The perfect | TBATE X COTE

Chapter 22: reunion

Arthur Leywin point of view:

The months before my return home had passed in the blink of an eye. Even though I really wanted to go home, I couldn't help but feel a little sad at this farewell. However, it was something normal and necessary, so I took a deep breath and took a last look at myself in the bedroom mirror. I contemplated my plain green long-sleeved shirt and my brown pants and, after being satisfied with my appearance, I left the room. Sylvie rested comfortably on my head, her warmth providing a comforting feeling.

Outside the room, Grandpa Virion and Tess were waiting for me. Tess was on the verge of tears, while Grandpa had a faint smile on his face.

"Remember to be careful, brat!" warned Grandpa Virion, as he handed me a gleaming silver compass-like object. The intricate details etched into the metal caught the light, creating a dazzling display of light and shadow. "If for some reason you find yourself returning to the Forest of Elshire, this will serve as your guide," he explained, his eyes serious as he placed the artifact in my palm. As I looked up to thank him, his expression softened, and a mischievous glint shone in his eye. "Or you could always have another princess guide you," he said, his eyebrows raising suggestively.

Tessia's face turned a deep shade of crimson. She raised her little fist and delivered a powerful blow to his arm. "Grandpa!" she cried out.

Grandpa Virion lightly rubbed his arm. "Ouch!, sorry, just kidding," he said with a chuckle.

As I watched the exchange between Tessia and her grandfather, a smile tugged at the corners of my mouth, knowing that I would miss this little dynamic. However, my attention was suddenly drawn to the sound of light footsteps and a melodious chuckle that sounded slightly mocking.

"Fufu~ Tess, don't hit your grandfather," Aeris scolded lightly, her voice as light as a feather on the wind. Her white dress was adorned with delicate purple arrangements, and a matching beret perched atop her head, adding a whimsical touch to her appearance.

"Uuu." Tess cried, running to hug Aeris. "I forgot you're leaving too." She sobbed.

"It'll only be a few days, nothing to worry about, little Tess," Aeris reassured her, returning the hug with a slight smile.

The King and Queen of Elenoir arrived shortly after Tessia stopped clinging to Aeris, and after some normal aristocratic pleasantries, we were given a little more time to say goodbye.

"We'll find a way to keep in touch, brat, but for now, this is goodbye," Grandpa Virion said.

To my surprise, he grabbed my arm and pulled me into a big hug, almost pulling Sylvie off my head.

"Kyu?"

"Papa?"

"It's okay, go back to sleep."

"Kay~"

With Sylvie snuggling back into my head, Grandpa Virion released me from his grip, and this time it was Tessia's turn to hug me. Her small arms wrapped around me with a strength I didn't think possible for someone her size.

"'Uuu, Art," she sobbed. "I'm going to miss you. D-don't go around chasing human girls, got it? Promise me!"

I hugged Tess back, patting her lightly on the back. "We'll see each other again, I promise."

After a few more sobs, and as Aeris finished her farewell, we followed the King and Queen to the outskirts of the castle. Finally, we emerged into the bright sunlight, and several elegant white carriages stood waiting for us, their glossy surfaces gleaming in the warm glow of the sun. Intricate, swirling patterns adorned the carriages, each one a testament to the impeccable taste and craftsmanship of the Elenoir royal family.