As the first rays of sunlight pierced through the dense canopy of the forest, the darkened cave slowly illuminated, revealing David crouched near a fire, stirring a pot with calculated precision. The scent of simmering meat soup filled the cave, rich and tantalizing. The fire crackled softly, casting flickering shadows across the walls. Outside, birds chirped in harmony, and the morning mist curled lazily around the trees, giving the forest an ethereal glow.
Luna stirred from her slumber, her silver eyes blinking open as she caught the aroma of the soup wafting toward her. She sat up, stretching her arms before running a hand through her long, platinum-blonde hair. As David glanced at her, his dark eyes reflecting the firelight, he said in a calm tone, "Luna, freshen up. I've cooked some meat soup. It should be ready soon."
Luna nodded, grabbing her belongings before stepping outside. The forest was still cool, the morning dew clinging to the leaves. She walked toward a nearby pond, its surface smooth and mirror-like. As she reached the water's edge, she began removing her armor piece by piece, the heavy metal clanking softly as it met the ground. She then unfastened her leather undergarments, letting them slide from her body before stepping into the cool embrace of the water.
As she submerged herself, her breasts disappeared beneath the rippling surface, the cold sending shivers up her spine. She cupped the water in her hands, letting it cascade over her shoulders and down her chest, the droplets glistening like diamonds against her fair skin. She dipped her head back, soaking her silver hair before running her fingers through it, combing out the knots. The morning sun's golden glow kissed the water, creating a mesmerizing reflection as she stood. Droplets rolled down her curves, falling like tiny gems back into the pond. As she stepped out, the breeze caressed her damp skin, making her shiver slightly before she reached for her clothes.
She began dressing slowly, fastening her undergarments first before slipping into her tunic. The fabric clung to her damp skin momentarily before settling, and she laced up her bodice carefully. She then strapped on her leather leggings, securing them with buckles before reaching for her armor, piece by piece, clicking and fastening the metal into place until she was once again the warrior she presented to the world. But beneath that armor, her heart raced for an entirely different reason.
As she approached the cave, the rich aroma of the soup became stronger, making her stomach rumble. She saw David, his black hair slightly tousled, his sharp features focused as he stirred the soup. The fire's glow accentuated his jawline, and the soft shadows made him seem almost otherworldly. A blush crept onto her cheeks as she watched him, her heart pounding against her ribs. Was this… love? She wasn't sure, but she knew one thing—she had never felt this way before.
David, oblivious to her longing gaze, ladled the steaming soup into wooden bowls. "Here," he said, handing her one. "It should be good."
Luna took a sip, her eyes widening as the flavors exploded on her tongue. "Oh my god, David, this is amazing!"
David smirked slightly, pleased. "Good. I spent time making sure the seasoning was just right. The meat had to be slow-cooked, the broth thickened just enough, and the herbs had to blend perfectly."
Luna watched him as he spoke, mesmerized by his confidence. She wanted to say something—anything—to let him know how she felt, but the words stuck in her throat. Instead, she simply smiled and continued eating.
David took a deep breath before speaking again. "Luna, I've changed my mind. I'm going to the Henwards Kingdom—the capital kingdom."
Luna nearly dropped her spoon. "What?! I thought we were going to the Sword Kingdom? Why the change?"
"I have some business in the capital," David said cryptically.
Luna hesitated before nodding. "I see… well, I'll be going there too, but only after I finish my delivery at the Sword Kingdom. I have to return to the Holy Church afterward."
David's brow arched. "So you're heading to the capital after all?"
"Yes," Luna said. "The Holy Church's central cathedral is located in every capital city, and the main one is, of course, in Henwards."
Meanwhile, in a distant part of the land, in the Ruins Kingdom, a fifteen-year-old girl named Ruby sat in the warmth of the orphanage David had built. The children played outside, laughing and chasing each other, while maids hung freshly washed clothes on a line, their cheerful chatter filling the air. Ruby held a letter in her trembling hands. She took a deep breath and opened it, her eyes scanning the elegant handwriting inside.
"Congratulations! You have been selected to enroll in the Henwards Magic Academy."
Her breath hitched, her hands gripping the parchment tightly. A mixture of excitement and disbelief filled her chest. "I... I made it," she whispered, tears forming in her eyes.
Back in Henwards Kingdom, the grand palace doors swung open with a thunderous echo. A crimson cape trailed along the marble floors as a tall, golden-haired man entered the grand hall. King Richard, the ruler of all kingdoms, took his place on the throne, his piercing blue eyes surveying the many kings gathered before him. The room was adorned with towering pillars, intricate golden carvings, and stained-glass windows that bathed the chamber in a kaleidoscope of colors.
The gathered kings bowed deeply. "We greet you, King Richard, ruler of the Henwards Kingdom and all its vassal states."
Richard's voice was smooth yet commanding. "My dear fellow rulers, as the capital kingdom of this world, it is my duty to ensure harmony and strength among our lands. Let us discuss the current state of our world."
Outside, an eagle soared through the sky, its wings casting a fleeting shadow over the land. Below, two riders galloped toward the Sword Kingdom's entrance—David and Luna. As they passed under the towering stone archway, a burst of light greeted them, revealing a bustling city teeming with life. Merchants called out their wares, children laughed and played, nobles conversed in the streets, and guards patrolled the roads with trained precision.
The scent of fresh bread and roasting meat filled the air, blending with the floral notes from the lush gardens. Dogs weaved between the crowds, and street performers entertained small groups of onlookers. The city was alive, a stark contrast to the solitude of the forest they had just left.
Luna stole a glance at David, her heart racing once more. How could someone be so strong yet so kind? So mysterious yet so alluring? She wanted to understand him, to be closer to him… but did he even notice her feelings?
David, unaware of Luna's longing gaze, simply focused ahead. The capital was waiting, and fate was beginning to weave its web around them both.
Chapter ends.