Leave a comment

◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆

A few days later, Seletina held her hand out to the sun.

It was white like the first snow, and light permeated her palm, which appeared as smooth as glasswork with a slight reddish tinge of blood visible.

I am weak.

Seletina exhaled.

The once smooth and beautiful palm now seemed fragile and feeble to her.

Seletina realized the significance of becoming a knight and the responsibility it entailed. Protecting everything before her gaze and becoming the king’s sword. Just how much of that could she do and just how much of that could she bear, Seletina did not know.

Seletina leaned her back against the balcony railing that overlooked the gardens, and a darkness loomed over her heart. She exhaled and touched the crest on her neck.

The only sensation she felt was the softness of her own skin pushing back against her finger. However, to Seletina, it felt uneven and repulsive to the touch, akin to a pressure ulcer.

The Witch of Black and White. She had a mission to fulfill. To rectify the abominable fate that Orthus had left behind. This realization dampened her spirits, making her feel a little down.

Seletina’s shoulders slumped as she worried about her future.

“What troubles you?” asked the stern yet soothing baritone, shaking Seletina’s eardrums.

Seletina’s eyes widened in shock as she slowly turned her head to gaze at the source of the voice. It belonged to a man dressed in a crimson cloak, with a prominent mustache adorning his face.

Resting upon his head was a golden crown, a clear symbol of his position.

King Gadius the Fourth smiled at Seletina, his gentle expression smoothing away the wrinkles that marked the passage of time.

A tightness formed in the back of Seletina’s throat. She instinctively moved to kneel down, but managed to stop herself just in time. After all, she was now a lady, and it wouldn’t be appropriate to soil her skirt.

Skillfully hiding her almost-kneeling intention, Seletina gracefully lifted the edge of her skirt, performing a curtsey in a natural manner.

“Your Majesty, you appear to be in good humor.”

Seletina spoke, her voice filled with gratitude and respect.

“You don’t need to act so formal. I simply wished to engage in conversation with a lovely lady who seemed a little downcast.”
“Thank you, Your Majesty, for your kind consideration.”

Seletina continued, bowing her head even deeper to display her earnestness.

She genuinely desired to kneel down and serve the man before her. Aiming to demonstrate her utmost respect and gratitude she fell to her knees, as if preparing to lower her head to the ground.

Upon noticing Seletina’s actions, Gadius playfully rolled his eyes, unable to contain a chuckle.

“I always thought you took after Melia, but in that manner, I guess you take more after Balged.”
“This is the first time anyone has ever mentioned that I resemble my father.”
“Really? Your father is quite the man.”

Gadius responded with a smile.

Seletina’s chest swelled with emotion upon witnessing the King’s gentle expression.

“What is troubling you now? You appear deeply saddened. If you don’t mind, allow me to share something with you,”

Gadius gently inquired, assuming a paternal tone towards Seletina. Though she hesitated. She believed it would be inappropriate to burden His Majesty with her worries and anxieties.

When it came to the affairs of the king, Seletina maintained a moderately stoic demeanor. She kept her mouth shut, her gaze drifting aimlessly. However, Gadius spoke as if he had already discerned the situation.

“Did Melia blame you?”

Gadius questioned, causing Seletina to look up, her interest piqued.

“Seletina, you have accomplished something extraordinary. You saved the lives of numerous noblemen during that incident, and you played an exceptional role until Loggins regained consciousness. This is a significant achievement. Who can blame you if some perished or sustained injuries? Listen to me, Seletina,” Gadius continued, “It is commendable that you strive to save everyone, but it is not your fault if certain individuals cannot be saved. We, as human beings, are not all-knowing and all-powerful. We can only do what we can within our limited capacity. Seletina, you possess strength. It is because of your strength that you are capable of bearing the pain of the vulnerable. However, do not inflict harm upon yourself due to the suffering of others. Seletina, you must prioritize taking care of yourself to the best of your ability. You have given your utmost effort. Therefore, do not look down but rather, look up and stand tall.”

Gadius said, stroking his beard as he chuckled.

I knew it…

Gradually, the icy block that had pierced Seletina’s back began to melt away. Each of Gadius’ words penetrated deep into Seletina’s heart, without any hesitation.

I am truly grateful to have been his knight. And even in this life I will continue to do as I have before.

Seletina didn’t dare to utter a word in response to Gadius’ remarks. Instead, she bent at the waist and performed a deep bow. Her hand reached out, though it was clenched tightly and trembling with anticipation.

“Thank you,” she murmured, her voice trembling. However, there was a newfound vitality within her words that wasn’t there before.

Gadius gazed at Seletina, his smile still present.

“I apologize for involving you in such a situation during your debut. As a way of expressing my apology… and as a token of appreciation for your contribution to the case, is there anything I can do for you?” he offered.

Seletina took a moment to gather her thoughts, then slowly raised her head. The depression that had weighed upon her earlier had dissipated entirely. In its place, a sense of renewed determination shone brightly in her eyes.

Gadius stroked his beard, a slight upward curve forming at the corners of his mouth.

Seletina spoke with a voice as clear as a murmuring stream, carefully choosing her words.

“There is one thing I would like to ask of Your Majesty…”
“Oh, is that so?”

Gadius responded, his eyes widening in surprise. It was an unexpected reaction, as he had feared that Seletina would simply turn down his offer.

“If it’s something I can do, then speak.” Gadius eagerly awaited Seletina’s next words, filled with anticipation.
“I would like you to send a letter to… or at least let me borrow some of your sealing wax,” Seletina requested.
“Sealing wax? Why?”
“I have someone I would like to meet.”
“Someone you wish to meet? Who might that be?”

Gadius questioned, momentarily taken aback by Seletina’s response.

Seletina hesitated briefly at Gadius’ inquiry. However, she met his gaze directly, locking eyes with his vibrant jade-colored irises.

“Imitia Belbed. The leader of the Great Belbed Caravan.”

The mention of Imitia Belbed’s name caught Gadius off guard, and his eyes widened in surprise. He had not anticipated this name to come out of Seletina’s mouth.