The Land of Phaleno: The Princess's Rebirth (Book I)

Chapter Sixteen: "The Unexpected Visit"

Outside the residence of the diamond craftsman, General Ashbie's retinue awaited in their car, parked beyond the iron gates. As the General emerged from his car, his stride exuded an air of authority, each movement affirming his leadership and power.

His erect posture and immaculate uniform, adorned with gleaming medals under the night sky, underscored his high rank. His gaze, fixed upon Jun, was intense, as if every movement of the young man was under scrutiny. A palpable tension filled the atmosphere.

Meanwhile, Jun remained expressionless, his face impassive as he ignored the General's scrutiny. He walked towards his car with a deliberate indifference, seemingly oblivious to his surroundings. As the car door swung open, Jun entered and the vehicle departed, leaving the diamond craftsman's estate and passing the royal military detachment stationed outside.

Swiftly, the diamond craftsman gestured subtly to one of his subordinates. The signal was urgent.
Receiving the coded message, the subordinate acted with alacrity. He slipped into the house, his movements almost imperceptible. Inside, he made his way to a secluded chamber where a large, black chest was kept.

Without delay, the subordinate opened a hidden safe concealed behind mahogany bookshelves. He placed the chest containing the diamonds within the safe and secured it firmly. The subordinate then returned to his post.

Meanwhile, the diamond craftsman remained composed, his eyes glancing occasionally towards General Ashbie as he strove to mask his anxiety with a calm demeanor. "General Ashbie!" he exclaimed, saluting. "To what do I owe the pleasure of your visit?"
General Ashbie turned his attention to the craftsman. "I am on a mission from Princess Aleah," he stated firmly.

The craftsman bowed his head slightly in deference. "How may I be of service, General?" he inquired.

General Ashbie continued, "Princess Aleah requires new adornments for the upcoming procession. Your renowned skill in jewelry design has reached her ears. She wishes for you to come to the palace to discuss the details further."

Upon hearing this, the craftsman nodded respectfully. "Very well, General. I shall prepare myself and do my utmost. Thank you for your trust."

However, before the craftsman could continue, General Ashbie added, "That man... are you acquainted with him?"

The craftsman's countenance changed, and his heart raced. Maintaining his composure, he replied, "I have merely conducted business with him, General."

General Ashbie furrowed his brow, his expression curious. "Business?"

"Yes, he is a merchant of exquisite vases. I decided to purchase one of his pieces to adorn my home," the craftsman responded, gesturing towards the large crate near the door.

General Ashbie paused for a moment, carefully assessing the situation before nodding. "Very well, I shall see you at the palace."

With a knowing nod, the diamond craftsman watched as General Ashbie returned to his car. As the car disappeared from view, the craftsman let out a deep sigh, his hand clutching his chest in relief. "I almost thought he had come to apprehend me," he muttered, his voice trembling slightly as the noise of the departing carriage faded.

Suddenly, a hand gently but firmly touched the craftsman's shoulder, causing him to jump and exclaim, "Oh heavens! Elara! Do you intend to slay your own father?"

Elara, with an innocent expression, looked at her father with confusion. "Why would I wish to harm you, Father?" she asked, bewildered by his reaction.

The craftsman rubbed his forehead, attempting to calm his racing thoughts. "Enough, I do not wish to argue now," he said wearily as he began to enter the house.

"Father! Elara wishes to speak!" Elara called out, halting his steps with an urgent tone.

The craftsman turned around, his face weary and slightly irritated. "What is it?" he asked, trying to be patient.

Elara took a deep breath, uncertainty evident on her face. "It is about the man earlier, the one named Jun."

The diamond craftsman furrowed his brow, his expression one of confusion. "Yes, what of him?" he inquired.

Elara bit her lip, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment. "I would be willing to be betrothed to him, Father. Despite his reputation as the most wanted criminal, yet..."

Before Elara could finish her sentence, the craftsman quickly covered her mouth with his hand, his voice filled with fear. "Oh, my daughter, if your words were to reach others, we would all be in grave danger," he said with a worried tone.

Elara was startled by her father's reaction, her eyes widening. The craftsman slowly removed his hand and looked at his daughter with concern. "This is no trifling matter, Elara. Jun is a most dangerous man. And the kingdom would not hesitate to punish anyone connected to him," he continued, his voice serious.

Elara nodded slowly, beginning to realize the gravity of the situation. "I apologize, Father. I did not mean to cause trouble. I merely..." she said softly.

The craftsman sighed deeply, running his hand over his face before speaking. "I understand, Elara. But Jun's visit was not a proposal. He was merely here on business," he said.

A look of gloom crossed Elara's face, her disappointment evident. Her eyes dimmed, as if her hopes had been shattered. "Father," she said in a trembling voice, "I find myself drawn to him. There is something about him that... that is different."

The diamond craftsman grasped Elara's hand tightly, his gaze filled with pity. "My daughter, Jun may appear charming, but he is not a good man. He lives in a dark world filled with violence. I cannot allow you to be drawn into it."

Elara shook her head slowly, tears welling up in her eyes. "But, Father, I believe there is goodness hidden beneath his cold exterior. I am certain he can change," she said, her voice trembling as she tried to convince her father.

The craftsman looked at his daughter with concern. "Elara, your hope is noble, but the reality is far harsher. He is not worthy of you, my daughter! I promise to find you a more suitable husband."

Then, the diamond craftsman walked heavily into the house. "You should prepare my belongings. I must leave for the palace at dawn."

Elara bowed her head, tears streaming down her cheeks. "Yet, I am fond of him."