Chapter 313 - 312. Time Of Normalcy (2)
The sun cast a golden glow over the lush garden of Ryujin Mansion, its light filtering through the leaves of the ancient trees that swayed gently in the warm breeze. The scent of fresh grass and blooming flowers mixed with the aroma of tea as Lyall carefully poured it into delicate porcelain cups, the liquid steaming in the cool afternoon air.
Kate sat on a checkered blanket, chatting softly with Kai, who was nestled close to me, his small hands gripping the hem of my coat as if seeking reassurance. His golden eyes flickered between Kate and me, responding to her questions with shy nods while occasionally glancing up at me for silent approval. I ruffled his soft hair absentmindedly, my fingers threading through the silky strands as I listened to my father’s voice.
"Your—" Dad started, his deep voice thoughtful, "Archmage and Marquis Fairisles were here, right?"
I lifted my gaze to him and nodded, reaching for my cup of tea. The warmth seeped into my hands as I took a sip.
"Is there something wrong?" he asked, his sharp eyes watching me carefully.
"No," I replied, setting my cup down with a quiet clink. "They just wanted to hear the reports about what happened in Denril."
A thoughtful hum escaped him as he glanced toward the estate, as if recalling something. Meanwhile, the wind picked up slightly, rustling the leaves overhead and sending a few stray petals from the flower bushes dancing across the grass. The atmosphere was peaceful, yet my mind lingered on a certain absence.
I turned to Lyall, who was standing beside the picnic setup, his posture relaxed yet attentive.
"Where’s Asher?" I asked.
"Mrs. Jones took him to town for some shopping," he answered, his tone neutral.
I hummed in acknowledgment, my gaze flickering over to where Kate, Kai, and my father were now engaged in a quiet discussion about the mansion’s garden. The faint sound of Kate’s laughter blended with the rustling of the trees, creating a serene background melody.