Chapter 352 A Day That Will Never Be Repeated Jeanne & Joanna Date
Old Town Elyndra
Spring — Morning
The morning market in the old district of Elyndra was filled with the rich aroma of freshly baked sweet bread, the vibrant scent of colorful wildflowers sold by women in traditional embroidered dresses, and the gentle sound of water from the city's central fountain, surrounded by beautifully carved stone that depicted ancient tales. Jeanne stood before an arched stone gate, covered in lush green vines with bright yellow flowers mingling with the old, moss-covered wood. She awaited someone she had known her whole life—her younger sister, whom she had protected all her life.
Jeanne wore a simple dark blue dress that reached her calves, with loose sleeves that revealed a glimpse of her delicate wrists, and her blonde hair was braided to the side, adorned with a white lace ribbon. Today, she had left her longsword at home, resting in the corner of her room. She chose to set aside all symbols of "Saint" and "royal protector" to enjoy the moment together. Today, she was just a sister.
"Joanna is probably late again..." she murmured, though her smile was hard to hide as her eyes scanned the surroundings with hope.
Before long, the sound of light footsteps echoed on the cobblestone path, where pedestrians had walked. Joanna ran towards him, her white dress swaying with her movement, and the pink ribbon at her waist shimmered in the morning sunlight. Her silver hair flowed gently, blown by the spring breeze that carried the sweet scent of flowers. Though her face was cheerful as always, Jeanne's keen eyes—accustomed to reading small signs—caught the hidden weariness behind that smile, like dew that remains even when the sun shines, adding a deep sense of longing and concern between them.
"Sorry, Big Brother! I lost track of time!" Joanna exclaimed, slightly out of breath, her halting breath adding a vibrant tone to her voice.
Jeanne chuckled softly, his laughter warm and gentle. He affectionately patted his sister's head, feeling the warmth of the bond that tied them together.
"I almost went to the palace to drag you out."
"I won't run away from our promise today!" Joanna replied quickly, her eyes shining with excitement. "Today is our date!"
Jeanne nodded, wearing a lavender dress that sparkled under the morning sun, cinched at the waist with a silk ribbon. "That's right. Our first date as... just siblings. No royal affairs. No magic practice. No curses. Just us."