Chapter 109: A Stranger’s Friend
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“Sir, this mask is carved from a century-old tree, decorated externally with precious genuine color ink, and coated inside with a layer of century-old resin to fit the skin comfortably without causing discomfort. The price is three gold coins.”
Vellin listened to the merchant’s explanation, then took two gold coins from his pocket and tossed them over. Wearing the mask, he blended into the crowd and headed toward Summer Dream Lake.
With the cat-faced mask on, Vellin walked with his hands clasped behind his head, striding in a uniquely confident manner.
The surrounding nobles did not show any aversion.
Perhaps in this place, it was only natural and reasonable to let go of noble airs and the burdens they carried.
Even at night, the area was illuminated by magical street lamps, and the starry sky added a magical touch.
Not far away on a stage, a group of girls dressed in splendid costumes danced with artistic flair.
It was clear these girls belonged to the Church of the Opera and Arts. Vellin even caught sight of his great-uncle Vitris among them.
By the lakeside, many nobles were painting, capturing the harmonious coexistence of natural beauty and cultural elegance.
Strolling around, Vellin felt a peaceful calm within.
“Thump.”
Suddenly, Vellin stepped back a few paces; mirroring his reaction was a silver-haired woman across from him.
But she wore a mask, obscuring her exact features.
“Sorry, miss.”
“It’s alright.”
The silver-haired woman said gently and continued forward.
Watching her retreating figure, Vellin gave it little thought and resumed his leisurely walk, occasionally glancing at the nobles painting by the lake and briefly exchanging words with some of them.
After an unknown length of time, Vellin found a secluded corner with few people, lay quietly on the grass, and admired the beautiful scenery.
“May I sit here for a while?”
Hearing the familiar voice, Vellin turned to see the silver-haired girl he had met two hours earlier. He nodded to her.
Seeing his nod, she found a suitable spot and sat down.
They maintained a quiet atmosphere until the silver-haired girl spoke first: “Did you come to Summer Dream Lake because of its reputation as the sanctuary of love?”
“I say I was dragged here by my elders. Would you believe that?” Vellin replied, still lying on the grass with his eyes closed.
The girl laughed like a silver bell and said, “Looks like you’re in the same boat as me.”
“How so? You came here by accident too?”
“Yeah, pretty much. I followed my uncle to the Blood Moon Territory to handle some affairs, but it happened to be the Summer Dream Festival on the sixth day of the sixth month. After that… my uncle, well, how to put it, he’s a bit… let’s say, youthful in spirit. My aunt told me to keep an eye on him before she left, so I came along. Unexpectedly, he disappeared.”
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“No surprise there. Your uncle is probably at the stage show hosted by the Church of Opera and Arts.”
“Is that so? But you’re right, there’s nowhere else here that would interest him.”
They fell silent for a while before the silver-haired girl spoke again: “Where are you from?”
“Western River Province. And you?”
“Ilia Province.”
“The capital?”
“Something like that.”
They slowly chatted, from the kingdom’s situation with neighboring states to the geographical features of various provinces.
“Did you hear about that thief who used teleportation magic and ended up in the governor’s bath?”
“That thief was really foolish to walk right into a trap.”
“What are your thoughts on your future partner?”
“What, is your family pressuring you to marry?”
“Pretty much. My family… well, marriages happen early.”
“Then I’m freer than you. My father married late. He wouldn’t stoop to demanding his son.”
*Chuckles.*
“But I made a condition to my family: I’ll only marry someone who can defeat me in a match of equal rank. Otherwise, no deal.”
“Your family agreed to that?” Vellin said, surprised.
“Yes. My father, grandfather, grandmother, and other elders all agreed.”
“That’s not bad.”
“Only a man stronger than me can have me; otherwise, hmph, I’ll beat them to the ground,” the silver-haired girl said, shaking her fists.
Vellin shifted a little away.
“And you? What are your demands for your other half?”
“Virtuous, gentle, average looks are fine. I consider myself lucky and don’t ask much from others, but they must treat my parents well.”
“Hehe, your standards are quite low.”
“After all, it’s about living together, not marrying into a family to cause division or ruin its reputation.”
“You’re right; everyone has their own views.”
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At that moment, the silver-haired girl’s bracelet suddenly lit up.
“My uncle has appeared. I must go find him.”
“Goodbye.” Vellin raised his right hand and waved.
The silver-haired girl looked at Vellin still lying on the grass and said happily, “I’ll remember your scent. Next time, if we meet again, I’ll tell you my name, and by then, we’ll be friends.”
“Likewise. I hope fate brings us together again.”
After she left, silence returned.
Half an hour later, Vitris arrived beside Vellin, sat down, and smiled: “So, Vellin, how do you find Summer Dream Lake?”
“Wonderful.” Vellin sat up, looked at Vitris, removed his mask, and smiled. “I made a new acquaintance.”
Before long, dawn broke.
Vitris seemed to have a premonition and took Vellin back to Blood Moon Castle at noon. Finding his wife still not home, he sighed in relief but felt something amiss. Unable to figure it out, he gave up trying.
Vellin shook his head. He suspected the trouble might lie with Fiona Dolons, the mayor of Summer Dream Town, but was reluctant to tell his great-uncle.
On the afternoon of the third day, when Vellin saw his great-uncle again, he noticed heavy dark circles beneath Vitris’s eyes.
“Great-uncle, what’s wrong?”
“Stayed up late these days. I’m a bit worn out, but nothing serious.”
“All right, please take care of yourself.”
After Vellin left, Vitris covered his eyes and took a deep breath.
“The fighting spirit Mia Li attached to my eyes will last at least three more days. Next time, I must observe carefully before setting out and avoid repeating this mistake.”
“Hehe, this trip wasn’t wasted.”
“What wasn’t wasted?” Count Mia Li of Blood Moon clenched her fist, fixing her husband with a forced smile.
“N-nothing.” Vitris jumped down from the city wall and ran toward the city.
“Hmph, you think you can run?”
Mia Li used her battle technique, Wind Moon Shadow, appearing directly in Vitris’s path and punched him flying.
Soon after came a series of wails and screams. The patrolling knights and soldiers nearby were unfazed and continued their rounds.