2 Hearts, One Love - Ch. 3

Chapter 3

As you and [Your Brother's Name] strolled around the palace, the servants and maids were putting the finishing touches on the banquet area. Everything was well-prepared and, just a few hours later, the guests began to arrive.

While your brother was being showered with attention, you talked with your friends until you felt two people approach you. It was [Villain 1's Name] of [Villain 1's Kingdom's Name] and his advisor [Villain 2's Name]; unfortunately, they were on the guest list.

"[Villain 1's Name]-sama, [Villain 2's Name]-sama! I never thought I would see you coming for a visit," your mother said, smiling.

[Villain 2's Name]'s lips curled into a smile that made your stomach churn. "We were more than happy to come celebrate the arrival of your son, [Your Mother's Name]-sama."

A frown came across your face. You remembered [Villain 1's Name] and [Villain 2's Name] because of [Villain 1's Name]'s constant attempts to marry you. However, your mother continued to refuse until he declared war on your country.

Two years later, a peace treaty was signed, forming an alliance, but both countries are still in pretty bad shape and in need of some rebuilding. War supplies and food are in short supply.

Despite the fact that you were on good terms with the two, you still disliked [Villain 1's Name] or [Villain 2's Name] but bowed to them anyway. "It's a pleasure to see you both, [Villain 1's Name]-sama, [Villain 2's Name]-sama," you said in the friendliest voice possible.

[Villain 1's Name] smirked and kissed your hand. "It is an honor, my princess," he said in a tone that sent chills down your spine.

The banquet soon began and when all the food was served, the time for your performance came. You went to the center stage in front of the audience to play your song but you felt nervous.

[Friend 3's Name] giggled and took your hand. "Don't worry, [Your Name]-hime," she mused. "You'll do just fine."

Feeling more comfortable, you embraced her before going to the center of the stage, sitting down in the chair set for you.

"Now presenting [Your Name]-sama who will play a song in dedication to her beloved elder brother, Emperor [Your Brother's Name]-sama of [Your Brother's Kingdom's Name]!"

Taking a deep breath, you began to play your shamisen. As you played, the melody of the song rang loudly throughout the area like a thousand nightingales. [Villain 1's Name] stared in amazement, along with everyone else. After you finished, everyone cheered loudly. Bowed, you blushed, and walked off stage and to your dining chair.

"You did great, sis," [Your Brother's Name] said as you hugged him tightly.

[Villain 1's Name] watched you from his chair. Now I know for sure... He smirked to himself. I want her as my bride...

The banquet lasted for another two to three hours, and gradually, everyone departed for their homes. Before you went to your bedroom, [Your Brother's Name] read you a story like he always did when you were a child. After he finished, he said, "You should get some sleep now, [Your Name]. It's getting late."

"How long are you going to be staying, [Your Brother's Name]-niisan?" you asked.

[Your Brother's Name] gave a weak smile and placed his hand on your head. "Unfortunately, I'll be leaving tomorrow."

Upon hearing his words, your eyes saddened as you sighed. "But why? Why do you have to leave so soon?"

"It's a big job being the emperor, [Your Name]," [Your Brother's Name] said. "But don't worry; I'll come back to see you and Mom soon. You know that."

You let out another sigh. "I guess..."

Your brother smiled and kissed your forehead. "Now go on to bed, [Your Name]. I'll see you in the morning."

Nodding, you went to the door to exit, then turned to your brother and said, "Good night."

"Night, [Your Name]."