016

Nathaniel and Sarang wandered into Linfield’s bustling market, the heart of the city. They entered a quaint bookstore, browsing the shelves for any new literature.

“Do you remember this book?” Nathaniel asked, raising a children’s picture book from the shelf.

Sarang smiled warmly, “How could I forget? It’s the book that taught me to read and speak. Master would challenge my knowledge, and you would come to my aid whenever I cried.”

“I felt so proud to dependable because you weren’t afraid of reptiles, amphibians, or bugs.”

“And birds too.” Sarang teased, a sly grin spreading across his face..

Nathaniel blushed. “Turkeys are terrifying! They sound awful and trouble chickens.”

“At least you have your revenge on the dinner table.”

Nathaniel chimed. “I do.”

They selected several books, which Nathaniel graciously paid for and carried, before continuing their exploration of the market. Comparing the capital’s offerings to Wynthorpe’s, they agreed the food back home tasted better, though Linfield’s air was noticeably purer. Eventually, they paused to watch a street performance depicting Eldoria’s storied history.

The Great War had ended long before their birth, but its legacy lingered in tales from survivors. They knew Lucian’s role was significant. Although it was unusual for a viscount’s sole heir to fight, his contributions were enough that the royal family and the churches of the two religions overlooked certain actions. There were even rumours that the deceased king had been infatuated with him.

After the brilliant performance, they left the bustling market for the serene city park. Among the strolling horses, children, and adults, Nathaniel drew admiring glances, while Sarang, a lunari, a rare sight to see, was met with curious stares.

As they sat under the shade of a tree, Sarang placed the queen on the chessboard with a confident smile. “Checkmate.”

Nathaniel groaned in playful defeat, “Will I ever win against you?”

“You beat me in croquet.”

“And you beat me in skittles.”

“If you ever win, you’ll can challenge Master. I’ve only bested him twice in skittles. Min was the only one who could consistently match him—he’s a prodigy.”

“Who is Min?” Nathaniel asked, intrigued.

“You know him as Simon.”

“Your kindred. I haven’t seen him since I returned home.”

“He returned to Hanmin, but we communicate through letters often. Last year, he got pregnant, but his foolish ex-lover wanted nothing to do with him and the child. Master handled everything so calmly. I’m happy for Min–his wife and her family adore them both.”

“Sarang, do you ever want to return to Hanmin?”

Sarang shook his head. “This is my home, even if someone says otherwise. I have no one in Hanmin.”

Nathaniel glanced at him, then back at the rearranged chessboard. A soft, familiar voice interrupted them.

“Prince Nathaniel.”

It was Princess Lysandra, standing gracefully in a peach gown with a lace ribbon in her hair, short white gloves, and a matching parasol.

“Princess.” Nathaniel greeted and they stood up.

“At ease.” She said with a delicate wave. “You don’t have to be formal around me. I didn’t expect to see you so soon after the party. It must be fate.”

“Just coincidence.” Nathaniel corrected politely.

“Yes, coincidence.” Lysandra corrected herself. Her eyes shifted to Sarang; she frowned. “Who is this?” She asked with disinterest.

Nathaniel beamed with pride. “This is Sarang. He’s a part of my household and my dearest childhood friend.”

“It is an honour to make acquaintance, Your Highness.” Sarang said softly and bowed.

“The pleasure’s all mine.” Lysandra replied, though her tone was polite rather than warm. She turned back to Nathaniel, linking her arm with his. “Would you care to walk with me?”

“Thank you, but I must decline. I’m in the middle of a game with Sarang.” Nathaniel said, gesturing toward the chessboard.

“Would you like to play?” Sarang offered, removing the king piece from the board.

Her lips pursed. “Chess? How dull. Cards are far more engaging. If it’s games, I know places in Linfield that are far more... amusing. Surely you wouldn’t mind if I borrowed Sir Nathaniel for a while?”

Without waiting for a response, Lysandra cuddled Nathaniel’s arm, giving Sarang a pointed look. Sarang’s gaze remained stoic as he silently watched them, his expression unreadable.

Nathaniel gently freed himself from her grasp and took a step back. “On the contrary, I find chess to be both intellectual and fun. I wouldn’t want to bore you with our ’dull’ game.”

Lysandra’s gaze softened as she adjusted her tone, softer and flirtatious. “I would love to play chess with you, Sir Nathaniel, but the thing is, I don’t know how to play. I’m willing to learn… if you will teach me. I can come of my accord, anytime, anywhere.” She took a step closer, closing the space between them.

Nathaniel huffed, taking the king piece in Sarang’s grasp.

“I won’t waste time teaching someone who isn’t interested in learning. And if you were, I am not a teacher. If you genuinely desire to learn, I can recommend an excellent teacher. If not, stick to cards, Princess. I admire people who play chess like Sarang–he out bests me every time.” Nathaniel praised.

He gathered the chess pieces into the board and handed the set to Lysandra. “A gift.”

Without another word, he turned to Sarang. “Sarang, let’s go.”

“Yes.” Sarang agreed, hurrying to Nathaniel’s side.

He cast a glance at the princess, who clutched the chess set to her chest with cheeks flushed pink. Then he looked at Nathaniel, who was irritated as they made their way towards the road.

“You could have been kinder.” Sarang said.

“If I were, she would have persisted. It is best to dissuade them early, instead of grooming a longing that will never be returned. It’s cruel.”

Sarang frowned, his shoulders sagging as he lowered his head. “I suppose you’re right. I just feel bad for her.”

“You shouldn’t.” Nathaniel reached out, caressing Sarang’s cheek. “You can brag to our children that their father was so irresistible, a princess wanted to be his bride.”

Sarang chuckled and smacked Nathaniel’s shoulder. “You should be a jester.”

“Only for you, my love. Let’s go home.”

“I have one more thing.”

“What is it?”

Sarang placed a finger on his own lips before touching Nathaniel’s. Nathaniel chuckled, his irritation melting into a smile.