Chapter - 16 : SwordsWoman

(Continuation…)

(Rai's POV)

.

In the training courtyard, Rosalind's(:Viviana) eyes sparkled with passion as she honed her craft, pouring her heart and soul into each strike.

Watching her from a distance, Rai couldn't help but feel captivated by the elegance and grace of her movements, as well as the sheer power she wielded with the sword.

Lost in his thoughts, Rai didn't realize how much time had passed until Rosalind finally stopped her practice and turned towards him, their eyes meeting.

He could sense a depth of determination in her eyes that intrigued him even further.

To his surprise, she set down her sword and approached him with a confident stride.

"Prince Rai, I hope you don't mind the interruption."(Rosalind)

She said, her voice composed yet carrying an undertone of something he couldn't quite place.

"Princess Viviana.

-He replied with a nod, acknowledging her presence.

"Your skill with the Sword is truly admirable."(Rai)

He complimented her sincerely.

"Your kind words mean a lot, Prince Rai.

-She said, appreciating my words and her eyes showing a hint of pride.

"However, it was just a casual after-practice session, nothing serious. I am swinging aimlessly."(Rosalind)

[What THE heck?!

-Rai was taken aback by her nonchalant response.

[That was just supposed to be a sample of how seriously you practice!?

[What are you planning on doing with all that power?

[Wait! I know what she wants to do.

[…but still.](Rai)

Rai wondered, freaking out, whether she was deliberately downplaying or being humble.

However, before he could gather his thoughts, he found himself blurting a few of them out.

"...I-It was just an after-practice session!?

"You really are-

"-...something else, Princess Viviana."(Rai)

Rai stuttered, inadvertently revealing some of his genuine thoughts.

"Is that supposed to be a compliment, Prince Rai~?"(Rosalind)

She raised an eyebrow, a mix of amusement and curiosity crossing her face, a small smile playing on her lips.

[But truth be told, she was indeed something else – a force to be reckoned with.]

Rai couldn't help but be fascinated by her exceptional swordplay.

He shook his head, trying to gather his thoughts.

"Anyway, I just wanted to say you're incredible with the Sword."

-he replied honestly.

"...I really can't help but 'admire' your level of determination."(Rai)

He finished in a soft tone, locking his gaze on her golden eyes.

Her eyes widened in surprise, and for a moment, Rosalind was taken aback by Rai's candid expression.

"...I-if you say so, Prince Rai."(Rosalind)

She instantly averted her gaze and replied while shuttering with a slight red face.

But inwardly, her thoughts swirled with confusion and curiosity.

She couldn't deny the impact Rai's words had on her, and a part of her yearned to know more about what he truly thought.

While Rosalind was lost in her thoughts, Rai, without thinking much, blurted out

"Princess Viviana, if you have completed your after practice session, would you mind

"...joining me?"(Rai)

Rai offered without thinking much, only to realize what he was doing.

But she was again spaced out by his sudden request, and she did understand what was happening.

"...hmm?"

Rosalind, who had composed herself by now, simply tilted her head sideways curiously.

[Shit! Did that sound wrong?](Rai)

Rai cursed inwardly.

"I am planning to take Elza for a little walk in the garden.

"She would really love your company."(Rai)

He explained, trying to make his proposal clear of any misunderstanding.

"...!?....

"I would love to do that, Prince Rai."(Rosalind)

Digesting Rai's words, Rosalind's face lit up with a smile.

"...sure.

"I will be waiting then."(Rai)

He replied while walking, moving ahead and giving Rosalind some time to refresh after the practice.

.

Rai soon reaches his Sister Elizabeth's room and enters to find her curled up on her bed, engrossed in a book.

He greeted her with happiness, engaged in small talk, and finally asked what she was reading as the book enthusiast in him awakened.

To his amusement, without saying what the book was about, Elza expressed her disappointment, revealing how boring it was.

Rai couldn't help but chuckle at his Sister's adorable, disappointed expression.

He had no idea what book she was reading, but he was sure that it was sh*t.

Rai very well understands that Elza generally had a lot of patience, but if it even made someone like her show that expression.

...It must be really bad.

Now he wasn't even interested in knowing the Author.

After their light-hearted exchange, he moves away from the topic and decides to cheer her up by suggesting they go for a walk outside.

Rai knows his sister well and is confident she would reply positively, as she enjoys outdoor activities.

Receiving confirmation from Elza, he fetched the wheelchair and carefully assisted his Sister to sit comfortably, ensuring she was comfortable and at ease.

Despite her insistence that she can walk, he decides to be cautious and helps her into the wheelchair.

Rai is aware that Elza's condition isn't weak enough to the point where she is incapable of walking, but he wants to ensure her safety and comfort, especially considering the sleepy effects of the medications she's taking.

Even the doctors haven't prohibited her from getting out of bed occasionally, but Rai wants to take extra precautions for his little sister.

Elza soon agreed, having no choice but to give in to Rai. They set off as he gently pushed the wheelchair towards the garden.

The serenity of the night enveloped them as they wheeled through the quiet paths.

There was a calming sense of tranquility in the air, with the moon casting a gentle glow on the surroundings.

No one else was present in the garden, giving them the freedom to explore and enjoy the solitude together.

But Rai knew it was only for now, as he invited someone to join.

As they rolled along for a few more minutes, Rosalind joined in, bringing a huge smile to Elza's face in joy.

There were no formal greetings between the three, no pretense of royalty. They were just friends, enjoying the night together.

Rosalind also didn't have her usual face and engaged with Elza in delightful conversations, sharing stories and playful antics that had her bubbling with laughter.

The nighttime setting seemed magical as they created cherished memories in each other's presence.

As they strolled through the peaceful garden, their laughter and joy filled the air, making the cool night even more special.

Despite the quiet surroundings, they were all for calm presence and creating beautiful time together.

.

(After some time…)

"Looks like the medicine is having its effects…"(Rosalind)

Rosalind muttered as she locked the belt of the wheelchair around Elza's waist.

The medicine was finally taking its toll, easing Elza's pain and granting her much-needed rest.

"Thankgod, I brought her in a wheelchair regardless of her protest."(Rai)

"That's Elza for you, I guess."(Rosalind)

Rosalind replied as she stationed the wheelchair near the round table.

They also settled themselves on the two chairs around the table.

"..."(Rosalind)

"..."(Rai)

The awkward silence descended as the talkative Elza fell asleep.

Rosalind's thoughtful gaze was interrupted by Rai.

"So, Princess Viviana, is there anything you are interested in other than Swordsmanship."(Rai)

Rai asked curiously, and he couldn't help but break the stillness.

"That's kind of random, Prince Rai.

.

(To be continued…)

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