Episode 14 Banana Split Conversation

As I stood before the panoramic view in the control room of my ship, anticipation welled up within me. The journey to Planet Helios was something I looked forward to.

Proxima, a world of urban landscapes and high-tech wonders, was nothing like Helios. Helios, on the other hand, was like stepping into a realm of might and magic, a breathtaking fantasy world brought to life.

The sight before me was nothing short of enchanting. Planet Helios, with its lush blue and green hues, slowly emerged into view through the vast expanse of space. The entire control room was filled with a sense of awe and wonder as we beheld this wondrous world.

"It looks like a blueberry," I couldn't help but muse aloud, my voice filled with amazement at the planet's vibrant colors and the sense of adventure that awaited us on its surface.

The HMS Lady Galatea, which is my personal ship, began its docking procedure. As the ship approached the magnificent spaceport of Helios, it glided through the atmosphere with a gentle descent, the faint hum of its advanced propulsion systems barely audible.

The ship's external lights blinked rhythmically as it adjusted its course, guided by the expert hands of the navigational crew.

Docking ports extended from the spaceport's surface, and the Lady Galatea gracefully aligned itself with one of them. A soft, metallic clank resonated throughout the ship as it securely connected to the docking port, the docking arms sealing the vessel in place with the precision of advanced technology.

As the vessel settled into its berth, a sense of anticipation and excitement filled the air, for we had arrived on the enchanting world of Helios, ready to embark on a new chapter of diplomacy and adventure.

Dignified representatives, dressed in intricate robes of vibrant colors and fine embroidery, awaited my arrival at the base of the automatic escalator. Their attire was a testament to the rich culture and traditions of Helios.

"Queen of Proxima, we humbly welcome you to our divine planet Helios," he said, his voice resonating with sincerity. "Our Cor himself wishes to meet with you to discuss further arrangements and strengthen the bonds between our realms."

I met his gaze with a nod of agreement, a sense of anticipation building within me. "Please convey my gratitude to the Cor for this opportunity."

We settled into an opulent temple-like structure that served as our residence during our diplomatic visit to Helios. The architecture was awe-inspiring, a blend of intricate design and grandeur that showcased the rich history and reverence the Helians held for their culture.

Upon our arrival, Eyseck and the staff accompanying us were ushered to one wing of the temple, where their accommodations awaited. These quarters were impeccably designed with an air of refinement and comfort.

Meanwhile, my own chambers were situated in the opposite wing of the temple, offering me a sense of privacy and tranquility. As I entered my room, I couldn't help but be captivated by the ornate furnishings and the warm, inviting ambiance that permeated every corner.

I felt the smooth surface of the table. It was a rich brown mahogany, varnished and polished for my arrival. It has been a long time since I've seen wooden furniture and quaint arched windows. Oh, and the floor—the floor is made of cobblestone! Now this. This was a real fantasy world.

It was a testament to the thoughtfulness and hospitality of our Helian hosts, ensuring our stay would be as magnificent as the world around us.

The anticipation of meeting the Cor of Helios, a figure I had only encountered in the game during my previous life, filled me with excitement. In the past, I could only admire him as his portrait popped up to trade resources with Proxima.

I didn't even consider him a potential love interest. Now, in this new reality, the prospect of a face-to-face meeting with the Cor felt like an extraordinary opportunity.

As the evening approached, an invitation arrived for us to attend a dinner hosted by the Cor at his opulent palace temple.

We were escorted to the venue in an ornate carriage, accompanied by a contingent of guards. The carriage ride, although opulent, proved to be a bit more turbulent than expected.

Eyseck, who appeared unaccustomed to the carriage's movement, sought support from me as it jostled along the path to the palace temple. I responded with a reassuring smile.

"It truly is unlike anything we have back at home, isn't it?" I remarked.

"Yes, my Queen," he replied. "It's hard to believe that they actually prefer this kind of transportation."

Eyseck and I had continued our regular explorations of the dungeons for Plutonarch cores. I noticed that he had gradually become more casual in his interactions with me, which was a change I welcomed.

The palace temple of the Cor of Helios was a magnificent display of opulence and grandeur. As we stepped onto the grounds, my senses were overwhelmed by the sheer beauty of the place.

Fountains adorned with intricate sculptures stood as guardians of the entrance, their crystal-clear waters dancing in the sunlight. Peacocks, their resplendent plumage shimmering like living rainbows, strolled gracefully through meticulously manicured gardens. The air was filled with the sweet fragrance of exotic flowers, their colors a riot of pinks, purples, and golds that stretched as far as the eye could see.

The palace itself was a masterpiece of architectural splendor, its white marble walls gleaming in the golden light of the setting sun. Elaborate carvings adorned the façade, depicting scenes from history and mythology, each telling a story of the people's devotion to their divine rulers.

As we made our way deeper into the temple palace, I couldn't help but be captivated by this world of elegance and grace, a true testament to the wealth and sophistication of their civilization.

A group of dignitaries, elegantly dressed in robes adorned with intricate patterns, welcomed us with warm smiles as we entered the grand dining hall. They conversed with us, their voices a melodic blend of foreign accents and laughter, creating an atmosphere of hospitality.

The dining hall itself was a sight to behold. Massive crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling, casting a soft, ethereal glow across the room. Long, polished wooden tables were laid out with impeccable precision, each setting adorned with glistening silverware and delicate crystal goblets.

As we took our seats, the dignitaries continued to engage us in lively conversation, sharing stories of Helian culture, traditions, and the Cor's benevolence.

Suddenly, I realized that I had never traveled the world in my old world. I had always been stuck in my room. Interacting with people and cultures over the internet has been a different experience. I couldn't help but feel a little regretful that, although I had had the resources, I hadn't gone out to see the world.

I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to forge new alliances in this captivating realm.

Then, the enchanting melody of the dinner orchestra filled the air as the Cor of Helios made his grand entrance into the room.

The Cor of Helios was an ethereal vision, his long, lustrous hair cascading like the rosy hues of a sunset, framing the delicate features of his face. Dressed in regal white robes that billowed gracefully with every movement, he appeared as if he had stepped out of a celestial realm to grace the world with his presence.

I couldn't help but understand the passionate belief that he was a divine being, a gift from a greater power. Even I, at that moment, felt like I would get down on my knees for this man.

As the Cor of Helios entered, everyone rose from their seats to acknowledge his presence. He took his place at the head of the table, and I, as one of the important guests, was seated to his right.

With a graceful gesture, we all sat down as soon as he did.

The dinner proceeded pleasantly, with everyone engaging in lively conversation as a variety of dishes were served. I had anticipated that the evening might be uptight and formal, but it was heartening to see that my people and the Helian dignitaries were getting along well.

However, when it came to the Cor, things were different. He remained silent, not uttering a word to me throughout the meal. I recalled reading in an article that in Helian culture, it was customary to wait for someone of higher rank to initiate conversation. As a guest, I understood it was my place to wait for him to speak to me.

As the dinner continued, I felt a growing sense of mental fatigue. While I engaged in conversation with the other guests, the Cor remained quietly observant, his enigmatic presence casting a shadow over the evening. Despite my best efforts to maintain composure, I couldn't shake the feeling of being insignificant in his presence.

Hold on, I'm literally a Queen. I've traveled for 48 hours to be here. I'm not going to let anybody disrespect me—not even the Cor.

I turned to him, enough to see slight surprise in his otherwise calm expression. I steadied my gaze at the Cor, determined not to be the one to break eye contact first. 

His eyes held a magnetic quality that drew me in. His eyes were like a sunset, a mesmerizing blend of purples and pinks, reflecting the beauty of twilight as he gazed back at me.

We were suddenly locked in a silent contest, a battle of wills that transcended words.

Minutes passed, and the tension between us grew palpable. The other guests began to notice the silent exchange, their conversations trailing off as they watched our unspoken clash of determination and authority.

The room seemed to hold its breath, awaiting the outcome of this staring contest.