The Dreamer's POV

Chapter 99 : Seraphina

Seraphina Von Lyma found herself standing before the very man who had rescued her from the cruel clutches of the bandits.

The figure that met her gaze was a far cry from the image she'd constructed in her mind.

The man she faced was younger than she expected, an aura of unmistakable confidence surrounding him.

Benard had been full of praise for him, recounting in vivid detail the numerous feats he'd accomplished in securing her freedom. As she looked into the eyes of her savior, she was struck with a profound sense of gratitude. This man, this young adventurer, had risked everything for her safety.

Her gaze took in his somewhat weary features, seeing past the casual posture to the underlying strength within.

She had been told of his refusal of immediate reward, his insistence that her wellbeing was the priority above all else.

Even as she was being nursed back to health, her thoughts lingered on this stranger who had so selflessly intervened in her darkest hour.

His actions had earned him the heartfelt respect of her entire family, and yet, as she stared at him, she realized that simple gratitude was not enough.

He hadn't asked for any reward, hadn't clamored for recognition or prestige. Instead, he'd chosen to ensure her safety, prioritizing her recovery before any talk of compensation.

This spoke volumes of his character, portraying a level of selflessness that was rare to come by.

Against the concerns of her attendants, she had made her decision. She was here to meet this Adventurer, to see the man who had put her life above his own.

She felt a stirring of anticipation, of gratitude, and even respect.

Yes, this was her chance to show him that his actions were not unappreciated.

She wanted to honor him in her own way, a personal expression of her immense gratitude.

And so, with a deep breath, she took a step forward, a gentle smile playing on her lips as she prepared to speak.

"My name is Seraphina Von Lyma, the fifth daughter of the Grand Duke Household of Lyma. I came to this city as a representative of my family." She began, her lips curling to form a graceful smile.

"... And I owe you my life."

Her heart pounded in her chest, echoing the truth of her words.

She didn't know how he would react, didn't know if he would accept her gratitude, but this was something she had to do, for her own peace of mind and to honor the bravery of the man standing before her.

"Adventurer Luke," the man introduced himself in a casual tone.

His face seemed deadpan, and despite what would have caused most to fall to their knees or at least show some level of shock.

His expression showed he wasn't at all fazed by her status.

Benard, standing close to Seraphina, stepped forward, his eyebrows furrowing in mild disapproval. "Luke, you should show more respect. This is the Young Lady, Seraphina Von Lyma. She is—"

Seraphina raised her hand to interrupt Benard, a small smile playing at the corners of her lips. She found Luke's laid-back demeanor rather refreshing.

"It's quite alright, Benard," she reassured, her gaze falling back on Luke.

She appreciated the rawness of his character, the honesty he displayed.

Her eyes twinkled with genuine interest as she continued, "To me, it is a man's inner self that matters the most. One's actions speak louder than any title or formal greeting could."

Luke seemed taken aback for a moment but quickly regained his casual demeanor, shooting a side glance at Benard who stood in awkward silence.

"The way you chose to act when it mattered the most, Adventurer Luke... it told me a lot about you," Seraphina continued, her voice imbued with admiration.

"So, whether you greet me formally or not, it doesn't change the fact that you risked your life for me."

Her words hung in the air, a testament to her values and the man who stood before her.

In her heart, she knew that she had met a truly remarkable individual, and all the formalities in the world couldn't change that truth. Explore more stories with m,v l'e-m|p| y r

"So, I must say… it is a pleasure to meet you." Coutesying gently, Seraphina bowed slightly to Luke.

"Y-young Lady!" Benard, as well as a few others around her tried to stop her, while the others that served as her entourage could only express shock.

How could a Noble Lady show such courtesy to a mere commoner? Sure, Luke was strong, but there was a hierarchy.

Everyone knew that!

"May I come in?" Seraphina asked, her voice hesitant but firm.

Almost as if he was caught by surprise, Luke's eyes widened. It seemed he had been so engrossed in their conversation that he had forgotten the basic manners of inviting a guest inside.

"Of course, I apologize for keeping you at the door, please, come in," he said, stepping aside to allow her access.

Seraphina entered, her gaze drifting around the modest room. It was not what she was accustomed to, but she found the simplicity somehow comforting.

As if noticing her inspection, Luke apologized, "I'm sorry if the space isn't what you're used to. It's a bit small..."

Seraphina cut him off before he could finish, "No need for apologies, Luke. This place is far better than the bandit hideout. If I hadn't gone through that experience, I might have found this place uncomfortable. But now, even this feels plenty enough for me."

"Haha… I see."

As she finished her sentence and Luke awkwardly gave his, Benard and the others made a move to enter, but Seraphina raised her hand to stop them.

"I would like to speak to Luke alone," she declared.

"B-but Young Lady..." Benard began to protest, concern etched onto his features.

Seraphina interrupted him, "The man who went out of his way to save me, showed so much consideration for me... I believe he means me no harm."

"It's not just about that. I also trust Luke, but its not proper to—"

"I'll be fine, Benard. Really." Seraphina's voice carried a tone of finality and authority that was difficult, even for the Guildmaster, to resist.

"Haa…" He sighed, silently muttering some unintelligible words.

A tense silence fell upon the group as they took in her words. Finally, with yet another sigh, Benard nodded, understanding her resolve.

"Alright. We shall be outside in case you need us for anything." He nodded, looking at the other guards and the high-ranking adventurers who had accompanied them.

With a wave of his hand, they all turned to leave, making their way back down the hallway.

Stealing one final glance at the Seraphina, and even especially towards Luke, Benard leaked a small smile, before finally departing.

"What a guy…" His previously inaudible words silently echoed before vanishing into silence once more.

The door closed behind them, leaving Luke and Seraphina alone in the room.

The sounds of the retreating footsteps of Benard and the rest of Seraphina's entourage marked the beginning of their private conversation.

It was finally the moment of truth!

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[A/N]

Well… what do you all think of her? Waifu material? Or…?

Thanks for reading.

Cheers!