Chapter 46:
Luan
I tread through the opulent halls of the palace, heading toward Lucina's wing.
The distance feels greater with each step. Her quarters are so far from my own.
Finally, I arrive at what is,surprisingly a smaller and more modest residence. Compared to the grandeur I'm accustomed to, it's almost humble.
As I approach, my attention drifts to the garden.
A figure diligently tends to the flowers.
The person stands and turns.
An elf.
His stature is tall. His presence strikingly beautiful. Our eyes meet. I note the distinctive elven ears hidden beneath his flowing, long blonde hair.
I walk closer, intrigued.
He acknowledges me with a graceful bow.
"I greet Your Majesty."
His voice is melodious. It only enhances his allure.
This is the first elf I've encountered. The tales have always suggested their beauty is otherworldly. The tales were not wrong.
I take a moment to study him, captivated.
"It's alright."
He lifts his gaze to meet mine. His eyes are a vivid green. Despite his ethereal beauty, there's noticeable strength to his form.
He's about two inches taller than me. His physique is subtly muscular, accentuated by his choice of attire.
A crop top? Revealing a hint of his well-defined stomach.
How feminine.
"I'm here to see my sister."
I make my purpose clear.
The elf merely nods, his expression cool and detached. Without another word, he turns and leads me toward the palace.
I take in my surroundings. The garden flourishes under the elf's care. Vibrant colors. Healthy growth. They speak volumes of his dedication.
Out of the corner of my eye, I notice a plant shift.
I dismiss it as a trick of the light.
As we get closer, I spot my target.
The swordsman,engaged in a focused practice session with his blade.
Noticing our arrival, he halts his movements and turns toward us.
"I greet Your Majesty."
His voice is rough yet respectful, accompanied by a formal bow.
From the corner of my eye, I see the elf subtly signal to a nearby maid. Likely to fetch my sister.
"There's no need for such formality."
I wave off his bow with a smile.
The swordsman straightens up. His posture stiff and proper. It seems he's not one for idle chatter.
"Will I not be invited inside? Perhaps for some tea?"
I offer a charming smile, hoping to soften the stiffness of the situation.
I'm guided into the palace.
Modest. But it exudes a quaint charm.
We make our way to a cozy dining room. I take a seat at the table.
The swordsman stands by. The elf discreetly slips away to attend to other matters.
Leaving us alone.
"Will you remain standing the entire time?"
I gesture toward the chair opposite me.
He hesitates for a moment. Then sits.
His golden-yellow eyes meet mine with unwavering intensity.
"So. How is life as a knight?"
I aim to initiate conversation.
He shrugs. Nonchalant. "I can't say it's anything special."
"It can't be as mundane as you suggest." I counter. "After all, you're regarded as the genius of the decade. A five-star swordsman at such a young age."
"You overpraise me, Your Majesty."
His expression is an unyielding mask of composure.
I'm about to continue when the elf reappears.
Now dressed more appropriately in a shirt.
Thankfully.
He gracefully pours tea for both of us, then stands nearby. Maintaining a vigilant presence.
I take a sip.
Pleasantly surprised by the exceptional quality.
My attention shifts back to the swordsman. I notice something intriguing—he handles his tea with the poise of a seasoned noble.
Lucina ensured he received etiquette training.
"You seem well-versed in etiquette."
My curiosity is piqued.
"Her Majesty had me learn a few years ago."
A crack appears in his impassive mask. At the mention of Lucina, his affection for her becomes evident.
An opportunity.
"I see."
I prepare to delve further—
The door opens.
My sister enters.
The most beautiful woman I've ever seen.
And it is not an exaggeration.
She moves with effortless grace that enhances her beauty. A stunning green gown drapes her figure. Her curly hair frames her face like a crown of pure white.
Accompanying her is another man—a striking figure with long purple hair and glasses.
My eyes widen slightly.
"Dearest brother. What a pleasure to see you."
Lucina's voice is warm. Inviting.
Her companion bows and greets me with a polite nod.
Lucina makes a beeline for the swordsman.
She effortlessly settles herself onto his lap.
I can't help but feel relief that our father isn't here to witness this. It would surely provoke a severe reaction.
I chuckle to myself.
"Lucina." I acknowledge her presence with a nod.
"My, my. It seems you've managed to trap my dear Haroun here."
She snuggles into his lap with practiced ease.
Haroun adjusts her comfortably. Indicating this is a natural arrangement.
I observe the other two men in the room. They also seem unfazed by the display.
Intriguing.
"Trapped is a rather dramatic term." I keep my voice cool. Maintain my composure despite the unexpected and somewhat informal scene. "I was simply engaging in some casual conversation. Given that I'm a swordsman myself."