With the meeting finally concluded, Seraphine, accompanied by Adrain and Damian, began their journey back to their quarters. Iris, on the other hand, utilized her dimensional magic for a swift return, being the only one among them accustomed to this method of transportation.
As they strolled through the palace hallways, Cedric suddenly appeared from behind, beckoning Seraphine for a private discussion. Adrain and Damian, understanding the situation, chose to wait for her before continuing to their room.
Nonetheless, Cedric ensured that he escorted Seraphine back to her quarters, signifying his demand for privacy. Thus, Adrian and Damian decide to go back on their own.
"Is there anything I can assist you with, Your Highness?" Seraphine inquired with a slight bow, recognizing that Cedric's intentions seemed benign.
"I haven't had the chance to properly thank you for your role in this event. Without you, our empire might have faced a significant crisis,"
Cedric expressed his gratitude sincerely, extending his hand for a handshake, a gesture of great respect when a member of the royal family initiated it with someone else.
"It is an honor, Your Highness," Seraphine replied as she accepted the handshake. In the moonlight, Cedric's face appeared particularly striking, with his vivid blue eyes capturing her attention.
"By the way, were you aware that we will be hosting a celebration banquet soon?" Cedric asked, surprising Seraphine, who had been unaware of this event.
"A banquet at this time, Your Highness? Isn't it risky, considering the recent attack by the Chaos Order?" Seraphine voiced her concern, given the potential dangers of gathering nobles together so soon after the tumultuous incident.
"We consulted with Iris, and she has assured us that, based on her investigation, the remnants of the Chaos Order within our empire's territory have largely dispersed following the recent events. She will also take measures to ensure our safety," Cedric explained, offering reassurance about the security measures in place.
"If Miss Iris is confident, then I won't worry further," Seraphine replied, trusting Iris's judgment.
"It's quite late now. May I accompany you back to your quarters?" Cedric inquired, his smile warm and friendly, as he extended this courtesy to Seraphine.
"The honor is mine, Your Highness," Seraphine responded with a modest nod of her head, expressing her gratitude for his offer.
Cedric guided Seraphine back to her room through the quiet, moonlit corridors of the imperial palace. The ambient lighting cast a serene glow, giving their steps a tranquil rhythm.
As they reached the door to her quarters, Cedric turned to Seraphine with a warm smile. "Goodnight, Seraphine. Rest well and prepare for the upcoming celebration. It's been an eventful day."
Seraphine returned his smile with a nod. "Thank you, Your Highness. Goodnight to you as well. I appreciate your company."
With a final exchange of courteous farewells, Cedric retreated into the dimly lit hallway, leaving Seraphine to enter her room and reflect upon the remarkable events of the day.
Lying on her comfortable bed, Seraphine mused aloud. "Well, I didn't expect the emperor to be this kind,"
"Indeed, Cedric seems to be quite nice too, isn't he? It's a stark contrast to when we first met Damian," Alice commented.
Seraphine chuckled softly at the memory. "Oh, that... it's rather amusing when I think back to it."
"It's been quite a journey," Alice remarked. "Almost a year since we first met in that mansion."
"Speaking of which," Alice continued, "Cedric mentioned the banquet. Do you think it might be the right time for you and Damian to announce yourselves to the public? And with the emperor's support, no one will be able to judge you anymore."
Seraphine nodded in agreement. "I believe you're right. Let's us prepare for the upcoming ceremony!"
"We've been through a lot, Seraphine," Alice said, her voice reflecting emotion, despite being just an AI in Seraphine's head. It felt like their connection had evolved during their time together.
"I'm immensely grateful for everything you've done for me, Alice," Seraphine responded. "Without you, I might not have made it past that first meeting with Damian," she added, teasingly.
Suddenly, Alice's voice took on a tone of concern. "Seraphine, if I were to suddenly disappear, would you be alright?"
Alice's sudden expression of concern took Seraphine by surprise. "Alice, why are you saying something like that?" she asked, her voice filled with genuine worry. It was unusual for Alice to speak in such a pessimistic manner.
"It's nothing, Seraphine," Alice responded. "I just feel that nothing is stable and predictable in this world at all. Even though I came with you when we first met here, I am still clueless about many things and have only information based on the novel from Earth."
Alice expressed her concerns further, reflecting on how different the timeline and events had unfolded compared to the book. She was increasingly apprehensive about the unpredictability of their circumstances and what the future might hold for her.
"Don't worry, Alice," Seraphine reassured her. "We'll stay strong and live together. Let's make a promise."
Seraphine said and raised her pinky finger to indicate the promise between them, a gesture that carried the weight of their unbreakable bond.
"I don't even have a finger, Seraphine..." Alice responded, a hint of mockery in her tone but with no offense intended.
"Just saying it out loud is enough. No need to tease me!" Seraphine replied, her laughter and smile dispelling the tension.
"Okay, okay... I promise, Seraphine. We're going to stay together and overcome any struggles we face," Alice solemnly declared.
"Don't you dare break that promise, Alice. I'll come beat you if you do!" Seraphine playfully threatened.
"You can't even touch me, Seraphine. How would you do that?" Alice teased in response.
"I don't know, maybe by smacking my own head?" Seraphine continued jokingly, prompting both of them to burst into laughter.
As the night progressed, Seraphine began to feel sleepier. She got up, spread out a soft blanket, and nestled herself comfortably in bed.
"Goodnight, Alice. I'll see you tomorrow," Seraphine bid her AI companion farewell before closing her eyes.
"Yeah, goodbye, Seraphine," Alice replied. She didn't need to sleep or rest, instead remaining alert to protect Seraphine throughout the night.
"I hope nothing goes wrong in the future... Seraphine... I think we might have to face many more formidable opponents than we've ever met before," Alice contemplated silently. "But I will protect you, even if it might cost my existence."
The night continued on its course, ushering in a new day filled with uncertainties and challenges.