Parting Ways and a Bruised Ego
The sun hung high in the sky, casting a golden glow over the grand courtyard of the Asakura estate. Today marked the departure of the hero, Leon Brightwind, and his party. The Asakura family stood gathered, bidding their formal goodbyes to the hero who had graced their household for the past few days.
Renji stood among them, arms crossed, watching the scene with a neutral expression. After their duel, the tension between him and Leon had somewhat eased, but there was still an unspoken rivalry lingering beneath the surface.
Standing beside Leon were his newly arrived companions—two women who perfectly fit the image of a hero's party.
The first was Saint Seraphina, a divine healer renowned for her gentle nature and unparalleled healing magic. With long, flowing platinum hair, sky-blue eyes, and a serene expression, she exuded an aura of purity and grace. Her presence alone was enough to inspire those around her.
The second was Iris Moonshade, a shy but talented mage. She was a petite girl with long violet hair and deep crimson eyes, clad in dark robes that hinted at her vast knowledge of magic. She had barely spoken since her arrival, often hiding behind Leon whenever someone addressed her.
Yep, Renji thought, eyeing the two beauties. The perfect harem lineup for a protagonist.
Leon, standing tall and radiating confidence, turned to address the Asakura family one last time. "Thank you for your hospitality. It has been an honor staying in your household."
Lord Asakura, Renji's father, gave a polite nod. "The honor was ours, Hero Leon. We wish you a safe journey ahead."
Leon then proceeded to greet everyone, exchanging pleasantries with the Asakura family members one by one. But when he turned toward Liliana, his expression softened.
"Lady Liliana," he said with a charming smile, extending his hand toward her. "It was a pleasure meeting you. May our paths cross again."
Liliana, who stood right next to Renji, hesitated slightly. Before she could even react—
Renji smoothly stepped between them, cutting off Leon's gesture as he grabbed the hero's hand in a firm shake instead. "Sorry, but I'm a little protective of my fiancée," he said with a smirk.
A brief moment of silence followed. The subtle challenge in Renji's words was clear.
Leon's smile faltered for the slightest second. He had been treated with admiration and reverence everywhere he went. It was always the same—people adored him, praised him, and women blushed in his presence. This was perhaps the first time someone had outright rejected his advance, even if it was just a simple handshake.
"…I see," Leon finally said, forcing a chuckle as he withdrew his hand. "That's quite the devotion you have, Renji."
Liliana, standing behind Renji, blinked in surprise. A faint blush dusted her cheeks as she looked at him.
Did… did he just stand up for me?
Saint Seraphina, sensing the awkward tension, quickly stepped forward with a warm smile. "It was wonderful meeting you all. May the Goddess bless your household."
Iris, the shy mage, peeked out from behind Leon, stealing a quick glance at Renji before hiding again.
Leon straightened himself, regaining his usual charismatic composure. "Well then, we must be on our way. Farewell, Asakura family."
With that, he turned around and began walking away with his party.
As they left the estate, Leon clenched his fists slightly.
Renji Asakura… You're different from what I expected.
Meanwhile, Renji watched them disappear into the distance, a smirk playing on his lips.
Liliana glanced at him. "…Why did you do that?"
Renji shrugged. "I told you, didn't I? I'm protective of my fiancée."
Liliana looked away, her face red. "I… I didn't ask for your protection."
"Yeah?" Renji leaned in teasingly. "Then why do you look so flustered?"
"Sh-Shut up!" she huffed, marching ahead of him.
Renji chuckled, watching her go. Well, that was satisfying.
Little did he know, his simple act of defiance had just earned him a place in Leon's mind as more than just a noble brat—he was now someone worth keeping an eye on.