. “Well i better be getting back I am sure my brother Andy must be driven to his wits ends after watching the orphaned children today in my absents.” SHe siad with a small giggle and put on her new brooch that she got from Eliezer for she truly loved it and was going to treasure.

She then looked at him before giving him another kiss on the cheek. “I hope we can meet again soon ELeizer.” She siad with a smile and soon left to return back to her home and to help Andy’s its the kids along with discussing moving the orphans out of the city to protect them from Mathazar.

Allister came out of no where again. “Looks like you two had a fun date today and she must really loved your gift for she is wearing it now.” He said as he cleared the table from the now empty tray of snack and empty tea cups. “Its nice to see you so happy honestly this is the most happy I have ever seen from you prince Eliezer.” Allister said with a smile but knew he was seting a dangerous path forward for he sent word that he had finally found the heir and the next step is prevent the king or the princes.....especially Mathazar know that dear Raven is actually the missing heir to the lunar kingdom the grand daughter of King Richard and daughter of prince Aster or Lunar. “Though I must say it seems like something heavy weighs on your mind would you like to come inside and talk about it or would you also like to have your brother opinion on the matter also?” Allister asked the young prince.

Eliezer did understand Raven's anger towards his family and her initial desire to harm them, but the clash in their interests was apparent. The sensible thing to do would be to stop seeing her so that he would be at peace knowing he had done all he could to keep his family safe. However, the fact that she had revealed such information to him was leading him to believe everything she had said about only wanting to be with him now. In addition, Raven could be the change that Dainia sorely needed. He could ask for advice from those whom he regularly confided in, but the decision would ultimately be his, and he would have to take responsibility for any consequences resulting from that decision.

He nodded and stood with her when she expressed that she needed to return home. "Oh, of course. I apologize for keeping you from your duties, but do write to the palace when you get the chance, my lady."

He returned her kiss with one on her forehead, and then watched as she happily left. Seeing her in such a mood, a light smile of satisfaction crossed his own face without him realizing it. Perhaps he should return to the village one day and bring gifts to surprise the orphans under her care. He was certain that she would greatly appreciate such a gesture. Was he finally feeling it? The desire to make another happy without an obligation or the thought of one's personal gain? This was care, or even love, was it not? Unfortunately, he soon fell into the trap of attempting to rationalize his current feelings for her, as he would do with any other inexplicable feeling he would experience.

What was it about her exactly, that made him feel such a way? Could other factors have influenced this? With such questions in mind, he was becoming aware of how his doubts in himself had caused him to be so skeptical of Raven's love for him. Deep down, he had never believed that he was someone who could be loved. He had always thought that he had a clear understanding of who he was as a person, of all his capabilities as well as his limitations. Clearly, there was still more about himself that he has yet to discover. His thoughts were interrupted when the butler startled him. Allister made some comments as he collected the dishes, and Eliezer watched him for some time before speaking.

"Your concern for my emotional well-being is greatly appreciated," the prince began before he let out a soft sigh, remembering the odd interaction between his butler and his lady. "It is apparent that you have knowledge about Lady Omrea that you have not revealed to me. I implore you, Allister, tell me what you know."

Allister looked at Eliezer as he cleared the table and looked away for a second. “I had checked on her for you since she had no record in this town or in the other kingdom you suspected her to be from Lunar.” He explained to him as had all the dishes in his hands and had the young prince follow him and had another servent take the tray of dishes. “As head butler of this castle my job is to make sure you are safe so I might have pushed her buttons a few times prying for information but I will say this.” He said as he had the prince enter his office. “That girl has no knowledge she is from Lunar from what I can tell her parents never told her a way to probably protect her.” Allister said as he sat in his chair and pulled the map out and showed Eliezer where the forest was where the raid happened and where Raven lived and the distance from from Lunar and their kingdom. “It is a few good miles away from the main kingdom but it is in Lunar territory and not many nobles go into the forest for it mainly consist of wood cutters, farmers, and other simple jobs that the low class do and take it into the main part of Lunar to sell.” Allister explained to the young prince.

“Her parents if indeed her farther was noble which I truly do believe due to that pocketwatch she posses I think they changed their laws name to hid themeelves and Raven from his family.” Allister said to him as he looked at the young prince. “I believe her father was protecting Raven from the nobility world not because he wanted her to be called insignificant because he was scared his family would take her away and prevent them getting to her for some nobility will practice taking their grandchildren away from their own when they marry outside their rank they will disown their children but take the first born grandchild by force and raise it as their own claiming its their son or daughter when reality they are not.” Allister finished explaining to the prince. “Her parents must of not wanted to happen so to protect her more is to move in an area away from nobles and royalty would not dare to go too then kept her in the dark who her grandparents are and where they reside originally to make sure raven did not suffer the same fate her father went through before meeting her mother.” Allister said as he sat back in his chair.

Allister looked at the prince Eliezer and was debating on revealaing what he learned but feared that the walls have ears lately for he had felt like he has been spied on. “But from what I did learn is that you can not tell her this for I was able to coax her mothers name and maiden name and I learned that her mother is actually my sister...........meaning Raven is actually my niece.” Allister said looking at Eliezer dead in the eye when he revealed that small part of what he actually knew. “My missing sisters daughter and to only learn my sister is dead and I have a niece soI have no clue how to really react around the girl now.” Allister said with a sigh as he sat back in is chair waiting for his reaction.

Eliezer only listened as he returned to the palace with his butler, and upon entering Allister's quarters, took the seat across the desk from the older man. The butler and the prince had done their research separately, but it seemed that the both of them had come to similar conclusions - Raven was of Lunar, and of noble blood. She and her family had resided in Wynton Forest before Dainia troops raided the area. However, Eliezer still had no knowledge of which noble family she and her father belonged to. With that in mind, he still wondered about the pages he found missing from that book about the Lunar Kingdom in the palace study, and if Allister had anything to do with it.

Eliezer nodded at the information and theory provided by the butler. "It is apparent that Lady Omrea is unfamiliar with the aesthetics of Lunar, which explains her inability to identify the origin of the heirloom in her possession. I do not suppose you know which family in particular that pocket watch belongs to?"

What Allister had to say next then astounded Eliezer. For as long as he had known, Allister had just always been around to cater to the needs of the royal family. He knew nothing of his past and where he came from, and to have him suddenly reveal such information was most unexpected. Of course, the information itself greatly contributed to the shock. His lady was his butler's niece? His safety might have been the first reason for Allister to have gotten involved in matters concerning Raven, but with this newfound knowledge, what was the butler going to do?

"Unbelievable... If that is the truth, then do accept my sincerest condolences, regarding the death of your sister. As with Lady Omrea, I can only apologize to you on behalf of my family. I must say that I am now rather curious as to how you came to be in our service, although I am aware that this is irrelevant and understand if you wish not to share this with me. The current issue is with Lady Omrea. I care deeply for her, in a way I cannot explain, but I am unsure if acting on such a feeling is the right thing to do. If I am to protect her, I can never let the king and queen know of her bloodline. They must never see that heirloom in her hands. As possibly her only family left, you would aid me in doing this, yes?"

Allister looked at him knew that the young prince would be shocked to learn a bit about his past but just looked at him. “Thank you for your condolence your highness and of course I will help you protect her I am not letting your father lay a hand on my niece she is the only family I have left now.” He explained to her but when the question came up at what family her pocket watch came from he looked at him. “I do and I can not tell you at this time for as. Said the walls do sometimes have ears and I rather keep the origins of her pocketwatch a secret for now.” He explained to Eliezer as he stood up.

“And Eliezer from what I can see you truly do love Raven and want to keep her safe for here is what I think will help once you take the throne and your father has no more control over the kingdom and if you desire to marry Miss Raven she will be protect for she be our wife and if those find out her origins it could finally bring a sign of peace between the two kingdoms that have been at war for far to long.” Allister said but he knew it was up to Eliezer if he wished to marry his niece and would not force that upon the prince if he wished to marry her he would be fine but if not then he had to smuggle his niece out of the kingdom and back to Lunar.

“But for now lets keep what we discussed between us and when the time is right and I know you can accept what family she belongs to I will tell you or give you hints at where her family status is.” He said for he still want to be careful to keep the fact that Raven was the missing heir to the kingdom of Lunar. For if the king learns this it will be a witch hunt to find her and then to execute her in the most horrible way the king can think off. ANd Allister has seen first hand how the king can be unfair if he gets the tiniest belief. That the person before them is the missing grandchild of the Lunar king. “If the king were to find out what family she belongs too death will befall her in the most cruelest way only because of her bloodline and not of what she did just to send a message to the kingdom of Lunar.” Allister finished off with the Prince before he stood to walk over to Eliezer and placed his hand on his shoulder. “For now get some rest and if you need any help from me please let me know and I will help you in anyway possible for you have my full support.”

A lovely violin melody filled the air of the palace garden as the crown prince, seated alone on a bench among the moonlit shrubbery, attempted to calm himself with one of his favorite pursuits. However, his mind would not rest this night, for he found it an impossible task to forget what he had just learned, even if it was just for a short time. In addition, he could not help but to constantly think about his question that Allister had left unanswered. Eliezer was immensely grateful to his butler at this point in time, though, he wished that he did not have to hide Raven's family history from him. The music then stopped abruptly as the prince let out a soft sigh, gently laying his instrument onto the seat beside him. He opted to gaze up into the starry night sky as he continued to ponder over the possibilities regarding the background of his lady, until he recalled a relevant bit of information he had been given during his visit to Gloomvale Tavern.

"Dainia troops destroyed homes and murdered peaceful civilians, forcing the survivors to flee to this miserable place. This was done in search of the heir to Lunar, for the King of Dainia desires to put an end to the bloodline of Lunar’s royal family. We do not know the reason why, but word is going around that the King is searching for the heir even to this day."

Could Raven be this heir that was spoken of? If that were the case, she would not even be of noble status as he had first suspected, but she would be royalty. It would make sense, considering how secretive Allister was being about her background. Eliezer had wanted to hide the fact that she was of Lunar altogether, but it was apparent that things would only be worse for her if she was indeed of royal blood. It would then be highly-likely that it had been the butler who had removed the pages about the heirlooms of Lunar from the palace library to protect her. Just the idea of it all was overwhelming, though, he was not about to jump to any conclusions until there was solid evidence.

"It is a beautiful night, Eliezer. Pardon me for intruding on your time of rest."

At the sound of the familiar voice, Eliezer turned to face Mathazar as the latter strolled over and took a seat next to him on the other side of where he had placed his violin. "You know that you are always welcome to join me, even more so on this night, as I currently fail to put my mind at ease."

The younger gave his twin a look of concern. "What troubles you this time?"

This time, the elder found himself hesitating to share what was on his mind with his brother. For Eliezer, it was a strange position to be in. He trusted no one more than Mathazar, but out of respect for Allister, he could not reveal what had been said earlier between the both of them. The butler did not want anyone else to know, and Eliezer was certain that Mathazar would understand that he had to observe the confidentiality of another individual. Perhaps he should not have mentioned tonight that he was worried in the first place. Fortunately, a third person entered the garden with a message, saving him from having to say anything else. The red-headed maid made her way to the bench and curtsied to the princes before speaking.

"The king and queen have called for Prince Eliezer," she announced, turning to look directly at the crown prince. "This is regarding your visit to the Kingdom of Sorene, Your Highness."

"Of course. Thank you, Robynne," Eliezer acknowledged the maid with a nod, before turning to Mathazar. "Pardon me, brother."

The maid's gaze followed the older prince as he went around to the entrance, and she then spoke again when he was out of sight, this time to Mathazar, and in a hushed tone. "If I may, it is highly likely that your brother is concerned with issues regarding his lady, Your Highness. They have grown rather fond of each other, which is quite unfortunate for you, is it not?"

Seeing the curiosity accompanied by a hint of fear in the prince's eyes, she took a quick but cautious glance around and stepped closer to him. "I know who 'Lady Omrea' is to you. I have heard the conversations that you have had with her in private. You first thought her a mere hired killer, and then got to know of her noble bloodline. Well, I have reason to believe that she might be of much more value to you than you know. You see, just earlier, I heard the palace butler speaking with your brother about her history. I was amazed to find out that Allister is a relative of Lady Omrea. Imagine, with her as a hostage and Prince Eliezer gone, not only will you have the throne of Dainia, but also power over Lunar."

Mathazar was relieved to hear that she was not going to betray him with such knowledge, but instead wanted to aid him. However, he knew that nobody would offer to do it for nothing. The curious look on his face was replaced with one of suspicion as he stood and took a step nearer to her.

"You have not only kept this to yourself all this while, but you are now offering to help me. There must be something that you want from me," he pointed out, imitating her current hushed matter of speaking.

At his words, she gazed softly into his eyes. "Only you, my dear prince."

He scoffed in amusement, not believing what he had just heard. "Pardon me?"

"I have admired you from afar for far too long, Your Highness. I hope that you can feel the same about me one day," she continued, reaching up to touch his face.

He caught her wrist and smirked. "I see now that we both want the same - the Kingdom of Dainia. If we are to wed, it will be yours as much as mine."

"If it was all I wanted, I would have betrayed you instead," she responded. "The patrons of Gloomvale Tavern will willingly take jobs to sabotage the royal family. It is not safe for you to go back there, but an unknown palace maid will have no such issue. Perhaps your dear brother shall meet with a little 'accident' on his way to Sorene, and then I shall have a group snatch Lady Omrea up at a convenient time."

Mathazar nodded, proceeding to run his fingers through her hair. "Well then, I cannot refuse my love to a lady who wishes to give Dainia to me. Aid me as you have said, and my heart will be yours."

Raven was busy going over papers and other things she needed taken care of before she could ship the orphans to a safer place. “Man who knew so much went into transporting children.” Andy said and Raven looked over at her assassin brother laughing a bit. “Well they need food, water, clothes, toys, books, blankets, and.....” She went down her really long list and Andy covered his ears.

“Ok Sis I get it I get it man all because that bastered of a younger prince threaten the kids a prince who wants to be king should not think awful thoughts good thing you fell for your target instead.” He said and Raven hit him upside the head. “Ah ok I deserved that wrong choice of words.” He said repenting to his assassin sister who he knew better then fight.

“Come on lets get this done I want to have the children out of here by the next few days.” She explained to him and Andy sighed a bit stressed out by all this.

Raven mainly let out a sigh and looked at him. “Want to go to Gloomvale Tavern to wet your whistle and relax while I keep working?” After she asked that he shot up from his seat and was out the door making Raven looked shocked. “I guess that was a yes.” she sighed while rubbing her head while her assassin brother made it to the Tavern in his gear, for he knows better then to go in his civilian cloths, and got his drink on.

Raven was writing more stuff down before she stretched her back out a bit and soon thought back on her date today wit Eliezer smiling a bit for she really enjoyed her time with him and hoped they can spend time again together soon.

“Man just saw him today and I already wish to see him again I really can be greedy.” She said as she stood from her seat and went to her window and looked out at the castle while leaning against the window seal. “To think I used to hate the royal family but now here I am falling for the heir of Dainia though still not fond of his father but I guess I can tolerate him for Eliezer's sake.” She said to herself as she looked out the window smiling to herself.

“Guess I better call it a night I am about ready to fall asleep.” She said and smiled at the castle. “Sleep well Eliezer. She said before she headed to bed for the night after doing bed checks on the children.

By the next day Raven was up dealing with the children like normal but was shocked Andy did not return last night from the Tavern and hoped he was alright but decided that he might also be taking day off from the kids since they can be a handful at time. But today was her get stuff done to get the kids to another kingdom same from Mathazar’s reach or touch.

"There we go..." Robynne whispered under her breath as she pull the book on Lunarian history off a shelf of the palace library. However, she came to the same frustration that had met Eliezer when he had first tried to pry for such information. She smirked and shook her head at the missing pages. "You're a cautious one, Allister..."

That was when she heard footsteps approaching the room, and quickly closed the book before placing it back onto the shelf. She then picked her feather duster up and pretended to be busy cleaning, only stopping and turning to greet Eliezer after he entered.

"Good morning, Your Highness! I trust you have rested well? Oh, I would just like to inform you that your instrument has been well taken care of and is back in its proper place."

The prince let out a short hiss at the reminder about his violin, rather embarrassed that he had forgotten all about it after he had left the garden the night before. "Right, thank you very much, Robynne, and a good morning to you as well."

"Do you have plans with your lady today, Your Highness?" The maid enquired as she continued to dust the shelves.

"I do not," he responded, taking a seat at one of the available desks and pulling some ink and paper out. "Today I shall be making preparations for my travel and meeting. I also wish to give Lady Omrea time to attend to her own duties. I will be writing to her to let her know that I shall pay a short visit to the village tomorrow, however, for I wish to personally inform her of my absence from the day after."

She turned to him again, this time with a light gasp and a look of surprise. "Your lady hails from the village? How exciting! You see, I was raised in an upper middle class district of Dainia, and I have never stepped into the village."

Having heard what his maid had to say, Eliezer stopped writing and paused in thought for a second before looking to her. "If you are keen to see the village and its way of life, you are welcome to accompany me when I visit Lady Omrea tomorrow."

Robynne's face lit up with enthusiasm. "Me, Your Highness?"

He nodded. "I see no harm. I could use your assistance, and it would be good for Lady Omrea to have a lady friend from the palace."

"I am grateful for this opportunity, Your Highness, and I would be honored to accompany you tomorrow."

Of course, Eliezer was unaware of the kind of 'opportunity' she had really meant. This would be a chance to find out exactly where Raven lived and perhaps even befriend her and gain her trust.

---

By afternoon, Raven would receive another envelope bearing the royal seal, this time containing the following message:

My dearest Raven,

I hope that you, your companions, and the orphans under your care are doing well. I am writing to inform you that I will be paying a personal visit to the village tomorrow. I hope that we can converse then, for there is a matter that I wish to share with you. I eagerly await our meeting.

Best regards,
Eliezer of Dainia

Raven had finally got all the shopping and other details she wanted done with no help from Andy only to come home to a drunken brother sleeping on the floor that also hated a heavy hang over. “This is the thanks I get for letting him go out and drink last night instead of helping me last night and today.” SHe said mad and soon the kids started playing with Andy and he groaned.

“Raven make them stop and be quiet I have a hangover.” He said as one of them was on his back saying horse.

“I am doing no such thing when I said you can go drink I did not say go get bloody drunk and come back the next day after I did all the work hungover and expect to sleep all day.” Raven said angry and kicked his legs out of her way. Before hearing the door knock and went to answer it.

“A letter from the Prince to Lady Omrea.” The messenger said and Raven took it thanking him before closing the door and reading the letter. Andy looked up at Raven as she read her letter.

“So what does princey boy want the only time you know he wants to see you is when you receive a letter.” Andy said and Raven finished reading.

“It says he is paying a visit to the village and wishes to pay me a visit saying he wishes to share something with me but I wonder what it could be.” Raven said deep in thought about the letter.

“Could be anything sis for one option could be he already misses you, option two maybe he wants to also meet the orphans, option three he could wanting to tell you in person that he would be leaving the kingdom temporarily.” ANdy said and Raven looked at him.

“If option three happens either I go with him for Safety reasons or you are following him because I do not trust his twin brother since I know he is not happy I backed out of the deal why do you think I am working so hard to move the orphans out of here.” She said stressed.

Andy groaned as he told up and walked over to Raven and placed his hand on her shoulder. “Sis look I will go and take a couple of our other siblings that still live here in the village and by tomorrow we should be able to ship the kids out of here to master where he will find good homes from them by your request my I remind you since you are his favorite.” Andy finished and Raven sighed and was glad that he was willing to help and that her master respected her wishes.

“Thanks Andy you are the best think I should bother writing back?” She asked and Andy shook his head. “Nah you are seeing him tomorrow make him sweat a bit.” He said with a laugh and Raven shook her head a bit thinking he was crazy as usual.
___________________________________________________________________________

When night time came for Raven she got the kids to bed and Andy was in his bed sleeping his hangover off finally after helping Raven for the rest of the day as punishment. Raven went to the window and looked out at the castle again and smiled a bit. “I can’t wait to see you tomorrow Eliezer.” She said taking in one last glance and headed to bed herself.

Allister was in his study with his coat off and looking at the ripped pages that he ripped out after he first arrived to the palace. The fire was going in his study as he held the papers about how they reveal Raven true bloodline that can put her in grave danger. “Everyday I hold onto these everyday I put her in grave danger in fear of losing these.” He said looking at the image of the heirloom pocket watch and other little information. Then he made his choice and threw the pages into the fire and watched them burn. “When the time comes I will get them a new copy.” He said as he watched the pages turn black and burn to ash before him.

It was midday when a royal carriage entered the village on the day before Eliezer would leave for his trip to Sorene. The folk watched the vehicle in surprise as it made its way past them and several houses and establishments, not expecting a visit from a member of the royal family. There were many gasps and whispers among the people, who wondered where the carriage would stop, who was in it, and for what business it was at the village. Those were soon answered when the vehicle slowed to a stop near the orphanage before Eliezer and a palace maid alighted with two guards.

Seeing the crown prince, nearby villagers immediately dropped what they were doing to acknowledge him as he made his way to the front door of the orphanage with the maid trailing after him, though, the guards that flanked both him and Robynne kept the people from getting within five feet of them. Eliezer respectfully returned the greetings of the villagers, while back at the parked carriage, a couple more guards were handing out gifts from the royal family. Everyone watching figured that the prince had come to see the children of the village. One of the guards accompanying Eliezer and Robynne carried a basket filled with more gifts.

Eliezer nodded to the other guard, signalling for him to knock on the door. The prince lifted a bouquet of moonflowers from the basket to present to his lady, remembering that the plant held a significance for her, while his maid waited behind him to greet whoever would answer the door.

RAven had one of the kids in her arms for he was sick and not feeling well and when it happened he got in a clingy mood. Raven was damping his forehead with a cold damp cloth when she hear the knock on the door. “Andy watch the kids I am going to get the door.” She said and he yelled ok for the kids were already wrestling him. Raven fixed the little boy to mainly sit on her hip while holding him with one arm and use her other hand to open the door. “Alright I am coming.” She yelled out tot he door as she made her way.

Once at the door Raven opened it and gasped at what was basically in front of her door. ”Ok I was not expecting him to arrive like this the villagers are now going to pester me later with a thousand questions.” She thought to herself. “Eliezer good to see you glad you made it safely.” Raven said with a smile and Andy appeared behind her once he heard the princes name.

“Oh so he made it ok hand the little sick guy over so he wont sent snot rockets towards the prince boy.” Andy siad and Raven carefully handing the little by to Andy but fussed for he wanted Raven.

“I will hold you later little guy you go take a nap sleep will help you get better it you do that I will read your favorite bed time story tonight.” Raven said watching the little boy nod and let Andy take him back inside to his room to rest. “Sorry he just woke up with a fever suddenly today.” She said with a smile at Eliezer as she walked up to him and gave him a hug.

But she did noticed the female with red hair in servants clothes figuring she was a servant but something in her gut was telling her to be cautious. She than noticed the the bouquet of moonflower and the basket full of gifts. “My you came prepared today.” She said with a smile laugh and let them into her home. “I hope those flowers are for me since those are my favorites she said playfully to him.

Once they all go inside the kids come out to meet Eliezer and looked at him with curiosity. One of the little girls go up to him. “Are you really a prince?” She asked making Raven giggled but noticed one of the boys sneaking behind Eliezer and Raven grabbed his arm.
“What have I told you about pick pocketing?” She asked in an angry tone scaring the boy. “That it is wrong and I should not do it I am sorry.” He siad and Raven sighed letting him go.
“I know old habits die hard but you don’t have to worry about money anymore while under m care.” She said to him and ruffled his hair. “Sorry Eliezer e and is friends were part of a pick pocketing gang before I took them in they are still breaking that old habit.” Raven said to him with a smile.

Raven sounded busy when Eliezer heard her voice coming from the inside, and which she eventually answered the door, she looked it too as she held an unwell child in her arm. It hardly looked like the best day to pay her a visit, but it was the only chance he had before he had to leave. He did not know what to think of her companion who had come up to take the boy from her while making a humorous statement, but the prince just bid him a "Good afternoon," before he went into the room. Prince boy? And what even were 'snot rockets'? He was about to kiss her hand, as was his standard greeting to her, when she had decided to hug him first.

"My lady," Robynne greeted Raven with a curtsy.

"This is Miss Robynne Read, my lady. She will be assisting me while we are here," Eliezer introduced the maid to Raven, before they entered the house. At her comment about the flowers, he held the bouquet out to her. "I am well aware. Therefore, these are for nobody else."

Children were suddenly all around, and Eliezer wondered if Raven and her companions lived in such an overwhelming environment on a daily basis. Seeing Raven catch and stop a little thief, one of the guards picked up on the nature of these orphans and proceeded to step in between Eliezer and the girl who had just come up to him.

"Please be wary, Your Highness," the guard warned.

Eliezer simply held a hand up to his guard, indicating that it was alright. The prince took a finely-painted wooden princess doll from the basket that the guard held, knelt to meet the child at eye level, and nodded at her question. He then handed her the toy and lightly patted her on the head before sending her on her way. He then instructed Robynne to keep the orphans entertained while he took Raven to a quiet corner so that he could speak with her alone.

"My dear lady, I will be leaving tomorrow for a conference held in the Kingdom of Sorene, and it will be a week before I return. If any relevant matters arise during my absence, please take them up with Miss Read." He paused and took a glance at Robynne, who was handing treats out to the orphans and interacting with them. "You may also take them up with Mister Cornell. I do realize that he is not one whom you are fond of, but I assure you that he has both of our best interests at heart. We will not see each other for some time, which is also a reason for my visit today. I wish to bid you farewell. Do take care of yourself, my lady."

Raven glared at the guard a bit for not all the kids she cared for were old pick picketers like the one she just stopped. And two it was not their fault that they have that old habit for it was how they survived. If the guards had known that and actually tried to help kids like she did she would not be so overwhelmed with kids along with Andy but it only showed how stupid they were. But Raven soon soften her gaze watching Eliezer give the little girl who asked the question a beautiful doll and did basically answer her question. The little girl squealed at the new doll and hugged it happily.

Raven was holding her bouquet of moon flowers that she loved very dearly and was glad he remembered them from what she told him. But when he used her to the side she did not like hearing that he was leaving for a week it made her a bit nervous for she was worried about him no thanks to Mathazar.

“Well I will admit I am not fond of the idea you leaving for a week but I do know it is one of your many duties so it can’t be helped.” She said with a small sad smile for she was worried about him due to Mathazar wanting him dead and how she turned her back on Mathazar to be with Eliezer. “Just promise me when you get to Sorene to write to me and to do the same once you return it will put my mind at ease for I know the roads can get a bit dangerous even with taking every precaution.” She explained to him.

But when he brought up how if she needed anything to either asked RObynne the servant girl that was here or Allister.....Two people she did not really trust at all. Allister for how he probed into her life history and now this servant girl she only seen a couple time but her gut tells her to be cautious of her and her gut feeling has never been wrong before. “Well I will be sure to do so thank you very much Eliezer hopeful nothing come up that I do not have to call upon them.” She explained to Eliezer and soon saw all the Orpahns laugh and smile happily at the treat they received.

“I will say this you truly made the kids happy thank you for bringing them gifts it was very sweet of you.” She smiled and gave him a thank you kiss on the cheek. “Maybe after your return from your conference meeting we can meet up and spend some time together like we did in the gardens.” She said for she had a lot of fun that day.

"I shall find the time to do so, but if you do not hear from me, it may not be I who was intercepted, but my messenger. As you have just said, the roads between kingdoms are dangerous," Eliezer replied to her request.

He had not expected her to kiss him right there and then, and it was something that he probably had to get used to, not at a certain time and place, but her kisses in general. He knew that she would be rather unhappy to hear the news, seeing how much she had enjoyed her time with him, but he still thought it right to inform her about it for it was the courteous thing to do, especially since she had come to be someone really important to him.

"Well then, these orphans will now know who their favorite prince is," he blurted out in response to Raven expressing her gratitude to him, and immediately regretted it. Good grief Eliezer, you are not funny. Do not try to be! "I... shall take my leave now. Until we meet again, my lady."

He turned to exit the house, calling out to his guards and maid to inform them that they were leaving. Waving goodbye to the village folk and children, he got onto the carriage with the palace staff present and the vehicle drove away.

---

Back at the palace, Eliezer had an unexpected visitor to his room as he tried to rest early for his journey the next day. He turned at the knock on his door frame, expecting to see Mathazar or one of the palace servants. To his surprise, it was his queen mother instead who stood at his doorway. This was a rare occurrence, for he hardly saw either of his parents before sunset, but he did not question her visit and allowed her to speak first.

"Eliezer," she began, stepping into the room. "I came to bid you farewell, for I will not be able to see you off tomorrow."

"I understand, mother, and I appreciate the thought."

The queen walked right up to her son before she continued. "Pray do your best, it is in the best interest of Dainia that this agreement goes through."

Eliezer was slightly confused, finding such advice to be rather redundant. "Have I ever failed you and father?"

"There is a reason for my concern," Velda explained. "You see, word has been going around that a matter, not of relevance, has been taking up much of your time and effort."

Recalling what he had been doing the past few days, Eliezer let out a sigh, still somewhat doubting the appropriateness of the actions he had taken so far. "If I may, how did you and father fall in love?"

"Love?" It was now the queen who was puzzled. She reached up to feel if her son was warm. "Are you unwell, Eliezer?"

The prince took a step back before she could touch him. "I- I am well, mother. Forgive me, it was strange to ask."

Velda raised an eyebrow. "Is that it? Are you... in love?"

This was something else that he doubted, for he knew that he would need much more time to fully grasp the concept of love. "I am unsure..."

"Hmm? Who is this lady whom you are unsure about?"

Eliezer remembered his agreement with Allister not to reveal Raven's true identity to anyone, and that he also wanted to keep her safe himself. "She is a commoner, from the village. An intelligent, diligent, and beautiful lady."

Velda only smiled lightly. "I always knew you were a practical one. Why has she not been introduced to your father and I?"

"If it pleases queen mother, I shall arrange a meeting when I return."

The queen nodded before turning to leave. "Farewell, Eliezer. I wish you the best."