Chapter 144

Chapter 144

Diechs smile hardened slightly. His eyes still looked kind, but there was a stiffness in his expression that made it seem somewhat awkward.

It seems Rosaline really likes my brother.

Because hes pretty.

The awkward smile on Diechs face disappeared in an instant. He closed his mouth and rolled his eyes upwards as if deeply contemplating something. He wore the same expression as when he read through an academic journal: deliberation, contemplation, and consideration. Was it a matter of concern whether Ricardis was beautiful?

Ah!

Diech nodded as he came to a realization, accompanied by a sigh. He soon opened his mouth with seriousness written on his face.

Whos prettier? Me or my brother?

Recently, Rosaline developed a keen sense of self-awareness. In situations like this, if you compliment someone else, the person in front of you would feel hurt!

[There are white lies, but Sister]

It was something Calyx had said once. There must be a reason why white lies exist!

Your Highness Diech is prettier.

Diechs face brightened.

So, do you like me better?

Since you like pretty things, wouldnt you prefer the more beautiful person? Diech presented an argument based on perfect logic. Rosaline was depressed. Indeed, one cannot tell lies.

[Small lies tend to lead to larger lies!]

Her younger brothers words were always right. White lies were still lies

Rosaline hesitated. Her silence became the answer.

Diech let out a sigh. His expression and gaze seemed to say, I knew it, making Rosaline feel hed given her a scolding.

It seems you lack the talent for lying, Rosaline. Unlike me.

Diech finished his words and tightly closed his mouth. His expression showed he had much to say, but he soon turned around and walked away. Rosaline hesitated for a moment before following him from behind.

The man who always matched her stride when walking together distanced himself to express his mood. With brisk steps, he marched away. It wasnt as if he was deliberately mocking her stride, but his long legs had already taken him quite a distance.

Rosaline diligently followed Diech, stepping on protruding tree roots here and there. As her soft footsteps followed, Diechs pace slowed down. Rosaline matched his speed accordingly and walked calmly.

Diech pursed his lips. Even without turning around, he could envision Rosaline following him with a meek expression, one step behind. The stiffness in his expression melted away. The two continued silently walking, maintaining that quiet mood for several minutes.

Then, Rosalines footsteps ceased. Diech turned to look at her. Rosaline was rummaging through the dry bushes.

Well, yes. Thats why Im making this request.

It was not her place to say, but

Your Highness, hugging me wont bring you closure.

As if she had something caught in her throat, Rosaline swallowed hard, feeling awkward.

[Rosaline, there is danger. Be careful. Dont trust anyone.]

She couldnt forget Ricardis words, but

Well I guess it must be awkward. Im sorry for saying something strange all of a sudden, Diech scratched his head, his rough movements betraying his confusion. I just wanted to hug you once. Its just Ive wanted to for a long time, He looked straight into Rosalines eyes and smiled gently. Ive liked you, Rosaline.

The softly spoken words echoed like a spell, not spreading beyond the confines of their intimate space. It was a connection with a depth unknown even to Ricardis. It drew Rosaline toward him, guiding her footsteps within the vast expanse of the forest.

In the dark night, as they held hands and escaped from the dirty alleyways, it felt as though they shared every sensation without needing to speak. It was a bond that went beyond their time together, something akin to instinct, engraved beyond in distant memories.

Rosaline hesitated before approaching Diech. As she took a step closer, Diech beamed with a bright smile. All she could read from his smile were gentle and beautiful emotions, like round and soft colors.

With each step Rosaline took, the distance between them closed. Diech, as usual, softly smiled as if trying to melt her heart away. His glass-like eyes shimmered as if submerged in water.

They were within touching distance. Rosaline looked up at him. Diech slowly blinked as if assuring her that everything was okay. The strange barrier that had stood rigidly between them softened. Dont trust anyone. The critical words spoken by the person who meant the most to her seemed to dissolve into a tender, melting sensation.

Rosaline buried her face in his open embrace and wrapped her arms around his waist. A pleasant fragrance filled the air. It was the scent of a person, not perfumes, mixed with the smell of dry cloth.

With a gentle movement, Diech, who had stood frozen ever since her forehead touched his, slowly moved his arms. Rosaline immediately pulled herself closer to him, not feeling any discomfort.

Diech buried his face in Rosalines shoulder and held her even tighter. He was trembling. He looked cold, and he seemed to be in pain. It was different from his usual smiling demeanor.

Suddenly, the image of him from the final day of the martial arts competition entered Rosalines mind.

In the middle of the venue, the Emperor had bestowed a sword on her, and the audience cheered as the eagle soared with its mighty wings overhead. She remembered Diechs face that day, shining under the brilliant sunlight.

Although she couldnt see his face while holding him so tightly now, somehow Rosaline felt as if Diech had that expression, that same look on his face. And come to think of it, why was he crying? She had forgotten to ask. It felt strange to ask in a situation like this. Deep in thought, Rosaline recalled that moment.

She vividly remembered the scorching sunlight of that day, as well as the cheers that filled the vast open space.

[Glory of Illavenia! With the blessings of Idelavhim, may it last forever!]

She witnessed the anger simmering in his mesmerizing golden eyes concealed behind a flawless facade. She recalled the sound of Diechs laughter, much like the present moment, filled with genuine warmth.

A sudden shiver ran down her spine. Rosaline, still being held, twisted her body.

Ugh!

Rosaline let out a piercing cry. Deep crimson blood streamed into Diechs embrace. Her hand clenched his cloak with intensity, her muscles bulging. She felt a tingling sensation in her fingertips and a throbbing pain in her head.