Princess (manhwa)

Princess is a Korean manhwa series by Han Seung-Won. It is a historical, tragic yet fictional saga of the royal families of three fictional kingdoms - Ramira, Anatoria and Skador. The first release/chapter was published in 1995 by Daiwon and is still ongoing with 31 volumes released. The English version is published by Central Park Media.

Plot
It begins with a future glimpse of a young mother awaking her 7 year old daughter - Pry (Freya) in the middle of the night to meet her father for the first time. The reunion goes on to the real story of how it all began with three children - Biyon Kakan Pyordova -who is the prince of Ramira, his dear friends, Biancasta Rodyt - who is the daughter of a servant and Ryan Vaida (Leo) who is a trusted friend from a noble family loyal to the royalty of Ramira.

This manhwa series has no single main protagonist but numerous characters whose lives and loves are often mixed with politics and sometimes even war. The series follows the connections between them and also go on for three generations of both Ramira, Anatoria and Skador. However, the plot usually does go back to the couple Biyon and Biancasta aka Bii and their daughter who is the future princess of Ramira.

Biancasta Rodyt/Pyordova ( Bii ) :
Daughter of Prince Biyon's nursemaid. Bii was raised with him as sibling and the two fell in love. Bii never knew her father and all she knows about him is that he was a good person and her way of thinking is similar to hims. But growing up, Bii's entourage only keeps telling her that she and Biyon are not of the same social status and that she won't be able to stay so close to him forever, what saddens her. As a child, she also felt like her mother cared more about the prince than her. When Bii was 11th years old, Biyon's father, the king of Ramira, started looking for a princess for his son. Soon after, Eirene, Bii's mother, forbids her daughter to see Biyon again, in order to weaken their love. But after several days, the children meet again and Biyon declares to Bii that he will make her his princess. But later Bii has a disagreement with Eshild Balder, the only daughter of the Prime Minister of Ramira and the most serious candidate to become the princess. This first encounter will have terribles consequences for Bii. Indeed, worried about her daughter's future, Eshild's mother makes her husband promise to kill Bii if their daughter is to be the princess. The prince begins to include Bii in his lessons but it is difficult for the little girl who has never studied anything in her life. A few days later, Biyon takes Bii on a horseback ride and after giving her a crown of flowers, the prince promises the little girl that not only he will marry her, but he will also give her the crown of the Queen of Ramira, someday. But during the following night, Eirene asks Vasa, a servant girl who is friend with the mother and the daughter, to take Bii away from the palace, in order to protect her from a plot to kill the little girl. Vasa takes Bii in a place named the Pink Mountain and the two live in house surrounded by flowers. But Bii, not knowing that she's in danger, cries believing that her mother abandoned her to separate her from Biyon and begs Vasa to bring her back to her mother, but the young woman refuses knowing that Bii's safe in the mountain. Some time later, while Bii and Vasa take care of the flowers, they discover two young girls unconscious in each other's arms.

Five years later, we find Bii aged 16 and being the target of a prank by a little boy named Sibel. We discover that Sibel is the son of Lilin, the oldest of the two girls found by Bii and Vasa. The youngest is Lilin's little sister, Lala. A flashback reveals that Vasa was against the idea of welcoming two strangers. But Bii insisted, pointing out that the girls seemed to have nowhere to go and that their house was too big for just two people. Lilin was already pregnant at the time and several months later the delivery was difficult. Bii saddened by the thought that the baby and the mother could die, started to cry declaring that she intended to take good care of the baby and that she had even found a name for him, Sibel. Lilin approving the name, regains strength and gives birth to Sibel and the two recover from childbirth. Although Bii and Vasa don't know anything about Lilin and Lala, not even the name of Sibel's father, and the sisters don't know Bii and Vasa's true identities, no one ever asked. All five have simply lived happily together as a family for five years.

This quiet life comes to an end when Bii learns that Biyon, who has become king, will surely choose his wife during his eighteenth birthday. The very night she hears this news, Bii confides in Vasa her fear that the king has forgotten her. Although she understands that her dream of living with Biyon is impossible, Bii still loves the king and lives only in the hope of being able to see him again one day. The young girl also declares to Vasa that she would even be ready to sacrifice her life just to see him again at least once. A few days later, Bii meets by chance a strange man with a scar across his face, in the forest surrounding the house. This last accompanies her to go to the nearest town. There Bii finds a piece of fabric that she likes very much, but has problems with the saleswoman when she tries to buy it with her hair ornament. Because the saleswoman does not believe that a girl who seems to come from a modest background can own a real jewel and accuses her of being a thief. Luckily for Bii, the man she came to town with claims she's a noble pretending to be a commoner and he's her bodyguard. Which convinces the seller that the jewel really belongs to Bii and therefore returns it to the young girl at the insistence of her "bodyguard". Once back in the forest, Bii thanks him for his help and he reveals his name, "Sei".

Sei also helps Bii to return home because the girl does not know the way back. Bii tells Sei that Vasa will be truly grateful to him. We also learn that Vasa scolded Bii and that it was out of spite that she made the decision to go to town. But the truth is that Bii wanted to go to the castle. Once back home, it's already dark and the young girl is reprimanded by the sisters and Vasa who also want to know why she has been away for so long. Sei having warned her that they would not be happy to learn that she was with a stranger, he advises her to pretend that she fell asleep. He also gives her an explanation for the fact that she could have slept so long. Bii recounts, as Sei suggested to her, that she fell asleep after eating a berry and when she woke up it was getting dark. They accept the explanation although Vasa seems to have doubts. This last orders Bii never to fall asleep outside again. Lilin then reveals to Bii that Vasa found a corpse in the forest and that the man had been killed with a sword blow.

On the morning of Bii's 17th birthday, a package is found outside the front door of the house. When they open it, Vasa, Lilin, and Bii discovered a piece of fabric inside. The same one that caught Bii's eye. Bii is certain that it was Sei who brought the fabric. But unable to reveal her thoughts to others, she makes up a story that God brought the cloth for her birthday. Vasa doesn't believe it at all but, for lack of a better explanation, she agrees to keep the gift. Lilin then offers to make it into a dress for Bii and the young girl finds it so beautiful that she walks everywhere in the forest with it. In the hope that Sei can see her, as a token of her gratitude. Sei and Bii eventually meet again, but the two are caught in the rain and must take shelter in a cave. Some time later, Bii wants to go to the forest but Vasa forbids her as a punishment for having disappeared again. The girl wishes to find Sei who gave her instructions if she wanted to meet him again. However, he forbade her to speak about him to the other inhabitants of the house. Bii is very fond of Sei and isn't afraid of him despite his scar because she knows that appearances don't always reflect a person's soul. She also tells him that from the moment she saw him for the first time, she knew he was a good person.

On Biyon's 18th birthday, she disappears from home again. Bii is with Sei who doesn't understand why she is silent and sad. So Bii asks him if, living in a place like the mountain, there isn't someone he would like to see. But Sei replies that he is an orphan and that he does not know what his parents look like. While apologizing, Bii then asks him if he has any friends or a home he would like to see again. But Sei replies that he has none of that and has lived most of his life alone. Bii then tells him that she doesn't like the mountains and that she would like to go back, thinking of the castle. She also tells him that this place is too lonely for her. She sadly remembers that every time she wakes up in the middle of the night, she feels so alone. But even if she returned to the castle, she probably wouldn't be welcome there. It could even be that the prince she knew would no longer want her. And the fact that she shouldn't go back there is just too much for her to bear. Faced with the young girl's silence, Sei offers to drive her to town. But Bii refuses on the pretext that it is getting late and that she has to go otherwise Vasa will worry. Sei then tells her that if there was anything he could do for her, she should let him know. Bii comforted, thanks him.

Some time later, while looking for Sei, Bii is bitten by a snake. Luckily for her, Sei quickly finds her and heals her. The next day, Sei brings her home while she is still unconscious, letting the other residents find out about his existence. The next day, Vasa announces to Bii that after the healing of her leg, they will leave for Lana, the capital of Ramira where the king and Eirene are. The young girl, delighted, then asks her if her mother would have asked them to return. But Vasa replies that her mother doesn't know where they are. Confused at first, Bii doesn't understand this sudden decision, but eventually decides she doesn't need an explanation. The girl additionally tries to convince Vasa to leave immediately but quickly realizes that she is not yet in a condition to travel.

Once cured, Bii looks for Sei again to tell her that she will be leaving the next day. She finds him calling an eagle and as soon as he sees her, he rushes towards her. Bii thanks him for taking care of her and when Sei points out that she seems in a good mood. Bii replies that she is leaving the mountain forever the next day. When Sei asks her where she is going, the young girl replies that she is going back where she came from. Although Vasa asked the young girl not to let Sei know they were leaving she still wanted to say goodbye. When Sei asked her if everyone was leaving, Bii replied that only Vasa and she were leaving. She also tells him that if he needs anything, he can ask Lilin. Bii also reveals to him that when she arrived, it was just her and Vasa. But that they, the sisters and Sibel have lived as a real family, although it is not the same blood that runs in their veins. Then when Sei points out to her that the reason for her leaving must really be important for her to agree to part with them. The young girl nods and reveals to him that there is someone she is dying to see and that she has only lived with the sole purpose of seeing him again.

On the day of departure, Lilin helps the young girl to dress in a man's outfit that she made herself for her. With sadness, the eldest sister asks Bii to take care and be happy. Vasa wants to leave before Sibel wakes up, which means she and Bii never said farewell to him. Bii's last action towards the sisters is to try to comfort a sobbing Lala. Bii and Vasa end up walking so far that they can't even see the house. While they take a break, the young girl confides to her friend her fear that the king no longer recognizes her. Also, Bii tells her that she dreamed that she was back at the castle, that the king was walking right in front of her and that he didn't recognize her. She knew it was only a dream, but it could happen. Besides, the young girl knows that there are many beautiful women in the castle and that Biyon is now engaged and therefore has no reason to remember her. Still, it doesn't matter to Bii. All she wants is to see the king one last time. If that should happen, she still maintains the hope of being able to live with her mother. Vasa agrees, arguing that now that the king is 18, he no longer needs a nursemaid. The girl then asks her friend if she is going to live with her and her mother. Vasa answers her in the negative by telling her that she is going to get married. Bii embarrassed, lectures herself, blaming herself for being immature and thinking only of herself. But the girl is so attached to her friend that she feels like she doesn't want to let her go. But Vasa replies that she was joking and that she would stay with her until the day Bii tells her that she no longer needs an old woman. Bii then replies vehemently that she will never say that. Vasa, thirsty, asks her protege to wait for her while she fetches water from the river. The young girl replies that she will come with her. Vasa replies that it is not necessary and again asks her to wait for her. She also tells her that she will come for her when she finds the river.

Several pages later, we find Bii with Sei laying flowers on a mound of dirt. The girl then says Vasa's name while crying and says she is sorry. We then understand that this mound is a tomb and that it belongs to Vasa. Bii is sorry that the young woman had to spend all these years on a mountain because of her and that she died in these circumstances. Sei told her that Vasa fell while slipping on the rubble of the river and died instantly by breaking her neck. Sei then asks Bii what she's going to do since Vasa died before they got out of the mountain. The young girl then replies that she must continue. Sei then asks her surprised why she doesn't come home from the mountain. Bii replies that she doesn't want to bring bad news to the sisters and Sibel. And that Vasa would have liked to see it continued. The young girl then thanks Sei for always helping her. And especially that if he hadn't been there she wouldn't have known what to do about Vasa. Sei asks her if it won't be too difficult for her to walk alone to Lana. Bii then replies that if her destiny is to survive, she will succeed. Sei then tells her that he will go with her. The young girl politely replies that he doesn't have to do this for her, reminding him that he had told her that he had a task to accomplish on the mountain. His friend replies that he was planning to visit Lana anyway. Not as soon as he had planned, but he doesn't mind getting there early. Sei then asks Bii if she refused because she didn't want him to come. But his friend reassures him by telling him that it was not about that. Sei then asks her to wait for him while he does the necessary to leave and that it won't be long. Bii warns him not to hurry and tells him that she doesn't want him to meet the same fate as Vasa.

We find the young girl in the company of Sei on a road, watching an eagle. Bii then asks her traveling companion if it's not the eagle he had called while whistling the last time. Sei replies in the negative, but his travel companion asks him if he is sure of his assertion. Also telling him that she had already noticed him for some time flying above the mountain. When the two companions stop for a break, Bii asks Sei what he plans to do to Lana. Sei replies that he intends to do things and others. The girl then asks him if he intends to return to Pink Mountain when his affairs are settled. When her friend asks her why she wants to know that. Bii replies that if she has to go back she doesn't know the way. Sei then asks her why she would want to turn back so soon if she wants to see someone so badly. The young girl replies that it is true of her point, but that it is not necessarily reciprocal for him. Her friend offers to wait for her if that's what she wants. Bii then tells him that she doesn't know how she will react if he doesn't recognize her. Sei then asks Bii who is this man she wants to see and what worries her so much. He also tries to reassure her by telling her that instead of this man, he would welcome with open arms a young girl as beautiful as her. Bii laughed embarrassed by the compliment because she had never considered herself beautiful. The girl hesitates to answer Sei's first question, remembering Vasa's order not to tell anyone. But ends up making her friend promise to believe her. Bii confesses to him that her destination is Ramira's castle in Lana and that the person she wants to see is King Biyon Pyordova. Seeing Sei's surprised expression, the young girl believes that her friend takes her for a liar but does not blame him.

Later during their journey, the two companions decide to spend the night in an inn. But the only room left is very small for two people. But since there is no other inn in the vicinity, the two friends have no choice. The second problem is that there is only one bed and the travel stuff further reduces the room space. Bii offers Sei to sleep in the bed because being smaller than him, she would be less inconvenienced to sleep on the floor. But Sei refuses and tells her to take the bed. But the young girl points out to him that given his size, he would not be able to lie down on the ground. Bii comes to the conclusion that the only solution is for her and Sei to sleep in the same bed. But an embarrassed Sei vehemently refuses. The young girl seeing only the practical side told him that it would be possible if they hugged each other so that no one fell out of bed. So his friend tries to make her understand that an unmarried man and woman cannot sleep in the same bed. But Bii replies that she had slept with Sibel before. Sei then replies that given their age difference, the situation was completely different. The young girl, still not understanding the problem, replies that she had slept with Biyon in the past. Bii then reveals that when she and Biyon were little, they would hide together when it was time for Biyon to study. And during that time they happened to fall asleep. Not once was Bii's mother able to find them, but later the girl was given a stern admonishment. Bianca comes to the thought that the reason why she and Biyon were so close was that there were only two children living in the castle : them. Moreover, Biyon never treated him as a prince normally treats his nursemaid's daughter of low birth. The young girl thinks that if he had acted as he should have, maybe she would never have been taken away from the castle. And that even if she hadn't been taken away, Biyon would have ended up treating her like he should have once grown up. But at that time both were too young to understand politics. Also, the fact that neither of them had any brothers or sisters was surely another reason why they got together. Sei eventually gets up and prepares to lie down on the floor. Hoping to lighten the mood, Bii jokes that her story was anything but happy. Getting no response, she offers Sei one last time to sleep together, but Sei still doesn't respond. Once installed, Sei tells her that he can sleep anywhere.

The next day as the two companions are walking down a crowded street, Bii accidentally bumps into a man, knocking his alcohol down. The young girl apologizes immediately but that does not appease the man who is also drunk. The latter, doubting the sex of the girl in disguise, decides to want to be sure. Luckily for Bii, Sei stops the man before he can touch her. Sei offers him money to reimburse the liquor and thus calm the situation. But the pissed off man rudely asks him who he is and tells him that he is Tio, a local bandit. Sei then throws coins at him, stating that it should be enough to take a bath in alcohol and orders him to leave. Bii's friend then throws him to the ground and a furious Tio tries to punch him from behind. But Sei is faster and hits him in the face so hard that the bandit finds himself on the ground. Sei asks a shocked Bii to continue on their way. But later, the two companions are arrested by three bandits and the young girl recognizes Tio among them. Sei asks them what they want and the leader of the bandits tells him that the two two companions already know. The leader then asks Sei in a threatening tone if they thought the two of them could get away with it so easily after hitting one of his men. Sei then asks in an even more menacing tone "So?". The bandits furious that Sei responds to them then threatens to kill the two friends and orders them to dismount. Sei then nonchalantly replies that he has no intention of fighting. Even adding that it was Tio who crossed the line first and then ordered them to make way. The three bandits attack them sword in hand and Sei then pulls a sword out of his pack. With a single stroke of his sword, he gets rid of the bandits.

Later, we find the two companions still riding on a country road. Sei asks Bii if she's tired and if she would like them to stop. The girl replies that she is fine. Sei then tells her that they will be able to see Lana after passing the mountain in front of them. But he also tells her that they won't cross it tonight. They will spend the night in an inn and will be back on the road at daybreak. But an impatient Bianca protests that the mountain looks so close. Sei responds to her that the Sun would be setting, while they would cross it. Bii then argues that they have already slept under the stars. Her friend replies that it would be too dangerous to travel at night so close to the city because bandits must be hanging around. The young girl then asks Sei if he didn't kill the bandits and that he just beat them up a bit. But the latter does not answer and suddenly asks how she intends to enter the castle. Bii replies that although she's not sure he's still there, there was a small hole that she and Biyon dug and no other idea came to her. The girl then remembers Vasa's warnings before she died. Once inside the castle she should not be seen by anyone except the king. If her mother finds her first, she won't allow her to meet the king and Bii will be exiled away once again. Vasa also told her that it was easy for them to leave five years ago, but it won't be so easy to come back. Bii's protector wasn't even sure they could make it to Lana. She also advised the girl not to trust anyone until she saw the king, because some people want her dead. But considering all these things, Bii doesn't think anyone is going to recognize her. Biyon himself probably won't recognize her because she was only a child at the time. Bii isn't even sure she's still small enough to fit through the hole.

Amazed Bii finally arrives at Lana. She is also impressed by the large population of the capital. Sei intrigued, tells her that he believed the girl had grown up in Lana. But Bii disabuses him by revealing to him that it was at the castle that she grew up. After a while, the two companions can finally see the castle. The young girl is very moved to find the place she has never stopped dreaming of and where the king and her mother are. Suddenly a man startles Sei calling him Ren, but the latter replies that he is confusing him with someone else and tells Bii to move on with him. Once near the castle, Bii points to the middle of a wall between two guard towers. Sei then tells her that he can't see any holes and the nervous girl hopes her memory isn't failing her. Bii explains to her friend that two hours after dinner, the guards will be relieved. The tower will then be empty for a very short time. The young girl will therefore take advantage of this moment to come out of her hiding place and enter the enclosure of the castle. When Sei remarks to her that it will be soon then, Bii remains speechless for a moment. The two companions then shake hands and Sei wishes his friend to be able to meet the king. When the girl thanks him, Sei adds that if she doesn't succeed and leaves that place again, he'll be around. Bii then explains to him that she does not know when she will have to leave again and that it is more than likely that she will be taken somewhere else if she fails. The two companions remain silent for a moment when Sei notices that the guards are leaving their post and that the time to act has therefore come.

Not only is the hole still there but Bii manages to get through. The young girl then wonders if the fact that it is not blocked indicates that the king has forgotten its existence. While walking in the park of the castle, the memories of the young girl begin to come back and the young girl is very moved to have returned to the place which she considers as her home. But suddenly hearing a noise, Bianca hides behind some bushes. The source of the noise is two maids talking. They discuss the fact that Eirene sends women to the king's bed when the king is drunk. One of them even declares that she would like to lie down beside the king even if she is exiled for this. But her partner tells her that she has no chance with a face like hers because Eirene only chooses the most beautiful ones. The first insults the second and reproaches her for not letting her dream. The second servant then orders her partner to be quiet and that they go and take care of the washing because she does not want to be punished again. The two servants then go without knowing that they are leaving a very embarrassed Bii. The girl then wonders if she will only be able to see Biyon from a distance. Suddenly, she hears someone else approaching. Turning around to find out who it is, she sees a young man walking. She recognizes this young man as Leo, whose real name is Ryan Vaida. He is a boy of the same age as Biyon who was friends with him and Bii during their childhood. Despite being noble, Leo has always treated Bii as if she were his little sister. Moreover, he has always put his loyalty to Biyon above all else. Bii then wonders why he is walking alone in the park. When Leo turns his gaze in her direction, the girl immediately hides and wonders if he saw her. Then suddenly Bii is threatened with a sword. It's Leo who asks her who she is and orders her to raise her head. Indeed, as the young girl has her head down and hides her face in her hands, the young Vaida cannot see who he is dealing with. When the latter repeats his order, Bii slowly raises her head. Seeing her face, Leo remains speechless for a moment and the young girl takes the opportunity to greet him. The young Vaida then drops his sword and having trouble speaking Bii understands that he recognized her and confirms it.

A few pages later we find Bii in a dressing gown in Biyon's room. We understand that during all this time Leo hid her, provided her with this dress and allowed her to find his lifelong love. Bii approaches the king and throws herself into his arms crying. Biyon not only remembers her, but recognizes her immediately and even more miraculously for Bii, he still loves her after all these years. The two young lovers spend the night in each other's arms. The next day, the girl wakes up after the king, which makes her feel very uncomfortable. But the latter lies down next to her and tells her that it's been years since he's slept so well. He adds that he fears Bii's return is just a dream. The young girl replies to the king with all the politeness she owes him that she fears that too. The king then asks her to simply call him Biyon when there is no one around them. Biyon then swears to Bii that no one will take her anywhere. He also swears that he won't let her live a life like her mother's and that he himself has no intention of living like his own father. When Bianca's mother and Biyon's father were young, they loved each other like their children love each other. But unfortunately, Biyon's father abandoned Eirene to marry Biyon's mother. But the star-crossed lovers never stopped loving each other until Biyon's father died. They have always hoped, but have never been able to do anything but observe. The king swears that this will not happen to them. Biyon then asks Bii to carry his child. The two lovers kiss each other on the mouth. Bii and Biyon spend several days in complete happiness, until Leo brings them his mother's wedding dress. The two young lovers thank him and the young Vaida apologizes for not being able to witness their wedding. The two fiancés forgive him and without a witness, or even a priest, exchange marriage vows.

Biyon Kakan Pyordova :
Crown Prince of Ramira and only child of King Kakan Pyordova II and Queen Parah. As his mother died when he was a toddler, Biyon was raised by his nursemaid Eirene Rodyt with her daughter Biancasta surnamed Bii. The two children ended up falling in love and the prince is so attached to the little girl that he gets depressed when he spends several hours without seeing her. As a child, he also becomes very close to Ryan Vaida, nicknamed Leo, the first son of the Vaida family, an old noble family very loyal to the royal family. Growing up, he has a great admiration for Skadei Thor, the son of a powerful Anatorian lord half-brother of the king of Anatoria, whom he wishes to resemble later. As he and Bii were raised as brother and sister, Biyon does not understand why from his 12 years and Bii's 11 years, the latter begins to call him "Sire". Things get worse for the children at this time since.

Indeed because of his illness, Biyon's father seeks a fiancée for his son to become the princess. Right after this proclamation Bii disappears for several days and Biyon searches for her desperately. The prince ends up finding the girl doing the laundry. All the while, Bii was doing chores on Eirene's orders. We learn at this time that if the prince is so attached to the daughter of his nurse, it is because he had pity on the child neglected by her own mother while the latter was taking care of him. Despite this, the little girl kept a smile so charming that it enhanced her beauty and the little boy could only love her more for all this. The prince then swore never to make her cry. With the help of Vasa, a servant friend of Bii, Biyon makes a delicious meal for the hungry little girl. The young prince is outraged by the fact that one is not given to eat his lover, but Bii protests that she has eaten. We learn at this moment that it was Vasa who revealed everything to Biyon about Bii's situation. It is also learned that the prince promised not to tell anyone so that Vasa would not be punished for disobeying Eirene. He also makes the little girl promise him, who answers him solemnly. This annoys the prince and he orders that henceforth BiI should no longer call him that. But the little girl protests that her mother ordered her to. Biyon then replies that he will take care of Eirene, that he will not allow Bii to do chores anymore and that he will make sure that his lover will not be transferred elsewhere. The crown prince adds that if Eirene continues to be stubborn even after that, he will tell his father that he will make Bii his princess. To the happiness of the little girl and to the misfortune of her mother who, having overheard the whole conversation, faints.

Shortly after, the prince goes to see the king and asks his permission for Bii and him to be united. His father tries to make him understand that given their different social ranks, this is impossible. But Biyon persits and the conversation remains sterile since neither manages to make the other bend. Later, the prince ends Bii's humiliation by Eshild Balder, Ramira's Prime Minister's daughter and the most serious candidate to become the princess. Then Biyon apologizes to the young lady on behalf of Bii, because the story began with the nursemaid's daughter not using etiquette towards Eshild. The young prince tries to make the young Balder understand that if Bii doesn't know the etiquette, it's because he and she were raised as siblings. In an attempt to appease the young lady, he tells her that he agrees to be punished instead of the young commoner. When Eshild Balder asks him what punishment he would like to receive, she also warns him that a punishment for a commoner for making fun of a noblewoman is more severe than he imagines. The prince replies without hesitation that he will accept any punishment she wishes. The young Balder ends up telling him that she will punish him later and tells him to keep his words in mind. Afterwards, Biyon insists that Bii participate in the lessons with him, which he had never done before. Certainly in an attempt to make her more acceptable as his princess. But unfortunately, as the little girl has never studied anything in her life, she has trouble understanding the lessons. Shortly after the two children go out for a ride. During this outing, the prince makes a crown of flowers which he offers to Bii. He then promises her that when he is adult and powerful, he will offer her the crown of the Queen of Ramira. He banishes the little girl's doubts and swears to her that she alone will be his wife.

But the next day, Bii disappeared again. Biyon then asks Eirene where his lover is, but the latter does not answer despite the prince's injunctions. The nurse only tells him that the young Lady Balder is waiting for him and that it is not proper to keep a lady waiting. The prince then tells her that he's not going anywhere until she tells him where her daughter is. Eirene ends up telling him that Bii is no longer in the castle. The shocked prince asks his nurse for more explanations and the latter admits to him that she does not know where her daughter is and that she asked Vasa to take her where she wanted. Biyon is so furious that he won't even see Eshild. Afterwards and with the help of Leo, the prince searches for Bii so frantically that he doesn't even notice Skadei Thor, visiting Ramira, when he walks past him. A few days later and after searching everywhere, Biyon is so distraught that he wonders if Bii might have been taken away from Ramira. Suddenly he notices that there are a lot of people at the castle and asks Leo if he knows the cause. A guard then approaches and tells him that King Kakan Pyordova II is living his last moments. The shocked and desperate crown prince rushes to his father's deathbed. Once there, the priest asks him to approach the king and collect his last wishes. The prince obeys and when he hears his dying father calling him, he declares to him that he is at his side. When the suffering king extends his right hand towards him, Biyon immediately grabs it. The king announces, with regret, to his son that he is obliged to leave him. The dying man then calls General Leonardo Vaida, Leo's father and the king's most loyal friend. Kakan Pyordova II extends his left hand to the general and the latter also takes it immediately. The dying king then places General Vaida's right hand on his son's and declares to him in his last words that he is counting on him, then the king passes away. The night of his father's death is also the last that Biyon spends in the prince's castle. The future king then asks Eirene to come and live with him in the main castle. But her nurse tells him that she must stay in the prince's castle in order to be able to take care of his child in the future. But the prince, in tears, terrified asks her again to come with him because he does not want to be alone. Eirene then replies that General Vaida and Leo will always be with him and that he must find his princess, so he will never be alone again. Biyon is soon crowned King of Ramira, as Kakan Pyordova III with General Vaida and Prime Minister Balder as regents.

Five years later, we find 17-year-old Biyon practicing archery. Suddenly, Prime Minister Balder arrives and although the latter flatters him and offers him a present, the king politely refuses it and does not seem to want to be close to him. Biyon then asks him outright what brings the Prime Minister to him. The latter then tells him that he will soon be 18 and the king asks him sarcastically if Balder has moved to remind him of his age. The prime minister replies that the time has come and that the country needs a queen. He adds that the royal line must be assured if we want to avoid a misfortune and that the king should decide now. Biyon then asks Balder for his opinion and the latter replies that he should respect his late father's decision. That is, to marry Eshilde Balder. But the king points out that his father only married when he was 22. But the Prime Minister replies that Biyon's grandfather was still alive at that time, but now the situation is different. The king then asks Balder if they are going to spend the whole day talking about it or if they should have dinner together.

We find Biyon come to pray in the chapel of the castle where Eirene is already. He tells his nursemaid that he assumes she prays that her daughter will never be found but that he prays every day that Bii will be found. This indicates he hasn't seen her since the day she disappeared 5 years prior. Eirene can answer, he reminds her that her daughter is now 16. After a moment of silence, Eirene ends up saying that she prays everyday for Biyon to choose a queen. The king thanks her and tells her that Ramira's only legitimate queen will be Bii. Besides, his relationship with Eshild Balder has not improved during these years. Indeed, although these people have seen each other regularly over the past 5 years, we cannot say that they have become friends. For example, when Biyon has just won a game of chess and he realizes that he won because Eshild wasn't concentrating. The king wants to reverse his action, but Lady Balder refuses, arguing that having made a mistake is no reason not to accept defeat. Even when Biyon insists, Eshild argues that it is not possible to recover on a real battlefield and that this game is like a small war. When Biyon remarks to her that she is taking this too seriously, Lady Balder tells her that since he is the king of Ramira, he must take everything seriously. She also tells him that nothing is personal to him, that his perception must be flawless, and that his enemy being weak does not mean he must show mercy. Biyon replies that again Eshild takes things too seriously. The king adds that he was not taking part in a war, but that he was only playing. Lady Balder replies that she was at war and she lost because of her inatention and that she does not intend to accept his piety. Moreover, each interaction with the young lady only reminds Biyon of scenes from his childhood with Bii.

When the king was a child, Bii was able to make him forget who he was. When he was with her, Biyon was just a little boy and Bii was just a little girl. They were just a couple of fun-loving kids. The king wonders if Bii is still the naive child he once knew. Also, he remembers that she used to be a whiner and worries if there is now anyone to dry her tears now. He also wonders if there is now someone who benefits from her smile. The day before his lost love's birthday, he drinks a lot, which makes him very aggressive. So much so that he threatens to decapitate a young servant girl with his sword. Luckily for her and the other servants, Eirene arrives and asks the king the reason for his anger. She adds that if Biyon intends to kill innocent servants, he will have to kill her first. When the king sarcastically replies that she must have heads to spare, Eirene tells him that her life should have been ended a long time ago. But this seems to annoy the king even more who is close to decapitating Eirene when he suddenly stops and collapses to the ground. Biyon is taken to his bed and Eirene laments and wonders why he can't forget Bii, then the king grabs her sleeve proving he heard her.

For Biyon's 18th birthday, a huge party is planned and everyone thinks that the king will take this opportunity to choose his wife. During the preparations for the feast, the king notices Eirene giving instructions to the other servants. He then thinks of the question his nurse asked him the night he was drunk. His response is that Bii is like his sister and is his first love. He had sworn to himself that he would not let the story that Eirene and his father lived through repeat itself. He is also convinced that Bii still shares his feelings. Which justifies his struggling not to forget her. Moreover, as a simple human being, the young girl is his only source of happiness. It is for all these reasons that his heart will never change. He doesn't care how long it takes, he won't change. And that, whether or not someone else takes her rightful place; no one can replace Bii. Biyon longs for Bii and the times spent with her. Suddenly General Vaida bursts in front of the king and when the latter asks him what is the matter, the general replies that Skadei Thor has revolted. The general adds that the King of Anatoria has already fled his capital but that it is only a matter of time before he is taken prisoner. The King of Ramira stunned then asks Leo's father if he means Thor's revolt was successful. General Vaida then replies that Skadei Thor's plans were so well laid out that the royal army didn't stand a chance and there is reason to believe that, indeed, his revolt was a complete success. Biyon is shocked to hear this, of course he knew Skadei Thor was brilliant but not to the point of being able to lead a victorious revolt in such a short time.

After Skadei Thor has the King of Anatoria executed, the crown prince exiled, and himself crowned king of Anatoria. King Biyon and many of Ramira's lords meet to discuss what to do about it. The general warns the assembly that King Thor is too ambitious and looks nothing like the previous king. He also warns them that the new ruler of Anatoria is very active and that he displays a special attachment to Ramira. But Prime Minister Balder says he hasn't noticed any notable changes since taking the throne. General Vaida goes on to say that there is a rumor that King Skadei possesses the personality of the late Lord Thor. He recalls that Reuten Thor was cruel and devious. But the Prime Minister persists in saying that he means by this that all kings are ambicious in their own ways. He adds that a king is not really a king without ambition taking King Biyon to witness. But the latter does not respond to Balder and only displays a gloomy face. After a few moments of silence, the King of Ramira asks General Vaida what he thinks. The latter replies that they have confirmation that Skadei Thor has gathered large armies for the needs of his revolt. Still, it's hard to accept the fact that Anatoria's royal army didn't stand a chance. After all this army was reputed to be the most powerful of all. The general adds that for his sake, Thor will happily break the treaty of R.S.A. The treaty binding the countries of Ramira, Skador and Anatoria. But another lord intervenes saying that even if that's the case, he doesn't think Anatoria can recruit more men. Because famine has been raging there for years and King Thor may even be forced to get rid of a large part of his armies. He adds that Anatoria's economy is collapsing and food is scarce. Therefore the Ramirian lord does not think that Skadei Thor will try to start a national war. But General Vaida contradicts him by saying that this is the precise reason why he risks invading them. He states that the accustomed inhabitants who have been accustomed to peace will want to keep it. But once the blood has been shed and violence becomes the solution to everything, they will demand the blood. Leo's father thinks that maybe that's why Skadei's revolt didn't fail. But Prime Minister Balder steps in, saying he doubts Thor is mad enough to want a national war. The proposed solution is to hire mercenaries but the latter is subject to dispute.

The feast day is coming and many contenders to become the queen are there from different countries. Obviously there is Eshilde Balder, the most serious candidate. But there's also Larissa Kataros from Skador who Biyon has met before. And Mara Pyor of Korshika, the native land of the king's mother. But one country stands out for its lack of contenders, Anatoria. Once the party is over, King Biyon summons Prime Minister Balder to his private office. Biyon then orders Leo to secure the place as he desires absolute secrecy. Once Leo is out, the King tells the Prime Minister that the reason he called him and that he wants to negotiate with him. Subsequently we learn that Biyon declared to Balder that he would not share his bed with anyone for three years. The King of Ramira tells the Prime Minister that if he wants to spare his daughter three years of loneliness and he should enter into a simple engagement. Furthermore, he asks Balder to find out why Anatoria voluntarily withdrew from the business of choosing the new queen. The king tells Balder that if he doesn't want to take care of it, he will be happy to take care of it for him. Moreover, Biyon remarks that since Anatoria does not interfere anymore, there is no need to hurry. Prime Minister Balder seems to accept everything since the engagement of Biyon and Eshild is proclaimed until Anatoria.

We find Biyon in the company of General Vaida, the latter tells him that "they" are there. The general asks a guard to open a door and secure the place. Inside the room is a woman named Isabella, who happens to be the mother of Skadei Thor's half-sister. A few days later, Leo's father informs the king that Theodora, Isabella's daughter, has arrived safely from Anatoria and has been guided to her mother. Biyon orders the general to pay close attention to the security issue. Leonardo Vaida informs the king that Isabella and Theodora will be known to all as the widow and daughter of Lord Shar. But the general warns the young king that despite the fact that Theodora has a simple commoner as a mother, she is still the half-sister of the king of Anatoria and because of her, complications could arise later. Additionally, Vaida has doubts about the credibility of Isabella's claims. According to her, the revolt of Skadei was made possible thanks to funds coming from the prime minister of Ramira. When Leonardo Vaida asks the king if he believes in her accusations, the latter just says "we'll see". The king points to the fact that Isabella risked her life to come to Ramira. He therefore does not see why she would lie, when death alone must await her. The king orders that despite everything, her real identity must not be revealed. Biyon adds that for them, Isabella and Theodora can become a source of problems. At the same time, they may be the key to thwarting Thor's plans. But Biyon acknowledges that it will be a whole different story if he doesn't care that a member of his family is put to death.

A few pages later, we find Biyon who seems to have been woken up by Bii returning to the castle. But the girl inexplicably disappears and Biyon wakes up with a start. He also realizes that there is a naked woman in his bed. She puts her hands on her left arm, but Biyon breaks free and asks her shocked who she is. But the latter does not answer and is content to cover herself with the sheets, visibly frightened. The furious king shouts at the woman, how dare she enter his bed like this. The young woman defends herself by explaining that she allowed herself to come because Eirene had asked her to. Biyon then understands that Eirene is trying to make him forget about Bii by pushing him to sleep with another woman. The king then orders the young woman to leave. But when the latter protests, he repeats his order and she finally leaves. We then learn that the fact that the king dreams of Bii coming back is a dream he often has. Biyon wishes it was really Bii that he woke him up and he really wishes that she was his wife.

A few pages later, we find the king of Ramira with Lord Vaida who tells him who has been looking for him everywhere. Biyon then asks him what brings him here. The king is surprised to see the general because he believed Leo's father was going home. General Vaida replies that he has something to show him and asks the king to follow him. But when Biyon asks him what's up, the general brings him to a box. When the crate is opened, the king discovers dozens of swords inside. General Vaida informs Biyon that the crate and several others were discovered during an inspection. He also reveals to him that those who transported them killed themselves by poisoning themselves. The general does not know whether the swords were intended for import or export. But it is an obvious sign that a revolt is brewing.

Shortly after, Leo brings Eshilde Balder to the king but unlike usual the young lady is dressed like a low-born boy. Biyon congratulates his friend for having brought the young Lady Balder to him like this and declares to the latter that he is surprised in a delighted tone. The king tells Eshilde that he didn't know she had such a wild side. Lady Balder apologizes to the king, but Biyon remarks that no one would have recognized Ramira's first lady in that disguise except him. He then declares to Eshild that if he had known, Biyon would have offered to practice archery together or engage in duels. The king then asks her if she is advanced enough for this. Eshild replies that she does not draw the bow, but, indeed, she wields the sword. Leo seems shocked that she says that, but the king asks her very interested, if it's true. Eshild Balder replies to him that she would not lie to his face. Biyon warns her that he will not hold back on the pretext that she is a woman. Eshild then replies that she will not hold back on the pretext that he is the king. Biyon then asks Leo to bring swords for him and Lady Balder. But when his friend protests, the king tells him that there is nothing to worry about and that he gave him a present today. Biyon and Eshilde fight for several moments, but Leo interrupts them by declaring a draw. The king congratulates Lady Balder and asks her where she learned swordsmanship. The young lady replies that she was trained by Ramira's best fencing master. She apologizes to the king telling him that she cannot reveal his name to him. All she could tell him was that her trainer was not the most ordinary. Biyon begins to tell her that if she had been a man, but Eshild interrupts him telling the king that her father also often spoke in those terms.

We find Biyon alone in the castle at the beginning of the night. Suddenly Leo calls out to him and the king is surprised because he thought his friend had to go home for his brother's birthday. Leo replies that he sent a message to warn that he would not be there. He also tells the king that he will stay by his side this night. Biyon happy to see his friend stay, asks him if he read his mind. When the king asks Leo if he wants a drink, the latter refuses and asks him for a request. He begs his king to go to bed early this night. Biyon is surprised but his friend begs him not to ask him why. The king grants Leo's request, but once in bed he cannot fall asleep. For some reason unknown to him, his heart was racing as the request came from his friend. Suddenly he hears footsteps and first thinks it's another woman sent by Eirene. Biyon was going to ask who are you, but when he sees the woman, he immediately recognizes her. It is Bii, now 17 years old, who has finally returned. For a moment, the king thinks he is dreaming but he quickly realizes that he can see his lifelong love while he is awake. Biyon gets up and comes to take Bii in his arms and the latter begins to cry with happiness. The two lovers then fall asleep in each other's arms.

Biyon wakes up before Bii and when the latter finally wakes up she apologizes for having overslept. But the king does not blame her, the only thing that worries him is to discover that it is only a dream. When Bii responds to him using his title, Ramira's King asks her to just call him Biyon when they are alone. The king then swears to his one and only love that the same fate will not happen to them as to their respective parents. Biyon then asks Bii to carry his child because he knows it is the only way to get the young girl accepted as his wife by the lords of Ramira. But the king wants to marry Bii first and Leo brings them his mother's wedding dress. Biyon thanks his friend and forgives him for not being able to attend their wedding. The two lovers then get married in the castle chapel without witnesses.

Ryan Vaida (Leo) :
First son of General Leonardo Vaida and heir to the famous noble family of the best warriors of Ramira. Since the Vaida have always been loyal to the Pyordova dynasty, it's no wonder that Leo became friends with Crown Prince Biyon who is 12th years old like him. But what is more unusual is that he has become so close to the prince's nursemaid's daughter, Bii (Biancasta Rodyt). Young Vaida, the prince and the little girl are inseparable in their childhood. Despite his high birth, Leo is a humble young boy and does not have the arrogance that some nobles have towards commoners. It can be seen when Leo agrees to have lost a duel against Biyon, only to please Bii, and those despite the protests of the prince who does not want to pass as a coward. He is also very protective of the girl, going so far as to state that he will punish anyone who makes her cry. Although he is friends with Biyon, Leo is well aware that he is the future king of Ramira and that he will not always be able to remain so close to him. This creates an argument with Bii who is not yet mature enough to understand and the latter believes that Leo does not want her to be close to the prince. They still seem to reconcile when Leo saves Bii from an Anatorian nobleman during a party.

About this party, Leo asks his father why not only the prince but also the king of Ramira has to go to a party celebrating the 12th birthday of a girl, even if she is the daughter of the ambassador of Skador. Leonardo Vaida replies that this is how a weak should act. He adds that if they were strong, the king would never go to such a party. Leo's father then reveals to his son that when he was young he swore he would make his country the most powerful of all. He swore it on his name, a name that served Ramira for 5 generations of warriors. Leonardo Vaida declares to his son that being his eldest son, the heir of Vaida and the future knight of Prince Biyon and if fate does not allow him to achieve his goal, it will be him, Ryan Vaida, who will pursue his goal. Leo is shocked that he will be the one to protect the honor of the Vaida family and his country Ramira.

The young boy also seems to be well informed about what is happening in Anatoria. Indeed, when he learns that the noble Anatorian who threatened Bii is Skadei Thor. Leo understands that it is the son of Lord Thor, the half-brother of the king of Anatoria. Leo's father told his son that Lord Thor is extremely influential politically and that he has an unusual son who is excellent at swordsmanship and strategy unlike the king's son.

Some time after the party, when Leo and his father learn that Leo's mother is in labor, an excited Leonardo tells his son that he must expect a fourth brother. Annoyed Leo told himself that it wouldn't even surprise him anymore. He hopes that this fourth brother will be the last, but on the other hand he would like to have a sister. When Lord Vaida is told he is a son, a disappointed Leo declares that he wants a sister like Bii. His father replies that the more sons there are, the more joy there is. But that does not console Leo who finds that he already has too many brothers. Leo's mother gave birth to a boy who looks exactly like Leonardo, except for the hair, which is black. But Leo finds his new brother ugly and comes to the conclusion that all newborns are ugly. But his mother tells him that as he is the eldest, he must protect his little brothers. Leonardo decides to name his new son Heroic.

Leo's life will change when the king of Ramira starts looking for a princess for Biyon. Indeed, while riding a horse near the residence of the Prime minister of Ramira, he sees a girl of his age dressed as a vagrant boy climbing the wall to get out. Without warning she jumps on her horse just behind him. Leo, confused and furious, then asks her who she is. But the girl just tells him she needs him to take her somewhere while thanking him. She slaps the horse's rump and the animal gallops off, then the girl tells him to go to the Peru bridge. Once arrived at the bridge, the girl jumps off her horse and before she leaves Leo asks her if she is a thief while thinking that her face tells him something. The girl just tells him to forget what he saw and thanks him again. After the King's announcement, Bii has disappeared and Leo helps Biyon look for her. The prince is desperate because he hasn't seen her for two days. He has no idea where she may be and the nurse refuses to tell him where her daughter is. The prince worries if his lover is sick. Also, it looks like Bii has been assigned a new room and the two boys can't check out all the rooms. When Biyon asks his friend if he doesn't find this whole story suspicious. Leo agrees, saying something must be afoot.

Some time later, while young Vaida is training in swordsmanship. Leonardo Vaida tells his son that he needs Leo to go to prime minister of Ramira. General Vaida wants his son to escort the Prime Minister's daughter to the castle. However Leonardo instructs that Leo must make it look like they are two friends. As soon as young Vaida sees Eshild Balder, the Prime Minister's daughter, he immediately recognizes her as the girl dressed as a boy who jumped on his horse. The fact that she had seemed familiar to him came from the fact that he had seen her at the party where he saved Bii. But Leo hadn't been able to recognize her at first because he had only seen her from afar.

Once at the castle, Leo takes Eshild Balder to a room full of books. He asks her to wait a little because she has to meet the prince who is late. The young Lady Balder, complaining of the discomfort of her shoes, takes them off and sits down, jumping on a chair. While doing so, she declares to young Vaida that she wants to go outside and that she does not want to be confined in a small palace. Eshilde also tells Leo that she doesn't want to have to just bow down to others. She wants to run when the mood takes her and say what she likes to say. To this, the young Vaida only asks her to put on her shoes again because the prince risks arriving at any moment. Eshilde continues by telling him that she doesn't like men either who change their tone because of the clothes they wear. Realizing that she is referring to their first meeting, Leo tells young Balder that he did not know who she was at the time. The young lady Balder replies that it does not change anything at all. Eshild Balder adds that it was her there and it is still her here. Eshilde continues that it will always be her in the future, nothing more and nothing less. She adds that he is him, the one who gave her a ride who gave her a ride. Eshilde walks up to him and points a finger in his face and challenges an annoyed Leo to prove her wrong. The young people suddenly realizing how close they are, Leo is troubled. Then the young lady Balder resumes by telling him that given what they have been through together he does not need to speak formally. But young Vaida is reminded of his father's warnings that Eshilde Balder is a potential candidate to become the princess of Ramira and so he must act carefully. Embarrassed, Leo tries to say something that matches his father's words, but soon realizes that Eshilde isn't even listening. Suddenly young Balder asks who the girl outside is, while remarking that she didn't know there were servants that young. Seeing the girl in question, Leo realizes that it's Bii. Without delay, Leo opens the window, while calling Bii, jumps through the window and rushes towards her. The young boy asks his friend where she was and tells her that the prince was looking for her. Leo asks Bii if she is there to see the prince, but the girl replies no and that she met Biyon a while ago. Leo is surprised because he doesn't know Prince Biyon found Bii first. Suddenly, Eshild asks Bii who she is and Leo introduces the prime minister's daughter to his friend. Bii presents her name to the young lady, but the latter does not ask her name but her social rank. When Bii informs her that she is the daughter of the prince's nursemaid, Eshilde Balder gets angry telling her that she cannot answer as she has just done in front of the nobles. Bii then kneels in front of Eshilde and the latter, under the pretext of teaching her etiquette, forbids the little girl to get up before she gives her the order. Although Leo expresses his outrage at this unfair treatment, Eshild Balder completely ignores it. It's finnally Prince Biyon who puts an end to Bii's punishment by ordering her to get up.

He then witnesses the discussion that Biyon and Eshild have without taking part in it. In the evening, Leo tells the whole incident to his father. The latter declares that this does not bode well because according to what he has heard, the Prime Minister's daughter has excessive pride. Leo then asks if something will happen to Bii and his father replies that he fears it might. The worried young Vaida then asks what will happen to Bii and after a moment of silence General Vaida replies that he only hopes her mind is that of a child.

A few days later, Ryan Vaida finds Eshild Balder, dressed like the first time they met, in an isolated place. Eshild tells him that he kept his promise to which Leo replies that he doesn't remember making her a promise. The disguised girl then asks him why he is here. To which the young Vaida replies that it is because she asked him to come here and she left without waiting for his answer. Eshilde then understands that for him, it was an order and declares to him that they are friends. But Ryan Vaida replies that this is a one-sided opinion. The young Balder then asks him if she can call him Leo and without waiting for his answer tells him that he can call her Eshild. Leo shocked doesn't answer her and seeing his trouble. Eshilde, to reassure him, tells him that they can do this when there is no one around. She adds that since he is the one who will be instructing her, that is entirely appropriate. When Leo asks Eshild what she wants him to teach her. The latter replies that he will teach her swordsmanship. Not seeing him answer Eshild asks Leo if he will refuse because she is a girl, which Leo tries to answer something. But the young girl interrupts him by declaring that it is unfortunate for her to be a girl because of that she has to learn the handling of the sword in secret. She also states that she is determined to learn and that Leo can't stop her. Suddenly a voice asks Eshild why she needs to learn swordsmanship and the two children realize that it is Skadei Thor. Lord Thor then asks Eshilde Balder if this is just a pretext to meet Ryan Vaida. Suddenly Skadei Thor launches his horse into a gallop and with his sword cuts Eshilde's bandana, freeing her hair. Leo, furious at this attack, takes out his sword and prepares to challenge Skadei Thor, but the young Lady Balder interrupts him with a single wave of her arm. After Skadei Thor accuses Eshild Balder of meeting him in secret for love reasons. Leo explains to Lord Thor that Lady Balder only came to be taught swordsmanship. The young Vaida demands that the Anatorian lord apologizes to the Ramirian lady, but Skadei Thor ends up leaving without apologizing.

Later, Eshild reveals to Leo that she wanted to learn swordsmanship when she realized that Ramira was not at all safe from danger. The fact that a war was about to break out made her realize that she would not be able to defend herself for the simple fact that she is a woman. The girl decided that in the worst case she would take the sword and fight. That's why Eshild wants Leo to teach her how to use a sword. Young Lady Balder tells Ryan Vaida that he seem to have a heavy mouth and that he is the son of one of Ramira's best generals. When Eshild asks Leo if she is wrong, the latter replies no. Then the two companions begin their first lesson.

We find the two children in a very different situation. Indeed, we find Leo in the middle of the night declaring to Eshild Balder, seated in a carriage, that they have arrived. When the young lady does not react, the young Vaida opens the door of the carriage and calls her. Without warning, Eshild declares that she will not forget this. Leo, confused, remains silent and the young Lady Balder also states that she did not go to the castle because she want to and the prince did not even show himself. From her point of view, this is her second time mocked by Bii. Leo says nothing, though he knows Biyon was so upset by Bii's new disappearance that he didn't think about Eshilde at all. When Leo tells the whole story to his mother, Lady Vaida feels sorry for Eirene and Bii for their tragic fate. Afterwards, Leo helps Biyon in his new search to find Bii. But the days go by and the two boys find no trace of the girl. However, young Vaida begs the prince not to lose hope. But their search ends with the death of the king of Ramira which Leo witnesses. After a certain amount of time, Leo returns home by order of his father who is keen to give news of him to his family and to have news of his house. Once back Leo's mother asks her son if a decision on the government of the kingdom has been made. Leo replies that nothing is official yet, it seems that the prime minister and his father will both be regents. A decision that does not surprise the boy's mother, since the prince has no relatives. Leo states that if the king had not told General Vaida that he was counting on him just before he passed away, Balder would probably have proclaimed himself regent and no one could have disputed that. To which his mother replies that if that had been the case, Balder would have abused his power. Shortly after, he attends the coronation of Biyon who becomes king of Ramira.

Five years later, we find Leo in the company of his father. Leonardo Vaida tells his son that the Prime Minister is an ambitious man and that if his daughter does not become queen, he could go over the line. When Leo asks for more explanation, his father tells him that since something could happen to him, he believes it's just as well that his son finds out. General Vaida reveals to him that a plot is being hatched. He believes the Prime Minister has started buying the services of mercenaries. When Leo asks him if he means that Balder is building an army. His father replies that nothing is certain yet. When the young man asks General Vaida if that's why he patrols outside so often. His father laments the fact of the king's youth and the fact that he has no brother or any other relative.

Later, Leo finds Eshild, dressed as a man, in a deserted place. As soon as he sees her, Leo strangles her with one hand and asks her what her true intentions are, asking him to teach her how to use weapons. Eshilde, shocked, can only articulate a few words, but Leo orders her to confess and shouts at her that she's been tricking him for years. The young man, not realizing that the girl can no longer speak, again orders her to confess. Leo squeezes Eshilde's throat so hard that she ends up fainting and the young man, shocked by his own gesture, lets go of the young girl who falls to the ground. Seeing that Eshilde doesn't get up, Leo says her name, asks if she's okay and raises her head in a gesture of relief. Eshilde Balder ends up waking up and tells him that she hasn't hidden anything from him and asks him what got into him. The two young people then look at each other intensely for a moment. But Leo ends up looking away and realizes that Eshilde wouldn't have told him that her father was conspiring against the king even if she had known. Young Vaida declares to young Balder that he is ending their lessons from now on. He puts forward the facts that Eshilde has nothing more to learn from him, that she is a good warrior now and that if she had been a man she would have made a remarkable general. But Eshilde Balder stops him, telling him that she doesn't want it to end like this and that she doesn't want to be accused of a crime she didn't commit. This is where Leo realizes that Eshilde may not have known about her father's betrayal. But he tells her that if one day her fear were to become reality and Eshilde draws her sword against the king, he would want to tear his arms off. When Eshilde asks him if he is insinuating that she can draw the sword against the king. Ryan Vaida asks her if she could swear. To swear that she would only use her sword for the sake of Ramira and to protect the king. Eshilde replies that she will use her sword for herself, that she learned swordsmanship only for herself. Young Lady Balder tells Leo that if there's anyone she wouldn't want to draw her sword against, it would be him. To which the young Vaida replies that he is ready to draw his sword against anyone if it's to protect the king. Leo tells Eshild that he only hopes she won't be there when he draws his sword. Then he gallops off on his horse without looking back.

The two young people meet again when Leo comes to get Eshilde to bring her to the castle. But when he is informed that young Lady Balder does not want to come, Ryan Vaida walks straight into her room. Leo orders her straight in the eyes to get up. But when Eshilde refuses, he lifts her on his shoulders and puts her in the carriage. Then he orders to go to the castle at full speed. When Leo brings Eshild home, the latter tells him that she will continue her training. Which Leo just turns away without responding. The day Leo was supposed to meet Eshild for her sword training, he decides not to go and stay at home as he had said. But when his mother asks him why he is at home instead of training, he simply replies that he wants to read. His mother points out to him that for the past few years, no matter what, he always trained outside every five days. But she probably doesn't know that he always had a companion during those times.

Later that same day, one of Leo's servants informs him that a guest has arrived. Young Vaida is surprised to discover that it is Eshild Balder disguised as a man of low birth. The servant, not recognizing the most powerful lady of Ramira, asks his master if he knows this man and explains to him that he tried to stop him, but that he entered by force. But Eshilde in disguise, interrupts him by telling him that she has to speak with his lord, in private. When his servant asks him if he should obey, Leo orders him to do as he (she) says. Once the servant leaves, the young man, in a sarcastic tone, congratulates Eshilde on her courage while asking her if she knows what she is doing. He tries to remind her that she is the main candidate to become the queen of Ramira. But Eshild interrupts him by telling him that 30,000 sandera (a large sum of Ramirian money), will be sent to Anatoria, the next day at midnight, from Port Mira. Young Balder wants her and Leo to arrest the men transporting the sanderas. When young Vaida asks her how she got her hands on such information. Eshilde replies that she cannot tell him where she got this information or who the money is for. Eshilde also tells Leo that if he has no intention of teaming up with her, she will have no choice but to go it alone. The disguised young lady adds that if anything happens to her, then it will be her fate. Leo takes this last statement as a threat and he is upset that Eshilde asks him for help without giving him any further explanation.

But Leo ends up accepting anyway and, at nightfall, when the carriage carrying the 30,000 sanderas finally arrives. The two young nobles, monted on horseback, dressed in black and masked, decide to attack the carriage when it forks. Although the young Vaida is still skeptical about this story of 30,000 hidden sandera, because he doesn't see guards, and he fears to kill an innocent. But Eshild asserts that the money is here, there are definitely people lurking inside and, that it is more likely that the driver is going to kill them and that it is not an ordinary being. Leo decides to take care of it on his own and tells Eshilde to stay back and just watch. But the latter warns him that it will not be so easy and rushes alone towards the carriage. While Eshilde, disguised, is about to be attacked by a man, gets out of the carriage and armed with a sword. Leo draws his sword and rushes to his partner's aid, ordering her to back off and telling her he'll take care of it. The young Vaida jumps to the ground and the two adversaries engage in a duel to the death and soon two other men come out of the carriage. Eshild also jumps down and helps her partner fight off their opponents. Suddenly one of the men warns his comrades that Eshilde is heading for the carriage. Another then orders to stop him (her). The first man who had attacked Leo then rushes towards the disguised young woman. The young Vaida in disguise want to warning his partner but he is still fighting. As the attacker is about to attack Eshild, in the carriage and not having noticed anything, Leo rushes in and blocks his enemy's sword with his own. But his black-haired enemy takes the opportunity to attack him and hurt his right shoulder. Eshild, horrified, rushes towards Leo shouting his nickname. But the latter assures him that it is nothing, although he is writhing in pain. Suddenly a bell rings announcing midnight, Leo's attacker cries out that they have to go to the port. Young Vaida is staggering from his injury, but that doesn't stop him from hearing one of their enemies asking what they should do with him and Eshilde. Another replies that they shouldn't worry about it, that the duo can't do anything against them. But one of the enemies of the two partners declares that they should put them to death. But the enemies of the duo give up because they have to hurry to be at the port and Leo ends up fainting because of his injury.

Young Vaida ends up waking up in a place unknown to him. Leo, lying on a bed, realizes that Eshild, still in disguise, is sleeping on top of him sitting on a chair. The young Leo looks at her for a few moments without doing anything and then ends up waking up the young Balder. Once the latter is awake, Leo asks her where they are and what happened to him. Eshilde replies that he lost consciousness. As it was midnight, there was no one on the streets to ask for help. So she has to carry her partner to the nearest church. Eshilde adds that as Leo knows, she couldn't take him to his residence or hers. The disguised young woman also tells him that the clergyman said that Leo's injury was not serious and that basic treatment should suffice. Which explains the bandage the young man is wearing. Ryan Vaida is shocked to learn that Eshilde stayed with him all night. The young woman replies that she couldn't leave him alone when the young man was injured by her fault. She also retorts that she would have been irresponsible to just abandon him. Talking about irresponsibility, Leo asks Eshild if she has any idea what would happen if someone were to find out that she spent the night with him. One could then believe that the two young people slept together, which could cancel the possibility of Eshilde marrying the king of Ramira. But Eshild replies nobody knows what they did last night. She adds that the clergyman does not know who they are and that churchmen are not in the habit of gossiping about people. The young woman ends up asking her partner how important it can be that they were together. The young man angrily tells her not to act like she doesn't know. He then orders her to go home and tells her that he will get home on his own. But his injury suddenly makes him suffer so much that it makes him curl up. Eshild rushes to Leo's aid and asks him if he's okay. Suddenly the two young people, realizing how close they are, look at each other for a moment without saying anything. Then Leo finally turns his face away from Eshild and answers her question with a no, that he's not well because he's not comfortable being near her. Eshilde agrees to leave him alone but before she leaves the room Leo calls her back. He tells her that there will never be Leo and Eshilde again. It will only be the knight of the royal guard Vaida and lady Balder. When Eshilde asks him why it has to be so complicated. Ryan replies that it is because she is the only woman in Ramira who holds a real power by right. When Eshild asks him what power he is talking about. Young Vaida replies that she knows exactly what he is referring to. Suddenly young Lady Balder asks Ryan Vaida why he doesn't say who the king is dying to see. She adds that if really his only concern is the king then he should go looking for who-he-knows. Eshilde also adds that if she were in his place, she would do it for the king. But the young man turns his head away and remains silent. But when Eshilde Balder asks him if he isn't also waiting for her to come back. Ryan Vaida looks her straight in the eye but doesn't answer.

Once healed, Leo returns to his duties. To explain his absence, he claims to have injured himself while exercising. When Leo asks if there is any news, a guard replies that there is nothing except preparations for the king's eighteenth birthday. He also learns that during this occasion, the king will choose a wife and that there will therefore be a huge party. Ryan Vaida does not respond to this although we understand that it does not please him. When the party came Leo helps Eshilde to get out of her carriage as if to symbolize that he would be nothing more to her than a guard. Throughout the party Leo only stands guard as his position as knight protector of the king imposes.

Once the anniversary is over and the engagement between Eshild and Biyon has been announced, Leo returns home. Once he arrives at his house, Leo's mother asks him where his father is. The latter considers that since the engagement is over, General Vaida should have get some rest. Her son replies that his father had more to do and that he will be back soon. Leo's mother informs him that his youngest brother Hiro (Heroic) is finally recovering from his illness and that the latter asks to see his father. Leonardo Vaida's wife declares that since the king has turned 18, regents are no longer needed and it is time for the father of her children to take care of his house. At this Leo just smiles at his mother, which the latter understands that since Leonardo is a Vaida, loyalty to his king is everything to him and even goes before his family. Suddenly Hiro comes running, still wearing a nightgown, calling Leo. In a gesture of affection, Leo lifts his little brother off the ground and asks him if he's feeling better. Their mother replies that he is not well, that his fever has just gone away and that he can hardly eat soup. Hugging Hiro against him, Leo asks him to recover quickly so that he can teach him how to ride a horse as he had promised him.

Later once it gets dark, Lady Vaida comes to see her eldest son. Once face to face, Leo's mother realizes how much her son has grown and lets him know. Also, reminding him that the king's engagement is settled. Lady Vaida advises Leo that he should be looking for a wife too, which doesn't seem to please him at all. The king's guard also replies that he has no wedding plans for the moment. His mother then reminds him that he is the first son of the Vaidas and that his father married him when he was the age that Leo is at this moment. His reminders aiming to make him understand that he must not delay getting married for the good of the Vaida. Lady Vaida's son then replies that when the king takes a wife, he will look for a wife. Suddenly, General Vaida's wife seems to realize something and asks Leo if the fact that the king rescheduled his marriage is because of Eirene's daughter. In addition to wondering why the king has not forgotten his nurse's daughter, why the Pyordovas can only love one woman and why he loves her so much when they were separated before puberty. Lady Vaida asks, even if the king found her, what could he do ? Make her another Eirene ? To this, Leo mentally replies that if he finds her, he won't treat her like the previous king did. It is very likely that he will do everything so that history does not repeat itself. This is what Leo fears and he also fears the procedures necessary to make Bii, the official wife of the king.

A few days later, while Ryan Vaida is riding through the streets of the capital. He meets Eshild by chance, dressed in her usual disguise, also riding a horse. Although the two young people recognized each other, neither of them uttered a single word. They just look at each other for a moment, then they continue on their respective routes. This passage shows the will of the young Vaida not to have anything more with Eshild Balder apart from his royal guard duties. Then during the party given for the Prime Minister's birthday, in his own residence, Ryan Vaida is admired by the young ladies. But Leo is indifferent to their exclamations. Suddenly the royal guard notices that Eshilde Balder is playing chess with 3 men. With a single glance, Ryan Vaida manages to scare away the 3 lords. Young Vaida informs young Lady Balder that the king is expected to arrive shortly. Seeing that Eshild pretends not to understand the importance of this announcement. Leo reminds her that she and the king are now engaged. He warns her that it would also be wise not to seek the company of other men. Seeing that Eshild is drunk, Leo asks her why she is destroying herself. At this question, young Lady Balder raises her head and Ryan can see that she is crying. Eshild asks him back why he wants to know. She tells him accusingly that all he has to do is report her doings to the king. When Eshild turns away from him, Leo calls her back and assures her that he is her friend. But right after, he tells her that, more importantly, she will become the queen of Ramira. When Leo declares that Eshilde's behavior during this evening does not resemble her and that on the contrary is thoughtful and elegant. Young Lady Balder orders him to be quiet and tries to leave. But Leo reminds her that she's not heading for the party room. But Eshild reminds him that it's her home and that she knows exactly where everything is. Ryan Vaida reminds her that the king will be arriving soon and offers to escort her. What the young lady reluctantly accepts.

A few days later, when Ryan Vaida picks up Eshild Balder to take her to the castle. The servants of the young lady tell the royal guard that she cannot be found. As Leo looks out the nearest window, he sees Eshilde putting on her disguise. Leo then rushes running without saying a word. The young man finds Eshilde on the same wall as the first time they met. Leo invites the young girl in disguise to come on her horse, which the latter accepts. When young Vaida announces to young Balder that it is time to leave, the young woman thinks he is talking about the bridge. But Leo replies that they are going to the castle, as he planned. When Eshilde asks him shocked, if he has gone mad. Leo simply replies that the king is waiting for her and asks the young woman why she wouldn't show him her true face. Leo must have thought that if the king knew Eshilde's secret, Biyon and her might get closer. Which it was, in a way. This meeting between the King and the young Lady Balder was certainly, by far, the best they have spent together since they have known each other. Later Leo's father learned that Leo had brought someone to the castle and that this person had crossed swords with the king. Unable to know that it was Eshilde Balder, he then asked his eldest son the identity of this person and if the duel was real. Leo, pretending that it is a man, tries to reassure his father by saying that this person is not dangerous and revealing to him that the king also knows him (her). Leonardo Vaida is surprised to hear it and then asks why he doesn't know him. Leo apologizes to his father telling him that he can't say more because he received an order. The general strongly doubts this and asks his son if the king really gave him an order. Seeing that Leo won't answer, Leonardo Vaida settles for ordering the king's guard to never do this again. The general reminds his son that the king has no family and that if misfortune were to happen to him, Ramira would suffer cruelly. He also reminds him that Prime Minister Balder is planning a revolt in secret. But when Leo points out that nothing certain has been confirmed yet. His father reveals to him that he has discovered a new set of weapons and that it is only the visible tip of a much greater evil. Leonardo Vaida wants to make the royal guard understand that his task is to discover Balder's secret lair rather than to guide anyone to the king so that they engage in a duel.

Later while patrolling the castle grounds, he notices suspicious movement near a bush. He then discovers that it is an intruder and points his sword at him. The royal guard then asks him who he is and orders him to raise his head because he cannot see his face. Seeing that the intruder does not comply, Leo repeats his order. Slowly the stranger turns his face towards him and Leo realizes that he knows this person. This is Bii, now 17 years old. Leo is so shaken that he drops his sword and has trouble speaking. He tries to say "You're Bii", which the girl confirms. When the evening arrives Leo, who has sent a message saying that he will not be coming to Hiro's birthday, manages to convince the king to go to bed early. Leo then decides to watch over the king all night knowing that Bii is with him. While he is still standing guard, Eirene Rodyt, the king's nursemaid and Bii's mother, calls out to him. The nurse, who has learned that the royal guard had spent the whole night under the king's chamber, asks if anything has happened to the king. Leo replies that if something had happened, it wouldn't be so quiet. Leo didn't tell him that her daughter had returned, or anyone, only he and the king know. The king and Bii having informed their friend of their desire to get married, Leo then returns home to ask his mother if she still has her wedding dress. His mother wanted to give him something else but he insisted until she gave him the requested dress and when Lady Vaida asked him why he needed it, he refused to answer her. He then brings the wedding dress to Bii for which the couple thanks him. Leo apologizes for not being able to be a witness at their wedding, which his friends forgive him. He then goes to the Balders where he finds, for once, an Eshild willing to go to the castle. He apologizes to the young Lady Balder, telling her that the king will not meet her today. When Eshild asks if the king is sick, Leo looks down and doesn't answer her question. Still not daring to look at her, he tells her that he hopes she won't forgive him.

Eshild Balder :
The only daughter of Ramira's Prime Minister, Eshild Balder is 12 at the start of the story. Unlike other girls of her condition, Eshild likes to dress like a boy and play war with the common boys. To the great misfortune of her parents and her nursemaid Danya who would like her to behave more like a lady. Her father berates her about her habits, especially since she is the only child in the Balder family. In addition, as Ramira does not have a queen or a princess, Eshild is the hightest ranking woman in this country. Even her mother thinks she should have been a boy. Eshild Balder hates fancy dresses and social events. This can be seen when her nursemaid helps her prepare for the birthday party of Skador's ambassador's daughter, Larisa Kataros. Which disgusts Eshild even more who knows Larisa and finds her stupid. Unfortunately for her, her mother hears her and scolds her. Eshild ended up going to this party reluctantly. Once the Balder family arrives, Eshild's mother reminds her daughter that this evening is not just a birthday party but that it will also be her debut into high society. Eshild who remembers that the prince has to come, wonders why she was asked to be nice to him and would rather let Larisa do it. Shortly after greeting the Kataros family, Larisa runs into Eshild and asks her if she finds this party impressive. Before the young Lady Balder had time to give an answer, which did not sound complimentary. The young Lady Kataros interrupts her and tells him that she finds her father impressive for having successfully invited Skadei. When Eshild asks her who Skadei is, Larisa tells her that it is the tall man who is not far from them. Larisa delighted, believes he is watching her and explains to Eshild that many women want to be with him. The young Lady Balder, curious, looks at Skadei and the latter sends her a wink. Larisa, believing it's for her, is enchanted but Eshild is just outraged and looks away from him. King Kakan Pyordova II and Prince Biyon eventually arrive and after they greet the Kataros. Prime Minister Balder hastens to present his daughter to the king. The latter, who had already seen her when she was still a little girl, noticed that she had grown up a lot. But Eshild does nothing and just stares at the prince. But when her father calls her to order, Eshild ends up greeting the royal family of Ramira. But even after the prince invites Larisa to dance, Eshild continues to watch him intently.

Once the Balder family returns home, Danya asks Eshild if the evening was fun. Young Lady Balder replies that not at all and she believes that she has stepped on Prince Biyon's toes at least ten times. Her nursemaid just says it must have hurt, to which Eshild replies that he didn't show it at all. Young Lady Balder confesses to Danya that she was surprised that despite the prince being the same age as her, he was taller than her. Eshild adds that he had something different. She had heard that the prince of Ramira looked a lot like the king, so she expected to find him weak. Her nursemaid then suggests that the prince's look may have come from Queen Para. Danya adds that the late queen's figure was small, but she was a determined and strong woman. Eshild asks her nursemaid how she knew Queen Para when she died shortly after giving birth to the prince. Danya replies that it's because Eshild's mother was in the service of the queen and she was also her friend. Danya adds that she still doesn't understand why the queen left her son in the care of the current nursemaid rather than Eshild's mother. The intrigued young Lady Baldern then asks what is it about the Prince's current nursemaid. Danya is replying that the prince's nursemaid was a rival in love, but she abruptly interrupts herself. When Eshild asks her own nurse what she was going to say. The latter replies that it's nothing and suddenly asks Eshild to go to bed. Eshild feeling that Danya is not telling her everything wants to hold her back. But Eshild's nursemaid runs off claiming that she is in a hurry and has to do something, much to young Lady Balder's displeasure.

Eshild also shows great interest in history and politics of Ramira. In particular, the fact that the armies of Skador and Anatoria are allowed to remain in the lands of Ramira is linked to the treaty of the A.S.R. and that nothing can be done to change that. She also knows that Korshika decided not to interfere in this treaty and instead they sent Queen Para to marry the current king.

But Eshild's life changes shortly after, when the king starts looking for a princess for Prince Biyon. Because of the royal proclamation, the parents of the young Lady Balder forbid her to go out. Which annoys Eshild because she's got a big fictional war planned and all the kids she used to play with are waiting for her. But Danya does not give in and although she tells the young girl that she would have liked to let her have her own way. But Lord Balder has repeatedly demanded that his daughter stay inside and Lady Balder is very nervous too. Eshild seeing that she can't get her nursemaid to comply claims that in this case, she will only read books. This change in attitude worries Danya, who knows that Eshild never obeys and suspects that young Lady Balder has an idea in mind. Indeed a few pages later, we find Eshild dressed as a boy of the people, trying to climb the wall of the family residence. The disguised young lady finds that the secret holes she had drilled have all been sealed. She suspects Danya of having told her father. Once above the wall, she sees a boy of her age riding right next to the wall. Just then, Eshild's nursemaid calls out to her and rushes towards her. Young Lady Balder, unwilling to get caught and having no other choice, jumps onto the boy's horse. The shocked and furious boy asks her who she is, but Eshild just tells him that she needs him to take her somewhere while thanking him in advance. She slaps the horse's rump and the animal gallops off, then Eshild tells him to go to the Peru bridge. Once arrived at the bridge, the young Lady Balder jumps off her horse and before she leaves the asks her if she is a thief while tells her that her face tells him something. Eshild just tells him to forget what he saw and thanks him again before leaving.