I Can't Escape This BL Story

Adrien stood in the castle's vast hallway, the events of the past days weighing on his mind. With the assassin dealt with and the treaty signed, he allowed himself a brief respite to plan for what was next. His gaze shifted to the journal in his hand, where he meticulously recorded every major event he remembered from the book.

What's next? Adrien thought, flipping through the pages. The school term starts next month, doesn't it? I need to recruit that individual. How could I have forgotten to jot that down?

As his thoughts swirled, a familiar voice interrupted him.

"Adrien!"

He turned to see his mother and stepmother approaching from the opposite end of the corridor. His mother's kind but slightly stern gaze locked onto him, while his stepmother wore a polite smile.

Adrien's memory flared to life, recalling what he knew from the book about his family dynamics.

There were five sons in the family, he reminded himself. I'm the third. The eldest married into a powerful empire in the Far East. Since Father needed their military strength, arrangements were made, and now my eldest brother is in line to become their next king if the current one dies.

His lips twisted into a faint grimace. The second brother? An artist. One day, he just packed up and left, telling me to take the crown prince title in his stead. I don't even want to recall how awkward that conversation was. And that's why I, the third son, am next in line.

Adrien shook his head lightly, a wry smile playing on his lips. At least I have my younger brother, the only other child my mom had, and three sisters from Father's third wife, who's off having a vacation round the world. What a family.

"While the last son is in knight school with my brother training on becoming future knights for the kingdom."

His musings were interrupted by a sudden realization. Oh, right. School. I forgot I'll be attending next month. And the first princess is supposed to arrive then too. Why does it feel like everything's happening at once?

"Adrien! Are you even listening?" His mother's voice snapped him out of his thoughts.

Adrien blinked, looking at her. "Oh, sorry, Mother. I was deep in thought."

His mother sighed, shaking her head with a soft smile. "Honestly, son, you've been spacing out a lot lately. Anyway, your stepmother and I are going to visit the Kingdom of Elyndor for a tea party. Would you like to join us?"

Adrien hesitated for a moment but then realized he hadn't left the castle since arriving in this world. A day out might be exactly what he needed to clear his head and observe more of this world firsthand.

"Sure, Mother," he said with a faint smile. "I'll join you."

"Wonderful!" she said, clapping her hands lightly. "The carriage is waiting outside. Come along, now."

As Adrien followed his mother and stepmother down the hall, Damian silently fell in step behind him. Adrien glanced back at him, noting the usual calm but watchful demeanor of his ever-loyal right hand.

The carriage was a grand, gilded vehicle adorned with the royal family's crest. Adrien climbed inside, settling into the plush interior beside his mother while his stepmother sat opposite them. Damian, ever the shadow, took his place on the coachman's platform, ready to intervene at a moment's notice if needed.

As the carriage rolled through the city streets, Adrien gazed out of the window. It was his first proper look at the world beyond the castle. The bustling streets, lively merchants, and citizens going about their day painted a vibrant picture of the kingdom he was meant to one day rule.

His mother leaned toward him, interrupting his observations. "Adrien, dear, you've been so different lately. More composed, more thoughtful. I'm proud of you."

Adrien turned to her, offering a small smile. "Thank you, Mother. I'm just trying to rise to the expectations placed on me."

Her expression softened as she placed a gentle hand on his. "You'll do wonderfully, Adrien. I have no doubt."

Adrien nodded but kept his thoughts to himself. If only you knew the chaos I'm dealing with.

The carriage arrived at Elyndor's royal gardens, where the tea party was being hosted. As Adrien stepped out, he took in the picturesque scene—manicured hedges, vibrant flowers, and tables laden with delicacies. It was serene, but Adrien couldn't shake the feeling that even moments like this were ripe with political undercurrents.

He followed his mother and stepmother to their table, where other noblewomen greeted them warmly. Adrien, however, remained on guard, his gaze scanning the crowd for any signs of trouble.

Damian, stationed discreetly nearby, caught Adrien's eye. He gave a subtle nod, a silent promise that he was ready to act if needed. Adrien returned the gesture before turning his attention back to the tea party, his mind already anticipating the challenges yet to come.