THENEXTPRINCE, Chapter 12: Emmaly.
By: CEO. Ft ennice.
In the capital city of Daveen, Emmaly.
Inside the living room, a large curved window divides the garden and the people sipping tea sitting in lounge chairs. The quietness around them without any background music made the atmosphere that should have been relaxing turn rather tense.
Prince-Tarin walked past the two guards protecting the Sovereign-King and went inside. Once inside, he paused and raised his right hand to his left chest as a sign of respect to his father before sitting down in front of the throne. His thick hand reached over to take the cup of tea that the current Sovereign-King had prepared before lifting it up to his mouth with a gesture of respect.
The scent of English breakfast tea wafted up and tickled his nose, causing Tarin to pause for a moment. A peculiar current of surprise swept in and brought the middle-aged man’s face into deep thought.
Earl Grey tea then…
“Is there something troubling you father?” Tarin asked, turning his gaze towards the person in front of him with suspicion. Usually when they came to drink tea in the garden like this, his father would either play soft music or sometimes even call musicians to come perform for them to relax, but today was different.
“I have something to think about for a bit. Nothing special… don’t worry.” The old eyes blinked and followed the fluttering of a small moth as it flew around admiring the beauty of the palace’s flowers. Dhipabawon looked out towards the outside garden without intending to turn back to his only son.
Tarin lifted his teacup to take another sip. The bitterness lingered on his tongue along with the scent of dried kaffir lime leaves, making his body feel more awake than before. The silence that crept in between them had an effect on the tension building up inside. However, before he could say anything, the elder man broke the silence by speaking up.
“Are you ready for the meeting?”
Yes, I am.” Tarin lowered his head slightly and replied hesitantly. He secretly glanced at his father’s face and noticed that the other side was concealing a deep-seated issue that was weighing heavily on his mind. It was so subtle that no one else would have been able to discern it.
His father was an expert at hiding his emotions, and Tarin wondered what could be causing him to appear troubled like this. Perhaps it was due to the upcoming meeting with the royal members who would be arriving in the capital city of Daveen in just a few hours.
Despite the seemingly casual conversation, every leader in the city knew that the reason they were all gathering here today was for one important topic of discussion…
The report on the production and export of precious gems, which was the main source of income for Emmaly’s economy this quarter.
“Good, prepare yourself, Tarin.”
“Yes, Your Majesty.” the owner of the nickname replied heavily, but Tarin couldn’t help feeling that this time his father’s order concealed something more.
Although he knew that every time he had to face the royal members, there would always be issues that needed to be addressed one after another until it became a frustrating kind of monotony, this time was different.
Tarin could feel the anxiety building up inside his father, so he couldn’t just act indifferent like he always did. He wasn’t entirely sure whether there was something else that required his attention beyond the agenda of today’s meeting.
If it’s a matter of his abilities, he should be able to handle it, but if there’s something beyond his expectations… Tarin himself is not sure if he can handle it.
The two-story reception room is decorated with white wood and sofas. In the middle of the room is a cream-colored plush coffee table and a standing wooden piano. The warm-toned decoration style is unique to the Daveen palace and is admired by all who visit.
It is a guest reception room for both local and foreign visitors. However, today it was chosen for the meeting of members of the royal family to report and discuss the performance of exporting gems in the last quarter.
The fragrance of eucalyptus oil permeated the room, and under the seemingly quiet atmosphere, there was an underlying tension. Members of the four main kingdoms’ royalty sat together in front without any small talk, and only the sound of pouring water could be heard. Tarin carefully served each person according to his position.
“Sovereign-King is arriving.”
The announcement made all the princes stand up and show their respect to Lord Nin, the head of Emmaly, as he walked in with his entourage. He gestured for everyone to sit down.
“Let’s start talking. It’s almost noon, and I don’t want the kids to wait for us… Tarin, you start with your report.” With these words from the highest authority, Tarin stood up and respectfully began to talk about the production within the jurisdiction of his city.
“In this quarter, the Northern Regions have exported more than 64% of our gold in the form of jewelry. However, transportation between countries has been slightly obstructed, especially with Switzerland, because they have taken strict measures on imports. So we had to send documents for inspection, causing a slight delay, but it’s not a big problem.”
Prince Tarin of the Atsawathewathin family, the ruler of the wealthy northern city that was rich with gold mines, summarized the results of the operation from his side tightly. This resulted in the next person sitting down feeling unhappy.
“However, my nephew’s diamond exports are quite problematic, Your Majesty.” said Prince Rachata of the Phuchongphisut family, the ruler of the eastern coastal region rich in gemstones, in a loud voice.
Those hard eyes reflected the image of the Sovereign King, who was seated at the head of the table, speaking politely and respectfully according to customs and traditions, but conflicting with his emotional expression.
“Please tell us, Rachata. If there is a problem, I will do what I can to help.”
“Your kindness is appreciated, Your Majesty.” Rachata thanked him according to etiquette before raising the main issue he had encountered.
“…”
“As you know, according to the Kimberley agreement, we will not import or export diamonds that have not been certified by member countries because we do not want to support illegal activities. However…” The owner of the paper paused at the end of the sentence, his face looking menacing. Rachata raised his eyebrows and swept his gaze over others before stopping at Tarin, the current leader of Atsawathewathin, who was sitting beside him.
“…”
“Recently, there have been reports of people smuggling diamonds into the country, and it must be stopped… And those who smuggled them were previously based in the Northern Regions. My nephew has checked. They only moved their registration to the east coast less than two years ago. We do not want to keep the stolen diamonds, we want to return them all. Can Your
Majesty help me with this, please?”
The tone of the speaker sounded like a plea and a request, but if one knew Rachata’s true nature, they would know that he was doing this to exert pressure.
If other countries knew that there was smuggling of diamonds from their country, Eastern Emmaly would also be affected. However, if there was a document signed by the Sovereign King stating that the offender was not a person in his state, then Phuchongphisut would escape punishment.
“The Royal Secretary has issued a letter stating that the culprit is not from the East but rather from the North and has acted covertly… I will sign to certify it.”
“Thank you, Your Majesty.” Rachata’s mouth twitched into a smile, while Dhipabawon, who held power above anyone else, looked at the third person in line with apparent indifference.
“Chana.”
“Yes, Your Highness.” Prince-Chana, leader of the Thawetmetha family, which ruled the prominent city of precious gems to the west, stood up to report.
“How is Thawetmetha doing?”
“There were slight issues with the trade of gems to the West, but we have managed them accordingly. As for production problems, we have implemented a full digital system for sales, resulting in an increase in the export of soft gems and jade.”
“And what about the reports of missing goods during transportation?” Sovereign-King’s question caused Prince-Chana, who had a conservative disposition, to hesitate.
“…We have not found clear evidence of the cause. For now, we are working on preliminary solutions by improving transport routes and thoroughly inspecting missing goods.” The highest authority remained silent for just a moment before voicing thoughts and proposing a comprehensive solution as expected.
“Hmm. If there is anything you need my help with, do not hesitate to ask.”
“I am grateful, Your Highness.”
“Waseen is next.” Finally, it was the turn of Prince-Waseen of the Meenakarin family, who governed the sea-bound territory brimming with pearls.
“This quarter, there are no issues with our pearl farms, and exports are meeting expectations. Currently, we are in the process of developing dark champagne pearls. If there are any reports from the lab, I will send a letter to the Royal Secretary.” His soft voice, soothingly delivering a detailed report, creates a rhythm that is pleasing to the ears, allowing Dhipabawon to relax.
From today’s discussions, it seemed that only Atsawathewathin and Meenakarin did not cause any worries for the Sovereign-King.
“And is there anything you need me to help with?” The highest-ranking man asked in a soft voice. Those hard eyes were hidden behind a facade of patience. For many years, the Meenakarin family seemed to be the only one that never had any problems or issues that would make Dhipabawon feel agitated.
“There’s nothing that needs your assistance. I just wanted to know if Uncle is still in good health and spirits… We haven’t seen each other face to face like this for a long time. I’m glad that we can gather together like this again.” Waseen smiled, expressing his happiness, which was different from Rachata, who simply chuckled before placing his teacup back on the table.
“We haven’t seen each other like this because of what, then? If it’s not because of the ironclad rules.”
When speaking to someone with high authority like the Sovereign King, Rachata’s tone changed slightly. The leader of the Phuchongphisut family looked suspiciously at the ruler of the southern city.
“For the safety of all parties concerned.” The Sovereign King said softly, “Our country’s administration does not allow large groups of people to enter and leave the capital frequently. Our security system is tight, and my guards will take care of everything. If you wish to visit, simply send a letter beforehand, and I will send my guards to ensure a safe journey.”
“Safe? You know very well that nobody trusts another person’s guards.”
Rachata retorted. The more he listened, the more frustrated he became with the Sovereign King’s explanation, which was an old-fashioned way of trying to justify the ironclad rules that were established after an incident 20 years ago.
“…”
“I don’t think it’s too difficult, my dear, that other leaders cannot enter the palace without permission or a good reason. It’s an important matter.” The Sovereign King replied.
Since the establishment of the ironclad rules, access to the palace has been restricted. External individuals or even members of the royal family must send a travel notice and adhere to strict guidelines to gain entry. This made Rachata feel extremely frustrated.
Leaders from each city are not allowed to bring excessive amounts of guards and must receive approval from the Sovereign King before entering or exiting the palace.
“It is extremely chaotic and frustrating…”
“The affairs of the city’s rulers are likely to be more chaotic than this. Uncle, do you not think that following a certain rule would be more complicated than the ability of those in government? Is that true?”
“…”
“Most important is that the guards can check on everyone’s important treasures, but they cannot go and check on anyone else’s personal guards.”
Sovereign-King spoke calmly, his mind calm, but he concealed his power and caused those of lower rank to quiet down.
Rachata let others talk for a while before trying to improve his facial expression and then turning to invite an older person to speak about something else instead.
“I have heard that you, uncle has become very ill. If you need it, the royal doctor from the eastern capital can send a letter to me, and I will send the most skilled doctor in science and medicine in the country.”
The words of Rachata were true, as it was well known that the Eastern
Regions had factories producing jade and gems for export. The Phuchong Pisut family itself was also a respected family in terms of investment and power in the factors of life, like a main symbol of the family.
A python curled around a short stool, with eyes like flawless diamonds, indicating the power of control over even dangerous venomous animals.
“Your father is doing well. Even in the city of Daveen, there are very skilled doctors. Rachata, you do not have to worry, as I myself have been taking good care of my father.” Tarin spoke up after being silent for a long time. His face remained calm and peaceful, smiling slightly at the siblings, but only two people knew that the smile did not reach his eyes.
Without any sincere feelings towards each other, it seemed like a small, tense war between the Golden Horse and Diamond Snake families. The atmosphere was suffocating, causing the royal servants to stand still.
“It’s noon… shall we go have lunch together? The children must be waiting for a long time. Ramil and Evaa might be very bored.” Finally, Waseen offered one option to end all the tension from before. The leader of the southern capital nodded in agreement, while Sovereign-King remained silent.
“Good, good. Let’s go to the dining room then.”
The prince stood up to his full height and gestured for the other members of the royal family to follow him.
Starting with the leader of the Thawetmetha family, who didn’t like getting involved with anyone, followed by the leaders of the Phuchongphisut and Atsawathewathin families respectively, only the leader of the Meenakarin family, Waseen, walked at the back.
He took a deep breath before quietly following the others to the dining room, leaving behind a warm and silent room that had been filled with people just moments ago…
Ramil, the only son of the Phuchongphisut family, held his pointed arrow firmly in place, waiting for the signal. His sharp nose and determined gaze were fixed on the target in front of him, not much different from the slim and graceful young woman standing beside him.
Evva, the only daughter of the western city, was as gorgeous as any aristocrat, with her soft black hair tied in a ponytail and her fair skin resembling milk. She stood proudly beside Ramil, preparing for the competition that would soon begin with the sound of the small drum.
Two royal cousins raised their bows in preparation, and as the signal came from the small drum, the competition began. Ramil shot first with speed and accuracy, his arrow piercing the center of the target beautifully.
As the other three took their turns, Evva proved to be no less skilled than anyone else. She released her arrow with precision and confidence, hitting the target before anyone else in the final round.
Although she lost in terms of speed, when it came to accuracy… Her final score was considered a tie with her older and younger brothers, a truly remarkable achievement.
Followed by the second and third rounds, Evaa herself did not lag behind anyone. The young woman held her bow firmly and released her arrow with precision as they all aimed for Ramil’s arrow that had hit the target first in the final round.
Evaa lost in terms of speed but when it came to accuracy… Her final score was considered a tie with her older and younger brothers, a truly remarkable achievement.
“It would be good to change partners for the next round.” The sweet voice of the princess spoke up. She handed her bow to the guard before turning back to face the person who stood neither near nor far.
“Hmm, your skills are good, no need to change partners.”
Thank you, even my brother deserves credit too.” Evaa thanked him for the compliment. The surface-level relationship between them did not allow for any deeper romantic feelings to develop.
It was the same with Ramil who, despite being from an esteemed background, was not one for good relationships.
“How have you been? And I see aunt isn’t here?” The young woman asked, trying to fill the awkward silence between her and Ramil’s mother, with whom they hadn’t spoken for a while. If it weren’t for important national matters, they wouldn’t have had the chance to talk at all.
“Same as always, and your mother?” The response and question followed the customary etiquette, but it didn’t reflect Ramil’s true thoughts. For him, family ties were just a game he had to play in life.
“It’s just the game of life that everyone has to play along with, like it or not.” he thought to himself as he was living in the moment.
“I’m fine… and Phii Petai isn’t here?” Someone’s name from the lips of a young person from the outskirts made Ramil pause. His dark eyes swept around before he answered Evaa, who knew what was in his heart.
“He couldn’t make it.”
Petai Watcharatpong, heir to the noble family and the high-ranking trusted friend of Ramil, passed through the guards surrounding the flower garden area. The lower-ranked aristocrats had to bow their heads in respect.
The tall and proportionate figure kept pace with the high-class gait that had been trained since birth. His majestic appearance revealed everything, but Evaa thought to herself that… It was such a pity.
It was a pity that someone like Petai had to be stuck in a position no different from a scapegoat rather than being the best friend of Ramil… A companion just a front-row player in a scene that everyone knew wasn’t as beautiful as it seemed.
The Phuchongphisut family has a unique culture, which is to keep close friends by their side as substitute so they can take the prince’s blame and punishemnt if the prince makes mistakes.
It’s been a long time coming. Even Evaa disagrees and sympathizes with someone else, but she has no right to interfere in the governance of each different lineage.
“Evaa, Young-Prince-Ramil.” Petai’s soft voice called out, with a respectful gesture inviting the royal young lady to leave the mansion. Evaa powdered her head and greeted the newcomer with a friendly smile.
“The meeting is over. Prince Rachata has ordered the duchess to invite
Young Prince and you to join the royal feast at the Grand Hall.”
“Hello, Petai. It’s good to see you.” she said sincerely, although the conversation was polite and restrained. It could be said that it was the highest form of respect that few people receive from those with royal bloodlines.
“Good to see you, Your Highness.” Petai smiled on his face, his lips slightly raised, but just enough to make him look charming and appealing to some people who felt annoyed.
“You go ahead, I’ll follow later.” Some people intervened halfway through the conversation. Evaa looked after her little nephew and niece before reluctantly separating herself, but still in a good way.
“Where did you go?” A short, blunt question was asked after the royal young lady walked away, accompanied by guards who were standing in formation around her at first.
Ramil sent a fleeting glare before turning back to look for someone who was shorter than him. The other side remained silent and turned his face toward the other direction, seemingly knowing what to do. Moreover, standing still made the group of guards that retreated too far seem to be interesting in the eyes of someone like Ramil.
“…”
Where did you go?” he asked again, so the person in front of him had to accept it.
“Your Highness, I didn’t go far, I was just waiting near the Royal Kitchen in case there was an order from Prince Rachata.”
Ramil didn’t hear Petai’s answer at all. His thick hand grabbed his thin wrist and pulled it harder than anyone else would. Someone approached them closer.
“Who are you? Are you confused about your duties?”
“…”
“Your duty is to stay with me, not anyone else.”
“Let go first, someone will see us, Your Highness.” The white guy said with a softer tone than before. His cautious demeanor made those around him look somewhat interesting in the eyes of someone like Ramil.
“Whatever, a person of mine, I can do whatever I want.”
“His Majesty, you should not only focus on your own self willed interests here, but also overcome obstacles.” Now, the shorter man’s tone of speech sounds more serious at various levels, creating a distant atmosphere. It causes his eyebrows to furrow, feelings of dissatisfaction, and a sense of being weighed down more heavily than before.
“I’ve said it many times, don’t use royal language…”
“Not here, Your Highness.” However, someone like Petai knows the temperament and how to handle Ramil better than anyone else. His slender figure simply leans forward, speaking in a smooth voice, catching the attention of those with more power, captivating them with influential glances, making even the Young Prince have to calm down.
…
Your Highness, you should not let your royal relatives wait too long. Please come with.”
The famous news reporter’s report still had a familiar tone each time as before. Khanin played games on his mobile phone while looking at the clock on the wall and sneaked a breath.
Charan has been outside since the sun rose until now, some people are still missing and reluctant to head back. Half of the leftover fast food box was ignored.
Khanin eats potatoes to sustain his life, but he still recognizes that their taste remains bland and unchanged. He has been enduring days in a rectangular room that never closes its eyes, yet the feeling is no different from being trapped in a small cage.
Initially, Charan said they would have to hide here for two days, but he kept changing his mind without giving a specific deadline. They have been waiting for almost thirty hours now while hiding.
He himself is not sure where this waiting will end up…
The sound of the door opening combined with the sound of footsteps caught the attention of a young person who was sitting on the sofa. Before closing his eyes, Khanin glanced at Charan’s restless posture as if there was more to it than meets the eye.
“Pack your things.”
“Hmm, what’s going on?” Because he was not sure if he heard anything wrong, he asked again. Khanin looked at Charan putting new clothes in a bag before uttering a sentence that sounded familiar.
“Prepare yourself, we’re leaving tonight.”
“Who told you to wait?”
“It’s time.”
… “ Someone muttered words of encouragement, letting him know that aimlessly waiting had come to an end. However, Khanin didn’t say anything correctly about how he felt at the moment. “I’ll take you back to Emmaly.”
…
TBC.
It’s okay if you skip some of the characters with a lot of details.
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