Not-So an Extra

Realizing that lying would only worsen Arthur's anger, Adrian hastily apologized. "I'm sorry. I can assure you that this will not happen again in the future."

Sighing for the second time, Arthur asked, his tone returning to normal, "Do your friends in the academy know about the Sacred Orb?"

Adrian shook his head, "No, just me and Nathaniel."

Arthur visibly relaxed, expressing relief. "Good, because the knowledge of the Sacred Orb could lead to something unpleasant."

Lifting his head, Adrian furrowed his brow in confusion, "I don't understand?"

Yet, Arthur just smiled and stroked his head gently, "Once you ascend the throne, you will eventually come to understand."

Adrian was well aware that day would never come because the one who would become the next Emperor was Nathaniel or Frey. However, as a thought kicked in, Adrian voiced it, "May I ask you a question?"

"Sure, what is it?"

"May I know what is the cause of Chrono's death?"

If Chrono was still alive somewhere, then it would make sense why Nathaniel asked him the question. But why did the book subtly point out that Chrono was the God of this world?

If Chrono was truly a God, then how could Nathaniel meet him in the first place? What happened in the first timeline? Did Nathaniel… die?

"Why do you want to know about it?" Arthur's voice jolted him to reality.

"Because the historical records do not provide explicit information regarding the demise of the founder of this Empire."

"I see," regret dipped in his voice, "I'm sorry but I can't answer it. Just like I said before: once you ascend on the throne, you will eventually come to understand."

"But Nathaniel is the firstborn!" Adrian interjected, "He's—" Adrian shut his mouth as Arthur shook his head, beckoning him to silence.

Disappointed, Adrian turned his face away. To Arthur, this question might be seen as his mere curiosity, but to him, this answer was crucial as it could help mend his relationship with Nathaniel.

If Chrono was still alive, then Adrian needed to start to look for him. If Chrono was indeed a God, then how to communicate with him?

Sensing Adrian's disappointment, Arthur sighed, "I'm sorry, I can't provide you the answer."

"..." There was a brief silence before Adrian eventually answered, "It's alright, I understand."

Extending his hand, Arthur brushed his hair for the last time, "Also, I advise you to stop looking for the Sacred Orbs or anything related to them. It's dangerous, the Empire will handle it."

Rising from his seat, Arthur patted his head, "I take so much of your time, you must be tired. I'll take my leave. Good night."

"Good night."

As the door behind him closed, Adrian threw his body on the bed and buried his face in his hands.

Here he thought his research would end when he found out about the Sacred Orbs, but it turned out to be the opposite. Now, a new mission just opened for him. The question was: where should he start?

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The morning sun ascended above the horizon, its warm glow spread across the landscape. The sky was painted with blue hues, creating a breathtaking backdrop for the picturesque scenery. Sitting alone in the gazebo, the table before Adrian was filled with freshly brewed tea and an array of delectable refreshments. Standing not too far away were Ferdinand and several maids, ready to serve him.

The boy's white hair gently swayed in the breeze as his cerulean eyes observed the flurry of motion taking place in the courtyard. Knights, maids, and butlers were diligently packing supplies, preparing for the Imperial Family's imminent return to the Capital City. The air reverberated with the lively chatter and the rhythmic clatter of armor.

Lifting the teacup to his lips, Adrian sipped the warm brew, its comforting taste soothing his restless mind. Three days had passed since his last conversation with Nathaniel, and no word from his brother since then. As he was confined within his chamber, he had no chance of meeting him either.

Upon sensing a familiar presence approaching, Adrian glanced toward it, and Aerilyn, escorted by Arthur, was seen making their way in his direction. Placing down his teacup, Adrian stood to address them.

Arriving before him, Aerilyn hastily brought Adrian into her embrace, "I'll miss you, I'll miss you so much." Aerilyn's strained voice pricked his ears.

Returning her embrace, Adrian whispered, "I'll miss you too, Mom."

Releasing him from her grasp, Aerilyn wiped away her tears. "Please take care of your health."

Releasing him from her grasp, Aerilyn wiped away her tears. "I will, you too, Mom," Adrian reassured her.

Aerilyn planted a tender kiss on Adrian's forehead, before eventually stepping back, allowing Arthur to approach.

With a warm smile, Arthur placed his hand on his son's shoulder. "Take care of your health and listen to your Grandfather."

"Thank you. I will, you too, Father."

Arthur's smile widened, and he gently patted Adrian's head.

With a final bow, Adrian bid them farewell, "I wish you a safe trip."

Aerilyn's smile blossomed, "Thank you."

With that, they made their way towards the entrance gate, Aerilyn cast a fleeting glance back at Adrian, her hand waving in a tender farewell. Adrian smiled and reciprocated the gesture.

However, Adrian's attention was diverted as he sensed another presence drawing nearer. He instinctively turned his gaze sideways and a black-haired with golden eyes entered his sights.

Standing facing each other, their faces were devoid of emotion. The silence between them became palpable, suffocating even, as time seemed to stretch on indefinitely. No words were exchanged, yet the unspoken tension between them spoke volumes.

After what felt like an eternity, Nathaniel's cold voice broke the silence, "Goodbye."

"Goodbye," Adrian responded, his voice mirroring Nathaniel's coldness.

With those parting words, Nathaniel turned on his heel and began walking towards the entrance gate. Just as he was about to step onto the waiting carriage, he cast a final glance back at Adrian. Their eyes met fleetingly before Nathaniel disappeared into the carriage. As the carriage started to move, Adrian remained rooted to the spot, his gaze fixed on the receding convoy.

Letting out a heavy sigh, Adrian murmured, "Fare-thee-well, brother."

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A/N: Vol.1 has ended.