The streets of Arogon's capital buzzed with the usual market chaos—merchants shouting, carts clattering, and townsfolk weaving through the crowd. Yet even amidst the noise, a polished carriage rolled into the square, its deep navy sides embroidered with the crest of the Northern Duchy.
The carriage door opened with a soft thud. Jenny Astral stepped out first, landing lightly on the cobblestones. Her shoulder-length dark hair framed mischievous lotus-shaped eyes, and her cherry-colored lips curved into an energetic smile. She skipped forward, her petite frame radiating liveliness.
"Come on, slowpokes! Let's not keep the city waiting!" Jenny chirped, grabbing the attention of the knights around her.
As the second door opened, the world seemed to still. Roseline Astral emerged, a vision that could have belonged to a fairy tale. Long dark hair flowed gracefully, bangs framing her delicate face, and her lotus-petal shaped eyes shone with intelligence and quiet confidence. Her cherry-colored lips curved into a subtle, knowing smile, and her short height made her appear both adorable and enchanting.
Roseline's orange gown shimmered in the sunlight, the fabric flowing elegantly around her as she stepped down from the carriage. Heads turned along the street; even hardened merchants and knights felt the pull of her presence.
From the shadows of the bustling market, two pairs of sharp eyes observed every movement. Royer de Hein, hood drawn low over his crimson hunter-like gaze, watched with interest, his calculating mind taking in every detail—the swing of Roseline's hair, the spark in Jenny's eyes, the elegance with which she carried herself.
Beside him, Raylan de Hein scanned silently, amber eyes calm and precise. "The Northern Duke's daughters," he murmured, recognition in his voice. "They are… formidable."
Royer's lips twitched, almost imperceptibly. "I thought so," he said softly, still hidden in the crowd. "And yet… there's something different about them. Something worth noting."
The sisters began moving through the square, Jenny bouncing ahead, tugging Roseline along. The princes stayed in the shadows, blending seamlessly with the market crowd, analyzing the newcomers. Every graceful step, every playful glance, and every subtle gesture of the sisters was cataloged in Royer's mind.
A faint wind lifted Roseline's orange gown, and for a brief moment, her presence seemed almost magical. Royer's hunter-like eyes locked onto her. Raylan's calm gaze flicked between the sisters and his cousin. Both knew one thing: these two were no ordinary nobles visiting the capital.