The stack of papers on the table had thinned considerably, Serena's quill moving with the precision of someone accustomed to endless bureaucracy. Lucien sat beside her, watching her work with an amused expression, the tension from their earlier exchange having melted away.
"Dinner," he said suddenly, breaking the silence. "Let's go out."
Serena paused mid-signature, her crimson eyes flicking toward him, one brow arching slightly. "Dinner?"
"Yes, dinner," Lucien replied, leaning back in his chair. "You've been buried in paperwork for hours, and frankly, even you need to eat. So, what do you say? Let's get some air, enjoy the city."
For a moment, she hesitated, her quill hovering just above the parchment. Then, with a faint sigh, she set it down, her lips curving into a small, almost imperceptible smile. "I suppose eating would be nice. Lead the way, then."
Lucien stood and offered her his hand, which she took with mock skepticism. Together, they left the grand chamber, descending the castle's wide stone steps into the heart of Celestafell.
The city was alive with the hum of activity, the setting sun casting a warm golden glow over the cobblestone streets. Lanterns were being lit along the thoroughfares, their soft light mingling with the fading daylight. Merchants called out to passersby, their stalls laden with goods—freshly baked bread, glistening fruits, bolts of fine cloth, and intricate trinkets. Children darted between the crowds, their laughter ringing out as they chased each other in playful games.
As they strolled through the bustling streets, Serena's presence was impossible to ignore. Her dark cloak and regal bearing drew attention immediately, though her decision not to wear her crown allowed her a modicum of subtlety. Still, the occasional vendor or shopkeeper called out as they recognized her.
"My Lady! My Lord! Try these apples—freshly picked this morning!" one farmer exclaimed, holding up a basket of shining red fruit.
"The Queen and her consort grace us again! Would you care for some bread? On the house, of course!" chimed a baker, flour dusting his apron.
Even Lucien, once a reluctant companion to the queen, found himself included in the warm greetings. His reputation had grown in the past months as he had taken to helping out around the city—repairing roofs, assisting with trade routes, even playing with children in the market square. His transformation hadn't gone unnoticed, and now he was no longer just the queen's consort; he was part of the city's heart.
Lucien waved off most of the offers with a polite smile, though he allowed Serena to pause now and then to examine something that caught her interest. The people's warmth toward her was undeniable, and for a brief moment, Lucien caught her smiling—truly smiling—at a child who shyly handed her a small bouquet of wildflowers.
Eventually, they arrived at their destination, a quaint little shop tucked into a quieter corner of the city. The wooden sign above the door read "The Hearth & Bloom," its lettering simple yet inviting. The shop's exterior was adorned with climbing ivy and small potted flowers that lined the windowsills, their vibrant colors standing out even in the dimming light.
Lucien opened the door, gesturing for Serena to step inside. The interior was cozy and warm, the scent of fresh herbs and baked goods wafting through the air. The walls were lined with shelves holding jars of spices and dried flowers, and the wooden tables were arranged neatly, each adorned with a small candle flickering in a glass holder.
A plump woman with rosy cheeks and a bright smile greeted them immediately. "Welcome, welcome! Oh! My Lady! What an honor to have you here. And you, my Lord! Please, make yourselves comfortable."
Lucien nodded at the woman and led Serena to a table by the window, where the soft glow of the setting sun filtered in. "I thought you might like this place," he said as they sat. "It's quiet, unassuming, and their food is some of the best in the city."
Serena glanced around, her gaze lingering on the charming decor and the relaxed atmosphere. For once, the weight of her responsibilities seemed to lift just slightly. She gave Lucien a small smile, her crimson eyes softening. "You chose well. Let's see if the food lives up to your praise."
The plump woman returned with menus, her excitement barely contained as she took their drink orders and bustled off to prepare their table. For a moment, Serena and Lucien sat in companionable silence, the sounds of the bustling city fading into the background as they settled into the quaint little haven.
The warmth inside The Hearth & Bloom seemed to envelop them, the soft glow of the candles casting gentle shadows across the wooden walls. Plates of food arrived, their aromas mingling with the earthy scent of herbs and flowers that adorned the shop. A platter of roasted meats, seasoned with rosemary and thyme, sat beside a bowl of hearty vegetable stew. Freshly baked bread, still warm from the oven, rested in a basket, and two glasses of a deep red wine sparkled in the flickering light.
For the first time in what felt like ages, Serena and Lucien sat as if they were not rulers but ordinary patrons, laughing and enjoying the meal. The other diners, scattered at nearby tables, stole glances, their expressions a mixture of surprise and curiosity. The Vengeful One and her consort, sitting in a quaint shop, sharing a meal like any couple—it was a sight none had expected.
Serena took a sip of her wine, her crimson eyes glinting with amusement as she leaned slightly toward Lucien. "And you're telling me you thought it was a good idea to take the merchant's advice on horse grooming?" she asked, her tone dripping with mock disbelief.
Lucien chuckled, shaking his head. "I didn't know the man had never owned a horse! He spoke so confidently! How was I supposed to know he thought oats would double as shampoo?"
Serena laughed, the sound light and genuine, a rarity that made the other patrons exchange astonished looks. "I pity the poor beast. Did you at least apologize to it afterward?"
Lucien grinned, a little sheepishly. "I gave it an extra bucket of feed. I think that counts."
As the conversation shifted, Serena dipped a piece of bread into the stew, her expression softening as she asked, "And how is the little orphan boy you've been helping? Marcus, wasn't it?"
Lucien's smile grew warmer. "He's doing well. He's got a talent for carpentry, believe it or not. One of the local woodworkers agreed to take him on as an apprentice. He's finally starting to smile more."
"Good," Serena said, nodding approvingly. "It's small things like that which make all of this worthwhile. Sometimes I forget the importance of the little victories."
Lucien reached for his glass, raising it slightly. "To the little victories, then."
"To the little victories," Serena echoed, clinking her glass against his before taking a sip.
Their conversation flowed effortlessly, jumping from topic to topic. They debated over which baker in the city made the best bread (Lucien insisted it was the one by the south gate, while Serena was loyal to the baker near the castle gardens). They laughed over stories of the mishaps during the training exercises, particularly the time a Marine accidentally scared himself with his own shadow illusion during a drill.
"And then he just dropped his sword and screamed!" Serena said, shaking her head, her eyes shining with mirth. "I've never seen someone run so fast in full armor. It was almost impressive."
"That sounds like Corporal Elric," Lucien replied with a grin. "The man's fearless until he's not. I've seen him freeze up at a mouse, but he'll charge into a wall of spears without hesitation."
As the evening wore on, the food on their plates dwindled, but their laughter didn't fade. The shop's other patrons, initially hesitant to interrupt, began to relax, their own laughter and conversations filling the air as the cozy atmosphere enveloped everyone.
At one point, an older woman at a nearby table leaned over, her voice warm with curiosity. "My Lady, my Lord, I hope you don't mind me saying, but it's lovely to see you both here like this. You're… just like the rest of us."
Serena turned her gaze to the woman, her crimson eyes softening as she offered a small, genuine smile. "That's because we are like the rest of you. We simply have a few more responsibilities. But even rulers need a good meal and good company."
The woman smiled, nodding before returning to her table, leaving Serena and Lucien to their moment.
As the final rays of sunlight faded from the windows, replaced by the soft glow of the street lanterns, Serena leaned back in her chair, her fingers tracing the rim of her wine glass. She looked at Lucien, her expression content.
"You know," she said softly, "this was a good idea. It's nice to just… be, for a little while."
Lucien smirked, leaning forward slightly. "Are you admitting I was right? Because I'll savor this moment forever."
Serena rolled her eyes, but her smile didn't falter. "Don't get used to it. But… thank you. For this."
Lucien's smirk softened into a genuine smile. "Anytime."
The soft golden light of the sunset bathed The Hearth & Bloom in a warm glow as Serena and Lucien finished the last sips of their wine. The plates had long been cleared, and the air between them was light, filled with the easy camaraderie they had shared throughout the meal. Serena's eyes glinted with satisfaction, and even Lucien's usual tension seemed to have melted away.
Lucien stood first, reaching for the small leather pouch at his side. "I'll take care of the tab," he said, offering a small smirk as he glanced at her. "Consider it my treat."
Serena arched a brow, a playful challenge in her gaze. "And what makes you think I'll let you pay? I'm the queen, remember? My treasury has this covered."
"You're also the queen who just said she's like the rest of us," Lucien countered smoothly, his smirk widening. "Let me do this."
She rolled her eyes, though the faintest hint of a smile tugged at her lips. "Fine. But don't expect me to make this a habit."
Lucien chuckled, walking to the counter where the plump shopkeeper awaited. The total was modest—four silver pieces for the meal, drinks, and the warm hospitality, and Lucien added an extra two silver as a tip. The shopkeeper beamed, thanking him profusely as he turned back to Serena, who was waiting at the door.
"Shall we, my queen?" he asked, extending his hand.
She looked at him for a moment, her crimson eyes glinting with something unreadable. Then, with a small nod, she slipped her hand into his, her grip firm but warm. "We shall."
They stepped outside, the evening air cool against their skin. The streets were quieter now, the hustle and bustle of the day giving way to the tranquil rhythm of the night. The lanterns lining the cobblestone roads cast a gentle glow, and the fading colors of the sunset lingered on the horizon, painting the sky with streaks of orange, pink, and purple.
Hand in hand, they walked slowly through the city. The occasional vendor still packing up for the night would pause and offer a polite bow or a cheery wave. Children, still playing in the streets, giggled and darted around them, their laughter echoing in the peaceful dusk.
"Do you think they find us strange?" Serena asked suddenly, glancing at Lucien. Her voice was light, almost teasing. "A queen and her consort, strolling through the streets like a pair of love-struck commoners?"
Lucien laughed, his green eyes sparkling as he looked at her. "I think they find it refreshing. You've shown them that even rulers can enjoy the simpler things. It makes you… real to them. And that's why they love you."
"And you?" she asked, her tone softer now, her gaze searching his. "What do you think?"
Lucien's steps slowed, and he turned to face her, the faint glow of a lantern catching the edges of his face. "I think," he said, his voice steady, "that for all the power you command, for all the strength you possess, it's these moments—when you laugh, when you smile, when you let your guard down—that remind me you're human. And that's what makes you extraordinary."
For a moment, Serena was silent, her gaze locked with his. Then, a faint smile curved her lips, her fingers tightening slightly around his. "Flattery suits you, Lucien. You should try it more often."
"And ruin my reputation? Never," he replied with a grin, his tone teasing.
Their laughter rang out softly as they continued their stroll, the path winding gently toward the castle in the distance. The towering spires of Celestafell loomed against the darkening sky, their silhouettes majestic and imposing. Yet the weight of their responsibilities seemed far away in that moment, their steps unhurried, their conversation filled with the kind of easy banter that only came from understanding and trust.
As they neared the castle gates, Serena glanced up at the night sky, her voice quieter now. "It's peaceful tonight. I wish we could have more moments like this."
Lucien looked at her, his expression soft. "We can, Serena. You just have to let yourself have them."
She nodded slightly, a rare vulnerability flickering in her crimson eyes before she masked it with a faint smirk. "Perhaps. But only if you promise to keep finding places like that little shop."
"Deal," he said with a chuckle, guiding her up the castle steps.
The grand hall of Celestafell was quiet, the distant echoes of their footsteps the only sound as Serena and Lucien ascended the polished stone staircase. The lanterns cast a soft golden glow along the walls, the light flickering like whispers of the day that had passed. When they reached the landing that led to their chambers, Serena paused, turning to Lucien with a faint smile.
"Go on ahead," she said, her crimson eyes meeting his. "I have a bit of business to attend to before I call it a night. I'll meet you in our room shortly."
Lucien hesitated, his gaze searching hers for a moment before he nodded. "Don't take too long," he said softly, leaning in. She tilted her head slightly, allowing him to brush his lips against her forehead, but before he could retreat, she leaned forward and planted a quick peck on his lips, her smile playful.
"I won't," she promised, her tone light as she turned on her heel and strode away, her black cloak trailing behind her.
As she walked down the quiet corridors, the faint clinking of her boots against the stone floor the only sound, she let out a soft chuckle to herself. The events of the evening, the lightness of the laughter they had shared, and the momentary escape from her responsibilities all swirled in her mind.
"Great Sage," she said aloud, though her voice was low. "I wonder… am I really human?"
The glowing presence of Great Sage flickered into view in the corner of her vision, its calm and measured tone responding with a subtle warmth.
"In every way that matters, my Lady."
Serena laughed, the sound light and genuine, echoing faintly in the empty hall. "Of course," she murmured, a faint smirk playing on her lips. "Of course I am."
Her pace slowed as she approached the first of many rooms, the quarters of her castle staff. She stopped at the door, taking a moment to compose herself before stepping inside. The staff members—cleaners, laundry workers, and errand runners—looked up from their tasks, their faces lighting up with surprise and confusion.
"My Lady!" one of them stammered, quickly setting down the linens they were folding to bow deeply.
Serena raised a hand, her expression softening. "No need for formalities tonight. I simply came to thank you all—for your hard work, your dedication, and your patience. This castle would not run without you, and I want you to know that your efforts do not go unnoticed."
The room fell silent, the staff exchanging wide-eyed glances before one brave soul spoke up. "You honor us, my Lady. Thank you."
Serena inclined her head, her crimson eyes glinting with something genuine. "You're the ones who deserve the thanks. Rest well tonight. You've earned it."
She continued her rounds, visiting the kitchens where cooks and scullery maids were still tidying up from the day's meals, the armory where the castle guards polished their weapons, and even the stables where the grooms tended to the horses. At each stop, she expressed her gratitude, her words heartfelt and specific to each group's contributions.
By the time she finished, the castle felt even quieter, the faint sounds of the night filtering in through the high windows. Serena's steps grew slower as she approached her chambers, her mind replaying the looks of surprise and appreciation on the faces of those she had thanked.
"Human indeed," she murmured to herself with a sharp small smile, her hand resting on the door to her room. "Let's see how long that lasts."
The grand throne room of Celestafell was quiet, the only sound the faint rustle of banners swaying in the still air. Serena sat on her throne, her cheek propped against her fist, her crimson eyes half-lidded as she reviewed reports and plans for the kingdom's ever-expanding reach. The light from the high windows cast long shadows across the stone floor, giving the room an almost ethereal stillness.
The doors to the throne room burst open with a sudden gust of wind, and a figure strode inside, his presence crackling with energy. His dark armor gleamed faintly, the insignia of the 1st Dark Army emblazoned on his chest. His sharp features and wiry frame marked him as someone accustomed to speed and precision, but it was his nickname—"Zephyr," given by his fellow soldiers for his blinding use of wind magic—that had earned him his reputation.
Zephyr, whose official rank was Swiftblade, stopped at the foot of the throne and saluted sharply, his piercing green eyes fixed on his queen. "My Lady, a report from the 1st Dark Army's 17th Battalion. They've engaged with an unknown force to the south. No strain to the troops—they're merely holding their position, awaiting orders."
Serena's crimson gaze sharpened instantly, her head lifting from her hand as a wicked smile spread across her lips. The shift in her demeanor was palpable, a predator catching the scent of opportunity. She sat up straighter, her voice laced with an almost cruel delight.
"Annihilate them," she commanded, her tone calm yet brimming with authority. "Show your queen the fruits of the 17th's blood, sweat, and tears. Leave nothing standing."
Zephyr's grin matched her intensity, a flicker of excitement flashing across his face. "With pleasure, my Lady," he said, bowing low.
Without waiting for further instruction, he turned on his heel, his hand flicking to summon a rush of wind around him. The gust swirled, lifting the edges of his cloak as he sprinted forward, his body blurring into motion. In the blink of an eye, he disappeared through the open doors, leaving behind only a faint breeze and the lingering sound of his boots hitting the stone.
Serena leaned back in her throne, her smile lingering as she watched the now-quiet room. Her mind turned to the 17th Battalion, confident in their abilities and eager to see their efforts realized.
"Do not disappoint me," she murmured to herself, her voice echoing faintly in the stillness. "Show them what it means to defy the will of Celestafell."