Meanwhile, outside in the courtyard, Elyria and Auren walked side by side beneath the shade of wisteria trees. The air was calm, filled with the soft hum of distant laughter and lute music that was being played by the courtesans practising for tomorrow.
Auren's steps were steady, but his eyes kept drifting toward her. He wanted to speak but had no idea how to start a conversation. He cleared his throat and finally parted his lips to speak.
"It hasn't changed much," he said softly. "You always kept this place beautiful."
Elyria smiled faintly. "I didn't do anything."
For a while, they walked in silence. Every now and then, courtesans would bow politely, their eyes flicking curiously between the Marquess and their lady.
'Is that man a noble?'
'Is he here for Rin's mother? They look good together,'
'Shhh! You can't let them hear you,'
Auren cleared his throat.
