The journey continued, but the mood felt different after Yuzael Valestrian's cold, accurate observation. Kael Arisugawa, now knowing he had Seraphine's deepest trust and comfort, was more confident and gentle. Lionel Kisaragi and Yuzael, the two who were now painfully aware of where Seraphine's heart was heading, began to change their approach.
The Tsundere's Protective Shift
Lionel was still loud and grumpy, but his jealousy was now focused on pushing Kael and Seraphine together, even if it physically pained him to do so.
They were walking along a high, narrow ridge on the Mountain Pass. Seraphine, true to her nature, was starting to get careless and wobbly.
"Hey! Clumsy Princess!" Lionel barked. "Stop walking in the middle! You're going to fall! Kael, you walk on the outside and hold her hand. You're lighter than me, so you'll be easier to save if she pulls you down!"
Lionel tried to sound angry and commanding, but he was really creating a perfect opportunity.
Kael immediately moved to Seraphine's side. He didn't just hold her hand; he laced his fingers through hers, his touch warm and instantly familiar, filling Seraphine with the deep feeling of home.
"There, Princess," Kael whispered, giving her a soft, flirty smile that melted her confusion away. "See? Now you're safe."
Lionel, seeing their joined hands, instantly flushed a deep red blush. He quickly spun around and started walking fiercely ahead. "Hmph! Good! Now try not to trip on each other!" he muttered, hiding his pain behind his unbelievably soft heart.
The Cold Prince's Duty
Yuzael, the elegant prince, watched this small scene with a set, cold face. He knew his path was clear: his duty was paramount, and he would not force Seraphine's heart.
Later that afternoon, Yuzael walked up to Seraphine as she was collecting water by a stream.
"Seraphine," Yuzael stated, his voice nonchalant and professional. "I have received a request from Hicardia regarding the alliance terms. I must go ahead to resolve the situation before it becomes... careless."
He looked at her, his sharp blue/silver eyes holding a flicker of something she couldn't read—regret, perhaps. "The arranged marriage will be formally dissolved. You are free to make your own choice."
He didn't make a scene. He simply handed her a sealed letter detailing the end of the engagement. He made his choice gracefully, prioritizing her happiness and his duty.
"I wish you well on your journey, Seraphine. And Kael is a good choice," he added quietly, his cold aura giving way to a brief, honest look of respect.
Yuzael then gave a formal, elegant bow, mounted his horse, and rode away without looking back. His presence was gone, but his silent, protective respect for her choice remained.
The Couple Takes the Lead
Seraphine stared at the spot where the cold prince had been. A moment of sadness passed, but then Kael was by her side instantly, gently taking her hand again.
"He's right, Princess," Kael whispered, his warm presence enveloping her. "You're free. And you're mine."
Lionel watched them from the edge of the camp. He still felt the sting of jealousy, but he forced a loud, rough laugh. "Finally, some peace and quiet! Now come on, you two! We still have a long way to go! I'm starving, so Seraphine, get cooking! And Kael, you carry the heavy stuff!"
The trio continued their journey. The romantic rivalry was reduced to a protective friendship, and the sweet love story between the flirty childhood friend and the kind-hearted princess could finally take center stage.