(Other Realm)
Alethia gazed at her reflection, a smile playing on her lips. Her hair was elegantly arranged in a half ponytail, and she wore a stunning violet summer gown. As she finished touching up her eye shadow, a soft tap sounded on her door. "Come in."
Cordelia entered, her face lighting up with delight. "Wow, you look absolutely stunning."
Alethia chuckled. "Thank you. What can I do for you?"
Taking a seat on the bed, Cordelia looked at her sister intently. "I came to find out more about the man you're going out with tonight."
Alethia turned to face Cordelia, leaning against her vanity table. "You've seen him before, haven't you? He's been to the Inn a few times, and he was my mark back when we worked at the last tavern."
Cordelia's interest piqued. "Oh, you mean that demon you mentioned? I've seen him around here a few times. He's quite handsome. But he's a demon, Alethia. Are you sure about this?"
Alethia smiled, turning back to the mirror to put on her earrings. "I am well aware of his nature, Cordelia. But he has never done anything to harm me. And, as you said, he's really attractive." She blushed slightly.
"Besides, Zepher was cheating on me, so the wedding is off. I just want to be a normal person for a night instead of a Princess. So yes, I am sure. Now, I need to get back downstairs to make sure Tadia is managing well with the customers tonight and clear off a few tables. By then, Ryos should be here for our date."
Cordelia nodded slowly as Alethia headed for the door. "Just promise me you'll be careful. I don't want anything to happen to you."
Alethia placed her hand on the door, looking back at her sister. "I promise, Cordelia. I can handle him if he tries anything."
Cordelia nodded, and Alethia left the room, making her way downstairs. She hurried to the bar, grabbing a small waist apron and tying it behind her back. As she approached some new customers to take their orders, she couldn't help but notice a group of adventurers entering the inn.
The adventurers split up, taking different tables in groups of twos and threes. Alethia was about to go to one of the newly occupied tables when a pair of arms wrapped around her lovingly.
"Hey, beautiful. Are you ready yet?"
Alethia grinned. "I just have a few more tables to serve, and then we can go. I promise I won't be much longer."
Ryos smiled and released her, taking a seat at the bar. "I'll be waiting. Don't be too long, or I'll have to cancel all the plans I made for us tonight."
Alethia smiled back before making her rounds, taking orders and serving drinks. As she approached the last table near the door, she noticed two people engaged in a hushed argument. The girl looked exhausted, as if they had been on the move for days, while the man seemed agitated and eager to leave. Alethia couldn't believe her eyes. It was the man from Greg Minister, the one she had witnessed fighting the last time she was there. He seemed to be everywhere, no matter the realm. Shaking off her surprise, she smiled softly and approached the table.
"What can I get you both this evening?"
The man smiled. "I'll have an ale and the cook's special, please."
The girl brushed her long platinum blonde hair from her eyes. "Just an ale for me. I'm not very hungry."
Alethia nodded. "Will you two be needing a room tonight? You both seem exhausted."
The young man sighed, exchanging a glance with his companion. "Yes, please, if you don't mind."
Alethia smiled sweetly. "Not at all. I'll just need your names for our log, and I'll get you a key." "Blake Williams and Chris Lightbringer."
As Alethia turned to leave, the man called her back. "Wait, have we met before?"
She shook her head. "No, I don't believe we have. I'm sorry." She went to the bar, giving the orders to Tadia, writing down their names in the inn log, and retrieving a key. Returning to the table, she handed them their drinks and key.
As the night progressed, Alethia handed over the rest of her responsibilities to Tadia. "Well, I'm done for the night. If it gets too busy, don't hesitate to ask Marianna for help. She doesn't always bite people's heads off."
Tadia smiled. "Thanks, Alethia. Go and enjoy your night. Don't worry about us; we'll be fine tonight. Besides, you deserve a break. You've been working tirelessly since you started here."
Alethia hugged her friend. "Thank you, Tadia. I have a key to the front door, so I can let myself in if it's locked. You don't need to wait up."
Tadia chuckled. "I won't be waiting up, but Ozark certainly will. He considers all of us who work for him as family. If you're not back by closing time, he'll make sure you return safely."
Alethia nodded. "Thanks for letting me know. I'll be sure to tell you all about my date tomorrow."
Tadia's smile widened, her eyes glinting mischievously. "You better spill the beans, or I'll have to pry it out of you."
Alethia smirked, undoing her apron and handing it to Tadia. She sauntered down the bar, where Ryos patiently waited. "All finished and ready to go."
Ryos rose from his seat, gently clasping her hand. "Then let's get out of here."
They strolled towards the front door, stepping into the cool night air. "I hope you haven't eaten yet," Ryos began, a playful glimmer in his eyes. "I've reserved a table at one of the finest taverns in the village. The food is simply to die for, although it can't compare to the fare here."
Alethia's stomach rumbled in anticipation. "I'm famished. So, where exactly are you taking me? I haven't had much chance to explore since we arrived."
"The Lions Tavern," Ryos answered, his voice laced with excitement.
"Sounds marvelous," Alethia replied, her smile growing wider.
Ryos guided her through the bustling streets. "By the way," he added, a hint of mystery in his tone, "I hope you enjoy dancing."
Alethia paused, a flicker of worry crossing her face. "Well, I do know how to dance, but..."
Ryos interrupted her, his confidence unwavering. "No need to fret. You'll do splendidly. I have complete faith in you."
They arrived at a well-lit tavern, teeming with people enjoying their evening meals. As they made their way inside, Alethia was about to suggest finding another place when a server appeared, gesturing towards a back room where a table awaited them.
Ryos ushered Alethia behind the curtains, pulling out a chair for her before taking a seat opposite her.
Alethia brushed a stray lock of hair behind her ear. "You must have quite the reputation here to secure such a table."
Ryos poured her a glass of wine from a bottle already resting on the table. "It helps to have connections," he replied, handing her the glass with a soft smile. "So, my dear, what would you like to feast upon tonight? Anything your heart desires."
Alethia's grin grew wider. "How about some succulent venison paired with fresh fruits?"
"Delicious choice," Ryos approved. He whispered their order to a nearby server before focusing his attention back on Alethia. "Now, tell me, you turned away from a life of crime to help your sister, correct?"
Alethia nodded, her fingers nervously playing with her hair. "She was adopted by my parents when we were young. We've always been close, and when her birth parents passed away, my parents took her in. But she yearns to break free from the constraints of being a princess. She wants to be self-reliant, so I offered my assistance. We were planning a job at the inn, but Ozark caught wind of it and offered us an alternative. He doesn't know who we truly are, and I don't want our secret exposed."
Ryos nodded, taking a sip of the wine the server had just brought. "Rest assured, your secret is safe with me." He watched as the server departed, waiting for them to be alone once more. "Rumors have also circulated that your wedding has been called off."
Alethia took a sip of her wine, her head bobbing in agreement. "Indeed, I discovered his infidelity a few weeks back. So I ended the engagement."
Ryos couldn't help but smile. "I'm sorry to hear that, but I can't say I'm not surprised it happened."
Alethia shrugged, a nonchalant expression on her face. "I never truly loved him, and it was evident that he didn't love me either." Tilting her head slightly, she asked, "Is that why you asked me out? Because you heard about the canceled wedding?"
Ryos chuckled, nodding his head. "Guilty as charged. I thought I'd take a chance."
Alethia laughed softly, shaking her head as the server returned with their food, placing it on the table before them.
Ryos nodded. "Now, let's savor this meal. The night is far from over."
After they had finished their meal, Ryos led Alethia to the dance floor. He placed a gentle hand on the small of her back as the soft melody began playing. They glided across the floor, Alethia losing herself in Ryos's gaze as he skillfully guided her to the rhythm. When the song ended, he tenderly caressed her cheek. "See? I told you that you would do splendidly."
Alethia blushed, the next song picking up in tempo. They danced and laughed, sharing stories of their pasts. As the night drew to a close, they made their way back to the Open Arm's Inn. Alethia paused at the door, turning to face Ryos. "I had a truly enchanting evening, Ryos. Thank you."
Ryos gently caressed her cheek before leaning in, their lips meeting in a passionate kiss. His fingers ran through her hair, trailing down to her collarbone. Alethia wrapped her arms around his neck, returning the kiss. When they finally pulled apart, they locked eyes. "Wow," Alethia whispered, her voice filled with awe. "That was... wow."
Ryos's lips curved into a gentle smile. "I'm pleased that you found as much joy in it as I did."
Alethia's fingertips traced a path along his cheek. "Believe me, I did. Very much so."
Ryos's grin widened. "Excellent. How about another rendezvous, tomorrow once your work is done?"
A soft smile played on Alethia's lips. "I would love to, but I'll be closing tomorrow. It's Tadia's night off, I'm sorry."
Ryos shook his head, dismissing any disappointment. "No worries. I'll swing by, and we can make plans."
Alethia nodded, her fingers fumbling with the keys as she unlocked the front door.
Ryos leaned in, planting a tender kiss on her cheek, ensuring her safety before she stepped inside. Alethia bid him goodnight, closing the door behind her as she secured the lock.
"Did you have a pleasant evening?" a voice emerged from the darkness.
Startled, Alethia glanced toward the bar, where Ozark sat, sipping on a glass of water. "Oh, I apologize if I kept you worried."
Ozark shook his head, his voice filled with reassurance. "Nonsense. You're a grown woman, entitled to nights out. I just wanted to ensure your safe return. Did you enjoy yourself, or do I need to ban one of my favorite patrons from ever setting foot in here again?"
A soft laughter escaped Alethia's lips. "It was truly wonderful. We'll be going out again soon."
Ozark nodded, a genuine smile gracing his face. "That's good to hear, my dear. I'm glad you had a delightful time."
Alethia approached the bar, leaning in to give Ozark a gentle peck on the cheek. "I truly did. Thank you for waiting up for me, Ozark. I'll see you in the morning."
Ozark nodded, affectionately calling her by her nickname. "See you in the morning, Ruby."
