Bridal Lessons - Chapter 81
Side Story II
During the early years of Emperor Clair I’s reign, the new emperor particularly emphasized loyalty among the nobility. The Kylon Empire had a history of frequent internal conflicts and was susceptible to foreign invasions across its borders.
Thus, the children of noble families were required to enroll in the academy at a certain age to develop their skills as knights. Upon graduation, they had to undergo a mandatory training period and participate in at least one or two battles near the border. This was true for Iscarion and Theodore, who had just turned thirteen.
Bwooo—
A grand trumpet sound echoed from a massive ship floating on the sea. The sound of drums, meant to boost the morale of soldiers and knights, grew louder as they approached.
The newly appointed knights, who were about to join their first battle, waited at the harbor for the ship to depart. Clad in unfamiliar armor and holding their weapons, the noble boys’ faces were stiff with barely concealed tension as they prepared to enter the battlefield for the first time.
“Oh, Daniel! My son!”
“Father, Mother…”
“Hiic, Raon!”
“Don’t worry about me, Father.”
Though they looked somewhat dignified in their tall, silver armor, they were still boys who had only recently been cherished and doted upon by their parents at home. It was painful for the parents to send their children away, but it was a necessary step for them to be recognized as heirs of their noble families and of the Empire.
Starting from around the age of thirteen, the boys lived as apprentice knights for about two years. If they could prove themselves and survive their first battle, they would be treated as adults, a highly symbolic status. Therefore, most nobles of Kylon, who valued honor, tried to accept this with stoic pride.
Bwooo— Bwoooo—
Finally, two long trumpet sounds signaled the departure. The commander, dressed in full uniform, stepped out and solemnly surveyed the surroundings.
“Now, families, say your farewells to those who are leaving.”
But before boarding the ship, during this time, one could hear small sobs and cries of “No, don’t go!”, “How can you…?”, and “You can’t leave!” all around. This farewell ceremony for the new knights, who were about to enter their first battle, was emotionally charged.
Even the strictest parents couldn’t help but feel heartbroken at the thought of possibly never seeing their beloved sons again. The young knights, who tried to remain composed for their parents’ sake, also found their eyes welling up.
“Theo, come back safely. Take care of yourself.”
“Yes, Father. And Mother… Rosie…”
Theodore, Rosen’s brother, spoke in a somewhat subdued voice as he looked at each family member. When he met the gaze of his young sister, who didn’t yet understand what war meant, he tried to relax his stern expression and forced a smile. Not knowing what was happening, Rosie simply waved energetically at her brother, mimicking the others around her.
“I’ll be back, Rosie.”
“Brother, bye-bye.”
“Yes, stay healthy and listen to our parents…”
Only immediate family members were allowed to attend for security reasons. While the others exchanged farewells, Iscarion stood alone. After the early passing of his parents, the previous Grand Duke and Grand Duchess, he had always been alone, so this was nothing new to him.
Taller than his peers, the handsome boy already exhibited the demeanor of a grown man. Despite standing alone, his striking appearance made him anything but forlorn. However, seeing his close friend alone on such an important day, Theodore couldn’t help but bring him over.
“Isca, stay with us.”
The two had been close friends since their academy days, often visiting each other’s homes. Despite the strict social hierarchy among nobles, they spoke freely without formalities.
“Your Highness, take care and stay healthy.”
“Thank you for your kind words, Countess Dana.”
The gentle Countess Dana smiled warmly as she greeted him. Even though he was young, Iscarion was already treated as an adult since he had inherited his title. Given the significant difference in their ranks, the Countess maintained formal speech even though he was her son’s close friend.
“Brother! Brother Isca!”
Seeing Iscarion, Rosie lit up and jumped up and down. Whatever criteria babies used to like someone, Rosie particularly adored him. Every time he visited the Dana estate to see Theodore, she would cling to him, wanting to play. The Countess often had to take her away with a troubled look on her face.
