Fernando wasn't smart.
At least, that's what he always told himself.
He couldn't read long books.
He didn't understand politics.
Most of the things he knew came from overhearing travelers, merchants, and old storytellers passing through villages.
But there was one thing every child in Luxaelis knew despite status.
Golden eyes belonged to royalty.
They were the blessing of Aurethys.
The mark of the Luxaelian Sunthyr family.
Golden blood.
Golden eyes.
Golden gifts.
And faces so beautiful they hardly seemed human.
Fernando's body hit the ground almost instantly.
"Y-Your Highness…"
He lowered himself until his forehead nearly touched the dirt.
"Please forgive me."
His voice shook uncontrollably.
"I wasn't spying. I swear I wasn't. I only came here because I was looking for a ball…"
Silence followed.
Fernando didn't dare lift his head.
"What is your name?"
The prince's voice was calm.
Gentle, even.
But somehow, that only made Fernando more afraid.
