Xavier and Elvie walked alongside Lisa toward the gates of Tenkai, the capital city of the eastern kingdom. A cool breeze swept through the towering buildings, their grand architecture exuding an elegant yet majestic eastern flair. Massive pillars, a grand gate adorned with dragon carvings, and rooftops plated with gold added to the luxurious atmosphere. Xavier marveled at the sight, feeling as though he had stepped into a different world full of wonder.
Before reaching the gate, their eyes were drawn to a guard clad in armor resembling that of a samurai knight, a katana at his side with a fantasy-like touch. His armor gleamed, embellished with intricate carvings and a fearsome mask.
Their steps slowed as the guard spoke, his voice firm and authoritative.
"Excuse me, ma'am. Please present your identification before entering the city. Has your Artpass been registered with this kingdom?" the guard asked, his tone commanding yet respectful.
Lisa Afrodite gave a gentle smile. "Of course, you can check it using the Heaven Stone."
The guard nodded and retrieved a black stone, its shape resembling a tablet that felt familiar to Xavier, like an electronic device from his own world. However, this stone was crafted from a clearly different material, brimming with magical energy.
"Please bring your Artpass closer," the guard instructed.
Lisa extended her hand, revealing her Artpass. Instantly, the black stone glowed with a bright blue light, displaying her information on its surface. Xavier watched in awe.
"Is this some sort of magic technology in this world? This is beyond anything I could've expected," Xavier thought to himself.
"Lisa Afrodite," the guard murmured, his voice now filled with respect. He immediately bowed. "My apologies, Lady Lisa, if I seemed impolite earlier. I didn't realize who you were."
Lisa smiled graciously. "It's no problem. You're just doing your duty as a Tenkai Knight, keeping this kingdom safe."
The guard turned his attention to Elvie, who stood awkwardly beside Lisa. "And what about this child, ma'am? Does she have an Artpass as well?"
Lisa shook her head. "Not yet. She's still too young. She's only seven."
The guard nodded in understanding, then shifted his gaze to Xavier. "And this young man? He doesn't seem to be wearing an Artpass on his wrist."
Before Xavier could respond, Lisa spoke up. "He was robbed and has lost his memory. I'm helping him sort out his identity and regain his Artpass."
The guard nodded sympathetically. "Such misfortune... Very well, I won't question your word, Lady Lisa. Even if you were lying, I would still let you pass. At least I'll have something to report to the watchmen, but your word is enough as assurance."
Lisa slightly bowed her head. "Thank you, Tenkai Knight, for your understanding. I hope, one day, I can repay your kindness."
The guard bowed deeper. "It's a great honor to hear that from you, Lady Lisa."
"What's your name, Tenkai Knight?"
"Jugo, my lady. Jugo Tenkai."
"Alright, Jugo, I will remember your name. Once again, thank you for letting us through."
Xavier watched the entire exchange with a pounding heart. Who exactly are you, Lady Lisa? he wondered. She was strong, kind, wise, beautiful, and so highly respected.
Quickly, he shook the thoughts from his mind.
They continued their journey as the grand gates swung open, revealing a stunning sight beyond.
The large gate, adorned with golden dragon carvings, slowly opened, revealing the breathtaking city within. Wide streets lined with shops greeted them, the air filled with the scent of herbal tea and spices. Citizens moved gracefully, clad in kimonos and traditional eastern attire. Xavier stood in awe, feeling like he had stepped into a world straight out of a fairy tale.
"Wow... This city is incredible. It's like a fusion of fantasy and Japanese culture," Xavier said, gazing around with amazement. A smile crossed his face as he observed the bustling life in the city, feeling a small sense of normalcy despite being in a different world.
Tenkai truly was a magical sight. The main streets were orderly, lined with grand shops selling intricately crafted goods, armor, weapons, and the kingdom's special foods. The rooftops of the houses soared high, with designs reminiscent of traditional Japanese architecture, yet infused with fantastical elements.
Xavier admired the scene with wide eyes. "It's so beautiful. Finally, I can see a world that feels a little more normal... and alive."
Lisa looked at Xavier with a soft smile. "You're like a child, Xavier."
"Haha, where are we headed now, Lady Lisa?" Xavier asked.
"We need to find an inn first," Lisa replied calmly.
They walked past several shops until they arrived at a large inn. The building stood proudly with a small garden in front, filled with blooming cherry blossom trees. The delicate pink petals fell gracefully, adding a serene atmosphere to the place.
Xavier felt a pang of worry. "Are you sure we'll be staying here, Lady Lisa? This place looks so luxurious... and probably expensive," he said, hesitating.
Lisa smiled warmly. "Of course. Do you think I can't afford it?"
Xavier fell silent, his face flushing. "No, of course not!" he said, flustered, his awkward movements amusing Lisa and Elvie, who giggled at his antics.
"Haha, don't worry, Xavier. You'll always be safe with me," Lisa said in a soft, comforting tone.
Xavier glanced at her, his heart skipping a beat at her words. What's going on with me? Don't be foolish, Xavier. You've been single for a long time, but don't fall for her. She saved your life, and she has a child. He thought to himself, trying to calm down, taking a deep breath.
With a deep exhale, Xavier said, "I trust you, Lady Lisa. And I always will," he spoke sincerely, though inwardly he was still battling with the sudden surge of emotions.
Lisa smiled again, this time more gently. "Thank you, Xavier, for trusting me. I only want to protect you."
The three of them entered the inn, leaving behind the mysterious and enchanting world outside.