The next morning, Dad was more than ready to accompany me to Ryujin Mansion. He practically radiated excitement, and I couldn't help but smile at his enthusiasm. I liked seeing him happy—especially when the reason was me.
As we settled into the carriage, I sat across from him, fully dressed as Ocean Ryujin, my disguise perfected down to the last detail. Beneath the thick, elegant layers of my attire, I had tucked away my reward—the egg—securely nestled against my chest. Wrapped in a soft, thick handkerchief, it rested in the inner pocket of my vest, close to my heart.
Dad, on the other hand, looked like an eager child heading out on his first adventure. His eyes sparkled with anticipation, his entire demeanor light with an almost boyish excitement.
"Please remember," I reminded him, watching his animated expression, "even by mistake, you mustn't call me Reina. Address me as Ocean or Baron."
