Chapter 40
The radiant glow of the sun stretched across the shiny stairway as Lucien, flanked by Maid Marie and Knight Rex, descended from the towering temple of the Church of Elyssira. Their footsteps echoed in rhythm over the polished white marble, which transitioned gradually into the darkly veined stone path leading to the outer gates.
Awaiting them at the base of the temple was a sight that contrasted the chaos they had just left behind—a scene of disciplined order. Two luxurious carriages stood proudly, each adorned with intricate silver detailing, the crest of House Velebrandt emblazoned on the doors: a winged lion roaring into the sky. Surrounding them were six mounted knights in full plate armor, their helms forged in the style of dragon maws, their white capes trimmed with crimson. They sat atop colossal steeds with flaming manes and obsidian skin that shimmered in the waning light—A-Rank Infernal Warhorses, bred for both intimidation and speed.
The knights held their reins with steady hands, but even from a distance, Knight Rex could spot the telltale stiffness in their posture. A subtle tremor, the way their gloved fingers tensed slightly against the reins, betrayed their unease. The shutdown of the system interface had rattled even the most composed. And yet, none had left their posts. No disarray. No retreat.
Knight Rex approached them first, offering a nod of acknowledgment, his steely eyes meeting theirs beneath the visors. "Well done," he said simply. "You held your ground."
One of the knights saluted with a clenched fist to the chest, but none spoke. Their discipline was admirable. Lucien, trailing behind slightly, looked over the riders with quiet curiosity, his robe fluttering slightly as a breeze passed through the courtyard.
Rex turned back and opened the ornate carriage door for Lucien, the velvet interior glowing softly in the twilight. "Young master, your carriage is ready."
Before Lucien could enter, Maid Marie stepped forward, brushing a loose strand of chestnut brown hair behind her ear, her cheeks still touched with pink from earlier. "I’ll be taking the second carriage," she said with a soft, almost bashful smile. "It wouldn’t do for a maid to ride alongside her master, after all."
Lucien returned her smile faintly, eyes soft with gratitude. "Alright, Marie. Thank you."
As Marie walked toward the second carriage, her fingers nervously clutched the edge of her skirt, stealing one last glance over her shoulder toward Lucien.
Lucien turned to climb into the carriage, his movements graceful yet hesitant. Just before he ducked inside, Knight Rex, with a small smirk tugging at the corner of his lips, asked, "Young master, are you sure you’ll be fine wearing just that robe the whole journey?"
Lucien paused. A wave of realization washed over his face.