Chapter 137: Meeting the Groom
The soft chime of birdsong filtered through the open window as the golden light of early morning painted gentle streaks across the ceiling. Noel Thorne opened his eyes slowly. For a few seconds, he forgot where he was. The bed was too soft, the silence too complete. Then it clicked.
’Teralis... Right. The wedding.’
He sat up with a sigh, brushing a hand through his hair—and winced. His blond strands, longer than he preferred, fell past his nose and curled behind his ears. A few locks even brushed his shoulders now. He stood and walked over to the tall elven mirror in the corner, observing himself under the diffused morning glow.
’Too long. Definitely too long. I’m starting to look like a washed-up bard.’
He ran both hands through the mess and let out a resigned breath. Tomorrow was the wedding. Even if he didn’t care much for appearances, he couldn’t show up looking like he had just crawled out of a forest.
After a quick wash, he dressed in a dark, simple shirt and slim black trousers, tying a neutral-gray cloak over his shoulders. He slid Revenant Fang into the right side of his belt with habitual ease and clipped the dimensional pouch to the left.
Standing once more before the mirror, he glanced at himself briefly.
’Acceptable. Now let’s hope someone in this city is willing to cut hair without charging a noble’s ransom.’
Opening the wooden door of his room, Noel stepped into the hallway. The house, still quiet in the early hour, carried the faint scent of fresh flowers and baked bread, courtesy of the elven staff. Sunlight filtered through stained-glass windows in hues of gold and green. Every corner of the residence was tastefully decorated—sleek, elegant, and unmistakably elven.
He made his way toward the front doors without calling for anyone. He didn’t need company, nor did he want questions. The estate was already stirring with quiet preparation for tomorrow’s ceremony. Servants moved with graceful efficiency, barely making a sound as they passed. Noel ignored them.
Outside, the air was crisp and fresh. The great city of Teralis sprawled out beyond the residence gates—a blend of white stone, towering trees, and glistening bridges suspended between branches. Light glinted off distant golden spires, and carriages drawn by deer-like beasts moved along the upper pathways.