Chapter 45 - The King (Revised)

At the onset, Luke held a certain bias against the king of Luminaire Kingdom, stemming from a latent resentment due to his inability to wield complete authority over his own subjects, particularly the aloof elitist nobles.

Upon meeting the king, Luke's perspective shifted favorably. The king's wrinkles conveyed grace and wisdom. His tired eyes symbolized unwavering diligence and commitment. The king's beard resembled a friendly uncle, creating a sense of approachability and familiarity.

Collectively, these subtle yet significant nuances served to recalibrate Luke's initial bias, molding it into an increasingly positive impression of the king.

Ancient wisdom holds that one can glean insights into a person's character by observing the wrinkles etched upon their countenance. A canvas shaped by a life's worth of emotions and experiences, these creases can divulge profound truths.

People who often experience positive emotions like smiles carry these feelings in their hearts and on their skin. Lines around the eyes, often called smile lines or crow's feet, reflect a life filled with optimism and empathy.

On the other hand, a consistently displeased or vexed expression, shown through furrowed brows or downturned lips, tells a different story. Over time, these emotions create lines that map inner turmoil, casting shadows between brows or carving creases on the forehead.

Indeed, the face becomes an exquisite canvas upon which life's emotional palette is expertly painted, each hue and stroke shaping the masterpiece of a person's character.

As Luke looked at the king, a deep impression formed, like unfurling scrolls. The king's face exuded kindness and nobility, intensified by Ophelia's similar nature influenced by him.

Guided by his innate sense of fairness, Luke extended his customary treatment, unwavering in his approach despite the royal presence before him.

Unfamiliar with courtly etiquette and the weight of royalty, Luke engaged with them casually, treating them like any other customer. His lack of awareness revealed his refreshing sincerity.

With a nod, Luke acknowledged the king's presence before engaging in a conversation.

"Hello, elder. I've had the privilege of Ophelia's company under my care."

The king's affable response showed no offense to Luke's candid approach. Instead, a spark of satisfaction in his eyes attested to Luke's genuine demeanor.

"You jest, sire. Ophelia may act rude sometimes, so I apologize if she has caused an offense," the king replied, his voice carrying a note of understanding. His demeanor exuded contentment, as if he appreciated the way Luke treated him.

"Please, address me as Luke. However, within the confines of this internet cafe, I am known as Boss," Luke shared with a hint of levity in his voice. "Feel at ease to explore the computers and make yourself comfortable."

"I'll do that then. My gratitude, Boss," the king replied with a smile that mirrored his appreciation for Luke's hospitality and his own genuine demeanor.

Unbeknownst to the king, the term "Boss" held a significance that eluded his understanding.

However, for those acquainted with its connotation, it bore a shocking weight. To witness a king addressing another as "Boss" would be a spectacle of the extraordinary, one that could evoke whispers of intrigue and speculation.

Expectations and hierarchies could tremble, hinting at an unconventional dynamic where the king appears subordinate due to linguistic play. This scenario, though a linguistic quirk, could create an intriguing power dynamic and raise eyebrows about their rapport.

Ophelia stood as a silent observer, her gaze intently fixed on the unfolding exchange between Luke and her father. A faint pang of exclusion tugged at her, a yearning to be an integral part of the conversation.

The memory of her father's accusation of her rudeness lingered, causing her lips to form a subtle pout. However, mindful of Luke's presence and the potential for offense, she stifled her impulse to speak out.

Her thoughts turned to her father's words, yet she made a deliberate choice to set them aside for a more opportune moment. Within the castle's halls, they would converse openly, her words measured and feelings unrestrained by others' presence.

In her quiet reflection, Ophelia observed Luke's unwavering composure. His tranquil aura seemed unaffected by the king's status, resembling a conversation with a wise and experienced neighbor. His steady confidence strengthened her admiration, solidifying his greatness in her eyes.

Ophelia found comfort in realizing that Luke wasn't offended by her father's words. Despite Luke's informal approach, her father's generosity in not making it an issue resonated with her. This observation strengthened her appreciation for her father's kind and understanding nature.

However, amidst these reassuring thoughts, a sense of resignation settled upon her. Her father's actions had inadvertently breached a promise he had made – one that entailed returning to the castle after introducing himself to Luke.

Watching him move toward the computer area, she sighed softly with a mix of understanding and mild exasperation. The upcoming workload was expected due to this current situation.

While observing, Ophelia's curiosity about computers remained dormant. Walking toward the computer area, a desire to uncover their mechanics tugged at her consciousness, like an ember waiting to ignite.

Yet, as she moved forward, Ophelia's focus shifted to another presence – Lunaria. Their eyes met, forming a silent connection that gave way to gentle smiles, a shared understanding bridging the distance between them.

"A pleasure to see you here," Lunaria's voice carried a pleasant note of surprise as she acknowledged Ophelia's, her human friend's, presence.

Ophelia's curiosity got the better of her, and she asked, "What has captured your attention?"

Lunaria's eyes held a glint of excitement as she leaned in to share a secret. "I'm engrossed in the computers. It's a chance you shouldn't let slip away as it can unlock the doors to boundless potential. Let me share a well-kept secret – within the realm of these machines lies the opportunity for unprecedented growth in strength. The knowledge they hold isn't limited to our known realm; perhaps it might even span from realms unknown."

Lunaria's words resonated within Ophelia, prompting a gulp that seemed to encapsulate the weight of possibility. The notion of unlocking newfound strength tugged at her heartstrings, igniting a fervent desire for growth.

Meanwhile, her father, stationed at PC2, overheard their conversation. At the mention of the computer's limitless information access, a peculiar gleam illuminated his eyes. With unwavering determination, he yearned to validate the truth behind Lunaria's revelations.

Seizing the opportunity, the king turned to Lunaria for guidance on navigating this technological marvel. Lunaria, the patient guide, shared her knowledge with the graciousness of a sage imparting wisdom to eager learners.

"Ah, my dear daughter," the king's voice carried a hint of sheepishness as he addressed Ophelia. "Might I trouble you for a gold coin? I find myself without one."

Ophelia's eyes couldn't help but roll at her father's request. Frustration mingled with affection as she considered her role as his steadfast companion. A sense of responsibility surged within her – the desire to ensure her father's exploration of the computer was smooth and uneventful.

With a resolve to help her father, Ophelia fetched a gold coin and handed it over, a mix of affectionate exasperation and understanding in her expression. As he inserted the coin with an apologetic gesture, her heart swelled with protectiveness and a wish for him to embrace this new experience fully.

A shared astonishment painted their expressions as they grappled with the unexpected cascade of newfound knowledge. An alien language entered their minds, written characters forming patterns that defied familiarity. The shock of the unknown rippled through their beings, a symphony of surprise reverberating between them.

As Ophelia observed her father's adept use of the computer, her vigilant gaze remained fixed upon him. Anticipating any unforeseen actions, she stood ready to intervene should he venture into uncharted territory, all the while conscious of avoiding any misstep that might inadvertently offend Luke.

Lunaria, having paved the way for them, found their astonished expressions a source of amusement. She basked in the pride of being the trailblazer in this exhilarating experience, a fact conveyed through the glint in her eyes. With a knowing smile, she returned to her browsing, her focus renewed as she delved into the depths of the computer's offerings.

Ophelia watched closely as her father's fingers danced across the keys, navigating the virtual labyrinth of the ManaWeb. Her expectations shifted as she realized he wasn't seeking ways to enhance his strength, contrary to what she had thought given the opportunity at hand.

However, as the search results appeared on the screen, Ophelia's heart swayed. The query typed by her father unveiled a different purpose, one that resonated with the weight he bore as a ruler. The words etched on the screen, 'how to eradicate elitist nobles completely,' painted a stark portrait of his concerns and responsibilities.

In that unguarded moment, she saw her father's weariness and vulnerability. His aim was to address the kingdom's malignant issue that troubled him deeply. This search was his quest for a solution, a way to restore harmony and reclaim his kingdom's harmony.

Recognizing her father's need for solitude in his pursuit, Ophelia made a silent decision to grant him the space he required. She understood the weight of his quest and knew that certain matters demanded contemplation in solitude.

Setting out to explore the internet cafe, her steps were abruptly arrested by a remarkable sight near the counter area. An orb, radiating an ethereal luminance, captured her attention. Her incredulous words escaped in a hushed whisper, "What!? Could that be a crystal ball!? How is this possible!? It's a relic long lost to time."

Captivated by the Radiant Oracle Stone, Ophelia's awe was evident as she hurried toward it, driven by curiosity to unravel its mysteries. She turned to Luke, seeking answers about this remarkable discovery with a fervent curiosity fueled by both astonishment and fascination.

"Boss, what is this?" Ophelia's voice held a blend of curiosity and wonder as she posed the question to Luke.

His response was marked by a hint of amusement, "Eh? That? Doesn't it look cool? It's so beautiful that I decided to place it there for aesthetic appeal. Supposedly, it possesses the ability to glimpse into the future. Although, I must admit, I'm not entirely certain."

Ophelia's response to Luke was heartfelt, torn between disbelief and disappointment. The once-mystical Radiant Oracle Stone's revelation lost its allure, leaving her slightly disheartened.

Internally, Ophelia's thoughts mixed disbelief with awe, silently remarking on an ancient relic being used as interior decor.

She wrestled with the idea that the Radiant Oracle Stone, if truly foreseeing the future, held more importance than just decoration. A sigh escaped as she considered Luke's surprising fusion of mysticism and the everyday.

Her eyes shone with fascination and contemplation on the glowing sphere. Her thoughts danced, appreciating the stone's allure and musing over its untapped potential.

"You can touch it if you want."

Upon hearing Luke's invitation, Ophelia wasted no time. With swift determination, she closed the distance between herself and the Radiant Oracle Stone, her fingers delicately tracing its surface as she examined it from every possible angle.

Luke's reserved reply mirrored his disinterest from his viewpoint. The Radiant Oracle Stone lacked practical value, serving as mere decoration. His reluctance to explore its potential stemmed from his wish to live without premonitions, valuing the authenticity of his actions and choices.

Ophelia's touch on the stone sparked an unexpected familiarity, an echo of déjà vu that went beyond the present.