chap12,Under the Moonlight

Chapter 12: Under the Moonlight

The Dark Elven Palace was more mysterious and tranquil at night than anywhere else. The pitch-black sky resembled a flawless obsidian canvas, adorned with silver stars. Gentle moonlight streamed through the towering ceilings, illuminating the intricate corridors of the palace and casting a soft glow upon a golden-haired figure.

Seraphina walked slowly, her white gown fluttering slightly in the night breeze like a swaying lily. Her violet eyes reflected the moonlight, carrying a trace of serenity and contentment. Though this palace was still unfamiliar to her, she felt no unease—because he was here.

She reached out with her slender fingers, lightly brushing against the cold metallic carvings on the railing, feeling their unique texture. The architecture here was vastly different from the place she once called home—solemn, mysterious, and filled with an ancient aura. She let out a faint sigh and was about to continue forward when a familiar voice suddenly rang out beside her.

"What are you thinking about?"

His tone was as lazy as ever, yet tinged with amusement.

Seraphina turned around to see him leaning casually against the nearby railing, arms crossed, a faint, unreadable smile playing on his lips. His dark hair shimmered subtly under the moonlight, and his deep eyes locked onto her, as enigmatic and unfathomable as the night itself.

"…I was thinking about how this place differs from your domain," she replied softly. Her voice was gentle yet clear, standing out in the stillness of the night.

He took a step forward, his boots clicking lightly against the obsidian floor. Knocking on the railing beside him, he spoke leisurely, "Of course it's different. This place is steeped in dark energy, unlike your world, which is brimming with life."

"Dark energy?" Seraphina raised an eyebrow slightly, glancing around. Indeed, the palace was shrouded in a peculiar magical aura. The very air seemed heavier than elsewhere, and even the night breeze carried a hint of chill. Yet, she did not feel afraid. Instead, an inexplicable sense of calm settled within her.

"Will you be able to get used to it?" he asked, tilting his head to look at her, amusement flickering in his gaze.

Seraphina smiled gently, her violet eyes shimmering with warmth. She shook her head lightly and replied, her voice soft yet resolute, "As long as you're here, it doesn't matter where I am."

He paused for a moment, seemingly caught off guard by her words. Then, a slow smile crept onto his lips, his expression softening slightly. Reaching out, he playfully twirled a lock of her golden hair around his fingers, his touch lingering as he studied her face intently.

"You'll get used to it," he murmured, his deep voice carrying a subtle trace of indulgence.

Seraphina pressed her lips together lightly, a faint blush creeping onto her cheeks. Yet, beyond the slight shyness, there was a deeper sense of tranquility and trust. She lowered her gaze, leaning gently against the railing, feeling the cool night breeze caress her face—along with the comforting presence beside her.

He watched her for a moment before chuckling softly. Taking her wrist in his firm yet gentle grasp, he pulled her slightly closer to his side. They stood shoulder to shoulder, gazing out at the distant palace lights. Neither spoke, yet the silence between them carried a warmth far deeper than words.

"You'll come to love this place," he said suddenly, his voice low and certain.

Seraphina looked up at him, her eyes filled with a quiet smile. She nodded gently. "Because you're here, I already do."

The night wind whispered through the corridors, the moonlight casting a soft glow around them. They stood together in the quiet stillness, two figures bathed in silver light. Perhaps, in this unfamiliar land, she had found her place. And for him, he was slowly growing accustomed to the warmth of her presence.