Right Outside My Window (ErrInk)

Chapter 33 - Comforting Seduction

Ink's POV

  I traced my charcoal pencil across the paper as I did a light sketch. It was a good way to start the morning, drinking tea and sketching while on the front porch of the mansion. Despite it being cold, the breeze was soft and warm and the sky was cloudless. The people of Zerania seemed to enjoy this type of weather as they gleefully walked about the streets without any clear destination. Even Reaper was enjoying the day by taking his wolf form on a long run through the forest.

  I took a comforting sip of tea before returning to my drawing of a dancing woman. However, my silence was soon broken when I heard a carriage pull in front of my home. Based on the design and the majestic steed that pulled it, it belonged to the royal family.

  Placing my cup on the table next to me, I watched as a man carrying a box stepped out from the carriage. I recognized him as Xander. He seemed to do a lot for the family whether it be medical and transportation. He looked at the mansion as he walked up the steps. He noticed me in the chair and smiled.

Xander: Good morning, your grace.

Me: Good morning.

Xander: It is a lovely day, is it not? Perfect for going on a stroll through town.

  I nodded, taking another sip of my tea.

Xander: Hopefully it will stay the same tonight and not become too cold. Oh, I almost forgot the reason I came here. Here, his majesty sent you a gift. I am sure you will love it.

  He said as he handed me the box. I glanced at him before taking off the lid to reveal something that I did not expect. It was my brown scarf that Error had taken when we were younger. On top of it was a folded paper, presumably a note. Setting the letter aside, I picked up the piece of clothing and felt a tiny grin appear. The brown scarf was my most cherished thing to wear, despite me not being able to wear it for years.

  I grabbed the letter, unfolding it to read what was written.

"Meet me tonight in the courtyard. The carriage will pick you up so do not worry about walking all the way to the castle. There are monsters that roam the night after all, walking would not be safe. I do hope to see you wear your scarf as it has been some time since I last saw you with it. I hope that I see you there, Ink."

  It was not signed but I knew it was from Error. I folded the note and placed both my scarf and the paper back in the box for later.

Me: Thank you for bringing me this, Xander.

Xander: It is my pleasure, your grace.

  He bowed and turned to leave but glanced at me once more.

Xander: Will you be taking his majesty's offer to meet with him?

Me: I suppose. I will be leaving for Valcon tomorrow so I guess it would not hurt to see him one more time.

  The butler bowed again and headed towards the carriage. I watched as it rolled away, leaving me alone with my sketchbook, tea, and newly obtained box.

  I stood from my chair, grabbed my things, and entered my home to prepare for tonight.

(Time Skip)

  Xander opened the carriage door for me as I stepped out. It was dark but the castle gave off just enough light to see. The guards at the front gate bowed, opening the doors to let the butler and I in. I stared up at the large building, expecting to see a silhouette of the youngest prince looking down upon me but I never saw one.