"Is this truly for me?" Roman asked, his eyes wide with wonder as he peered inside the finely carved wooden box.
"Indeed," August replied, leaning down slightly. "It is a wooden gun. It is completely harmless, as it doesn't fire anything dangerous. However, it will prove quite effective in honing your aim and precision."
"I love it! I have never received such a magnificent present before," Roman exclaimed, his gaze darting up to his mother. "May I accept it, Mama?"
"Of course, my sweet," Eilika reassured him with a tender smile, reaching out to gently ruffle his dark hair.
Turning back to the guest, Roman offered a bright, polite beam. "Thank you, Uncle August, for such a nice gift." He then glanced at his mother before turning around and running outside.
The servants scrambled out of the way as Prince Sylvian strode into the mansion, his breathing ragged.
"Your Highness!" Eilika gasped in shock, her hands instantly clasping together at the sight of the royal prince.
