Son of the Forgotten Princess | hp x lp

Chapter 3: The Mages

The mages stood at the doorstep of the secluded corner of the Ruby Palace, their expressions stern and determined. Athanasia couldn't help but feel a surge of anxiety at their unexpected presence. It had been a peaceful year, and she had hoped that their secret life with Vasileios would continue undisturbed.

"Princess Athanasia," one of the mages began, addressing her with a formal tone. "We are here on behalf of the Mage Tower. We have received reports of magical disturbances in this area, specifically related to a young child."

Athanasia's heart raced as she exchanged a worried glance with Lily. She knew that Vasileios's accidental magical outbursts were the cause of these disturbances. They had been careful to keep them hidden, but it seemed that someone had noticed.

"I assure you, there must be some misunderstanding," Athanasia replied, her voice trembling slightly. "There are no magical disturbances here. We have been living in peace."

The mages exchanged knowing glances, clearly unconvinced by Athanasia's words. "We have reason to believe that a child with untamed magical abilities resides here," another mage said. "We must investigate this matter further."

Athanasia knew that she couldn't reveal the truth about Vasileios's origins or the potion that had bound her to him. Doing so could put them both in danger. She had to find a way to protect her son and keep their secret hidden.

"I can assure you, there is no such child here," she said, trying to sound as convincing as possible.

But as if on cue, Vasileios, who had been playing quietly in the corner, suddenly let out a burst of giggles. A soft, ethereal glow surrounded his tiny form as a small toy levitated into the air and twirled around him.

The mages' eyes widened in astonishment as they witnessed the display of magic. Athanasia's heart sank. There was no denying it now—the secret was out.

"What is the meaning of this?" one of the mages demanded, stepping closer to Vasileios, who continued to giggle in delight as the toy danced around him.

Athanasia struggled to find the right words, but she knew she had to protect Vasileios at all costs. "He's just a child," she said, her voice filled with desperation. "He doesn't understand what he's doing. Please, you must understand. He's not a threat."

The mages exchanged solemn looks, clearly torn between their duty and the innocence of the child before them. Athanasia could only hope that their compassion would win out and that they would spare Vasileios from the harsh consequences of his magical abilities.

As the mages deliberated, Athanasia held Vasileios close, her heart filled with fear for their uncertain future. They had managed to keep their secret hidden for so long, but now, everything hung in the balance, and their peaceful life in the Ruby Palace was in jeopardy.

"Your Highness," A female voice softly called for the blonde haired princess. The mages could tell she was terrified, "If you could tell us the truth of the child's identity, we swear on our magic that we won't tell anybody, especially the emperor,"

The other cloaked mages behind the female nodded. They didn't interact with the Imperial Family of the Obelian Empire that much, but they had been watching. It was still unknown how to prove that the new princess was a chimera. But if they could protect this fragile princess, they would.

Athanasia regarded the mages with a mixture of fear and hope. She understood the significance of their oath, especially the promise not to reveal the truth to the emperor. The fate of her son, Vasileios, depended on her decision.

She took a deep breath and nodded, her blue jeweled eyes filled with determination. "Very well," she said, her voice unwavering. "I will tell you the truth, but only if you swear on your magic to protect my son and keep this secret from the emperor and anyone who may seek to harm him."

The female mage stepped forward, her hand extended in a solemn gesture. "We swear on our magic, that what the princess, Her Highness, Princess Athanasia de Alger Obelia would say will stay between all of us, if we had spoken of this to anyone else without permission will cost our magic. So mote it be," she said, her voice carrying the weight of her oath. The other mages followed suit, each giving their solemn vow to protect Vasileios and Athanasia's secret.

With the oaths sworn, Athanasia knew she could trust these mages with the truth. She carefully explained the circumstances of Vasileios's arrival and the Blood Adoption potion that had bound them together. She told them about the mysterious vial and the letter's instructions.

As she spoke, the mages listened intently, their expressions growing increasingly serious. It was clear that they understood the gravity of the situation.

"We will do everything in our power to protect your son, the prince," the female mage assured Athanasia. "And we will ensure that his magical abilities are trained and controlled. You have our word."

Athanasia felt a sense of relief wash over her. She had taken a risk by revealing their secret, but she believed that these mages would keep their word. With their help, perhaps Vasileios could learn to control his magic and live a safe and happy life in the Ruby Palace, "Thank you..."

As the mages began to make arrangements for Vasileios's magical training, Athanasia couldn't help but feel a glimmer of hope for their uncertain future. She had faced many challenges and mysteries in her life, but with the support of these mages, she was determined to protect her son and the love they had found together.

"Do not worry, Your Highness, we will make sure that the prince will only be trained up to his age," An aged mage told her, "The prince is merely three. We are here to make sure that he could control his accidental magics as much as he could.. To not raise any suspicion to the outsider,"

Athanasia breathed in relief, "Thank you, sir,"

The mages' assurances brought a sense of comfort to Athanasia's worried heart. She knew that Vasileios's magical abilities needed guidance and training, and their promise to keep his powers hidden from outsiders was a relief. It meant that their peaceful life in the Ruby Palace could continue, and her son would be safe.

As the arrangements were made for Vasileios's magical training, Athanasia couldn't help but feel a profound sense of gratitude toward these mages who had appeared unexpectedly at their doorstep. They had been the ones to uncover their secret, but now they were the ones who would help protect it.

Over the following days, Vasileios began his magical training under the guidance of the mages. Athanasia watched with a mixture of pride and worry as her son learned to control his accidental magic. She knew that this training was essential to keeping him safe and preventing any further magical disturbances.

As Vasileios continued to grow and learn, Athanasia and Lily remained vigilant in their efforts to provide him with a loving and nurturing environment. They were determined to give him the best possible upbringing, despite the challenges and mysteries that surrounded their lives.

In the secluded land of the Ruby Palace, Athanasia and Vasileios shared precious moments together. They played, they laughed, and they continued to build their bond as mother and son. Athanasia knew that their journey was far from over, but with the support of the mages and her unwavering love for Vasileios, she was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.