Chapter 19: You're Royalty
As Aether was in his room reading a book, as Luminis was reading a book with him, as the door open to the room as Eula walked in.
Aether looked at Eula. "Is everything ok Eula"
Eula just looked at Aether and Luminis. "It is fine just had 'talk' with my father".
Luminis looked up looking at his mother. "You met grandfather"
Eula just looked at him and spoke. "Yes for better or worst, I met your 'grandfather'.
As Aether and Luminis looked at Eula with concern, Eula took a deep breath before continuing.
Eula sat down beside them, her expression a mix of determination and frustration. "It's never easy dealing with the past, especially when it comes to family. My father… he's still as stubborn as ever. He insists on holding onto old grudges and refuses to see the changes I've made."
Aether reached out and placed a comforting hand on Eula's shoulder. "I'm sorry you had to go through that. It must be tough to face those old wounds, especially when you've worked so hard to move past them."
Eula nodded, her eyes reflecting a mixture of sorrow and resolve. "It is. But I need to stay strong, not just for myself, but for Mondstadt and for Luminis. I want him to know that we can overcome our past and build a better future."
Luminis, sensing the weight of the conversation, looked up at his mother with wide, curious eyes. "Is there something I can do to help, Mama?"
Eula smiled gently at her son. "Just by being yourself, Luminis. You bring light and hope into our lives. And perhaps, in time, your grandfather will see the good that has come from our efforts."
As Eula spoke, Aether noticed a change in her demeanor. The initial tension seemed to give way to a newfound resolve. "So, what's next?" he asked, eager to support her in any way he could.
Eula's gaze turned serious. "I have to address some issues in Mondstadt that have arisen because of the tensions with my family's past. There's unrest among the people, and I need to ensure that things don't spiral out of control."
Aether nodded. "I'll be by your side, Eula. We'll face this together."
Eula's gratitude was evident in her smile. "Thank you, Aether. I'm grateful for your support."
Luminis then looked at Aether. "What about your father dad".
Eula also looked at him. "Yeah your don't talk much about your past"
Aether just looked at her. "My father huh". Aether looked down with a smile. "He was something for sure, he was great with a sword, and as for his name it was, his name was Kallisto Regulus".
Eula looked at him, the name sounded Royalty. "What about you're mother name them"
Aether just looked at her. "My mother name is Penelope".
Eula just looked at as she put two and two together. "Aether are you prince"
Aether just looked at abs sighed. "Yes"
Eula's eyes widened in surprise. "A prince? That's quite the revelation. I had no idea."
Aether nodded, his expression a mix of nostalgia and reluctance. "Yes, I am. My parents were royalty, but my past life was complicated. I had to leave that world behind, and I've been living a different life ever since."
Luminis looked up at his father with curiosity. "So, what was it like, being a prince?"
Aether thought for a moment, reflecting on his memories. "It had its own challenges. There were expectations and responsibilities, but there were also privileges and opportunities to make a difference. I chose to leave it behind because I wanted to forge my own path, not just follow the path set before me."
Eula, sensing the weight of Aether's words, reached out and took his hand. "You've created a new life here, one that's meaningful and fulfilling. That's what matters now. You've become more than just a prince; you've become someone who makes a real impact in the world."
Aether smiled at Eula's support. "Thank you, Eula. It means a lot to hear that."
Luminis, looking between his parents, added, "So, does this mean you're like a prince and a knight?"
Aether chuckled softly. "In a way, yes. I've taken on the role of a knight in this world, fighting to protect those who need it. It's a different kind of honor, but one that I'm proud of."
Eula squeezed Aether's hand gently. "And together, we'll continue to make a difference, no matter what our pasts were."
Luminis looked at Aether. "were grandmother and grandfather ok with what you did, were they father"
Eula speoke. "They weren't right that how Royalty work"
Aether just looked at Eula ans then let out a laugh that shocked Eula, he laughed like a certain Golden king of heros. "when me and my sister said that we will be traveling and don't want to live in castle, they just looked at us and smile and then laughed, then said 'we are so happy you two choose that, once you two are done with you journey we will see you back in our kingdom' which boiled down to thank god we didn't raise two royal pricks as children".
Eula's eyes widened in disbelief. "Wait, so your parents were supportive of you leaving the kingdom?"
Aether nodded, still smiling. "Yes, they were. They understood that we needed to find our own paths. They weren't upset or disappointed; they were just happy that we were pursuing our own dreams."
Luminis looked up with wide eyes. "That sounds really nice, Dad. It's good that they weren't mad."
Aether chuckled. "It was actually quite a relief. They knew the responsibilities of royalty were not for everyone, and they respected our decision to explore the world on our own terms."
Eula blinked, processing this new perspective. "I always thought leaving behind a royal life would be a major conflict, but it sounds like it was different for you."
Aether shrugged. "It was a different world, and our family had a different approach to it. They valued our happiness and growth more than strict adherence to tradition. It was a unique experience, but one I'm grateful for."
Eula shook her head in amazement. "It's not what I expected at all. It sounds like your family was very understanding and supportive."
Aether's smile grew. "Yes, they were. And that support gave me the freedom to choose my own path, which is something I've always cherished."
As the family talked, Eula felt a sense of relief and admiration. Aether's story contrasted sharply with her own experiences, but it also highlighted the importance of understanding and acceptance within families. They continued their conversation, focusing on their present and future, and the connection between them grew even stronger.
Luminis then looked up. "Father I sure Grandfather is looking down on your proud".
Aether just looked at his son let out a small laugh. "Oh Luminis my dear summer child, literally sense you were born in summer, my father is looking up".
Eula raised an eyebrow relsied the implications. "I am sorry what"
Aether just looked at Eula. "My father was great husband, good King and the best father but a good man no way".
Eula blinked in surprise. "So, your father wasn't exactly the ideal role model?"
Aether chuckled, shaking his head. "No, he had his flaws, like everyone. He was a strong leader and a dedicated king, but he wasn't always the kindest person. He was stern and had his share of shortcomings. But despite that, he cared deeply for his family and his kingdom."
Luminis tilted his head. "So, he wasn't perfect, but he was still good in his own way?"
Aether nodded. "Exactly. He did his best, and that's what mattered. He wasn't perfect, but he loved us in his own way. And I think, in the end, that's what counts."
Eula considered this for a moment. "It sounds like you've come to terms with his imperfections and appreciated him for who he was."
Aether smiled. "Yes, I've learned to see his flaws as part of his humanity. He taught me a lot, even if it wasn't always in the most conventional ways. And I think he would be proud of where I am now, despite everything."
Eula nodded, her expression softening. "It's clear that you've found peace with your past, and it's good to see that you can remember him with a sense of understanding."
Luminis looked between his parents. "I think that's really important. Even if someone isn't perfect, they can still have a positive impact on our lives."
Aether ruffled Luminis's hair with a smile. "You're absolutely right, Luminis. It's the love and lessons we take from those imperfect people that shape who we become."
The family sat together, reflecting on the complexities of their own histories and how they influenced their present. The discussion brought them closer and provided a deeper understanding of each other's backgrounds and values.
Later that day, as Jeanne called them to there office
Eula looked at Jean. "You want me to investigate the Lawrence clan"
Aether just looked at her. "Is that not your family name"
Jeanne nodded solemnly. "Yes, it is. The Lawrence clan was once a powerful and influential family in Mondstadt, but they have fallen from grace. We have received reports of some unsettling activities and rumors that might be connected to them. I need you to investigate and uncover the truth."
Eula's expression was a mix of concern and determination. "I understand. I'll take the assignment."
Aether looked at Eula, his concern evident. "Are you sure you want to do this? It might be difficult, especially given your family history."
Eula took a deep breath. "Yes, I need to do this. It's important for me to confront the past and understand what's happening. Besides, I'll have support." She glanced at Aether and then at Jeanne. "Who will be accompanying me?"
Jeanne nodded. "We'll assign Amber and Kaeya to assist you. They're both skilled and trustworthy."
Amber stepped forward, her usual cheerfulness subdued. "I'm ready to help, Eula. We'll get to the bottom of this together."
Kaeya, with his characteristic smirk, added, "Looks like we're going on a little family reunion, Eula. I'll be sure to keep an eye on things."
Eula nodded appreciatively. "Thank you, both of you. Let's get started then."
Later that day, Eula, Amber, and Kaeya gathered their gear and set out for the Lawrence clan's estate, which lay on the outskirts of Mondstadt. The estate was an imposing structure, its grandeur now marred by age and neglect.
As they approached, Amber noted the dilapidated state of the property. "It's clear that the Lawrence clan has seen better days. This place looks like it's been abandoned for a while."
Kaeya looked around, his eyes sharp and observant. "Indeed. Let's be cautious. There might be more to this place than meets the eye."
Eula led the way, her demeanor focused and resolute. They entered the estate through a side entrance, avoiding the main gate to avoid drawing attention. Inside, the mansion was eerily quiet, with dust covering the once-grand furnishings.
Amber whispered, "Do you think there's anyone still living here?"
Eula shook her head. "I don't know. But if there are, they might be hiding."
They moved through the mansion, exploring the different rooms. Eula noticed various signs of recent activity: a few items misplaced, and the faint smell of smoke lingering in the air.
As they reached the library, Eula found a hidden compartment behind a bookshelf. Inside, they discovered documents and letters indicating covert meetings and discussions about political maneuvering and alliances. The contents suggested that the Lawrence clan was involved in scheming against the current leadership of Mondstadt.
Amber looked at the documents with concern. "It looks like they've been plotting something. This could be serious."
Kaeya frowned. "We need to take these findings back to Jeanne and discuss them. There might be a larger conspiracy at play here."
Eula nodded. "Agreed. We should be cautious and ensure we don't draw unnecessary attention."
As they were about to leave, they heard footsteps approaching. They quickly hid behind a curtain, their breaths held.
A figure entered the room, an older man with a stern expression. He was dressed in clothes that hinted at his once-important status. He began to examine the room, clearly searching for something.
Eula whispered, "That must be one of the remaining members of the Lawrence clan."
Kaeya nodded. "We need to be careful. If he discovers us, we might be in trouble."
They waited silently as the man moved around the room. After a tense few minutes, he left, and the trio breathed a sigh of relief.
Amber turned to Eula. "What do we do now?"
Eula looked at the documents in her hand. "We need to gather as much information as we can and report back to Jeanne. We also need to be prepared for any further developments."
They exited the mansion and made their way back to Mondstadt. As they approached the headquarters, Eula reflected on the significance of their findings. This investigation was not just about uncovering the truth; it was about confronting a part of her past and addressing the shadows that had loomed over her family name.
Back at the headquarters, Jeanne was waiting anxiously. "Did you find anything?"
Eula handed over the documents. "Yes, we found evidence of political plotting and scheming. The Lawrence clan is clearly involved in activities that threaten the stability of Mondstadt."
Jeanne studied the documents, her expression serious. "This is troubling. We'll need to act swiftly to address this issue. Thank you for your hard work."
Eula nodded, relieved to have made progress. "We'll do whatever is necessary to protect Mondstadt."
As Eula, Amber, and Kaeya prepared to continue their efforts, they knew that their investigation was just beginning. The road ahead would be challenging, but they were ready to face it together, united in their commitment to safeguard their city and uncover the truth.
To be continued