Seien's rivers glowed under lantern light, the city alive with music and laughter. After the long day, Ellora and Raymond found an inn by the water. The room was modest, its wooden beams creaking softly, but the view of the river outside gave it a quiet charm.
Raymond remembered his old man's words: "The journey is meant to strengthen bonds. Before reaching the territory, you must walk the traditions of Verne." For generations, the Verne family had believed that travel and hardship forged true martial ties. This journey was not only about reaching their destination—it was about proving themselves together
The next day, Seien's beauty hid danger. As Ellora walked through the river market, a shadow moved behind her. A cloaked figure reached out, aiming to strike. Raymond was quick—his blade flashed, and the attacker fled into the crowd. The knights gave chase, but the figure vanished. Ellora's blue healing light calmed the frightened merchants, yet the incident left her shaken. Raymond stayed close, protective, his eyes sharper than before.
That night, back at the inn, silence filled the room. Ellora sat by the window, her black hair catching the lantern glow, her blue eyes reflecting the river's shimmer. Raymond's gaze lingered—on her calm figure, the way she carried herself with grace. A warmth stirred in him, leaving him flustered. He turned away, unsettled by the realization of his own desire.
Ellora, unaware of his thoughts, felt her own cheeks warm. She did not know why the silence between them suddenly felt heavier, but she shifted uneasily, flustered too.
Sleep came slowly. Raymond drifted into a dream—Ellora close, her breath soft against his skin, her presence overwhelming. He felt her warmth, her touch lingering, her voice whispering his name. The dream blurred into sensation, leaving him restless and wanting.
He woke suddenly, heart racing. Ellora was in his arms, her head resting lightly against his chest. The lantern light caught the strands of her hair, and her lips were only inches away. His gaze lingered, before he pulled away, flustered, rushing to prepare for the day. He was wondering what had gotten into him.