Morning breaks over the serene kitchen, where Agneyastra perches on the cool countertop near the warmth of the stove. Her eyes are fixed on Sinai, a nimble 9-year-old, as he carefully wields the spatula, flipping pancakes with gentle precision. The fragrant aroma of batter and syrup fills the air, adding a touch of magic to the scene.
Agneyastra, with a kind smile, praises Sinai''s effort, urging him to continue without rushing. “Very good,” she says, her voice filled with warmth and encouragement. “Handle the pancakes with care, so they don''t burn.”
Sinai''s small hands navigate the hot pan adeptly, methodically flipping four pancakes with cautious ease. He looks up at Agneyastra with uncertainty, seeking her approval.
Agneyastra claps her hands gently, her eyes sparkling with pride. “Well done,” she exclaims, her words resonating with genuine admiration. “Now, let''s do the same with the bacon.”
Their harmonious dance in the kitchen continues, with Agneyastra guiding Sinai in preparing the family breakfast. The room fills with the sizzling sounds of bacon and the comforting scent of the morning feast. Suddenly, Ramil, just returned from his vigorous workout, strides into the kitchen, his sinewy muscles glistening with perspiration. Oblivious to Agneyastra''s focus on Sinai, he positions himself between her thighs, reaching for a cup from the cupboard above. His actions are careless, his intentions innocent.
Agneyastra, caught off guard by Ramil''s intrusion, turns her head to see him, only to witness his slow retreat as he retrieves the cup. The rhythmic movement of his arm creates an inadvertent collision, causing Agneyastra''s body to crash and slide down Ramil''s lean frame. Her graceful presence, once perched on the countertop, is abruptly disrupted.
Sinai, vigilant and aware, tries to manage the boiling water on the stovetop, determined to maintain control amidst the chaos. Agneyastra, her grace momentarily shattered, springs into action. Her concern for Sinai''s safety overrides any hesitation or embarrassment she might feel. With swift movements, she rushes over to Sinai''s side, offering assistance and guidance in taming the unruly boiling liquid. Together, they regain control, the threat of danger extinguished for now.
Ramil, standing at a distance, observes the scene with a hint of amusement in his voice. “That was very rude,” he remarks, his words carrying a lighthearted tone. “But can you do that again?”
Agneyastra and Sinai both glanced at Ramil with a perplexed expression. Agneyastra, her emerald eyes rolling in exasperation, couldn''t hold back her annoyance any longer. She pursed her lips and spoke, her voice dripping with sarcasm, “What?”
Ramil, leaning casually against the countertop, offered a mischievous smile in response. “Good morning, that is what I said,” he quipped, his voice tinged with playful arrogance.
Sinai, Ramil''s younger brother, couldn''t help but interject. His youthful voice filled with undeniable mischief, he replied, “That is not what you said, Ramil.”
But their banter was interrupted by the arrival of Marudeva stepping into the busy kitchen. His stern gaze landed on Ramil, who stood shirtless amidst the commotion, completely unaware of the disapproval that awaited him. Marudeva''s voice carried a mix of authority and concern as he addressed his son. “We''ve spoken about this, Ramil. You can''t be seen like this around a lady.”
Unfazed, Ramil let out a hearty laugh, playfully pointing towards Agneyastra. “Dad, it''s just Agney,” he quipped.
But Marudeva''s response was unwavering. “The only lady who is allowed to see you like this is your wife. And since you don''t have one, it''s time you go put on a shirt.”
Ramil''s defiance bubbled up, as he questioned his father''s sudden change in perspective. “You raised me as a Dweller, why now are you trying to change that fact?” he asked with a touch of rebellion.
Marudeva''s voice softened, his words laced with a father''s concern. “Just go cover yourself, Ramil. It''s about respecting others and the world we live in.”
Reluctantly, Ramil acknowledged his father''s request and obediently left the kitchen, guided by Marudeva''s gentle hand. Agneyastra couldn''t help but watch as the two figures exited, her gaze lingering for a moment too long on Ramil''s shirtless chest.
Sinia''s gentle tugs on Agneyastra''s arm, a mouth-watering aroma wafted from the food that Sinai with the help of Agneyastra had skillfully prepared and now placed on the serving dishes.
“Agney, is this good?” Sinia inquired with hopeful eyes.
Agneyastra''s smile illuminated her face, radiating reassurance. “Yes, well done,” she replied, her voice filled with pride. Together, they gracefully carried the laden dishes into the dining room, their hands working in synchronized harmony.
The tablecloth adorned the large wooden table, its crisp white fabric a canvas for the feast that awaited. As if by some unspoken cue, Emathion, Marudeva, and Ramil entered the dining room, their expressions piqued with anticipation. Agneyastra gestured towards Sinai, the words escaping her lips with a sense of admiration, “Sinai cooked everything.”
Ramil couldn''t resist a playful dig, “Let''s hope it''s cooked all the way through,” eliciting a chuckle from Marudeva.
Sensing the jest, Marudeva gestured towards an empty chair, encouraging Ramil to focus on savoring the meal rather than quibbling. “Just eat, Ramil,” Marudeva said with a good-natured grin. His eyes then shifted to Sinai, the warmth in his gaze mirroring the tantalizing aroma that enveloped the room. “I can''t wait to try it; it smells divine,” he exclaimed, unable to contain his excitement.
As the group settled at the table, Agneyastra found herself stealing glances at Ramil. Her eyes traced the delicate dance of his eating, from fork to mouth, and she couldn''t look away, her heart fluttering in her chest. Clearing her mind, Agneyastra shifted her attention to Emathion and directed a question towards him, her voice laced with curiosity, “Emathion, are you planning to visit Moriko this summer?”
Emathion pondered for a moment, his eyes flickering, before opening his mouth to respond. “Not too much, I want to spend quality time with Sandra,” he confessed, a note of excitement coloring his voice.
Sinai''s small hand gently tugged on Agneyastra''s arm, drawing her attention. Sinai beamed with excitement, their eyes shining with joy. “I had so much fun learning to cook,” Sinai expressed.
***
As the pale orange rays of the late afternoon sun filtered through the window, Ramil found himself descending the grand staircase of his ancestral home. Each step creaked beneath his weight, echoing through the empty halls, emphasizing the absence of his family. Suddenly, a flicker of movement caught Ramil''s eye. A shadow danced across the windowpane, followed by a rapping on the door. His heart quickened, a mixture of curiosity and apprehension coursing through his veins.
With cautious steps, he approached the entrance. A quiet sigh, Ramil pulled open the heavy, intricately carved wooden door, revealing a figure clad in a vibrant emerald cloak. It was Ruby, her eyes brimming with curiosity and mischief. A smile played at the corners of her lips as she greeted him.
“How can I help you, Ruby?” Ramil''s voice resonated.
Ruby, seemingly unfazed by the formality, boldly took a step forward, asserting her presence within the threshold of Ramil''s home. Her voice carried a hint of urgency intertwined with an undercurrent of concern. “I saw your family at the market, and you were not among them.”
Ramil''s gaze shifted to the world beyond the confines of his home, his eyes scanning the deserted street as he closed the door, shutting out the world. “Yes, Ruby,” he murmured, his voice tinged with a quiet resignation, “I rarely join them.”
Late afternoon sunlight streamed in through the windows, casting a warm glow over Ruby and Ramil as they stood in the hallway. Their fingers interlocked, Ramil led Ruby through each room on the ground floor of his home, showcasing the simple yet cozy spaces. With each step, their connection grew stronger.
As they ascended the staircase, Ramil pointed towards a row of four doors, indicating the bedrooms of each resident. “This is mine,” he said, gesturing towards the first door. “Then comes Agneyastra''s, Emathion''s, and Sinai''s rooms.”
Curiosity brimming within her, Ruby eagerly opened Ramil''s bedroom door. However, the sight that greeted her senses was far from pleasant. The room was engulfed in a musty odor, prompting Ruby to hurriedly close the door, covering her nose. Concern etched across her face, she turned to Ramil.
“Ramil, your room... it smells horrible. You really need to clean it out,” she remarked firmly, her voice laced with determination.
Realizing the validity of her words, Ramil nodded in agreement. He knew he had neglected his personal space, allowing it to deteriorate into an uncomfortable state. Taking her hand, he allowed her to guide him towards Agneyastra''s bedroom, hoping for a much more pleasing sight.
As Ruby swung open the door to Agneyastra''s room, a wave of relief washed over Ramil. The freshness of the air, the orderliness of the space, it was a stark contrast to the disarray of his own room. A genuine smile tugged at Ruby''s lips as she surveyed the clean and inviting environment. “This is much better,” she remarked with satisfaction, her eyes lingering on Ramil.
The desire between them intensified as Ruby leaned in, their lips locking in a passionate kiss. With nimble fingers, she initiated the removal of Ramil''s shirt. Yet, as their intensity grew, Ramil''s consciousness was drawn to their surroundings.
Glancing around Agneyastra''s bedroom, Ramil''s thoughts momentarily wandered. Despite his longing, he couldn''t help but acknowledge the impracticality of their current location. “I can''t do this in here,” he finally admitted, his voice tinged with regret.
Ruby''s hand glides down Ramil''s chest while her lips press against his neck, her voice barely a whisper, “The scent in here is intoxicating.”
As Ramil stood on the threshold of departure, Ruby reached out and pulled him into a gentle embrace. They instinctively darted towards Agneyastra''s bed. As Ruby unleashed Ramil, she sunk her mouth upon him, Ramil found himself paralyzed with pleasure, Softly, he uttered her name. “Ruby.”
As Ruby lifts up, her desire for Ramil intensified. She gently pulled him closer, as their bodies seemed to merge, creating an aura of passion. Ruby''s fingers entwined with his, their touch both electric and comforting. As she leaned in, their lips collided, an explosion of desire. After a few moments of vigorous propulsions, Ramil pulls out of Ruby, then releases himself on the bed sheets.
Ramil leaned back, his chest heaving as he tried to catch his breath. The weight of their recent encounter hung in the air, but in the calm that followed, Ruby found comfort as she nestled against his chest. Her fingers traced delicate patterns across his skin as she whispered, “She does have a lovely room.”
Ramil sat up, his brows furrowed in confusion. “Ruby, what are you doing?”
Ignoring his question, Ruby rose gracefully and made her way towards the slightly ajar closet door. The curiosity in her eyes burned fiercely as she stepped closer, unable to resist the magnetic pull of the unknown. Ramil watched her with growing concern, uncertainty etched on his face.This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source.
As Ruby swung open the closet door, her eyes widened in shock. The small space was filled to the brim with locked cases and trunks, their secrets concealed within their sturdy barricades. Ruby questioned, “Why does she have all this stuff packed up?”
Ramil paused for a moment, collecting his thoughts. “They were gifts from the Water Prince,” he finally revealed.
Ruby''s words cut through the air like a sharpened blade, her disdain dripping from every syllable. “I thought she was just another Keener runway, but she must be much more.” Driven by curiosity, she approached one of the locked chests, her fingers itching to uncover the truth within.
“What are you doing in my room?” Agneyastra''s voice trembled as she confronted Ramil and Ruby, who stood awkwardly in the center of her room.
Ramil stammered, “Nothing,” his eyes darting around nervously.
Without warning, Ramil darted towards Agneyastra''s bed, swiftly removing the bedding with a frantic energy. Agneyastra''s curiosity turned into bewilderment as she watched the sheets fly out of the open window. She couldn''t make sense of what was happening. “Why did you do that?” she managed to ask.
Ramil, with a feigned calmness, replied, “I saw ants.” Agneyastra''s gaze shifted towards her open bedroom door, her patience wearing thin. “Both of you just get out,” she demanded, shoving Ramil aside.
As Ramil and Ruby scurried out of the room, the sound of Agneyastra''s bathroom door slamming shut filled the air. Agneyastra sought refuge within the safety of the confined space.
Meanwhile, Ramil and Ruby descended the staircase, their hasty footsteps echoing against the polished wooden floor. They entered the living room, where Marudeva, Emathion and Sinai, were immersed in conversation. Ruby silently made her exit, a sense of unease hanging in the air.
Marudeva''s eyes followed Ruby as she disappeared behind the closing front door. He turned his attention to Ramil, his face etched with concern. “Why was Ruby here?” he questioned.
Ramil, his mind preoccupied with the recent encounter, simply shrugged. “No reason,” he muttered. Another question lingered in the air, one that Marudeva couldn''t ignore. “Why is Agney upset?” he inquired.
Marudeva sighed deeply, his gaze drifting towards upstairs. “I told her about Prince Marius''s wedding,” he confided. “I wish you were there. She didn''t take the news lightly.”
***
In the vast expanse of the Earth Kingdom, nestled within Stone City, the once bustling streets stood nearly empty, save for the presence of the Brucies. Also companied with guests who had gathered here eagerly, on this momentous occasion - Moriko''s presenting party.
Within the walls of Earth Kingdom Castle, just a short distance away, the Brucies scurried about, frantically putting the final touches to the preparations. Meanwhile, amidst this flurry of activity, Emathion strolled along, his hand entwined with Sandra''s. A wave of nervousness washed over her, and she could not help but vocalize her fears. “I am nervous, Emathion,” Sandra confessed, her voice tinged with trepidation. “I know deep down that our time together is finite, but I am basking in the joy of these moments with you.”
Emathion squeezed her hand gently and reassured her, “Do not dwell on such thoughts. Let us live in the present and cherish every precious moment we have.” His eyes swept across the surroundings, ensuring no prying eyes were witness to their affectionate embrace.
Little did Emathion know that within the confines of the castle''s grand window, Moriko, the hostess of the party, had caught a glimpse of the stolen kiss. A mixture of melancholy and understanding played upon her features, her smile bittersweet. In that instance, Moriko realized the truth - the heart she wished Emathion was embracing her, as he does with Sandra. With grace and composure, Emathion escorted Sandra towards the imposing castle.
In the quiet confines of her room, Moriko watched Emathion and Sandra down below, their silhouettes intertwined in an enchanting dance. The air was thick with anticipation as Yeongi entered, accompanied by Lacey and Alyona, their skins adorned with intricate stone patterns that seemed to sing a magical symphony.
The trio enveloped Moriko in warm, affectionate hugs, their presence offering a sense of comfort in the midst of her weary heart. “I am glad you came,” Moriko whispered, her voice soft yet filled with gratitude. Her gaze shifted to Yeongi, her eyes searching for answers. “Why couldn''t I invite Agney?” she inquired, her curiosity tinged with a hint of disappointment.
Yeongi''s expression tightened as he spoke, his words carrying the weight of authority. “Tyson wishes to limit Agney''s involvement in the Kingdoms of Elements procedures,” he revealed. “She asks too many questions. Now, let us prepare you for the grand presentation.”
Lacey, with gentle hands and a knowing smile, helped Yeongi retrieve a dress from Moriko''s closet. The fabric was a mesmerizing blend of stone-gray, its edges adorned with delicate trimmings of vibrant green. As Alyona spoke words of encouragement, her tone filled with pride and reverence, Moriko felt a surge of emotions welling up within her.
“You have done remarkably well thus far,” Alyona commended. “Your family would have been immeasurably proud of the strength you have showcased.”
Lacey, her fingertips delicately brushing the fabric, marveled at its texture. “You are going to look breathtakingly beautiful,” she murmured, her voice brimming with admiration and anticipation.
Moriko stands before the grand mirror, her reflection a vision of radiant beauty. With gentle hands, Yeongi, Lacey, and Alyona help her slip into the elegant gown, its fabric flowing like a river of moonlight. The room hums with anticipation as they prepare to make their way outside.
Emathion, tall and distinguished, stands near the doorway. By his side Sandra, her eyes filled with curiosity and wonder. Facing them with a warm smile, Moriko extends her arms, embracing both Emathion and Sandra in a heartfelt greeting. “This must be Sandra,” she says, her voice filled with genuine joy. The embrace is brief, but its warmth lingers.
As the group moves forward, Moriko walks beside Sandra, their arms interlocked in a gesture of friendship and solidarity. Their steps are synchronized, their energy harmonious. Moriko''s smile deepens as they walk, her desire for Sandra to feel welcome and at ease evident in her every word.
“I hope you enjoy your time here,” Moriko says sincerely, her voice carrying a hint of longing. “It has taken too long for Emathion to bring you here.” Her words hang delicately in the air, a gentle reminder of the hidden longing that lies within her heart.
Sandra looks at her curiously, her expression reflecting a hint of concern. “Emathion says you are normally all alone,” she says gently, her voice filled with compassion.
Lacey, ever observant, interjects, her words a comforting reassurance. “Moriko has many friends, but most of them couldn''t make it today.”
Moriko walked beside Sandra, her footsteps echoing on the stone path that led them out of the castle and towards Stone City. Emathion, Yeongi, Lacey, and Alyona followed closely behind. It was a gathering of Moriko''s closest friends, a reunion filled with laughter and excitement.
As Moriko greeted each of her friends, her gaze kept gravitating towards Emathion and Sandra. There was an undeniable chemistry between them, but Moriko couldn''t help but feel a pang of sadness. Lacey, the ever-perceptive friend, approached Moriko with her brother Jeremy in tow. Lacey leaned in and whispered, “Moriko, don''t worry. Emathion may be oblivious, but his heart belongs to you. Look who came.”
Jeremy greeted Moriko with a warm hug, expressing his gratitude for the invitation. Emathion, noticing the interaction, slipped away from Sandra and approached them. Moriko introduced Jeremy to Emathion, her voice tinged with a mix of politeness and uncertainty. Emathion shook Jeremy''s hand, surprise evident in his voice as he remarked, “I never knew Lacey had a brother.”
Jeremy grinned, his eyes sparkling with amusement. “Well, she does, and that''s me.” He then shifted his attention to Moriko and Lacey, a curious expression on his face. “How does this presenting party work?” Moriko took a step back, motioning for Jeremy and Lacey to follow her. She walked away, explaining the intricacies of her customs and traditions, engaging her friends in the rich tapestry of her culture.
Meanwhile, Emathion observed Moriko from a distance, his eyes filled with longing and regret. Just as he was lost in thoughts, Tyson approached him silently. Tyson''s voice was stern but filled with warning as he spoke, “You need to be mindful of your actions with Moriko.” With those words hanging in the air, Tyson turned and walked away, leaving Emathion to wrestle with his emotions and the weight of his choices.
***
As the early morning light filtered through the ornate windows of the Water Kingdom Palace, Marius emerged from his room, his lean physique on display as he stepped out shirtless. The gashes across his chest, their angry red lines contrasting against his bronzed skin. A sense of urgency coursed through him, propelling him to quickly make his way to his sister''s bedroom.
Evain awaited him, donned in the resplendent armor of a Water Kingdom Soldier. Her eyes widened as she spotted her brother''s wounds, and without hesitation, she reached for a cloth from her vanity, extending it to him. Concern laced her voice as she asked, “Marius, what is going on?”
Marius, his face etched with a mixture of frustration and confusion, accepted the cloth gratefully. With a heavy sigh, he replied, “I am trying, Evain. Truly, I am. But I fear that my body does not respond to Brooke as it should.”
Sensing his internal struggle, Evain retrieved a first aid kit from a drawer in her vanity. She placed it into his hands, her words filled with a hint of exasperation, “Then find yourself a mistress, Marius. Spare me the details of your marital struggles. I must be on my way, as I am already running late for my first day of duty.”
Marius looked at her, a certain vulnerability shining in his eyes. “Evain, could I perhaps seek solace in the sanctuary of your room for a few hours? I just need some time to gather my thoughts, away from prying eyes.”
Early morning cast a soft glow over the Water Kingdom Palace as Evain, the fearless warrior, carefully lifted her helmet from its resting place on her bed. The polished metal shimmered, reflecting the dim light that filtered through the curtained windows. With practiced ease, she positioned the helmet atop her head, its weight a familiar comfort.
“Sure, just don''t let your wife or Devereaux in my room,” Evain remarked casually to Marius, who lounged on her couch. Her voice carried a hint of mischief, a playful jab at her brother.
Leaving her room, Evain closed the door behind her, the gentle click echoing through the empty hallway. As she hurried on, her steps echoing against the marble floors, she encountered her sister-in-law Brooke, who stood at the intersection of corridors, her brow furrowed in concern.
“I have you seen Marius?” Brooke inquired, her voice tinged with worry.
Evain paused for a fleeting moment, her piercing blue eyes meeting Brooke''s worried gaze. “I believe he is in the courtyard, seeking a wife who won''t brandish a dagger against him every five minutes,” she replied with a sly smile, her words laced with a mixture of teasing and truth.
Continuing down the hall, Evain hastened towards the front door of the grand palace. The intricate details of the royal architecture surrounded her, the ethereal beauty of the Water Kingdom evident in every nook and cranny. But just as she was about to reach the threshold, Devereaux, her other brother, swiftly intercepted her path. His tall figure blocked her way, his presence commanding attention.
“Father must be going mad, letting you join the army,” Devereaux remarked with a mix of disbelief and disapproval.
A fire ignited within Evain''s eyes as she met her brother''s gaze, steely determination flashing like lightning. “It''s better than being a waste of space,” she retorted defiantly, conveying her unyielding spirit. Without hesitation, she gave him a forceful shove, a physical embodiment of her refusal to be underestimated or confined. With that final act of defiance, she propelled herself past Devereaux and pushed open the majestic double doors of the palace, stepping out into the world beyond.
Evain hurriedly made her way through the palace and across the elegant bridge that spanned over to the beach below. Soldiers were already assembling, forming a staunch line along the sandy shore. General Frog, a wise and imposing figure, stood before the soldiers, his eyes piercing and focused. In a commanding voice, he declared, “Today, we shall observe how you fight each other on this very beach, for it is through this battle that I shall determine your worth.”
Beside Evain, a fellow soldier whispered, “I desire to go into battle today.”
With a mixture of curiosity and concern, Evain turned to her comrade and asked, “Why? Are you so eager to embrace face the possibility of death?”
Together with the other soldiers, Evain spent the entire day showcasing her formidable fighting skills before General Frog. With each strategic move, she exemplified grace, strength, and precision, outshining her fellow warriors. General Frog keenly observed her every strike and parry, a hint of intrigue in his gaze.
Intrigued by Evain''s extraordinary talent, General Frog approached her as she engaged in a fierce duel with a fellow soldier, their wooden swords clashing in a rhythmic symphony. The general''s deep voice resonated through the air as he inquired, “Evain, why do you hold back?”
Without missing a beat, Evain replied, her voice laced with determination, “These soldiers, they lack the skills and the heart required for true battle. They are not worthy adversaries.”
General Frog''s laughter reverberated across the beach, causing the other soldiers to cast resentful glares in Evain''s direction. Clapping his hands, the general acknowledged her boldness. “Very well, Evain. You have proven yourself to be exceptional. Tell me, where would you like to be placed?”
A fire ignited within Evain as she declared with unwavering resolve, “I want to be on the front line, where the battle rages fiercest and the fate of the Water Kingdom hangs in the balance.”
The general''s brows furrowed, a mix of surprise and uncertainty crossing his face. “No one has ever chosen the front line, Evain. It is a place of utmost danger, where the odds of survival are least.”
Evain stepped forward. “Because cowards never select the hard path,” she replied, her voice filled with determination.
One soldier, filled with a mix of defensiveness and skepticism, spoke up. “You don''t know me or my skills,” he retorted, his voice laced with doubt.
Evain''s gaze lingered on the soldier, her eyes assessing him. With a swift motion, she pointed to his sword, its blade gleaming, unmarred by any evidence of combat. “That sword,” Evain emphasized, “doesn''t even have a chip in the blade.”
“Just because you put on armor doesn''t make you a fighter,” Evain continued, her words hitting with intensity. “You have to practice nonstop, until every muscle in your body screams in pain, and get up the next day to do it all again.”
General Frog''s clapping hands brought attention back to him, his eyes gleaming with approval. He pointed at Evain, his voice filled with respect. “Evain, you are now my front-line Lieutenant Colonel,” he announced, the soldiers'' eyes widening in both surprise and admiration. “She will select and train the front-line soldiers.” A sense of pride surged through Evain as she accepted her new role. With a final command, General Frog dismissed the soldiers for the day, allowing them to process the significance of Evain''s promotion.