Ch. 2: Don't Touch
We arrived at the castle and were greeted by the smiling face of Apis’ mother.
Apis' Mother: "Lady OO, I am truly thankful to you for waking Apis."
She’s so beautiful.
Her hair shone the same color as Apis’, and she bowed gracefully.
OO: "Oh no…thank you so much for inviting me here."
Apis' Mother: "Apis is the next heir and my beloved son. If there is anything you desire, ask it."
She cast a fleeting glimpse at Apis and smiled.
Apis' Mother: "I know Apis, are you not hosting the dinner party for the merchants tomorrow evening. I’m sure Lady OO would love to attend."
Suddenly, the two looked at me.
Apis' Mother: "I believe escorting the Princess of the Royal Family of Traumere would increase your standing even more."
[CHOICE]
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Refuse (SUN)
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Attend (MOON)
And so I confirmed that I would attend the dinner party.
Apis' Mother: "Apis, we’re counting on you to the play the flute as usual at the event. Everyone is so looking forward to your performance."
His mother said so and lovingly placed her hands on his cheeks.
Apis: "Understood. Please leave it to me."
Apis said so, and his mother walked down the corridor.
Apis: "My apologies for my mother’s selfishness."
Apis apologetically bowed his head.
OO: "No, it’s alright… anyway, your mother seems to love you quite a lot Apis."
Apis: "…love?"
In that moment…
A cold, dark shadow fell over Apis’ face.
Apis: "…ah yes. This dinner party, it’s really irritating…it’s just a ridiculous event so we can lick the boots of the merchants. Currying favor with idiots who are only interested in money…makes me sick."
This Apis seemed like a completely different person from the Apis before.
Apis: "…it’s disgusting."
He muttered while touching the spot where his mother had touched his cheek.
I was bewildered, and Apis paid me no mind as he took his leave.
I reflexively grabbed his arm and…
Apis: "…I hate being touched alright?"
He violently shook his arm free.
What on earth is going on?
I couldn’t say anything under his cold gaze.
But he seems kind of sad.
I watched as he walked away, and for some reason, my heart ached.
OO: "W-wanting me to attend like that so suddenly..."
Apis: "Mother, isn't that a little abrupt as she just got here?"
Apis came to my aid.
Apis' Mother: "Lady OO...are you sure you can't? Everyone will just be dying to meet you. And I'm sure it will be enjoyable.
..it's proving rather difficult to refuse.
OO: "I’d be happy to, if it’s alright."
Apis' Mother: "Wonderful, thank you!"
Apis: "Lady OO…are you sure? There’s no need for you to force yourself."
OO: "It’s…it’s fine."