Seraphine and Kael Arisugawa spent two beautiful, peaceful days in the small seaside village with Old Man Henma. Their love was deeper and stronger than ever, built on trust and the promise of a future together. They were so consumed by their bubble of happiness that they almost forgot the world outside.
The Return of the Storm
They were walking along the village harbor, planning their next destination, when a sleek, elegant ship—far too grand for the rustic port—sailed into view. Standing at the bow, looking immaculate and cold against the sea breeze, was Yuzael Valestrian.
He had returned.
Yuzael jumped smoothly onto the pier, his sharp blue/silver eyes immediately finding Seraphine and Kael. His cold aura was palpable, but his expression remained nonchalant.
"Prince Yuzael!" Seraphine exclaimed, stepping closer to Kael.
"Seraphine," Yuzael acknowledged with a slight, formal bow. "I apologize for the disturbance. I am merely ensuring you are not being careless with your security."
Kael immediately wrapped his arm around Seraphine's shoulder, pulling her close. His smile was warm, familiar, and utterly possessive. "We're doing wonderfully, Yuzael. I'm her bodyguard now. The duty is covered."
Yuzael simply looked at Kael's arm around Seraphine, a flicker of something—disappointment or jealousy—crossing his cold face before he hid it.
The Noble Warning
Yuzael didn't waste time on rivalry. He had a duty to Seraphine's safety, even if she chose someone else.
"I resolved the alliance negotiations," Yuzael stated, his voice professional and cold. "The arranged marriage is officially void, which you already knew."
He then lowered his voice, focusing his sharp gaze on Seraphine.
"However, your father is now aware of your location. More importantly, the pirates who attacked Kael's parents are aware you possess unique Herbal & Medicine Skills and are now targeting you. They want to use your knowledge for their own nefarious purposes."
Yuzael handed Kael a detailed, new map. "This outlines the safest route to Velmitsu, the City of Hidden Archives. That is your only safe harbor. You must travel fast and intelligently. Do not be careless."
It was a cold, efficient warning—a final, protective act from the prince who had to retreat from the relationship but not from his duty to her well-being.
The Solid Bond
Seraphine looked from the serious map to Yuzael's cold, honest face, and then to Kael's warm, familiar expression. She felt no lingering confusion, only gratitude for the prince, and unwavering trust in her love.
Kael pulled Seraphine closer, kissing her temple. "Thank you for the warning, Prince Yuzael. We will take the fastest route."
He looked directly into Yuzael's eyes, his own shining with confidence. "Seraphine and I will face the pirates and the danger together. And we will be fine. I promised her the official kiss is at our wedding, and I intend to keep that promise."
Yuzael gave a subtle nod, accepting Kael's resolve and Seraphine's choice. He then turned to leave, his cold aura restored.
"I will continue my journey for my own duties," Yuzael said nonchalantly. "Travel well. I expect to hear of your safe arrival."
He sailed away, leaving the couple with a solid love and a clear, new danger to face.