The following day dawned bright and early, the castle buzzing with the anticipation of the journey ahead. Lily, ever the efficient knight, had packed everything they would need for the trip and had even taken the liberty of dressing Theo in his finest attire. The clinking of armor and the murmur of the assembled troops echoed through the castle as they gathered in the courtyard.
The empress and the two other princesses watched from the balcony above, their expressions a mix of envy and admiration. A carriage, gleaming in the morning light, waited at the ready, its horses snorting impatiently.
As Theo, Arabella, and Beatrice made their way towards the carriage, Lily and Ely fell into step beside them, their eyes scanning the crowd for any signs of trouble. Theo felt a thrill of excitement mixed with nerves as he took his place in the carriage, his hand brushing against Arabella's.
The empress's voice rang out, clear and strong. "May the gods bless your union!"
The crowd erupted into cheers as the carriage rolled out of the castle gates, the sound of hooves and armor growing fainter as they disappeared into the horizon.
And so, with the warmth of their newfound bond and the protection of their loyal guardians, Theo, Beatrice, Arabella, Lily, and Ely set forth on their epic journey to the dukedom of Bruch.
As the carriage approached the river, the noon sun cast a golden glow across the landscape. The river, a serene ribbon of blue, meandered lazily beside them. Ely, ever vigilant, spotted a suitable area for a rest and suggested they stop.
With one swift swing of her sword, she brought down a mighty oak tree. Theo couldn't help but stare in amazement as she sliced through the trunk with ease. "Wow, Ely, you truly are an impressive swordswoman," he exclaimed.
Ely blushed, her ears flattening slightly. "No, no, master," she said, her voice shy. "Lily-sama is even greater than me."
Theo looked at Lily, who was blushing as well. "Is that so?" he asked, his eyes sparkling with curiosity.
"Indeed, she is," Arabella spoke up. "Lily is often called the 'Sword Saint' among the sacred guard."
Theo felt a surge of pride as he took Lily's hand. "I am truly blessed to have all of you with me," he said, his voice filled with sincerity.
Both Lily and Ely's eyes shone with happiness at his words. They had pledged their lives to protect him, but his acknowledgment meant more to them than any title or duty.
As they made camp, Ely took her place as sentry, her sharp eyes never leaving the horizon. Lily, on the other hand, was tasked with setting up the tent and preparing a meal.
Theo, Arabella, and Beatrice sat together, the gentle babble of the river providing a soothing backdrop to their conversation. They talked of their hopes and fears for the future, their laughter mingling with the sounds of nature around them.
The sun began to set, casting long shadows across the camp. Theo knew that tonight would be the first of many challenges they would face together, but with these incredible women by his side, he felt unstoppable.
As the fire crackled and the stars began to twinkle in the sky, they shared stories of their pasts, their voices soft in the quiet night. The warmth of the fire and the comfort of their shared experiences brought them closer together, forming a bond that would be tested time and time again.
In the quiet moments, Theo couldn't help but wonder what the prophecy had in store for them, and whether their love would be enough to conquer the darkness that loomed on the horizon.
But for now, surrounded by the beauty of Astra and the warmth of his companions, he was content. The future could wait; tonight, they had each other.
That evening, as the moon rose high in the sky, Lily had transformed Theo's tent into a luxurious retreat. Theo couldn't help but be amazed as he stepped inside. "Is this a joke?" he asked, his voice filled with disbelief.
Lily looked at him, a hint of amusement in her eyes. "No, my lord," she replied. "The empress insisted that your comfort is of the utmost importance for Astra."
Theo settled onto the warm blankets, feeling a little overwhelmed by the extravagance. "But do we really need all of this?"
"We do," Lily assured him, her voice firm. "It's essential for your well-being and performance."
Theo nodded, a smile playing on his lips. "I see." He lay down, feeling the softness of the bed beneath him.
"Master," Lily spoke up, a touch of anxiety in her voice. "Princess Arabella and Lady Beatrice, they both asked if you needed them tonight."
Theo looked up at her, his eyes heavy with exhaustion. "Did they?"
"Yes, but I told them you required rest," she continued. "If you wish for their company, I will send for them."
Theo chuckled, his eyes drifting shut. "For now, I think I'll pass. But thank you for the offer."
Lily nodded and began to leave the tent. "Rest well, master. I'll be right outside if you need anything."
"And what about your needs, Lily?" Theo asked, his voice thick with sleep.
"I am always here for you," she said softly. "But tonight, I have something to tell you."
Theo opened his eyes, his curiosity piqued. "What is it?"
"The priestess is working on a potion," she explained. "It's to boost your stamina and protect you from any diseases that might be out there. So you can...enjoy yourself without worry."
Theo's eyes widened in surprise. "Lily, you're too much."
"It's my duty," she said, her voice earnest. "Now, sleep."
With that, she left the tent, leaving Theo to ponder the depth of her dedication.
The night was peaceful, the only sounds the crackle of the campfire and the occasional call of a night creature. But as the moon reached its zenith, Theo was abruptly woken by the sound of fighting. He jumped out of bed, his heart racing.
Ely rushed into the tent, her eyes wide with concern. "Master, you must stay here!" she exclaimed. "It's not safe!"
Theo's eyes searched the darkness outside. "What's happening?"
"Bandits," she said grimly. "They've attacked our camp."
Theo's mind raced as he saw the fear in Ely's eyes. "Where's Lily?"
"She's gone after the bandit queen," Ely said. "Don't worry, she's more than capable."
Theo nodded, his mind racing. He knew he couldn't just sit here and do nothing. He had to help.
As the imperial soldiers swiftly subdued the remaining bandits, Theo couldn't shake the worry for Lily from his mind. His eyes scanned the chaotic scene, searching for any sign of her. His heart raced as the minutes ticked by, each one feeling like an eternity.
"You should go, Ely," he said, his voice tight with concern. "Help Lily."
Ely looked at him, understanding in her eyes. "I understand you are worried about Lily-sama," she said, her voice steady. "But it's my duty to protect you, Theo-sama. Lily-sama is very strong; she doesn't need my help."
Theo's heart pounded in his chest, but he knew she was right. He had to trust in her abilities.
As the last of the bandits were rounded up and the camp secured, Theo's anxiety grew. Just when he thought he couldn't take it any longer, Lily emerged from the shadows.
Her armor was scuffed and bloodied, but she looked unscathed. In her hand, she held the head of the bandit queen by the hair, her grip firm.
"Lily," Theo breathed, relief flooding through him.
Her eyes searched his face, looking for any signs of fear or disgust. But when she saw only love and admiration, she let out a sigh of relief.
Without a word, she tossed the head aside and rushed into his arms. Theo held her tightly, feeling her warmth and strength against him.
"I'm okay," she murmured, her voice muffled against his chest.
Theo's arms tightened around her, and he whispered, "I'm so glad you're okay."
The camp grew quiet around them as the soldiers cleared away the aftermath of the battle. Ely and Beatrice watched from a distance, their expressions filled with a mix of awe and respect.
As they pulled away from their embrace, Lily looked up at him, her eyes filled with love. "Let's get some rest," she said, her voice gentle. "We'll face whatever comes next together."
The journey to the Bruch dukedom was met with excitement and anticipation. Upon their arrival, the gates were open, and a festive atmosphere had overtaken the city. The citizens of Bruch had gathered, eager to catch a glimpse of the hero and their new duke. Theo felt a rush of adrenaline as he waved to the cheering crowd, the sound of their applause echoing in his ears.
The Duchess and her daughters, were waiting outside the mansion to welcome them. "Welcome, Hero-sama," the Duchess said, her smile warm and genuine. "This is your mansion from today onward."
Theo stepped out of the carriage, feeling a mix of excitement and responsibility wash over him. "Thank you," he said, his voice steady.
The Duchess nodded. "As the empress has ordered, we shall manage the dukedom in your stead," she said. "But we are honored to have you stay with us."
Theo looked around at his new home, feeling a sense of belonging he hadn't expected. "Of course," he said. "It's more than enough for me."
They entered the grand hall, the flames from the torches dancing on the walls. The air was filled with the scent of lavender and freshly baked bread. The Duchess led them to a table laden with food and drink.
"Please," she said, gesturing to the feast. "You must be hungry after your travels."
Theo and his companions sat down, their eyes wide at the spread before them. They talked and laughed as they ate, sharing stories of their journey and getting to know their new hosts. The evening passed in a blur of good food, warm company, and the promise of a new beginning.
As the night grew late, the Duchess looked at Theo with a knowing smile. "Now, if you'll excuse me," she said. "I'll leave you to your...entertainment."
Theo watched her go, his heart racing.
He turned to Arabella and Beatrice, their eyes shining with excitement. "Shall we?" he asked.
They nodded eagerly, and together, they made their way to the prepared chambers. The future of Astra rested in their hands, but for tonight, they were just a group of friends sharing an adventure.
The door closed behind them, and the room was filled with a tense silence. Theo took a deep breath, his hand reaching for Arabella's and Beatrice. "Let's make this night one to remember," he said, his voice filled with passion.
Arabella and Beatrice's eyes met his, her own hand trembling slightly. "Together," they whispered.