Chapter 488 Tea
The following day, Archer awoke and scanned his surroundings, rubbing his eyes to dispel sleep. It dawned on him that he had spent the night in the living room.
Rising to his feet, he stretched, glancing outside to find the storm still happening. He let out a sigh and made his way to the bath chambers.
Archer entered the dimly lit bath chambers, the soft glow of candles casting dancing shadows across the room.
The air was thick with the scent of soothing oils and warm steam. The tiled floor felt cool beneath his feet as he approached the inviting embrace of the large, ornate bathtub.
With deliberate movements, Archer began to peel off his clothes, the fabric whispering against his skin.
He let each piece fall to the floor, revealing the subtle tension in his muscles. Naked, he stood for a moment, the ambient warmth of the room enveloping him.
As he sank into the hot water, a sigh escaped his lips. The heat caressed his body, melting away the stresses of the day.
Archer reclined in the tub, closing his eyes and letting the moment's tranquility wash over him.
The gentle flicker of candlelight danced on the water's surface, creating a serene atmosphere that seemed to suspend time.
In the cocoon of warmth and solitude, Archer found solace, a brief respite from the outside world.
Closing his eyes, Archer let the tension seep away, surrendering to the sensation of the hot water soothing his muscles.
He stretched out, allowing the buoyancy to support him, and laid back. The heat seeped into every inch of his being, and a contented sigh escaped his lips.
The room was hushed, save for the occasional crackle of the flickering candles. Archer basked in the tranquility, his mind drifting away from the day's hustle.
The rhythmic sound of his breath mingled with the distant echo of water droplets, creating a calming symphony.
In that serene moment, Archer found himself lost in the simple pleasure of relaxation, a blissful escape from the outside world's demands.
That's when he heard the door open, so he looked over and saw Teuila walk in with a smile as she spoke. ''Morning Darling. You're always up early.''
Archer acknowledged with a nod before responding, "I fail to see the purpose of sleeping in late, it feels like a waste of time."
Teuila, in agreement, nodded and proceeded to get undressed before entering the water, settling beside him and leaning against him with her head on his shoulder.
He wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her closer, pleasing the blue-haired princess as Archer asked. ''How are you finding classes?''
Teuila turned to Archer with a smile. "You know. I never thought I'd say this, but I enjoy them. I always assumed it would be annoying and would hate every moment."
Archer raised an eyebrow, curious. "What changed your mind?"
Teuila smiled as she thought about it. "I enjoy learning new things. It's exciting to broaden your mind, you know?"
He nodded and said, "That's surprising. I didn't think you would be into it."
Teuila laughed, sat up, and turned to him with a grin. "Hey, can you wash my back, darling?"
Archer gently lathered the soap between his hands before applying it to Teuila's back, his touch careful yet firm.
The warm water ran down as Archer's hands moved in rhythmic circles. Teuila sighed in contentment. "You're surprisingly good at this, darling."
He chuckled before answering. ''I've read many books.''
The two laughed before Archer continued and cleaned Teuila from head to toe. He fondled her, which caused the girl to swat his hand away.
Teuila told him she was not in the mood, which he respected, and waited for her to return the favor as Teuila grabbed the soap.
The warm water poured over his shoulders as Teuila took the soap from his hands. With a subtle smile, she began to lather his back, her hands moving with a comforting rhythm.
As she worked, Teuila said, "Archer, when you head to Frostholm, consider taking us girls with you. We can help, you know?"
Archer turned to look at her, the water droplets clinging to his hair. He met her gaze, appreciating the offer. "You want to join the mission?"
Teuila nodded, her hands never pausing in their task. "Absolutely. We've trained together, fought together. We can handle ourselves, and having more hands on deck can make a difference. Plus, I'm curious about Frostholm. It sounds like a challenge."
Archer considered her words for a moment, then smiled. "I appreciate the offer, Teuila. And you're right. You and the others are more than capable. If you're up for it, I'd be glad to have you with me."
Teuila grinned, her eyes reflecting determination. "Great! We make a formidable team. Frostholm won't know what hit it."
The two carried on washing, conversing before stepping out, drying themselves off, and preparing for the next steps.
Leaving the bath chamber, Archer admired the kitchen he had created when he stepped into it.
Its polished surfaces gleamed under the soft glow of pendant lights, and a subtle fragrance of herbs lingered in the air.
The countertops were adorned with neatly arranged utensils and a row of potted herbs basked in the sunlight streaming through the window.
Hanging plants added a touch of greenery, creating a harmonious blend of nature and craftsmanship.
In the center of it all, a sturdy wooden table held the heart of the scene, a vase of fresh flowers and a steaming teapot, inviting and comforting.
Ella and Halime sat at the table, drinking tea as they chatted. With her hair pulled into a ponytail, the half-elf seemed like she had just woken up as she rubbed her sky-blue eyes.
Meanwhile, Halime appeared more alert and vibrant with her hair in a bun. As Teuila joined them, the three girls engaged in lively conversation.
Archer took in the sight, appreciating the camaraderie around the table amid the beautiful kitchen.
With a warm smile, Ella poured tea into a cup for the ocean princess. Archer's gaze lingered for a moment as he watched them.
A smile played on his lips as he observed the scene, the bond between the three evident in their shared laughter and animated gestures.
In that moment, he quietly reflected, 'I'm fortunate to have stumbled into this life. I could have ended up on a barren world as a slave, but instead, I find myself here, surrounded by people who genuinely care for me.'
Halime's voice reached him, accompanied by a warm smile. "Join us, Arch! Ella's tea is delightful."
That's when he grinned before walking over to join the three ladies and gave each one a morning kiss that pleased them.
He sat down and got comfortable as Ella poured him a cup, and he took it while thanking her. ''Thanks, El. It smells wonderful.''
Archer brought the cup of tea to his lips. The first sip enveloped his senses. A subtle symphony of flavors danced on his tongue, leaving a lingering impression.
His eyes met Ella's, and a genuine smile spread across his face as he remarked. "This is amazing.''
The warmth of the tea seemed to beat away the cold air that seemed to take over the treehouse as the fireplaces couldn't stand a chance.
It dawned on him that the girls were wrapped in blankets, prompting him to warm up the entire treehouse.
After finishing his tea, Archer stood up, capturing the girl's attention. Ella spoke first, "What are you up to, Arch?"
He didn't respond but walked towards the fireplace. Kneeling before it, he took a deep breath before exhaling a stream of violet flames.
When the flames splashed on the wood, it roared to life, and a wave of heat swept throughout the treehouse.
The three girls sighed in relief as the cold air was beaten back, and Teuila commented with a happy smile. ''That's much better. I could feel the cold before, but now it's gone.''
Just as that happened, Hecate, Eione, and Stella walked down the stairs, and the moon elf smiled when she saw him while Stella was yawning.
Eione was as professional as usual as they sat down at the table. Archer walked over to Hecate and kissed her on the forehead.
Hecate, Eione, and Stella settled comfortably, cups of tea in hand, engaging in relaxed conversation. Meanwhile, Archer filled his cup, expressing his desire for fresh air.
"I'm heading out to the balcony for a bit," he informed the girls with a nod, the steam from the freshly poured tea rising.
They acknowledged him with understanding smiles as he went to the balcony. Once outside, the cool breeze greeted him.
Archer took a deep breath, savoring the tranquility, and let the warmth of the tea and the crisp air embrace him.
He cradled the warm teacup, the steam rising to meet the cool air. He settled into a comfortable chair on the balcony, gazing out at the snow-covered expanse.
The first light of the morning sun began to paint the landscape with soft pink and gold hues.
Sipping the tea, Archer felt the comforting warmth seep into him. The serene quiet of the snowy domain was only interrupted by the occasional call of a bird.
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