Chapter 1348: Curiosity and Discretion ( 1348 )
Celine inclined her head politely, her fan resting gracefully in her hand.
"May I retrieve something from my dimensional storage to present proof of our identity and purpose?"
The elven leader nodded, his expression stern. "You may, but be warned, if you or your companions try anything, we will not hesitate to act."
The other elven patrol members kept their magic bows aimed steadily at them.
"Very well," Celine nodded, smiling softly. She slowly raised her palm, activating her dimensional storage skill. With deliberate movements, she retrieved an official royal decree, her identity emblem, and a sealed letter. She extended them gracefully toward the leader before closing her dimensional storage.
"I am Princess Celine of Divinity Nation from the next continent, and I come bearing no ill will. My companions and I are on a diplomatic journey, and I seek only safe passage through your lands."
The elven leader’s eyes narrowed, studying the items without reaching for them. His gaze lingered on the golden emblem before he let out a soft exhale.
"What business does a princess from another continent have in our lands?"
Celine noticed the leader subtly gesture with his hand, and the surrounding forest guard slowly lowered their weapons. She gracefully pulled the decree, emblem, and letter back into her dimensional storage.
"I am here on an official diplomatic mission. I seek passage through your lands to reach the Armand Nation, as part of a delegation to foster relations between our nations."
The elven patrol leader raised his hand, signaling his men to reposition themselves around Celine and her escorts.
"That matter will need to be reported to my superiors. However, if you are willing, you may follow us. My men and I will escort you to the border town. You and your companions may stay there until everything is clarified."
Celine nodded gracefully, a soft smile on her lips. "Thank you. We appreciate your hospitality."
She signaled Ashara and Jiowana to follow, and they fell into step behind the elven escort.
As they moved, Celine noticed the patrol leader reach for a small device at his waist, raising it to his lips. She watched with quiet curiosity as he spoke into it.
"Border post, this is Faelar speaking."
A soft crackle, then a voice replied in the same elven tongue. "Yes, Warden Faelar. Continue."
Faelar kept his eyes forward as he spoke. "We have encountered a group at the border, claiming to be a delegation from another continent. Their leader presents herself as Princess Celine of Divinity Nation. The emblem she carries appears legitimate, and its craftsmanship suggests high status. Requesting further instructions."
"Err... you serious, Faelar?"
"Yes. Why?"
"N-nothing... it’s just that the map doesn’t show any ’Divinity Nation.’"
Faelar exhaled softly, a hint of impatience in his voice. "Stop playing around, Khidell. I already mentioned they’re from another continent. Of course, there’s no nation called Divinity on our continent."
"Ah... right, right. My apologies, Warden. Got a bit lost there." Khidell chuckled before asking, "So, what’s their purpose here?"
Faelar glanced back at Celine briefly before replying. "They claim to be on an official diplomatic mission. They seek safe passage through our lands to reach Armand."
There was a brief pause on the other end before Khidell responded. "Err... let me confirm this with the command center and inform the Royal Palace. Since Armand is involved, this goes beyond a standard border check. If they truly are royalty from another continent... then the higher-ups will want to handle this personally."
"Understood. I’ll escort them to the border town and await further instructions."
The call ended, and Faelar slipped the mana talkie back onto his waist. He glanced over his shoulder at Celine.
"Princess Celine, is it? We will proceed to the border town. Please follow closely, and we will ensure your safety until further notice."
Celine smiled, but her eyes lingered on the device now resting on Faelar’s waist. She tilted her head slightly, her voice soft and curious.
"Forgive my curiosity, but may I ask what that device is? I have never seen anything like it."
Faelar hesitated, his expression guarded. "I’m afraid I cannot disclose the details of this device. It is... a matter of confidentiality. However, if you are truly here on a diplomatic mission, I believe you will have the opportunity to learn more about it and many other things later."
Celine nodded slowly, a hint of understanding in her eyes. "I see. Thank you for your honesty, Warden Faelar. I understand that such matters require discretion."
"Thank you... umm... Princess?" Faelar hesitated slightly. "I apologize, but until your status is officially confirmed by the higher authorities, I am unable to address you with royal titles. But for now, I will show you the courtesy due to a visitor of your apparent standing. I hope you understand."
Meanwhile.
Elven Royal Palace.
Lyzia sat by the window, humming softly as she focused on the knitting in her hands, carefully following the technique Liana had taught her.
I wonder when Big Sis Liana will visit us again?
The week we spent together was so much fun~
Even though Big Sis Liana can be so moody sometimes~
Tehe~
She paused, tilting her head thoughtfully.
Maybe I should contact her and visit Armand.
And perhaps Armand could send one of those flying iron things... I could ride in it and see the world from above. That would be so exciting~
A soft knock came from the main door, and Lyzia glanced up, her voice light and cheerful. "Come in!"
The door opened, and a servant entered, carrying a tray with an elegant elven refreshment set and a steaming cup of hot chocolate.
"Your Highness."
Lyzia smiled warmly. "Come in, Shaera."
She set down her knitting and stood gracefully, walking toward the table before taking a seat. Shaera approached and carefully arranged the refreshments, placing the cup of hot chocolate before Lyzia, along with a small pot of honey and a delicate bowl of white gold sugar crystals.
Lyzia reached for the cup, lifting it to her lips and taking a slow sip. Her eyes fluttered closed in bliss as the rich, sweet warmth spread through her.
"Mmm... I love this. Especially with honey. Brother-in-law really knows how to make the best things."
Shaera smiled softly. "It is indeed wonderful, Your Highness. And it pairs perfectly with white gold. Many across the continent have come to treasure it."
( End Of Chapter )