Chapter 285 - Mystical Lake (1) (1/2)

Night has fallen in the camp site. All the members of the group had finished setting up their tents before night fell.

A small campfire was burning at the center of the campsite. Tricia was the one to cook our meal for the night. It consists of potato stew, which was easy to cook, partnered with bread. We all gathered around the campfire to eat dinner together.

”I hope it is to your liking your majesty.” Tricia, who was beside me, asked.

”It tastes good Tricia.” I replied with a smile. ”When did you learn to cook?” I asked curiously.

Tricia was my personal maid when I was still a princess in Alvannia. Her main role was to serve me and to see to my needs. Cooking was not in her work and I also never saw her cook the time we were together.

”Well… when I was in Grandcrest palace, I did not have any work to do, with you away in Jennovia and all.” Tricia replied. ”I was treated as a just by his majesty King Regaleon, but I was not used to lazing around. And so, I started to help in the kitchen.”

”That is good to hear.” I said to Tricia with a smile.

”I became friends with the royal chefs there, and they thought me a thing or two in cooking.” Tricia added.

I am happy to see that Tricia has grown to have a good life. What was lacking right now was a husband. At her age, she should have been married, or at least engaged to a suitable man.

”I have tried the dishes she had practiced doing when I was still in Grandcrest.” William interjected. ”At first she was having a hard time, but she got the hang of it after practice.” He chuckled.

”I am sorry that you have to taste my first dishes that did not turn out so well, my lord.” Tricia bowed her face in embarrassment. I saw her cheeks blush slightly. ”I am sure that my future dishes would improve more, so… can I still ask for you to taste test for me?”

Tricia looked up expectantly wo William. I saw her eyes twinkling in anticipation for his reply. My thoughts that Tricia has a crush on William became more plausible.

”Of course, if can I be of help then I am willing to.” William replied with his gentlemanly smile.

Unfortunately, William was dense to Tricia's feeling for him. 'Is it because he has been in a one sided love all the time that he was oblivious with the other women's feelings for him.' I thought.

As for me, if it is possible, I would like these two people close to me become a couple. I would love to help them, but of course I do not want to do something that is not necessary. For now, I want to observe and let nature take its course. I can help them in little ways that can be harmless in forming their relationship.

”I am getting a little cold.” I exclaimed, thinking to give these to a push. ”Tricia, can you please get me my shawl in the tent?”

”Of course, your majesty.” Tricia got up from her seat to follow my order.

”Will, can you please go with her.” I asked. ”Our tent is a little further away, and I am worried that there would be some wild animals around.”

”But you will be left here unguarded, your majesty.” William replied.

”I-I can go by myself, your majesty.” Tricia interjected. ”It is not that far off. I think there would be no wild animals brave enough to venture near a large group.”

I scowled, knowing that my plans can be foiled because of their arguments. 'Oh, come on Tricia. I am giving you the chance to get alone time with Will.' I scolded her internally.

”It's okay.” Regaleon who just came back from speaking with Chris said. ”I am here to take care of my wife. You two can go and have some time alone after giving her the shawl.”

”As you wish, your majesty.” The two replied in unison and left together.

Regaleon sat beside me after William and Tricia had gone.

”Here, I got you some stew and bread.” I gave Regaleon the plate and bowl I prepared for him. ”Eat it while its hot.” I added.

”Thank you.” Regaleon took the bowl with a smile. ”Have you finished eating?” He asked.

”Hmm.” I nodded. ”I just finished.”

Regaleon started to lift the spoon and sip the soup from the bowl. I watched him eat with delight. There was a half-moon tonight, so the only illumination came from the light from the campfire. Even with little lighting, I can still see Regaleon's handsome face.

'I can look at his face all day and not get tired of it.' I thought.

I rested my chin on the palm on my hands with a smile on my face. I was very content with this simple joys.

”I fell like melting with your gaze you know.” Regaleon said and chuckled.

”S-Sorry…” I shyly lowered my head after his words.

”Haha, its okay. I also love to look at you.” Regaleon replied. ”Well that hit the spot. I am already full.”