Amira of Ironclad Empire

As the evening sky painted itself with the hues of twilight, Kazmir and I found ourselves seated at an elegantly set table in the grand dining hall of Xylos Manor. Our conversation wandered through plans and possibilities as we discussed our impending journey to the Alanian Empire.

"Think of this as a grand adventure, Ava," Kazmir said, his eyes twinkling with excitement. "A much-needed respite from the endless council meetings and estate affairs."

"And here I was enjoying the thrill of paperwork and the same four walls. But if you insist, exploring Alanian might barely compete with that excitement," I leaned back, a playful smirk tugging at my lips.

The decision to delay our wedding to ensure I had ample time to recuperate from a recent illness had set the empire abuzz with rumors. Every magic telegram and newspaper headline speculated wildly, adding a layer of intrigue to our departure.

As we enjoyed the mushroom soup, its rich flavors, and its comforting balm, our butler Albert approached with an air of reluctant interruption.

"Your Grace, a messenger from Count Edam has delivered gifts and a well-wishing letter for Her Grace's swift recovery," he announced, his voice tinged with disapproval.

"Return them, Albert. Inform them that the Manor of Xylos prefers deeds to trinkets," I said with a dismissive wave, barely looking up from my soup.

"Exactly my thoughts, my love. And don't worry, I've got all the gifts you could ever want. Starting with a getaway from this gilded cage to the vibrant streets of Alanian," Kazmir chuckled, his voice low and amused.

After dinner, Kazmir, ever the gentleman with a hint of mischief, offered his arm, and we strolled out to the garden where a gazebo awaited, transformed into a haven of soft cushions and ambient light. The contrast to the manor's usual stateliness was refreshing.

"So, tell me about Alanian. I expect tales of daring knights and mysterious markets, or I'm not setting foot out of this gazebo," I teased, settling comfortably against the plush cushions.

Kazmir's laughter rang out, clear and joyful. "Oh, I'll do you one better. I'll tell you of their war horses. There's this particular breed, the inane, shimmering like a pool of gold under the sun. I've secured one for you, thinking it might inspire you to ride with me at dawn."

"The only thing that'll get me riding at dawn is the promise of a spectacular breakfast afterward," I quipped, my tone dry but eyes gleaming with humor.

He painted a vivid picture of the Alanian landscape—towering mountains and verdant valleys, where people of unmatched prowess in horseback riding and combat lived lives woven with courage and community.

He recalled a moment of pure serenity during his last visit, watching dolphins arc gracefully through the crystalline waves—a scene that mirrored the empire's vibrant essence.

"The seas of Alanian are alive with wonders," Kazmir continued, his voice tinged with awe.

"Seeing those dolphins play was like watching the spirit of Alanian itself—free and untamed."

"Since this is an unplanned visit, I doubt that we will be granted access to meet my sister due to security reasons," he said as we walked through the garden.

"But if this is on my scheduled visit, upon our arrival, we will be greeted by Prince Rolan and his wife, Princess Elysia—who is, in fact, my eldest sister," Kazmir revealed with a fond smile. Our conversation deepened into the night, and I was delighted by the connection.

"She and Rolan are expecting their first child, and my parents, the former Duke and Duchess of Xylos, are likely there already, eager to welcome their grandchild," he added.

With dawn, the manor buzzed with preparations. Kazmir, with his typical efficiency, ensured everything was arranged swiftly. The magic of a transportation portal meant that what would typically be a weeks-long journey would take but a moment.

Reassured by Sebastian and the Doctor of my improved health, we said our brief farewells. The portal, a shimmering arch of light and promise, awaited us in the secluded wing of the manor.

We stepped through the portal and emerged into the vibrant heart of the Alanian Empire. However, even the best-laid plans saw a moment of disarray as Kazmir, usually the epitome of grace, stumbled upon arrival, his misstep nearly sending us both tumbling.

"As graceful as a galloping horse," I teased, steadying us both.

"Only the finest horses for you, my love," he retorted, a blush creeping across his cheeks as the nearby guards stifled their chuckles.

As we arrived around the afternoon, the place of the portal was a two-day carriage ride to the Alanian Palace. Kazmir asked Sir Marcus to notify us of our arrival together with the other knights.

"Are you alright, my love?" Kazmir asked as he saw me walking wobbly. This may be due to the transportation portal that was almost new to me compared to the simple carriage ride.

"Just a little bit dizzy. I think I must be tired from the journey since it's my first time using the transportation portal." I said while Kazmir supported me while he wrapped his hand around my waist.

"Alright. Do you want me to carry you? I am good at it you know," He asked while gesturing the attempt to carry me like we're newly wed.

"Can I just piggyback? That can work as well." He looked confused as I assumed the word piggyback was new to him.

I faced him and then guided him to turn his back from me while I tried to make him bend a little bit, but he was so resistant.

"What do you think you are doing my love? Are you forcing me to propose again?" He said jokingly but still followed me.

As I hugged him from his neck he was a bit shocked by the gesture so I chuckled.

"Don't worry I won't do what you're thinking right now. This is how piggyback works." I said while I assumed he now understood about how piggyback works.

As he walked through the town's plaza, the gazes of the people pierced through me. I felt so embarrassed, but I couldn't just ask Kazmir to put me down as I was the one who suggested doing this.

We heard the people murmuring and saying how sweet Kazmir was and the others, maybe of noble blood, said that it was unladylike. But I don't think Kazmir cares about what they are gossiping about. I can even hear him hum while he walks and that made me slowly sleepy.

When I woke up, I found myself lying in bed, and next to me was a beautiful human being whom even the gods in this realm may be jealous of. Now, I am more curious about what Princess Elysia and his parents look like.

I smiled while I appreciated his facial features, never had I imagined that someone like him would be officially my husband, technically. Even when I stayed in Korea, deep inside, whenever I saw someone whose beauty was beyond compare, may it be a woman or man, I do appreciate how they looked.

"You are a piece of artwork…. Even Michelangelo will be jealous" I said as I brushed the hair that ran down his face.

"This nose that I am jealous of how perfect it is woven into your face…. These eyelashes, that even eyelash technicians will rave about…." I said while giggling. Now that I look at him, I am excited about what our future children will look like.

"These jaws that jaw-tox can't even get near to…. And…." I paused as I traced his lips. I am feeling the urge to kiss him, but I know it's rude considering he's sleeping. I may feel like doing so, but I want his approval first, right?

I was shocked as he held my hand tracing his face. Then, when I look at his forest-green eyes, all I can see is the desire to do something. He's too honest for a person.

"My love, I know how much you want me…. But, I don't know what I will do if you continue this." He said while he kissed the hand that he was holding.

"Uhmm…. You know, y-you can kiss me…." After I said that line, he held my face as he kissed me deeply, passionately, and sweetly. The kiss becomes deeper and deeper and deeper.

I clung my hands to his nape as he continued kissing, now on top of me. His hands on both sides of my head supporting his balance. His tongue played mine, and as the kiss deepened he then broke it and kissed me on my forehead.

"I told you…. I won't hold back…." He said while I still clung to his nape. I smiled at him while his face and ears are all bright red.

"We'll have to wait for the wedding. I want us to have a proper wedding night free from worries." He said while smiling at me. He then lay beside me and hugged me close to him as he kissed my forehead again.

"This should be enough for now…. The view in Aurelion can help the restless night ahead of us after our wedding night." He said as his hug tightened, while I felt something bulging right down on my stomach part. I giggled as I knew what it was.

"Don't mock me…." He pouted while I still giggled. How cute he was pouting so I hugged him back even if I felt 'that thing'.

The following day, we received a letter from Sir Marcus that it was good to travel now to the Capital of the Alanian Empire as they had informed Her Highness of our arrival.

"How fascinating it is to wake up to such wonder…." He said while caressing my face. I just woke up due to the sunlight passing through the windows of this inn.

"I should be the one telling that. What a piece of artwork you are." I cringed at what I said, now I know that compared to my previous identity as Katherine Davis, I now expressed things like this awkwardly and straightforwardly.

"But who is Michelangelo? Should I behead him?" This man really has a knack for making me smile even at the start of the day, or is it because I find it endearing to know, that this man is now my husband?

"You can't. He's a famous artist in my previous world. It's just an expression of how the god in this realm had created someone like you so beautifully…." I said and that made his face bright red again.

"C-Come on. We have to eat and then depart. I can sense that my sister wants to meet you immediately." He said as he stood up first and helped me to stand up as well from the bed.

After eating and buying some food and water, Kazmir also bought a horse. This horse is not an ordinary one, I sense it somehow maybe because of my divine power.

"Where did you get this horse?" I asked Kazmir and he just pointed at a stable where different horses are. Now that I see it, all the horses in that stable are the same as the one that he bought.

"Uhmm…. Can we buy all of them?" I asked shocked and saw on his face but was shifted into a playful smile.

"I will pay for it so you don't have to worry," I said while I felt embarrassment lingering to my whole body as if I was asking to buy him candy instead.

"You don't have to worry, my love. I asked the seller to send the horses into the Xylos territory. Those horses are my gift to you in replacement to the p-perfume b-before…." He said while he turned his back on me and put our belongings on the horse in front of us. Now that I remember, the perfume was gifted by Kazmir and was thrown for my safety.

This horse as I said, is different even from the line of warhorses I procured before. This horse and the others that will be sent to the Xylos territory are dragons in disguise. My mother, Adira, once told me in my memories that they existed and managed to transform into a more fitting animal so they could live peacefully with humans.

But for those who have divine powers, it's a bit different. They are obedient to those with divine powers, in short, to those who have been blessed by God. As for me, the horse in front of me looked at me in the eyes as I was beside it.

To my surprise, it knelt after Kazmir was done putting our belongings into it. Kazmir was surprised and so was I. It seemed like it was telling me to ride its back with ease.

"Well…. That's surprising my love, even i the stallion of Xylos will kneel down into your ethereal beauty." I glared at him and he guided me to hop into the horse's back.

"It is an honor to meet the descendant of the God of Aura here. I am Drakehart, the head of the Dragorion, that traced back to the dawn of time." I was shocked to hear the voice of Sir Drakehart in my head.

"How did you know, Sir?" I asked in return through my mind, while I saw Kazmir riding the horse as well sitting behind me.

"We felt your presence and we still want to show gratitude to your Mother and Grandmother as our previous owners." He said while we started the journey. So he knew my mother and grandmother. Should I ask him about them and how they are acquainted with someone like the Majestic Dragorion line?

As we traveled and surely I fell asleep again, I was shocked to see that we were already in the heart of the Alanian Empire. The Capital. Filled with the scenery of different luxurious stores and the scent of the sea. Kazmir held me in his arms and so I sat up properly, his arms were sure numbed due to supporting me not to fall from falling asleep while we were riding a horse.

"Oh! You're awake, my love. Do you want to eat first or do you want us to go straight to my sister?" He asked smiling while I could see that his arms were numbed.

"I apologize for falling asleep…." I said while I looked down. He descended into the horse and guided me down as well.

"You don't have to. As long as one kiss will suffice the numbness of my arm." He said playfully while gesturing a kiss on his lips. So I kissed him so quickly and ran off to a nearby boutique. While he put the horse reins into a nearby stable.

"Welcome, customer! Do you need anything? A new dress? Swimwear? We got it all for you." The boutique lady said. As I looked through the dresses, I didn't think something like what I was wearing right now was fitting to the customs of the Alanian Empire. I don't want to look like someone new here. If my goal was to learn from their culture and traditions.

"Can you give me something fitting for this weather? Even if it's a trouser or something light in fabric." I said but she just dragged me into the fitting room.

The fitting was done immediately, and as I looked at myself in the mirror, I knew Kazmir would be flabbergasted by what I was wearing right now. But as I can see the people here, are wearing something like this as well.

"Are you a goddess by any means?" The woman asked me in awe as I walked outside the fitting room and saw Kazmir at the entrance.

"What do you think are you wearing, my love?" He asked with a confused look, so I glared at him saying don't ask such a thing as it might offend the store owner.

I walked near him and saw that his face was bright red. As I smiled leaning closer to him.

"You said I have to learn everything here, so this is the start," I said while he looked away.

The outfit is a shirt made of leather and something like a sports bra that is like a cropped top. It reminds me of Angelina Jolie in the Tomb Raider movie. That's how it looks like but this outfit was quite light in fabric. My skin was exposed and the shoes I am wearing were designed like boots and for reference, it reminds me of Timberlands's boots.

"I'll let you wear that, but you have to wear a cloak, please." His puppy eyes pleaded. He sure is shocked by my outfit. Compared to the people in this empire, my skin was like a porcelain doll in color due to my lineage, but way back in Korea, I really loved to go to the beaches and get tanned. It's not an open secret since every weekend, on my day off, I made sure to still enjoy myself on something like the beach to calm my mind from all the chaos Claude brought me.

After we ate, the eyes were all on us. Compared to earlier when we just arrived, the gazes were more intense now that I wore something like they were wearing.

Kazmir on the other hand remains in his clothes. He made his cloak cover me the entire journey to the Alanian Palace.

As we arrived, Prince Rolan and Princess Elysia approached, laughter dancing in their eyes as they welcomed us, their joy creating a warm embrace that promised new beginnings and familial bonds in this land of tradition and spirited beauty.

As we arrived at the Alanian Palace, in the Princess's palace, Elysia shared a delightful tale that added another layer to our visit.

"Did Kazmir ever tell you about the time he tried to hold onto a dolphin during a visit to our coast?" Elysia asked with a sly grin.

"He was so confident, but as soon as the dolphin swam off, he was dragged through the water like a rag doll!"

Kazmir, blushing, tried to interject, but Elysia continued, "We all panicked, but when we finally got him back on the boat, he was completely dumbfounded. Didn't stop talking about how dolphins are the kings of the sea!"

"So that's why you know so much about how dolphins act! Here I thought you were just being your usual know-it-all self." I gave Kazmir a teasing look, my amusement clear.

The room erupted in laughter, the story adding a light-hearted touch to our visit and making the bonds of family and laughter even stronger. Just as the laughter began to subside, a servant entered the room with an air of urgency.

"Your Highnesses, your parents have arrived," he announced, bowing slightly before stepping aside.

A sudden wave of anxiety washed over me. The weight of their expectations, the gravity of their titles, and the hope that they would accept me pressed heavily upon my chest. As they entered, their eyes first gave me a scrutinizing look that froze me in place.

The former Duke, a tall figure with a stern countenance, glanced at his wife, his expression unreadable. The former Duchess, however, broke the silence with an exclamation that echoed around the room.

"My Goodness! Kazmir! What an adorable maiden," she declared, her voice filled with surprise and delight. Without another word, she rushed over to me, enveloping me in a warm, enthusiastic embrace that lifted me slightly off the ground.

"My dear, perhaps a bit of decorum," he murmured, though his eyes twinkled with amusement. The former Duke shook his head, a hint of a smile betraying his pretended disbelief at his wife's behavior.

I was stunned, barely catching my breath as the Duchess finally set me down. "Oh, I just knew you'd be perfect the moment I heard about you," she said, stepping back but keeping her hands on my shoulders. "Kazmir has told us so much about you, dear."

Relief flooded through me, mingled with a touch of embarrassment at the intensity of her greeting. I glanced at Kazmir, whose face was alight with amusement and love. It was clear now that he had indeed shared our story with his parents, and their reception, though overwhelming, was filled with genuine acceptance and joy.

"Welcome to the family, Ava. We couldn't be happier," the former Duke added, extending his hand to me with a warm, firm grip that conveyed his sincerity.

As the evening drew to a close, the echoes of our laughter and the warm welcomes I received enveloped me, weaving a tapestry of acceptance and belonging. In the heart of the Alanian Empire, surrounded by Kazmir's family, I felt a profound sense of home—a promising prelude to the life we would build together.