He gently patted his younger daughter's shoulder, then stood up. "Father—" Affia cried out behind him.
But two knights had already approached and 'gently' escorted the little princess out. Barbaltan turned around, looking at the only person left in the courtyard—Delan.
"Your Majesty," Delan looked at him, a fleeting hint of reluctance in his eyes, his lips slightly parted.
"Her choosing you as a knight proves her discernment," Barbaltan began. "You have always been loyal to your duty, unwavering for ten years."
"Delan, I feel I've let down the Aimoyiben family, as well as you and your brother, but after today, Aleph will ensure you receive all you deserve—"
He reached into his chest, pulling out a radiant gemstone and placing it in front of Delan. The brilliant light of the gemstone reflected deep within both of their eyes.
The light, emerald as a dream.
"This was our agreement, Delan."
"You know."
"That fragment doesn't have just one owner."
...
"Miss Affia, she...?"
