Heir Apparent: A Nigerian Story.

XI

Huda's POV.

I couldn't sleep a wink throughout last night.
Things changed in just an instant and I'm not sure how to act or behave towards anyone anymore.

My mother went as far as threatening to divorce my father, I never knew she'd ever take it that far but with that I can't sit and do nothing, friendship aside I have to be better than Raudah.

After getting dressed I walk out of my room. A girl was waiting by the door outside. She smiles "Hello, I'm Hasna and I'm your personal maid/teacher, I'll help you with whatever you need"

I smile "That's nice but I don't think I need one"
She frowns "It's not really an option. Every Vassal needs an aid"
I nod "Where to then?"

"Well we should head to the hall downstairs, you and the other female Vassal have to start your training"
"Let's go"

I didn't eat but I wasn't particularly hungry.

Entering the hall I find Raudah and a girl standing behind her already in the hall. I sit across her as Hasna stood behind me.
"You don't seem to be in a good mood"

I know how competitive Raudah and her mother are and I also know that she will never ever let her guard down, they'd do anything, by hook or by crook.

"Circumstances have changed, don't you think?"

She sighs "I thought it'd be easier if you kept being yourself"
"We're still friends"
She scoffs "At this point those 14years don't mean a thing".

I nod "How unfortunate"
The door opens and a woman probably in her late forties walks out smiling "Welcome, my name is Lola and I'll be your guide. If you need anything just talk to me and I'll be there. This time you have your phones with you so you can call me when you need. Unlike when you were in the Hind Castle you're free here, you can meet and talk to who you want, go out when you want to and order around who you want to but first things first you will have to go greet the Empress officially and after that you'll both come separately and choose what other things you'd want to learn apart from the basics".

"What others?"
She nods "You have a fixed syllabus but you have to choose two extracurricular activities to add to it. Your maids can lead you to the Empress's Chambers"

We nod in response.

::

Chambers?
This is just one person's chambers?

The palace seems to be 4x the size of a stadium. It almost doesn't have an end. The Emperor has his chamber which is the biggest, the Empress has hers which comes second, the Second Empress has hers which comes third and then there are over 10halls, 3throne rooms for different occasions. 5kitchens in different locations, servants, maids security quarters which is also massive, you have a basketball court, archery range, two huge open fields, 10 guests quarters and other parts we didn't get to see yet.

I was feeling so nervous, I've only ever seen her on tv or maybe on YouTube and instagram sometimes but never in reality.

She walks in, her head so high.
She sits on a chair across us "It's a joy most true to finally meet you both"

"The pleasure is all mine" Raudah says.
"It's an honor to finally meet your acquaintance" I say not knowing how the words even flew out, internally I laugh thinking my body is already reacting to my mother's threat.

"You are all radiant and intelligent beings, with a beauty that transcends the physical. But in this place, I see you all as equals, without regard to status or reputation. I disregard the opinions of others, and the words on paper. I want you to reveal your true selves to me, to show me the depth of your character, and the beauty of your hearts. Let your actions and words be the testament to who you are, and let us begin our journey together, unencumbered by preconceptions."

We both nod.
"I have a crucial meeting in Durban, which demands my swift attention. However, before I depart, I must stress the importance of our gatherings. You two shall meet me here, every Friday at noon, and on Sundays, at four o'clock. I am eager to get to know you both, and share in your stories. Though my time is brief, I hope we can forge a connection, that shall persist despite my absence."

I smile "As do we"
"Verily!" She says excitedly "Don't think of yourselves as rivals, but as friends and allies. When you speak, don't just represent your own interests, but consider the good of both. Let your words be collaborative, not confrontational, and may your conversation be a harmonious exchange of ideas."

Raudah smiles "Of course"
She stands "See you Friday. If you need to touch base before then, just drop by when I'm free, or ask my assistant to pass on a message. Looking forward to our next meeting" she says looking at the woman behind her "You can use Laura as a go-between, and she'll pass on your message to me"

"We shall, thank you for your help and welcoming us as well" Raudah bows.
"We'll definitely do so! Thank you for your support and for making us feel at home. Your hospitality means a lot to us".

She smiles "You're free to go, and I wish you all the best".

And so we excused ourselves.
"Trying a little too hard" Raudah says the moment we walk out.
I shrug "You were great in academics while I focused on other things. See you around" I walk ahead.

::

I sigh picking up a bow and an arrow.
Yesterday after meeting with the Empress we were both told by Lola to choose an order extracurricular activity, something that has to do with skill and so I chose archery but now I'm feeling quite dumb for doing so.

I wore a knee high long sleeve dress with jeans underneath and white sneakers but of course I had to cover my head.

After shooting about five times with not even One lucky shot I just stare at my target. It was scheduled for 11am but I decided to show up by 10am just to try it on my own and I had nothing better to do. I also have to meet the Second Empress later after target practice.

"You lack energy and enthusiasm, and your posture could use some improvement".
I turn around and see a familiar yet unidentifiable face.

"It's my first time"
"Your reasoning sounds like a weak excuse. In truth, archery requires strength and stamina, so a limp body makes it a tough endeavor".

I scoff "I'm more persistent than limp actually".

He smiles walking over and leaning on a rack lined up with different bows, different shades, structures and stealthy arrowheads and arrows.

"I thought so too, it seemed quite clear".
I smile "We've met?"

"As we convened in conference, just the other day"
I smile "Yes, the General's son but even so I feel like I've met you before that day"

"We have indeed"
I nod "I knew it"

"Truly" he says sarcastically "Maybe your parents pushed you to outdo the other girl, but don't try too hard. Just be yourself, like when we first met at the library. The Empress likes people who are authentic and cautious, yet willing to take bold steps".

So he was the guy from the library but what was he doing there that day anyway?
"Why did you say you're the librarian's son?"
He shakes his head "Me neither, I am just as clueless as you are".

I scoff "Anyway, I wasn't threatened so please don't misunderstand".
"I'm just giving you a heads up, do with it what you want. It's your call, not mine" he walks away.

I tilt my head still looking at him "You're speaking so formally".
He nods "I am, and isn't that what they taught you at the castle? Yet, you don't seem to be using that knowledge".

I shrug "Perchance I could have, but 'tis a matter of whom I converse withal. Mayhap, dear friend, I find myself at ease in thy presence, and thus my tongue is loosened"
He just stares at me "What are you? Shakespeare?"
"You said I don't use it".

"Honestly, I have no clue what you just said. Really? They taught you that? I'm surprised someone would actually teach you to talk like that".
"Should I translate?" I sneer at him but he says nothing so I do anyway "I could have, but it depends on who I'm talking to. Maybe I feel comfortable with you, and that's why I'm being honest".

He smiles amusedly.

::