After defeating the pirates, Seraphine and Kael Arisugawa decided they couldn't simply disappear. Their love was strong enough to face the world, and they needed to give Seraphine's father, the King of Asteruya, an answer. They weren't running anymore; they were returning home.
A New Purpose
The journey back was filled with confidence and quiet intimacy. They moved carefully, avoiding main roads but traveling with purpose. Seraphine, still prone to the occasional careless trip, was always caught by Kael's warm, familiar arm.
Kael had never been more attentive. He didn't just walk beside her; he stayed connected. When they rested, he would gently hold her hands, his thumb rubbing soothing circles onto her skin.
"Are you scared, Princess?" Kael asked one afternoon, his eyes reflecting his deep pure love since childhood.
"A little," Seraphine admitted, leaning her head onto his shoulder. "My father was so angry about the arranged marriage."
"I'll handle him," Kael promised, kissing the top of her head. "I didn't steal his daughter just to hide her. I brought her home to stay, as my queen, on our terms."
His devotion was all the strength Seraphine needed.
Unexpected Reunion: Lionel
As they reached the outer farmlands bordering the kingdom, they saw a familiar figure: Lionel Kisaragi. He was arguing loudly with a farmer about the price of grain, his fierce face and messy hair completely covered in flour dust.
"Lionel!" Seraphine cried happily.
Lionel spun around, his eyes widening. He still wore his fierce expression, but his unbelievably soft heart was visible in his genuine relief. He had been delivering supplies from his mother's bakery.
"You idiots! You survived!" Lionel roared, rushing over. He immediately gave Seraphine a rough, quick, protective hug, then shoved Kael. "Don't think I'm happy to see you, Kael! I was just worried the princess had tripped off a cliff!"
Kael just laughed, recognizing his friend's unique form of affection.
"We're going back to the castle," Seraphine explained. "We need to talk to my father."
Lionel was surprised. "You're walking into the dragon's lair? Fine. I'll come. I can't let you two mess this up on your own." He was officially back in the role of the protective wingman, ensuring his friends' happiness.
Asteruya's Gates
The trio—Seraphine, Kael, and Lionel—walked through the grand, familiar gates of Asteruya. Seraphine was no longer the frightened girl who ran away. She was a woman returning with her chosen partner, ready to face her destiny.
The finale was about to begin.