Xyriel anticipated that having Prince Leonardo in their household could be awkward. He worried that the Prince might witness how Duke Arthur truly treated him within their home. He didn't want others to be aware of his situation. However, to his surprise, Duke Arthur exhibited a different demeanor. Despite his usual hostility, he treated both Xyriel and Prince Leonardo civilly. When passing by them, Duke Arthur would offer a smile and greet them with a nod, occasionally inquiring about their well-being.
As days passed, Xyriel and Leonardo grew closer. Xyriel showed him around the mansion and shared insights about the local festivities, as well as how Vestringfien was renowned for its year-round harvest and summer. They discovered a shared passion for reading literary works by world-famous authors. It was a novel experience for Xyriel to feel heard and understood by someone his own age.
