Chapter 03: Understanding the Pieces.

He took her hand, guiding her toward the crystalline palace that shimmered ahead. Yet Diana’s mind was elsewhere, tangled in a web of thoughts she could not untangle.

Suddenly, a figure emerged, striding directly toward them. Diana’s steps faltered, her eyes widening in shock. Before she could fully process what was happening, the man dropped to one knee and bowed his head in a formal gesture.

“It seems I was too late,” he said, lifting his head slowly. A faint smile spread across his lips, and his eyes glimmered like polished ruby gems in the pale moonlight. “It’s my pleasure to meet you, our saviour,” he continued, his voice carrying a curious mix of warmth and intrigue.

Diana’s mind spun, thoughts racing faster than she could grasp. It was too much at once, overwhelming in every direction. Before she could find her voice, Leo stepped forward, his expression stiff.

“What are you doing here, Lucas?” His tone was sharp, his posture rigid with tension.

Lucas rose slowly, his gaze shifting to Leo. The warmth that had once made him approachable had vanished, replaced by seriousness and an edge of urgency. “There’s an urgent matter we need to address. We must return to the royal office immediately.”

Diana bit her lip, struggling to process the sudden tension. She drew a deep breath, steadying herself. “Will someone explain to me what’s going on first?” she demanded, frowning, her hands clenching instinctively.

Lucas reached into his pocket and retrieved a folded letter, its edges sealed with the royal insignia. He held it out to her, a faint smile softening his expression.
“This letter explains everything that is happening in the kingdom. Please read it carefully,” he said, his voice gentle, almost reassuring.

Diana hesitated for a moment before taking the letter. Her fingers traced the embossed royal seal, curiosity and intrigue growing with every second.
“Thank you,” she said firmly. “I’ll read it once we arrive.”

As they made their way to the royal office, Diana couldn’t help but marvel at the crystalline palace looming ahead. Moonlight danced across every facet, scattering shimmering beams across the landscape. Her eyes widened in awe as the breathtaking sight unfolded before her.

“What a beautiful palace,” she whispered, her voice soft, tinged with both wonder and disbelief.

Inside, the grandeur continued. Though the walls were of polished stone, the interior gleamed as if untouched by time, every surface immaculate. An enormous chandelier hung from the ceiling, its countless crystals scattering light across the vast hall. A rich red carpet stretched before her feet, guiding every step. Yet, despite the splendor, something felt… off.

Her smile faltered as she noticed the servants they passed. None bowed, none offered even a hint of courtesy. Outwardly polite, their cold glances betrayed an undercurrent of hostility that made Diana’s chest tighten.

This is strange, she thought, frowning. I feel an intense sense of animosity here.

Upon arriving at the royal office, Diana wasted no time. She broke the seal and unfolded the letter, her eyes scanning the contents with furrowed brows. With every line she read, her posture stiffened, frustration coiling tighter within her. Her fingers dug into the edge of the desk as the weight of the words sank in.

When she finally finished, she exhaled sharply, her gaze drifting upward toward the ceiling as if seeking answers there.

Leo and Lucas exchanged a brief, puzzled glance.

“Is something the matter?” Lucas asked, stepping closer, concern etched across his features.

Diana lowered the letter and fixed them with a sharp look. Then, lifting the parchment slightly, she said bluntly, “It all makes sense now.”

Leo’s brow furrowed. “What does?”

She folded the letter with a sigh. “She knew everything—the betrayals, the mockery—and yet, she still chose to save them.” Her voice carried a mix of irritation and reluctant admiration, a faint smile tugging at her lips.

“She’s always been like that,” Leo muttered, his tone sharp as he sank onto the sofa. “I told her to let me handle it, but she knew I’d be ruthless with those rebels.”

“That approach would backfire,” Diana replied immediately, shaking her head.

Lucas frowned, brows knitting in thought. “How so…? We have the strength of thousands of men, and our soldiers were trained by Leo himself. That’s why we’re stronger.”

Diana met his gaze, her voice calm but firm. “Not all nobles have joined the rebels, correct? And those rebels—they are still nobles of this kingdom. If we attack without proof, the others might see us as tyrants and turn against us.” She paused, letting the weight of her words settle. “The neighboring kingdom is aiding them as well. If war breaks out, this kingdom will become the battlefield.”

She stepped toward a nearby chair, her fingers trailing along its polished surface before she finally sat, eyes narrowing with resolve. “Tell me,” she asked, her voice steady, “do you understand what will happen to the people if war erupts?”

The room fell silent. The tension thickened, oppressive and heavy.

“The civilians… they’ll get caught in the crossfire,” Lucas admitted, his voice low, edged with disbelief.

“Exactly,” Diana said firmly. “Towa-san’s sacrifice would be in vain.”

The truth in her words hung in the air, undeniable. Both men remained silent, letting her assessment sink in.

Finally, Lucas broke the stillness, a faint smile touching his lips.
“I know this is late, but… what’s your name?”

Caught off guard, Diana blinked. “I’m Diana,” she replied, then regarded him with curiosity. “Your name is Lucas, right? May I know… what is your position in relation to me?” Her green eyes softened, shining with quiet interest.

He lowered his head slightly in respect. “I am one of your loyal servants. My current position is secretary,” he said gently, his tone calm and measured.

Diana nodded, then turned her gaze to Leo, a smile forming on her face.

“I know your name, but I don’t know what you are to me,” her once-soft eyes sharpened, and her face grew serious. Leo felt the sudden shift in her demeanor. He met her gaze steadily.

“My position is General,” he replied, his tone sharp as he crossed one leg over the other. “I hold the highest authority in command under you.”

Diana’s expression softened again, a faint smile tugging at her lips. She stretched her arms above her head and exhaled softly. “Forgive my abruptness, but I’m quite drained after everything that’s happened. I’ll rest for now.” She lowered her arms, and for a brief moment, her eyes glimmered like stars in the night sky.

Leo and Lucas exchanged glances, silently acknowledging her words, then nodded in unison.

Lucas stepped toward the door, pausing briefly to glance back.
“If you’ll excuse me, there is something I must attend to,” he said, his voice calm. With that, he exited quietly, closing the door behind him.

Silence settled over the room. Diana turned to Leo, her brows knitting in slight confusion. Their eyes met for a few tense moments before she finally asked,
“And you? Aren’t you leaving as well?”

Leo’s eyes widened slightly, caught off guard by her question. He stood, brushing invisible creases from his uniform. “Allow me to escort you to your room,” he said, gesturing toward the door with an open palm.

Diana tilted her head, her expression puzzled. “Isn’t this my room?” she asked, genuinely curious.

Leo sighed, shaking his head lightly. “This is your royal office. Have you seen a bed anywhere here?” He gestured around the room, hand sweeping over the shelves and the large desk at its center. “No beds, no sleeping quarters—just paperwork and piles of books. This is your workplace, not where you rest.”

Her eyes widened in surprise. “I—I see. L-Let’s go then,” she stammered, her voice betraying a hint of embarrassment.

They left the office, walking for nearly two minutes, yet still unable to locate her room. Despite the delay, Diana used the opportunity to take in her surroundings. No matter how many times she glanced around, the castle’s interior never ceased to amaze her—it was truly magnificent.

Along the way, they passed several maids, yet only one out of five paused to acknowledge her presence. As the maid approached and slowed, Diana noticed her bowing respectfully before coming to a stop.

Curious, Diana turned to face her, her gaze soft but inquisitive. “What is your name?” she asked.

The maid held the sides of her dress delicately, lifting it slightly as she bowed again. “I am Rose, Your Majesty,” she replied, her voice steady yet filled with deference then her blue eyes slightly took a glance to her.

“I see,” Diana said, a warm smile gracing her lips. “See you tomorrow, Rose. I like your etiquette—keep it up, and you might be rewarded someday.”

Rose’s eyes widened in surprise, her joy barely contained. “Your kind words will be remembered, Your Majesty. Thank you,” she said, bowing once more, her voice brimming with gratitude.

Diana turned back to Leo with a nod. “We can go now, Leo.”

Leo fell into step beside her as they continued down the hall. Meanwhile, the other maids whispered among themselves, their faint, mocking laughter echoing off the walls. Yet Rose remained still, unshaken, her heart warmed by Diana’s sincere kindness. She then turned around, making her brown hair sway, and walked with deliberate steps.

When they reached her room, Diana looked at Leo with a warm smile, her eyes sparkling like stars in the night sky. “I will explore the kingdom tomorrow. I want you to join me,” she said gently.

He bowed his head, placing a hand over his chest in respect. “Your wish is my command, Your Majesty,” he replied, his tone steady and deferential.