The Omega Princess and Her Two Leashes - Chapter 85

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Chapter 85

The village of Fleurose was unexpectedly peaceful and beautiful. Rows of ivory-colored houses, much like those in the royal city, topped with curved, multicolored roofs, created a charming scene.

It was a stark contrast to the Empire’s predominantly straight-lined brick architecture. The alleys bustled with people, their chatter and laughter echoing through the streets. Plump cats and dogs wove their way through the crowds.

Strolling through the village, Leybid tilted his head, taking in the sights. It was a picturesque scene, like something out of a fairytale, yet a strange sense of unease settled over him. He scanned his surroundings, trying to pinpoint the source of his discomfort, but couldn’t.

Regardless of his feelings, the market was lively and cheerful. Each alley offered a feast for the eyes, the shops overflowing with goods. The aroma of rich, savory food wafted from various stalls, tempting passersby.

“That looks delicious.”

Arlenrose’s eyes sparkled as she watched meat skewers sizzle on a grill. Leybid, standing behind her, grimaced.

“Street food? Meat, no less? I’ll pass.”

“I’ll take one.”

Camin immediately headed towards the stall, Arlenrose, arm in arm with him, followed suit. Leybid reluctantly trailed behind them, then recoiled at the sign above the stall.

“Ugh… that’s not just meat, it’s monster meat. Are you really going to eat that?”

“It looks even more delicious up close. Would you like one, Sir Camin?”

“Yes. I’m having trouble deciding between the two sauces.”

“Then shall we order one of each and share?”

“An excellent suggestion.”

Moments later, they each held a skewer, glazed with different sauces. Arlenrose popped a piece of meat into her mouth and chewed with a sigh of contentment.

“Wow, this is really good.”

“You really think that tastes good?”

“It does. It has a unique flavor.”

“If you like it, tell me. We can swap.”

“Exchange food after we’ve already bitten into it? With our saliva all over it?”

“If you enjoy it, I’ll simply buy you another.”

“No, that crepe over there looks delicious too. I’d like to try that next.”

“More street food? Why are you eating so much? Are we here just to eat?”

“In that case, I shouldn’t fill up, so we should swap.”

“….”

Ignored repeatedly, Leybid glared at them as they exchanged skewers, his face a mask of displeasure.

“Are you two the only ones with mouths? Aren’t you going to offer me any?”

At his grumbling, Arlenrose glanced at him, her smile gone.

“You said you didn’t want any.”

“Ah, so you could hear me after all? You were just pretending not to, weren’t you?”

“Not at all. I simply didn’t respond because your comments didn’t require one.”

“Even so, when someone is speaking…”

Camin cut into their brief argument.

“I’ll go ahead and queue for the crepes.”

Arlenrose’s cool expression melted into a radiant smile as she turned to Camin.

“No. Then I won’t be able to stay close to you.”

“Ah, that’s true.”

“Yes. So let’s eat this together and then queue together. I prefer that.”

‘They’re playing games.’

Leybid gritted his teeth, glaring at the two of them, but they remained oblivious, their cheerful banter continuing. Just as she had wished, Arlenrose was thoroughly enjoying her time outside the castle walls.

She was far more relaxed and lively than within the castle walls, chattering excitedly, laughing aloud, pointing at things, and savoring the street food. All the while, she remained linked arm in arm with Camin. He, in turn, though not overtly expressive, seemed to enjoy their conversation and shared laughter.