章 54: Masquerade P3

Lyn averted her gaze, "I apologize," she muttered, "Even if it was just for a minute, I doubted you."

Ralph shook his head, "It is only natural for you to be doubtful. Right now, it is difficult to trust people; you do not know who your enemies are. You cannot distinguish between foe and ally. However, if it is you, Lyn, I do believe you'll be able to tell who it who is on your side no matter how difficult the circumstances are."

Lyn's eyes widened when she heard such words from him. He can't be serious.

"You flatter me; I have no such ability."

Lyn felt his hand brush across her hair locks, and her eyes widened. Did he just…touch her hair? Rather, Ralph's hand still lingered there, "Indeed if it's you, I have no reason to worry. Although, I am afraid of you getting yourself injured."

"Prince Ralph," she muttered.

"From now onwards, please count on me as one of your allies."

...

- Mansion Gardens -

The mansion gardens were fairly small in contrast to the castle, but for Lyn it was beautiful. She seldom came to places like this. But now that she has, she wants to absorb the beauty. However, right now wasn't the time for that. A deep sigh passed her lips as she evaded Allen's gaze. Even if he was mad, did he have to drag her away from Prince Ralph? She doesn't appreciate anyone dragging her along.

"If you told me you were coming, I'd have sent somebody to fetch you," Allen trailed off and then she suddenly felt him drape his cloak over her shoulder. Ah…

"I wanted to surprise you."

Allen nodded, "You must be cold; I'll get you something warm to eat."

The people loitering around outside noticed what was going on. Some murmured and looked over. Lyn caught words like 'mistress' and 'shall we inform the Lady inside?' Lyn, however, dismissed them, she isn't doing anything wrong. She's formally engaged to Allen, so what is wrong with her coming here?

The Wind Kingdom's second Prince was treating a mysterious girl who had yet to take off her mask in such a kind manner. It was not unheard of for Allen to treat people with kindness. Unlike her brother, he often smiled - though it was his business smile. However, showing such kindness towards a particular girl?

"Did you come here alone? I don't see the General or your aide."

"I came here with Rhys."

Allen flinched at that comment, his eyebrows scrunched up, "Are you unharmed?"

Lyn realized what he meant a second later, and she looked away, "He's not that unreasonable," though Rhys often experimented with many girls. He's never tried to do anything like that with her. Though he has gotten unreasonably close at times and often stole a kiss whenever she let her guard down. Then again, it's her fault for getting too absorbed in her practice to forget her surroundings, "Apparently, you have a fiance."

Allen sighed, "I see, is that why you came?"

"I don't appreciate being treated as a fool. When I asked your relatives, everybody seemed nervous - so exactly what is going on?"

"Do not misunderstand; I am simply dealing with her father right now. She conveniently drops by during those meetings, so rumors started. My family don't know about the deals; I'm not sure what their thoughts are on the man's family. So I haven't mentioned it. Their strange behavior must be because they believe the rumors and think I've taken an interest in another woman."

Lyn liked this part of Allen the most; he doesn't hesitate to say what he is thinking. She knew if she came here and demanded answers, he would give it to her.

"You must be tired; you can remove your mask."

"Ah, but," Lyn looked around, "There are still people here."

Allen raised his hand and in a second - the crowd in the area seemed to diminish, "Your using magic?"

"I'm simply using my wind to lead them to a different direction, and inserting a 'this is a forbidden area thought,' into their minds."

"You have memory magic too?" Lyn asked curiously.

Allen's lips curve to a smile, "Indeed, most members of the royal family are capable of more than one magic,"

Lyn pouted, "I know that much."

"Pardon me; I didn't mean to offend you."

He's always so stiff and formal, even when he's trying to joke around with her. Still, Lyn had to admit that in contrast to when they first met, he's become a lot kinder. When they first met, he was so stiff and formal. But once in a while now he would show her a warm expression.

"Who is that woman, and how is she connected to you?"

"You don't believe my earlier explanation?"

"I'm sorry, but," Lyn apologized, "I feel like something is wrong."

"You don't have to apologize; I understand your unease. Lately, we haven't spent enough time together. But then again, you have a boyfriend now. Surely my position as your fiance isn't important anymore?"

Lyn flushed red at his words; she felt ashamed. Allen thinks she doesn't like him and prefers Kazuya. While she isn't sure exactly what feelings she had for Kazuya right now, it probably isn't as strong as the one she had for Allen. At least for now anyway, Lyn reached over and gently caressed his cheeks, "Say, can I ask for a hug, Allen?"

The man seemed surprised at her request, "This is a public place."

Ah, of course, he responds this way. The last time he hugged her must have been a once in a lifetime opportunity. Allen has never once treated her as a woman.

"I apologize, I am not very good with these things. If it's a hug you want, I shall give it to you."

"That's not it," Lyn muttered.

However, Allen suddenly pulled her into his arms, "I truly do apologize, I did not mean to ignore you this whole time. I saw you the moment you entered the room."

"You should have said something."