As the evening sky painted itself with the hues of twilight, Kazmir and I found ourselves seated at an elegantly set table in the grand dining hall of Xylos Manor. Our conversation wandered through plans and possibilities as we discussed our impending journey to the Alanian Empire.

"Think of this as a grand adventure, Ava," Kazmir said, his eyes twinkling with excitement. "A much-needed respite from the endless council meetings and estate affairs."

"And here I was enjoying the thrill of paperwork and the same four walls. But if you insist, exploring Alanian might barely compete with that excitement," I leaned back, a playful smirk tugging at my lips.

The decision to delay our wedding to ensure I had ample time to recuperate from a recent illness had set the empire abuzz with rumors. Every magic telegram and newspaper headline speculated wildly, adding a layer of intrigue to our departure.

As we enjoyed the mushroom soup, its rich flavors, and its comforting balm, our butler Albert approached with an air of reluctant interruption.

"Your Grace, a messenger from Count Edam has delivered gifts and a well-wishing letter for Her Grace's swift recovery," he announced, his voice tinged with disapproval.

"Return them, Albert. Inform them that the Manor of Xylos prefers deeds to trinkets," I said with a dismissive wave, barely looking up from my soup.

"Exactly my thoughts, my love. And don't worry, I've got all the gifts you could ever want. Starting with a getaway from this gilded cage to the vibrant streets of Alanian," Kazmir chuckled, his voice low and amused.

After dinner, Kazmir, ever the gentleman with a hint of mischief, offered his arm, and we strolled out to the garden where a gazebo awaited, transformed into a haven of soft cushions and ambient light. The contrast to the manor's usual stateliness was refreshing.

"So, tell me about Alanian. I expect tales of daring knights and mysterious markets, or I'm not setting foot out of this gazebo," I teased, settling comfortably against the plush cushions.

Kazmir's laughter rang out, clear and joyful. "Oh, I'll do you one better. I'll tell you of their war horses. There's this particular breed, the inane, shimmering like a pool of gold under the sun. I've secured one for you, thinking it might inspire you to ride with me at dawn."

"The only thing that'll get me riding at dawn is the promise of a spectacular breakfast afterward," I quipped, my tone dry but eyes gleaming with humor.

He painted a vivid picture of the Alanian landscape—towering mountains and verdant valleys, where people of unmatched prowess in horseback riding and combat lived lives woven with courage and community.

He recalled a moment of pure serenity during his last visit, watching dolphins arc gracefully through the crystalline waves—a scene that mirrored the empire's vibrant essence.

"The seas of Alanian are alive with wonders," Kazmir continued, his voice tinged with awe.

"Seeing those dolphins play was like watching the spirit of Alanian itself—free and untamed."

"Since this is an unplanned visit, I doubt that we will be granted access to meet my sister due to security reasons," he said as we walked through the garden.

"But if this is on my scheduled visit, upon our arrival, we will be greeted by Prince Rolan and his wife, Princess Elysia—who is, in fact, my eldest sister," Kazmir revealed with a fond smile. Our conversation deepened into the night, and I was delighted by the connection.

"She and Rolan are expecting their first child, and my parents, the former Duke and Duchess of Xylos, are likely there already, eager to welcome their grandchild," he added.

With dawn, the manor buzzed with preparations. Kazmir, with his typical efficiency, ensured everything was arranged swiftly. The magic of a transportation portal meant that what would typically be a weeks-long journey would take but a moment.

Reassured by Sebastian and the Doctor of my improved health, we said our brief farewells. The portal, a shimmering arch of light and promise, awaited us in the secluded wing of the manor.

We stepped through the portal and emerged into the vibrant heart of the Alanian Empire. However, even the best-laid plans saw a moment of disarray as Kazmir, usually the epitome of grace, stumbled upon arrival, his misstep nearly sending us both tumbling.

"As graceful as a galloping horse," I teased, steadying us both.

"Only the finest horses for you, my love," he retorted, a blush creeping across his cheeks as the nearby guards stifled their chuckles.

As we arrived around the afternoon, the place of the portal was a two-day carriage ride to the Alanian Palace. Kazmir asked Sir Marcus to notify us of our arrival together with the other knights.

"Are you alright, my love?" Kazmir asked as he saw me walking wobbly. This may be due to the transportation portal that was almost new to me compared to the simple carriage ride.

"Just a little bit dizzy. I think I must be tired from the journey since it's my first time using the transportation portal." I said while Kazmir supported me while he wrapped his hand around my waist.

"Alright. Do you want me to carry you? I am good at it you know," He asked while gesturing the attempt to carry me like we're newly wed.

"Can I just piggyback? That can work as well." He looked confused as I assumed the word piggyback was new to him.

I faced him and then guided him to turn his back from me while I tried to make him bend a little bit, but he was so resistant.

"What do you think you are doing my love? Are you forcing me to propose again?" He said jokingly but still followed me.

As I hugged him from his neck he was a bit shocked by the gesture so I chuckled.

"Don't worry I won't do what you're thinking right now. This is how piggyback works." I said while I assumed he now understood about how piggyback works.

As he walked through the town's plaza, the gazes of the people pierced through me. I felt so embarrassed, but I couldn't just ask Kazmir to put me down as I was the one who suggested doing this.

We heard the people murmuring and saying how sweet Kazmir was and the others, maybe of noble blood, said that it was unladylike. But I don't think Kazmir cares about what they are gossiping about. I can even hear him hum while he walks and that made me slowly sleepy.

When I woke up, I found myself lying in bed, and next to me was a beautiful human being whom even the gods in this realm may be jealous of. Now, I am more curious about what Princess Elysia and his parents look like.

I smiled while I appreciated his facial features, never had I imagined that someone like him would be officially my husband, technically. Even when I stayed in Korea, deep inside, whenever I saw someone whose beauty was beyond compare, may it be a woman or man, I do appreciate how they looked.

"You are a piece of artwork…. Even Michelangelo will be jealous" I said as I brushed the hair that ran down his face.

"This nose that I am jealous of how perfect it is woven into your face…. These eyelashes, that even eyelash technicians will rave about…." I said while giggling. Now that I look at him, I am excited about what our future children will look like.

"These jaws that jaw-tox can't even get near to…. And…." I paused as I traced his lips. I am feeling the urge to kiss him, but I know it's rude considering he's sleeping. I may feel like doing so, but I want his approval first, right?

I was shocked as he held my hand tracing his face. Then, when I look at his forest-green eyes, all I can see is the desire to do something. He's too honest for a person.

"My love, I know how much you want me…. But, I don't know what I will do if you continue this." He said while he kissed the hand that he was holding.

"Uhmm…. You know, y-you can kiss me…." After I said that line, he held my face as he kissed me deeply, passionately, and sweetly. The kiss becomes deeper and deeper and deeper.

I clung my hands to his nape as he continued kissing, now on top of me. His hands on both sides of my head supporting his balance. His tongue played mine, and as the kiss deepened he then broke it and kissed me on my forehead.

"I told you…. I won't hold back…." He said while I still clung to his nape. I smiled at him while his face and ears are all bright red.

"We'll have to wait for the wedding. I want us to have a proper wedding night free from worries." He said while smiling at me. He then lay beside me and hugged me close to him as he kissed my forehead again.

"This should be enough for now…. The view in Aurelion can help the restless night ahead of us after our wedding night." He said as his hug tightened, while I felt something bulging right down on my stomach part. I giggled as I knew what it was.

"Don't mock me…." He pouted while I still giggled. How cute he was pouting so I hugged him back even if I felt 'that thing'.

To be continued...