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Facing his beloved's eyes once again, Haven reminisced about a day long past.
He recalled the excitement of the long years spent anticipating to meet Raviel again, the piercing clarity of her bright eyes, and their miraculous first encounter that gave him life from mere existence.
***
It was an exceptionally cold day, with the flags on the Dehart Castle spires flapping wildly in the wind.
Trida Dehart, standing in for Duke Haven, had gone out to inspect the estates. The household servants trailed behind him, while Haven climbed to the highest tower of the castle as he often did.
Everyone in House Dehart knew Haven feared someone might ask him to assume the Duke's responsibilities while Trida was away, so he avoided such situations.
The Sheathed Sword––that was what people in House Dehart called Haven, the head of the family and their lord. It sounded impressive, but Haven knew it was meant as a mockery.
