Rosie's Games

Lucas furrowed his brow, gazing intently at Rosalind. "Why do you need to leave?" he questioned, a hint of concern lacing his words.

Rosalind met his gaze head-on, her expression firm. "Do you expect me to stay holed up in this place forever?" she retorted, her voice laced with determination. She merely intended to make a quick visit to the black market, seeking a few essential items and gathering information about relics. It was a task she planned to accomplish within the day and return promptly.

However, Lucas's persistent clinginess had become increasingly bothersome. His insistence on accompanying her had sparked a sense of unease within her and this was not because she did not want to be with him.

Unyielding, Lucas responded, "Then let us go together."

Rosalind sighed, realizing that her words had fallen on deaf ears. The main reason she hesitated to bring Lucas along was his striking appearance. Even with a mask, his commanding stature, broad shoulders, and imposing aura made him stand out in a crowd. Naturally, all eyes would be drawn to him, and then to the woman at his side—her, Rosalind. She had been contemplating adopting a simpler disguise, but any attempt would be futile with him by her side.

After a moment of contemplation, Lucas suddenly perked up, his enthusiasm renewed. "It's settled then. We are going together," he declared, seemingly elated that she had relented.

"What if I told you not to go?" Rosalind challenged, her tone slightly defiant.

A playful glimmer danced in Lucas's eyes as he countered, "Are you going to tell me not to go?"

Rosalind closed her lips tightly, choosing not to provide a direct answer. The truth was, arguing with Lucas had proven to be an arduous endeavor. It was an internal struggle she preferred to avoid at that moment.

Lucas swiftly called upon his trusted aide, Denys, and issued him a series of instructions. With determination in his eyes, he took hold of Rosalind's arm, leading her forcefully toward the bustling black market. Their unexpected appearance together caught the attention of Mathies, who had come to welcome Rosalind. Momentarily taken aback, he quickly regained his composure and guided them to Mr. Pratt's location.

It had been several days since Rosalind's last visit, and upon spotting her, Mr. Pratt's face lit up with excitement. However, his smile faltered as his gaze shifted to the imposing figure by her side. "Your Excellency..." Mr. Pratt stammered, his voice trembling slightly. "D-Do you require something?"

Lucas, nonchalant and composed, settled Rosalind into a comfortable chair and positioned himself opposite her, his gaze fixed on the visibly anxious Mr. Pratt. "Pratt, how is the market?" he inquired casually, as though discussing the weather. Rosalind couldn't help but feel a mix of amusement and exasperation at Lucas's unexpected interest in culinary matters. She had originally planned for a quick visit to procure relics, cursed weapons, and seeds for her greenhouse. Little did she expect that their stop at the black market would turn into a prolonged affair.

"Everything is going well," Mr. Pratt replied with a nervous smile. "If there's anything you require, Your Excellency, I will do my utmost to—"

"Firstly," Lucas interjected, cutting off Mr. Pratt, "I need a list of the newest and most delectable restaurants in the area. We shall indulge in some fine cuisine." The Duke's statement elicited a perplexed expression from Rosalind. She found herself torn between laughter and exasperation. She hadn't intended to prolong their stay, but it seemed that Lucas had different plans.

Nevertheless, her own needs couldn't be overlooked. She required additional seeds for her upcoming greenhouse, realizing that her current stock was insufficient. With the impending war on the horizon, other preparations demanded her attention. This was the real reason why she came here.

Rosalind, acutely aware of the profound changes that her rebirth had brought, remained resolute in her original plan to prepare for the impending chaos. The looming war and the imminent threat of demons demanded her unwavering focus.

Returning to the present conversation, Mr. Pratt's words jolted her out of her contemplation. He handed over the list of recently opened restaurants in the black market, but his hesitance was palpable. "However," he hesitated, "we have yet to determine if these establishments are being used as a front by spies sent from other kingdoms. It would be prudent to exercise caution while exploring..."

Lucas, ever direct, cut to the chase. "What are you trying to say, Pratt?"

The black market purveyor glanced at the Duke, his expression filled with unease. "Well... it's just that, Your Excellency, your presence is quite striking. If you were to walk around Aster, people would undoubtedly become suspicious of your intentions." Mr. Pratt's gaze shifted towards Rosalind, seeking support.

Rosalind, recognizing the validity of Mr. Pratt's concerns, interjected with a wry smile. "He means to say that your remarkable attractiveness, Duke Lucas, will undoubtedly draw attention. If your presence in Aster becomes known, it will undoubtedly sow seeds of doubt and apprehension among the populace. Given the already tumultuous political climate within the Aster Empire, one can only imagine the chaos that would ensue."

"Then let them," Lucas responded.

Rosalind observed Lucas's nonchalant response with a mixture of curiosity and skepticism. It was no surprise to her that he seemed unfazed by the potential consequences of his presence in Aster. After all, his priorities did not seem to align with the affairs of the empire. However, there was a lingering doubt in her mind.

She narrowed at him.

For some reason, she couldn't help but question his true motivations. While he projected an image of indifference toward the turmoil in the South, she couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to his actions than met the eye. It seemed suspicious to her that he was intentionally strolling through the bustling streets of the black market.

This was simply too coincidental!

Rosalind's eyes widened in surprise as Lucas playfully tapped his knuckle against her forehead, interrupting her train of thought. His casual gesture caught her off guard, leaving her momentarily speechless. "You are thinking too much," he smirked. "I only came here to eat with you." Lucas leaned closer.

Seeing this, Mr. Pratt was speechless. The atmosphere between them shifted, becoming charged with an unspoken tension

What kind of situation is this?