Morning in Kalinski Manor, Daichetus Kingdom
Following a light sparring session, Sucura found himself immersed in the expert instruction of Linda.
She skillfully guided him through the art of evasion and precision strikes, honing his abilities in combat.
As he progressed, Sucura further enhanced his dagger-wielding skills by infusing the weapon with a subtle stream of mana.
Feeling invigorated from the training and a subsequent brief workout, Sucura retreated to the sanctuary of his private quarters. He indulged in a soothing bath, allowing the warm water to wash away the day's exertions.
Once refreshed, he dressed himself in comfortable attire and approached the desk where a mirror stood. Gently patting his face dry with a soft towel.
In a small bowl, he expertly combined honey, egg whites, and finely ground oatmeal to create a smooth, consistent paste. This nourishing facial mask was then applied to his face with care, ensuring even coverage.
As he settled into a comfortable chair to allow the mask to work its magic, a card materialized from his dimensional ring.
With a flick of his wrist, he began to play a game of solitaire, passing the time as the mask revitalized his skin.
As he played, he contemplated, 'I've acquired a new dagger skill called [Enchanted Dagger]. By imbuing my mana into the dagger, I can enhance its attack potency and speed. However, it's not sufficient; I need more practice. Linda is an exceptional instructor. If Jonas were here, he'd likely be enamored and attempt to rizzing her up.'
He shuffled the cards, his thoughts drifting elsewhere, 'I feel somewhat stronger, yet I haven't gained a level or anything of the sort. Perhaps it's from killing creatures or… humans.'
He sighed inwardly at the notion, 'Morality, huh? I knew I'd have to confront it sooner or later, whether out of necessity or in self-defense. Regardless of whether it brings me discomfort or not, it elicits a complex array of emotions within me.'
'In a world where magical power reigns supreme, it's a matter of survival of the fittest. Weakness is a sin. If you dare to voice an opinion or make a speech without the power to back it up, they'll merely scoff and retaliate with a barrage of magical spells.'
After several minutes of engrossed card-playing, an unexpected knock interrupted Sucura's concentration.
*Knock!* *Knock!*
Sucura spoke calmly, his attention still focused on the cards before him. "Please, come in."
As the door swung open, Linda entered the room, her gaze settling on Sucura's face with a hint of bewilderment.
Sucura turned his head to meet her eyes, the cards still spread out on the desk before him. A facial mask adorned his features, adding an unexpected element to the scene.
A moment of silence stretched between them as they locked gazes.
Finally, Sucura broke the stillness, his voice steady and composed. "Instructor Linda, is there something you need?"
Linda began, "What's that on—" She sighed, dismissing her initial thought, and continued, "Never mind. Nicolette has extended an invitation for you to join her for lunch. Be prepared promptly."
Sucura pondered the situation, thinking, 'Why would she invite me? Perhaps it's merely a formality. Regardless, this will provide an opportunity to observe her more closely, and perhaps it will trigger a recollection from my memories.'
Sucura rose gracefully and replied with a serene tone, "Very well."
He then gestured respectfully, indicating that her Instructor should leave so he could attire himself appropriately.
However, she remained, asserting resolutely, "I will stay until you are prepared."
Sucura regarded her for a few seconds before acquiescing with a subtle nod.
Upon taking off the facial mask in the bathroom and drying his face, he stepped out and proceeded to remove his upper garment.
His sculpted physique came into view, and he could feel the weight of Linda's appreciative gaze upon him.
Unperturbed, he casually removed his trousers and donned an appropriate ensemble.
With a composed demeanor, Sucura declared, "I am ready."
Linda hesitated for a few heartbeats, her eyes lingering on his form before she reluctantly exited the room. She then beckoned, "Follow me."
***
As Sucura entered the grand dining room, he marveled at the high, vaulted ceilings adorned with intricate carvings of mythical creatures.
Among them, he noticed a amethyst owl perched gracefully, its eyes narrowing as if observing the scene below.
The long, wooden dining table stretched across the room, its surface polished to a mirror-like sheen. It was set with fine silverware and delicate, enchanted goblets that shimmered with a kaleidoscope of colors.
At the far end of the table, a beautiful woman with platinum blonde hair caught Sucura's eye. Her eyes were closed, and her pillow-soft lips curved into a genuine smile. She wore a dark emerald dress that accentuated her alluring figure, and she was guarded by one female knight.
Only four people occupied the dining room. Linda gestured for Sucura to take a seat, and he obliged, settling into the chair with elegance and poise.
"Thank you for accepting my invitation, Sir Hero," Nicolette said sincerely to Sucura.
"It's 'fallen hero,' Ms. Nicolette," he responded with a tinge of melancholy.
Nicolette's shoulders drooped slightly as she apologized, "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to cause any offense."
"It's quite all right, Ms. Nicolette. Please, just address me as Sucura and thanks for the invitation," he said, offering a faint smile.
"In that case, Sucura, kindly call me by my name without any honorifics," Nicolette requested.
Sucura glanced at her instructor and the knight standing behind Nicolette, seeking their approval. They gave a subtle nod in response. With their permission, he calmly replied, "Very well, Nicolette."
Her ears turned slightly crimson, and Sucura noticed. He made a deadpan expression, thinking, 'She's blind, right? Does she have a kinky interest in deep voices?' He couldn't help but ponder and quickly dismissed his thoughts.
Abruptly, a procession of maids entered the room, carrying an array of sumptuous dishes.
They meticulously arranged the exquisite fare on the long table: succulent roast lamb, savory lamprey pie, rich foie gras, and an assortment of delectable seafood, including plump oysters and tender lobster.
As the tantalizing aroma of the feast wafted through the air, Sucura couldn't help but feel his mouth water. His throat bobbed as he instinctively swallowed a mouthful of saliva, eagerly anticipating the meal to come.
Nicolette flashed a genuine smile and suggested, "Shall we eat first?"