Arvin, Allen, Alrain, and Yonna walked through the bustling main street, which was still filled with the activities of citizens closing out their day. The sound of carriage wheels clattering against cobblestones, the shouts of merchants peddling their remaining wares, and the laughter of children running around created a warm symphony of life.
The four of them walked leisurely toward the elite residential district where their new home was located. Occasionally, crisp laughter could be heard among them.
Yonna, who had initially walked stiffly a few steps behind Arvin like a servant, now dared to walk alongside them. Arvin's reprimand at the Guild earlier had truly left a mark on her heart. Although it still felt awkward, she began to accustom herself to calling him 'Arvin' without any honorifics. Every time she succeeded in doing so, a small smile would appear on Arvin's face, giving her more courage.
Seeing his sister able to laugh freely without the burden of hierarchy, Alrain's heart felt warm and full of relief.
Finally... I don't need to worry about my sister's safety anymore! Alrain said inwardly, his eyes gazing at his sister's straight back with deep affection. In this life, she is under the protection of Arvin Vedegra, the strongest person in this world. No one would dare touch even a single strand of her hair if she is with my future husband.
Alrain's gaze then shifted to the side, staring at the handsome profile of Arvin, who was patiently listening to Allen's chatter. Alrain's look turned into one of adoration and absolute loyalty.
Whatever happens... tonight, I must bind a vow and make a life-and-death contract with him! Alrain's determination burned in his chest. I want to officially belong to him forever.
Before long, their footsteps arrived in front of a majestic wrought-iron gate. Behind it stood an elegant, classic-style two-story mansion surrounded by a lush garden.
Upon arriving in front of the mansion, Arvin opened the door. The scent of fresh flowers immediately greeted their senses. Alrain and Yonna froze in the doorway, their eyes widening at the interior of the house, which was far from looking like someone had 'just moved in'.
The polished marble floor reflected the warm glow of crystal chandeliers. Plush sofas, thick fur carpets, beautiful paintings, and lovely flower vases were all neatly arranged in their respective places. There was no dust, no cardboard boxes piled up. The house felt alive and ready to be inhabited.
"Arvin..." Yonna spoke, still in disbelief at what she was seeing. She turned her body, admiring the silk curtains hanging by the window. "Since when has this house been filled with furniture this complete? Didn't you say yesterday when you bought this house, it was completely empty without a single piece of furniture inside?"
Arvin smiled proudly, glancing at Allen, who was also grinning broadly beside him.
"Yesterday afternoon, Yonna. Right after we left the dormitory." Arvin answered casually. "Allen and I spent time together placing all the furniture we had bought. I wanted to occupy this mansion with you all immediately without the hassle of dealing with basic things again!"
Allen nodded enthusiastically, confirming his husband's words.
Yonna covered her mouth with her hand, moved by the detailed attention of the young couple.
"So, have you brought all your belongings?" Arvin asked, changing the subject so Yonna wouldn't cry tears of joy in the doorway.
"Sure!" Alrain answered promptly, patting the brown waist bag hanging at his hip. "Both my sister and I stored all our belongings inside this magic bag you gave me, My Love!"
Arvin nodded in satisfaction. "Good, then. Let's go to the second floor!" Arvin invited, starting to step toward the grand staircase in the central hall. "Allen and I will help you put your things in your respective rooms!"
Alrain followed Arvin and Allen without hesitation, his steps light and full of spirit. Meanwhile, Yonna paused for a moment, gazing at the warm living room once more, before finally smiling and moving to follow the three of them up the stairs.
The second floor of the mansion was no less luxurious. There were several spacious rooms fully furnished inside. They decided to help Yonna arrange all her belongings first.
Inside the room dominated by bluish-white tones, the four of them worked together. Yonna took out piles of clothes from her magic bag. With the help of Allen and Alrain, she folded all the clothes and arranged them in the wardrobe. Arvin helped arrange Yonna's books and personal items on the vanity, as well as other personal belongings of the long-haired, green-haired woman.
There was no awkwardness. The atmosphere of mutual cooperation only tightened their bond. Laughter was heard occasionally when Alrain struggled to fold Yonna's complicated dress.
After Yonna's room was finished and looked very comfortable, they moved to Alrain's room, which was located inside Arvin's room.
The same process was repeated. Alrain's clothes and equipment were arranged neatly. Their teamwork made a job that should have taken hours finish in a short time.
After all the items were neatly arranged and the rooms felt like their own, Arvin invited them back downstairs.
"Let's sit down first." Arvin suggested.
They sat on the plush sofas in the living room, facing each other. Arvin and Allen sat on one long sofa, while Alrain and Yonna sat on the opposite sofa.
The atmosphere in the living room was silent for a few moments. Only silence existed in that central room. Tension slowly crept in, especially from Yonna, who was still confused about the 'secret' her brother had promised.
Finally, Yonna couldn't take it anymore. She broke the suffocating silence.
"Alrain, come on, tell me everything quickly! You said you would tell me when we gathered with Arvin and Allen, right?"
Seeing his older sister impatient and wringing her own hands out of nervousness, Alrain took a deep breath. He glanced at Arvin for permission, and Arvin nodded slowly.
Alrain straightened his back, staring straight into his sister's eyes.
"Sister... what I am about to tell you might sound crazy, but I swear on my life this is the truth." Alrain said in a serious tone he rarely showed.
"I... have died before. And somehow, miraculously, I came back to life in the present time, repeating time to a few years before that incident."
Silence...