They returned to the estate at dusk, their earlier frustrations now a distant memory. They chatted excitedly about the places they would explore in Linfield: The original churches of the two religions in Eldoria, the museums of art, and the famed Big Bell Tower.
Nathaniel reached for the entrance door’s handle, only to have it open. A familiar figure emerged—a lunari woman dressed in soft pink and a chessboard in her delicate arm. Her green eyes lit up at the sight of Nathaniel, and she tucked a loose strand of silver hair behind her ear with a shy smile.
“Nathaniel, welcome. I did not think I would see you before I leave.”
“Your Highness.” Nathaniel said, bowing alongside Sarang.
Her lips curved into a soft smile. “We’re beyond formalities now. Please, call me Lysandra. Just Lysandra.”
“What brings you here?” Nathaniel asked, his voice cool and steady, and his hands clasped behind his back.