Chapter 397: Journey to The Royal Banquet
Inside the lavish carriage, the atmosphere was anything but calm. The girls had started their journey in high spirits, and it hadn’t taken long for the inevitable debate to erupt—who would get to sit beside Lyan. The conversation was animated, filled with laughter, competitive banter, and a fair bit of teasing.
"Obviously, I should be sitting next to Lyan," Wilhelmina announced, her voice carrying that confident edge that was impossible to ignore. She adjusted her dress as if to emphasize her point. "I mean, strategic discussions are my forte. What if we need to talk about what awaits us in the capital?"
Surena scoffed, crossing her arms and leaning back. "Sure, Wilhelmina, because we’re all just dying to hear about political maneuvering during a long trip." She turned her gaze to Lyan, her eyes narrowing with playful intent. "Besides, I’m the one with the most experience in scouting for unexpected threats. If there’s any danger, I’m best suited to be right there by his side."
Belle, who had been leaning against the cushioned seat, perked up, her lips curving into a smile. "Or... maybe we could just leave the serious stuff for once and let me sit by Lyan. I mean, I think I deserve a little comfort, don’t you?" She looked at Lyan, batting her eyelashes dramatically. "It gets tiring trying to look this good all the time."
Lyan chuckled, rubbing his chin. He knew better than to get involved in this. He was sitting comfortably, his eyes shifting between each of the girls as they made their cases, feeling both amused and a little overwhelmed. He could see where this was heading.
Alice, who had been quietly listening, decided it was her turn. She adjusted her glasses and spoke up. "You all are making good points, but let’s be practical. My calm demeanor is exactly what Lyan needs, especially if there’s any stressful conversation during this journey." She looked over at Lyan, her eyes soft but determined. "Besides, someone needs to balance out the chaos."
"Oh, please," Emilia interjected, her hands resting on her hips. "This isn’t about who’s practical or experienced. Lyan deserves someone by his side who’s truly loyal. I’ve been there with him through thick and thin, and I want to sit next to him because I’ve earned it." She shot a challenging look at the others, daring them to argue.
Tesha, who had been sitting in the corner, raised her hand timidly, her cheeks flushed. "Um... maybe I should sit next to Lyan? I mean... I’m the youngest, and I could use some guidance. I-I’d feel safer there."
Xena, unable to hold back, let out a laugh. "Guidance? C’mon, Tesha! What Lyan needs is someone who can actually make things fun!" She grinned widely, giving Lyan a confident thumbs-up. "And let’s face it, I’m the most fun person here. Admit it, Lyan, you’d never get bored if I were sitting next to you!"
Lyan held up his hands defensively, shaking his head. "Hey, don’t drag me into this. I’m just happy to have all of you here," he said with a laugh, though his eyes couldn’t help but linger a little longer on each of the girls as they spoke. He tried to mask it, but there was no denying that he enjoyed the sight of them—the passion, the beauty, the fierce loyalty they showed. It made his heart swell, though he wasn’t about to let that show too clearly.
The argument carried on for a while, the girls each giving impassioned reasons why they deserved the seat next to Lyan. The debate was intense but filled with good humor, and soon enough, they all began to realize that no one was going to win without some compromise. Belle finally suggested, "Why don’t we just rotate seats? That way, we all get a chance."