𝗵𝗲𝗶𝗿𝘀. . . nishimura riki ✔

𝟬𝟰𝟵; a grand library

THE LIBRARY OF THE OLD CITADEL WAS LARGE AND VAST. Riki found himself surrounded by towering shelves that seemed to reach towards the skies. The vast expanse of the room overwhelmed him, its sheer size and the sheer number of books within its walls leaving him awestruck. Sunlight filtered through stained glass windows, casting colourful hues upon rows of ancient tomes and leather-bound volumes.

His eyes widened as he tried to take in the enormity of the collection before him. Endless shelves stretched out, filled with knowledge and stories waiting to be discovered. The scent of aged parchment and the faint musk of knowledge permeated the air, creating an ambiance that stirred his curiosity.

Riki's gaze darted from shelf to shelf, his fingers itching to run along the spines of the books, each one a gateway to untold realms and untapped wisdom. He marvelled at the intricacy of the library, the meticulous organisation that allowed countless volumes to find their rightful place.

The quiet murmurs of scholars absorbed in their studies added to the ambiance, the sound of turning pages and occasional hushed discussions creating a symphony of intellectual pursuit. Riki was captivated by the atmosphere, a place where knowledge was cherished, and minds were sharpened.

'Impressive, isn't it?' Jieun asked, a hint of amusement dancing in her eyes.

Riki could only manage a nod in response, his voice momentarily stolen by the sheer magnificence of the library before him. It was a sight unlike anything he had ever encountered. His gaze lingered on the shelves, his eyes tracing the countless books that seemed to stretch into infinity.

'In Starfall, our library is nowhere near as grand,' Riki finally admitted, his voice filled with a mix of wonder and admiration. 'It's much smaller, with only a fraction of the books you have here. This. . . this is something else entirely.'

Jieun smiled, her expression radiant with pride. 'The Old Citadel takes great pride in its library. Scholars from all over the realm flock here to seek knowledge and wisdom. It's said that everything worth knowing can be found within these walls.'

Riki's eyes widened, his curiosity piqued even further. 'Everything worth knowing? That's quite a claim.'

'Perhaps it is, but you'll soon discover the depth of the Eastern knowledge housed here. The Masters are renowned for their expertise and teachings. They have devoted their lives to unraveling the mysteries of our realm. It is a privilege to learn from them.' She chuckled softly.

Master Bao, his age evident in the lines etched on his face, shuffled into the library. Riki's eyes widened slightly as he caught sight of the elderly man. He exchanged a glance with Jieun, a subtle expression of concern and amusement.

'It seems our esteemed Master Bao has arrived,' Jieun whispered to Riki, her voice laced with a teasing undertone.

Riki stifled a sigh and nodded, trying to hide his apprehension. Master Bao's slow, deliberate speech was notorious, and Riki feared he might doze off during the lessons.

'Don't worry, Riki. You won't be alone. Ser Jake and Ser Sunghoon will accompany you.' Jieun continued, a mischievous smile dancing on her lips.

'Oh, joy,' he replied sarcastically, mustering a smile to his lips, masking his irritation. 'More quality time with your dear knights.'

She chuckled, enjoying Riki's discomfort. 'Consider it a bonding experience, since you're such good friends.'

Riki rolled his eyes playfully, knowing that he and the knights shared a complicated relationship of love and exasperation. Reluctantly, he accepted the company of Jake and Sunghoon, knowing that their presence would offer some semblance of entertainment during his lessons with Master Bao.

With a shake of her head, Jieun left Riki's side and gracefully approached Master Bao, her movements displaying a profound respect for the elderly scholar. She took hold of his wrinkled hand with a tender grip, her touch conveying warmth and admiration.

'Master Bao,' she greeted him with a soft smile, her voice filled with affectionate reverence. 'It's an honour to see you once again.'

Master Bao, his gaze softened by Jieun's genuine regard, returned her smile with a nod. His slow, deliberate speech pattern seemed to ease ever so slightly as he spoke.

'The honour is mine, Crown Princess,' he replied, his voice carrying the weight of wisdom. 'I trust you have come to further your studies in our esteemed library.'

'Indeed, Master Bao. I seek to expand my knowledge and understanding of our realm. And today, I am accompanied by Prince Riki of House Nishimura, who seeks to learn the ways of the East.'

The elderly man's eyes shifted towards Riki, his gaze lingering for a moment before returning to Jieun. 'Ah, a noble endeavour indeed. The East welcomes those who seek enlightenment and understanding. May your journey be fruitful, young prince.'

'Thank you, Master Bao. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from you.' He offered a stiff bow.

Jieun nodded, a glimmer of pride in her eyes. 'I shall leave you to it then,' she said, her voice carrying a hint of anticipation for her own tasks ahead. She exchanged a fleeting glance with Heeseung, who stood faithfully by her side, before turning to make her way out of the library.

The Prince watched as Jieun departed, a sense of both longing and determination tugging at his heart. He knew he had a lot to learn in the coming days, and the presence of Jake, Sunghoon, and the enigmatic Master Bao only amplified the weight of his responsibilities.

Jake, the older brother of the two, but only by a few minutes, clapped a hand on Riki's shoulder. 'Looks like it's just us boys now,' he said, a playful smirk dancing on his lips. 'Time to put that Westerling charm to good use, eh, Prisoner?'

The youngest triplet, Sunghoon, standing beside Jake, chuckled in agreement. 'Oh yes, we're in for quite an adventure, Prince Riki. You'll soon discover that the East has its own peculiarities.'

'I can hardly contain my excitement,' he replied, his tone dripping with sarcasm. 'Lead the way, gentlemen. Let's see what Master Bao has in store for us.'

Rina talks !

alright we're doing it like this: 2 chapters today, 1 tomorrow and 1 on sunday