[33] Homunculus

Moments earlier, Ash was hosting Princess Ariel with an exquisite feast of the finest quality. The dishes, with recipes originating from Earth, were undoubtedly a delightful treat for the taste buds of those in this fantasy world.

The Princess's guards, ever vigilant, scrutinised every detail, even the cutlery used. Despite appearing somewhat impolite, Ash understood that threats of assassination could arise at any time and place, including here.

"Hmm~ Unexpectedly, this is the most delicious food I've ever had," Princess Ariel praised, wiping the remnants of food from her mouth with a napkin.

"I'm pleased that Your Highness enjoys my cooking. If you don't mind, I'd like to present a small gift to you. Bring it here," Ash instructed his secretary.

The secretary bowed slightly in respect and stepped away to retrieve the gift for Princess Ariel.

"Hee~ I'm very much looking forward to the gift," Princess Ariel said with enthusiasm.

"I'm confident you will like it," Ash replied with a confident smile.

When the secretary returned with a beautifully wrapped box, Ash handed it to Princess Ariel. "This is a special gift from us, a small token of our appreciation for your visit," Ash said.

Princess Ariel opened the box carefully. Inside was a luxurious set of cosmetics and several exclusive perfumes crafted from the finest ingredients. Her eyes sparkled as she examined the contents.

"This is incredible! Thank you so much, Mr Ash. I truly appreciate it," Princess Ariel said with a genuine smile.

"I'm glad to make you happy, Princess," Ash responded.

Princess Ariel nodded appreciatively. "I will remember this kindness, Mr Ash. I hope we can collaborate in the future."

Ash bowed respectfully. "With pleasure, Princess. We are always ready to serve you."

They continued their conversation in a more relaxed and friendly atmosphere, discussing various topics from business to daily life.

Then, something unexpected occurred. Amidst the bustling noise and footsteps outside, someone was trying to prevent others from entering. A loud bang of the door opening revealed a ten-year-old half-elf boy with brown hair and hawk-like eyes surveying the surroundings.

As their guardian, Ash sighed deeply, knowing that a complex situation had arisen. Even Princess Ariel's guards drew their swords towards Zephyr.

"Calm down, everyone," Ash said with a firm yet calm voice. "This is Zephyr, one of my wards."

Zephyr scanned the room cautiously before turning his gaze to Ash. "I apologise for the intrusion, Mr Ash. Something important has come up."

Princess Ariel looked at Zephyr with curiosity. "Who is he, Mr Ash? This boy seems to have a strong aura for his age."

Ash gave a slight smile. "This is Zephyr, one of my best students. Though young, he is incredibly talented and brave."

Zephyr bowed respectfully to Princess Ariel. "I apologise for the disturbance, Your Highness. However, there is something that needs to be addressed immediately."

Ash sighed again. "Very well, Zephyr. What's happened?"

"Aurelia and I rescued a girl of some importance today. Due to various circumstances, we had to bring her here."

Both Princess Ariel and Ash appeared interested in this matter. "Do you know who the girl is?" Ash asked attentively.

The boy nodded slowly, then straightened his posture. "She is from the Purplehorse family."

Upon hearing the name, Princess Ariel's eyes widened and she asked urgently, "Is she Tristina?"

Zephyr turned to Princess Ariel and nodded slightly. "Yes, she mentioned that name," he said plainly.

Everyone seemed surprised except Ash, who immediately asked bluntly, "Is this related to the Prime Minister?"

The boy shrugged as if to say he didn't know. However, Ash quickly analysed the situation. The Purplehorse family was known for remaining neutral in court power struggles and showed no preference for who ascended to the throne, as there was no direct benefit to their territory. However, considering the Prime Minister's possible fetishes, he might be interested in the only daughter of the Purplehorse family. This could explain why the criminals were hired to abduct Tristina.

Ash glanced at Princess Ariel's increasingly tense expression, her face contorted in disgust towards the current Prime Minister.

"Mr Ash, may I visit Tristina?" Princess Ariel asked in a calmer tone, trying to compose herself before speaking.

Ash nodded slightly and then turned to Zephyr. "Show her the way."

Zephyr nodded and led Princess Ariel, while Aurelia stayed with Tristina to ensure the girl felt safe. Ash observed closely, ensuring everything was proceeding as planned and no threats went unnoticed.

---

After ensuring that the girl from the Purplehorse family was in good condition and offering a few reassuring words to the distressed Tristina, Princess Ariel returned to her carriage. With a calm and determined step, she entered the luxurious wagon, ready to return to the royal palace.

Inside the carriage, Derrick Redbat, the advanced mage and loyal guard of Princess Ariel, sat facing her. Derrick, with his distinctive round glasses and serious demeanor, was deep in thought, assessing the scene outside the window that overlooked the neat and orderly street leading to the Costantine Group's office.

Princess Ariel, focusing on the view outside, finally broke the silence. "So, what do you see out there, Derrick?" she asked straightforwardly, her voice reflecting deep interest.

Derrick, after a few moments of contemplation, finally answered with admiration. "One word... Extraordinary."

Princess Ariel raised an eyebrow. "Oh? So we're in agreement?"

Derrick nodded, adjusting his round glasses. "Indeed, Your Highness. From my observations, Mr Ash Costantine is a remarkably rare individual. Not only are his achievements impressive in such a short time, but his ethics towards the upper echelons are also commendable."

"Hmm... I agree with you. Also, this journey has been peaceful, unlike the usual ones that are always accompanied by threats against our entourage."

Derrick nodded in agreement. "Indeed, Your Highness. There's something different this time. It feels far more serene, without the usual disruptions we face."

Unbeknownst to them, behind the scenes, the assassins hired by the First Prince's faction had been dealt with very efficiently by the Costantine shadow forces, codenamed 'Hassan'. Their presence, like many potential threats, had been completely neutralised before they could pose any danger to Princess Ariel or her entourage.