Vol.4 Ch.230 In the Garden.As Quinus, Sir George, and Lord Gawain strode out of the dining room, Percy let out a heavy sigh, casting a sideways glance at Rya, frustration etched across his features. “You would think that coming back to the capital would simplify things, but no… it never seems to work out that way…” His voice faded, burdened by the heaviness of unt hopes.
Rya laughed softly, her eyes glinting with mischief. “Oh, co on, Percy! When have we ever had a normal life?”
Percy shrugged, a slight blush creeping across his cheeks. “I guess not... But honestly, if I get to share my days with Dalia—and the rest of our crazy crew—then I can handle anything.”
Rya couldn’t help but admire him. He was still so young, yet here he was, already dreaming of a future with the girl he adored. It was a sweet, hopeful sight that ward her heart.
"Well... You've grown a lot these past couple of months. You're still a teenager, and yet you act more mature than so adults," Rya praised.
Percy bead at her, his eyes sparkling with gratitude. "Thank you, Lady Rya. Honestly, I can’t imagine where we’d be without you. Your bravery in the labyrinth made all the difference."
"Hahahaha, You probably still be Sir George's pupil. I wouldn't wish that on my worst enemy. He's hopeless," Rya said and laughed.
"Yeah, he is... But now that I have Dalia... I'm wondering where his drive to beco a matchmaker ca from. It seems like a waste to put in all that work just to arrive at the wrong conclusion. I can't imagine being stuck in that mindset," Percy mused.
"Yeah, Sir George might be caught up in what they call the 'Sunken Cost Fallacy.' It’s that tricky situation where you’ve invested so much ti, energy, and money into sothing that you start feeling an unwavering loyalty or commitnt to it. This emotional investnt can cloud your judgnt, leading to so pretty irrational decisions," Rya passionately explained.
"I've never heard of that term before... But that sounds about right," Percy nodded.
"It's a sha, really... You should probably talk to him about it. Maybe he'll reconsider," Rya suggested.
"I think he's too far gone for that, Lady Rya... Ever since Dalia chose as her mate... Sir George seems... I don't know... Betrayed? Envious? It's hard to tell," Percy replied and rubbed his neck.
'That sucks!... I've been there before, Percy. Back on Earth, when I first started dating Zoey. My old roommate was happy for ... At first... Then he pulled out the "You've Changed" card on . Then he did this ultimatum and said I had to choose between him and her. And, of course, I picked her. It was so fucking cringe... Anyway, I don't know what's going on with Sir George, but he's got so issues to work through,' Rya thought.
"It happens, Percy... You only have so much ti to do things in a day, and Dalia's your priority. Don't worry about him. He'll figure it out," Rya smiled.
"Yeah... Maybe he will... Anyways, what would do you—" Percy’s voice trailed off as he caught sight of the second plate of food he had intended for Dalia. His eyes widened in realization. "Oh, Goddess! I can't believe I almost forgot! I need to get this to Dalia right away!"
He glanced up at Rya, a hint of urgency in his expression. He had been instructed to watch over Rya until the Prince returned, but the thought of Dalia waiting for him sent adrenaline coursing through him. Ti was ticking, and he couldn’t let her down.
Rya’s laughter broke through his thoughts, light and carefree. “Hahahaha! Just go! Take the food to her!”
"Are you sure!? His Highness—"
"Go, Percy," Rya said with a playful glint in her eyes. "But rember this: you’d better start honing your skills in kindness because I am destined to be your future Queen!" With a theatrical flourish, she sent him off with a grand gesture of her hand. "Now, off with you!"
“Th-Thank you, Lady Rya! I promise I’ll repay you!” Percy exclaid, bowing deeply before hastily exiting the room, his heart racing.
And just like that, the dining room fell silent, leaving Rya to revel in her own delightful mischief.
"Well... now what?~" Rya mused, a playful spark lighting up her eyes as she rubbed her hands together. A mont passed, and then inspiration struck her like a bolt of lightning. Thoughts whirled in her mind, bursting with possibilities to pass the ti and turn the mundane into sothing exciting.
Rya felt a wave of curiosity wash over her as she surveyed the opulent dining hall, with its ornate chandeliers casting a warm glow across the exquisite tableware. 'Well? Maybe I can explore the palace a bit. I'm sure there's a library or garden around here sowhere,' she thought, her anticipation growing. With that thought in mind, she rose gracefully from her seat, her heart racing with excitent, and made her way toward the grand archway that beckoned her into the unknown corridors beyond.
Rya glided gracefully toward the grand doors that led from the bustling dining hall, the soft echo of her footsteps reverberating off the polished marble floors. Sunlight stread through the towering windows, casting a warm glow and creating intricate patterns that danced across the walls like fleeting mories. As she approached a richly adorned door, her gaze caught a small group of servants huddled nearby, their expressions a blend of nervous anticipation and profound respect. In a synchronized motion, they bowed their heads as she passed, a gesture that sparked both intrigue and a hint of unease within her.
“Um… we’ve finished with the dining room. You’re free to tidy up,” Rya said, her voice steady as she continued her path.
“Of course, your ladyship,” one of the servants replied, the formality of the exchange hanging in the air.
‘Geez… this feels so strange. Is this really what Quinus has to deal with every day? R-Rember your training, Rya. You’re in charge here… ti to own it,’ she reminded herself, lifting her chin a little higher as she pressed onward, determined to embrace her role.
As Rya settled into the bustling atmosphere of the main hall, she marveled at how effectively the shawl concealed her elven ears. Not a single servant cast a curious glance in her direction, nor did anyone question her presence.
Relief washed over her. “It’s about ti,” she mused, stifling a laugh as she recalled the chaos that ensued whenever she walked around new people. Especially that one maid, wide-eyed and speechless, the very first ti she spotted Rya. The mory made her chuckle.
Her gaze drifted upward to a magnificent painting that dominated the hall—an ethereal human woman with flowing white hair and striking purple eyes. Rya felt an inexplicable pull toward the portrait, as if the woman had a story to tell, just waiting to be uncovered.
'Hmmm... I wonder who this is. Probably soone important.' Rya thought as she took in the details of the painting. After a minute of pondering, she gave up and noticed a white marble statue of an old king holding a sword. She studied it briefly, 'This world is more lived in than I realized... Huh? There's a na on the base.'
Rya knelt down, her fingertips gliding over the inscription as her mysterious eyes narrowed and translated the foreign words for her. She whispered the words aloud, “King Alphonse the Bold.” A smirk played on her lips as she took in the regal figure’s likeness; he bore a striking resemblance to Quinus, only older and adorned with a distinguished mustache. Curiosity sparked within her—just which ancestor could he be? Shaking her head, she chuckled softly to herself. “No point in guessing. I’ll just ask Quinus when I see him next.” With that, Rya stood tall, the weight of her discovery lingering in the air.
Rya turned her gaze to another statue and was captivated by the stunning figure of a high elf. The elegant form was crafted with exquisite detail, from the delicate features of her face to the graceful curve of her posture. Her long, flowing hair seed to cascade like shimring silk, framing a visage that radiated ethereal beauty. The elf's piercing eyes, carved with precision, held an air of wisdom and mystery, drawing Rya closer as if the statue were alive with a story waiting to be told.
'Queen Fyrella the Wise. She is the Queen of the Yilan Kingdom... Why do the High Elves spread so many stories about the Dark Elves? And is this chick still alive?'
Rya couldn't shake the unsettling feeling that lood over the Yilan Kingdom. It was a whisper in her mind, urging her to pay attention. Determined not to let her instincts go unheeded, she resolved to keep a watchful eye on the High Elves and their mysterious motives. Their tales, filled with intrigue and deceit, seed to trickle down into every corner of her life, complicating every step she took. Rya knew she had to uncover the truth behind the High Elves' deception.
Rya was so captivated by the intricate details of the statue before her that she failed to notice a curious maid pausing nearby. Her gaze was fixed on Rya with a blend of intrigue and amusent.
"Lady Rya? May I ask what are you doing here?"
Rya jumped slightly, her heart racing, as she glanced over at the maid. It took her a mont to recognize the woman as Gretchen, Queen Rianna's ever-watchful attendant. She scared the crap out of Rya, who had been lost in her own little world.
"Ah... just exploring a bit," Rya stamred, struggling to mask her surprise with a casual smile. "I ca by this place by chance and got lost in the beauty of this artwork," Rya said as she regained her composure.
"I'm sorry, my lady... I didn't know that soone like could sneak up on an elf like yourself," Gretchen said and bowed.
'Ugh... Yeah... It happens when I'm deep in thought... That's how those assholes got a slave collar on ... Thank God, Nieren shot with her sleeping arrow to stop from killing any more Dwarves... And I almost killed Sir George... I need to be better,' Rya thought.
"It happens when I'm deep in thought," Rya responded.
"I see. Well, is there anything I can do for you, My Lady? Perhaps a little tour of the estate? Or would you prefer a delightful snack?" Gretchen asked.
Rya paused for a mont, her thoughts drifting towards the outdoors. "Actually," she replied, a hint of excitent in her voice, "could you direct to the Garden? I don't know about you, but I could use so sun."
"I can do that, My Lady. Follow ," Gretchen nodded and guided her to the Garden.
As Rya stepped outside, she took a deep breath, allowing the crisp, invigorating air to fill her lungs. The garden enveloped her senses, a tapestry of vibrant colors and fragrant blooms swirling around her. She hadn't fully appreciated the enchanting aroma that wafted through the flower-laden space—the sweet scent of roses mingling with the delicate perfu of lilacs and the earthy undertones of freshly turned soil. Each inhalation brought a new layer of olfactory delight, awakening her appreciation for the garden's hidden beauty.
"Here we are, My Lady. If you need anything, please call for ," Gretchen said.
"Will do, Miss Gretchen... And thanks again for showing the way," Rya nodded and smiled.
“It’s truly a privilege, Lady Rya,” Gretchen said, a warm smile gracing her lips. With a respectful bow, she turned to leave, the soft rustle of her skirts trailing behind her. “May you enjoy this afternoon.”
'What a nice woman... Maybe I could be friends with her... But she is Queen Rianna's personal maid, so it might be a little awkward... Hold on!? Did that an I'll be getting a personal maid, too? I don't know how I feel about that. I an... Having soone do everything for you is nice... But what would I do then? Just sit on my ass and order soone around. Nah, that's not for ,' Rya thought as she took in the sun's warm rays.
Rya stood amidst the sprawling expanse of the vast garden nestled in the northern reaches of the palace grounds. Enclosed by imposing palace walls and a cliff's edge to the north, this serene oasis stretched over 20 acres, bursting with vibrant flora and lush greenery. The air was fragrant with the sweet scent of blossoming flowers, and pathways wound their way through the verdant landscape, inviting exploration. As she looked around, Rya couldn’t help but admire the carefully tended beds of colorful blooms, the graceful archways draped in climbing vines, and the soft rustle of leaves in the gentle breeze, all contributing to the garden’s enchanting allure.
Rya felt as though she had stepped into a grand European palace, caught in a delightful blend of English and French influences. The castle lood majestically atop a rugged hill, reminiscent of the storied Castle in Edinburgh, its stone walls standing proud against the sky while casting a regal gaze over the bustling city below. Yet, there was an undeniable charm that evoked the elegance of a French chateau, with its sprawling architecture and soft, romantic contours that whispered tales of yesteryear.
Surrounding the castle was an expansive garden, a vibrant tapestry of colors bursting forth from a variety of trees and blooming flowers, their sweet fragrances mingling in the air like a gentle lullaby. Fountains danced playfully amidst the greenery, their crystal waters sparkling in the sunlight, creating a serene ambiance that invited visitors to pause and enjoy nature's handiwork. Tucked away within this enchanting landscape was a hedge maze, its towering greenery forming a labyrinth of twists and turns, promising adventure and mystery for those daring enough to explore its secret paths.
'Guh... That is a big garden. It looks like sothing straight out of a fairytale... Ugh... I'm practically in a fucking fairytale, Rya... I'm the evil Dark Elf who becos the princess of the Fiafyr Kingdom, and she will marry the handso prince who is going to be King of the entire continent. Yay...' Rya thought sarcastically and sat down on a nearby bench to observe the scenery.
The garden sprawled endlessly, an enchanting realm of beauty and mystery. At its heart stood a magnificent fountain, its waters dancing delicately amidst the lush greenery. Delicate blooms and vibrant plants adorned every inch of this verdant paradise, with so even climbing gracefully up the ancient palace walls. Yet, despite the garden's charm, an air of intrigue lingered near the northern cliff's edge, where sothing peculiar seed to await discovery.
'Huh? Is that... Ether Practicals? But there isn't a Dungeon Core around here, right?' Rya thought to herself as she got up and started walking across the garden toward the mysterious particles.
As she ventured closer to the swirling Ether Particles, an intriguing sight captured her attention. They erged from a small hole in the ground, no deeper than a softball, yet radiating an energy that seed almost alive. Unlike the eerie, toxic green she had encountered in the labyrinth, these particles glowed with a vibrant neon green that pulsed with vitality. To her astonishnt, they danced upwards in a srizing flow, resembling flickering flas rather than floating wisps of gas, casting an enchanting light that drew her closer with every heartbeat.
'That's odd... Is this ether? What is going on here?' Rya thought to herself. She approached the hole, kneeling down beside it to peer inside.
"It feels so different from the Labyrinth... and there's no heat radiating from it at all," Rya mused, a frown creasing her brow. With a mix of curiosity and apprehension, she reached out and plunged her hand into the mysterious hole. To her astonishnt, nothing happened.
"I don’t feel a thing," she whispered, her mind racing. "Whatever this is, it resembles ether practicals, but it’s sothing else entirely."
Frustration mounted as Rya scoured her thoughts, grappling with the enigma before her. What could possibly cause these elusive particles to materialize? The question hung heavy in the air, leaving her craving an answer she couldn't quite grasp.
"Hmmm..." Rya mumbled as she tried to figure out the mystery, "I wonder?"
Rya gently reached into her cleavage, her fingers brushing against her smooth tan skin until they grasped the Seer Stone. As she pulled it out, the monocle caught the light, revealing its striking, demonic-inspired design. The fra, a blend of shimring silver and rich gold, twisted into an intricate pattern that seed to pulse with dark energy. The lens itself was as opaque as the midnight sky, yet it emanated a haunting purplish glow, hinting at the mysterious powers it held within.
'Well? This is a long shot, but perhaps I can catch a glimpse of the mana—or whatever mysterious energy is seeping from this opening.'
With focused determination, she channeled her mana into the Seer Stone, its surface shimring in response. As she peered into the depths of the hole, sothing astonishing unfolded before her eyes. The Dark Elf’s brows shot up in disbelief; a vibrant stream of energy snaked its way from all the lush plants in the garden, converging at this very spot. Below the opening, a swirling cloud of energy pulsed ominously, hovering about six feet down, beckoning her to explore its mysterious depths.
'What the hell is this? It's like all the plants are connected... I should really ask Yuliana—well, Mom—about this. It feels like a secret a Wood Elf should definitely know sothing about.'
With a determined sigh, Rya stood up and stretched, a spark of curiosity igniting within her. She put her Seer Stone back in her cleavage and looked at the strange ether particles one last ti before she set off.
"This is a mystery," Rya murmured, excitent bubbling just beneath the surface.
She was about to leave when a faint sound caught her attention—a woman’s muffled sobs accompanied by quiet sniffling. Intrigued and concerned, she paused, curiosity pulling her back.
Rya paused, her curiosity piqued. "Huh? Is soone crying?" she wondered, tilting her head toward the sound that echoed through the air. It was strange; her view was obscured by the dense hedge maze surrounding her, but her keen elven hearing hinted that the source of sorrow was a world away.
"I wonder who that could be?" she murmured, a mix of concern and intrigue swirling within her.
Determined to uncover the mystery, Rya began navigating the winding paths of the maze, her footsteps soft against the ground. After a few minutes of searching, she stumbled upon a secluded corner where a young woman sat alone on a bench, her shoulders trembling with quiet sobs.
The woman possessed stunning red hair that cascaded down her back like a fiery waterfall, and her large, purple eyes glistened with unshed tears. Clad in a simple yet elegant white dress, she appeared to be around Quinus’ age. Her gaze was fixed on her hands, which cradled an intriguing object—a bracelet crafted from vibrant beads, each one as large as a marble and shimring softly in the filtered light. It bore a resemblance to a rosary, but there was sothing unique about it, sothing that hinted at a story waiting to be told.
This woman was doing a good job at hiding her sorrow, but Rya's ears were so good that she could hear the sniffles from a mile away.
'Ugh... Should I just leave her alone? I an, she doesn't look like she's from around here... And maybe she wants to be left alone. Yeah, I would probably want that, too, if I were her.'
Just as Rya was about to leave the redhead alone, the woman began sniffing again, causing Rya to wince in response. A wave of empathy washed over her, stirring an urge to reach out and provide comfort, but the words caught in her throat, leaving her unsure of how to bridge the unspoken gap between them.
'God... I guess I still have that side of that's compassionate... Ugh, what am I supposed to say? Hey girl, I'm just a stranger, and I can tell that you're sad. How are you? What's up?... No! No! That's stupid, Rya... Okay, I'm gonna go over there and see if she wants any company. What's the worst that could happen,' Rya thought as she took a deep breath and slowly made her way towards the redhead.
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