An entire day passed without Leticia and Aleph exchanging a single word. Aleph, disturbed and confused, withdrew, seeking refuge in his thoughts. Leticia, consumed by insecurity, immersed herself in the romance novels, searching for answers to her own feelings and Aleph's unexpected reaction.
As night fell, Aleph returned to the inn, bringing with him the Winter Kingdom's royal carriage. They had left it for repairs in a village at the beginning of their journey, choosing to travel discreetly to avoid attracting attention. Now, however, the carriage, with all its splendor and royal coat of arms, was necessary for Leticia's arrival in the Autumn Kingdom. Aleph had retrieved it using a portal, ensuring the princess would reach her destination appropriately.
Daniel, who was waiting outside the inn, was impressed by Aleph's attire. The knight wore the ceremonial uniform of the Winter Royal Knights: a dark blue tunic with gold details on the long cape, imposing and elegant.
"Wow!" Daniel exclaimed, his eyes shining with admiration. "Where did you get those amazing clothes?"
"It's the ceremonial attire for knights," Aleph explained, showing two packages he was carrying. "I brought one for you. I hope it fits."
Daniel's eyes sparkled with excitement.
"A Royal Knight's uniform!" It was a dream come true.
He rushed inside the inn to try it on. Sir Ritz's tunic fit perfectly. Daniel twirled around, admiring the flowing cape.
"It's perfect!" he exclaimed radiantly. "But what about this mask? And the hood?"
"Knights wear the mask and hood on special occasions, such as ceremonies and banquets," Aleph explained. "It's a way to ensure the royalty's protection without drawing attention. The mask covers the face, and the hood further conceals the identity. The rule is to avoid eye contact with the guests unless requested."
Aleph, dressed in the imposing ceremonial uniform of the Winter Royal Knights, knocked softly on Leticia's door.
"Excuse me, Princess," he said upon entering, after receiving permission. "I brought your luggage."
Leticia, surprised to see him in that attire, received the suitcase in silence. Countless questions came to mind—how had he obtained the uniform so quickly?—but the memory of the kiss and the embarrassment prevented her from starting a conversation. Aleph, after a brief bow, excused himself, informing her that he would finish the preparations for their departure.
"We will arrive at the Autumn Kingdom tomorrow, Princess," he said before leaving.
The next morning, Aleph and Daniel, already prepared, awaited Leticia. Aleph led her to the carriage, explaining that he and Daniel would be responsible for driving. The journey, however, was surprisingly short. In the blink of an eye, after a precise movement of Aleph's sword, they passed through a portal, emerging into a completely different landscape.
"But… what…?" Daniel stammered, stunned. "Who are you, after all? A simple knight wouldn't have this power!"
"You'll find out soon," Aleph replied with an enigmatic smile.
They had arrived at the Autumn Kingdom's capital. After identifying themselves as Princess Leticia's entourage, they awaited authorization to enter the city. Aleph opened the carriage door, announcing their arrival.
"We have arrived at the Autumn Kingdom, Princess," he said with a bow.
Leticia, impressed, recognized that it was some special ability of Aleph's. With countless questions in her mind, Leticia remembered that she needed to apologize first and, gathering her courage, asked Aleph to come inside to talk.
"Aleph, please come in," she requested. "We need to talk."
Aleph entered the carriage, and Leticia sincerely expressed her regret.
"Aleph, I apologize if I offended you in any way," she said, looking him in the eyes.
Aleph, touched by her words, took her hand. He was finally going to tell her the truth, but they were interrupted by the arrival of the Autumn Royal Knights, who received them with honors and formalities. The arrival of the future king's intended caused a stir, with everyone eager to see who she was and admire her beauty.
After the final preparations, Leticia, elegantly dressed, entered the palace's main hall. The luxurious decor and exquisite details demonstrated the wealth and power of the Autumn Kingdom. Aleph, close behind, wore the Winter Royal Knights' uniform, his face partially hidden by the mask and hood, as etiquette demanded.
A long red carpet stretched across the hall, leading Leticia to her destination. The room was filled with nobles, dressed in their finest attire, their curious and appraising gazes fixed on the princess. The atmosphere was charged with expectation and silent judgment.
Leticia walked along the red carpet, each step echoing in the vast room. Her eyes fixed on the young man seated on the throne, flanked by knights and nobles. He had vibrant red hair and grayish-blue eyes… just like Aleph's. Shock coursed through her body. That was Ryuuji, the prince of Autumn. But then… who was Aleph?
Despite the surprise and confusion that overwhelmed her, Leticia maintained her composure. She couldn't show weakness before the court. Prince Ryuuji rose from the throne and walked towards her with a confident posture. With a cordial smile, he gently took her hand and introduced himself.
"It is with joy that I, Ryuuji, welcome Princess Leticia of the Winter Kingdom," he said, his voice soft and welcoming.
"It is an honor to meet you, Your Highness," Leticia replied, curtseying elegantly, concealing the whirlwind of thoughts assaulting her mind.
"Your presence will bring new spirit to our kingdom," Ryuuji declared with a charming smile. "I hope our union will be prosperous for both our kingdoms."
And, with impeccable gallantry, he raised Leticia's hand to his lips, placing a cordial kiss upon it.