Not-So an Extra

—Clip —Clop —Clip —Clop

The rhythmic sound of horses' hooves filled the air as a carriage and numerous horses passed through the vast meadow.

Nathaniel rested his head against the plush backrest, taking in the picturesque view through the window.

A week had passed since the start of their journey and right now, they were in Marquis Gilmore's territory in the Egberg region.

When Nathaniel caught sight of the silhouette of a fortified city, he turned to the boy reclining on the couch across from him.

"Ian, wake up. We're almost at Axton City."

The white-haired boy stirred, lifting the blanket that covered him, and sat up.

After regaining his consciousness, he peered out of the window and saw that they were approaching the city.

Soon, the rough and bumpy trail gradually gave way to a smoother granite pavement.

Arriving at the entrance to the City, the party stopped and a group of knights, clad in armor, were waiting for them—they were Gilmore Knights.

The knights greeted them politely and escorted the Imperial convoy to Marquis Gilmore's mansion.

Entering the city, a bustling street could be seen from the carriage.

Cassia trees were lined up alongside the roadside and the ditches were filled with clear water, colorful fish swimming at the bottom.

Axton City was one of the most beautiful cities in the Aeon Empire.

The vast amount of flowers planted throughout the city and picturesque streets make Axton City a popular tourist destination, especially among the nobility.

Graham said that they would spend the night here before continuing the journey. 

He also mentioned that Marquis Gilmore would join them since all high-ranking nobles from every region and high-ranking military officers would attend the conference.

—Clank!

The giant gates slowly creaked open, revealing a stunning garden that seemed to stretch on for miles.

The garden was a riot of colors, with flowers of every hue blooming in profusion. 

·ƈθm Butterflies flitted from bloom to bloom, their wings shimmering in the sunlight. 

In the center of the garden stood a magnificent water fountain, its spray glittering in the sun.

Right after the carriage stopped, Ferdinand opened the door, and they disembarked from the carriage.

As Graham and the Prince approached the mansion, two figures came into view.

Dressed in fine clothing, they were the Marquis and Marchioness Gilmore.

Upon their arrival, the couple hastily bowed.

"We greet the Duke of Lancaster and the Imperial Princes of the Aeon Empire."

The Marquis was a tall man in his late sixties, with piercing brown eyes and a shock of auburn hair. 

His wife, the Marchioness, was a woman in middle age, with a pair of striking blue eyes and pale blonde hair.

"Welcome to our home. You honor us with your presence."

The Marquis said, his voice deep and resonant. 

Graham nodded and responded. 

"The honor is ours, Marquis Gilmore. Thank you for your hospitality."

Shortly, the couple led them inside, through a grand foyer, and up a sweeping staircase. 

The walls were adorned with priceless works of art, the floors were made of gleaming marble.

After graciously escorting them to their chamber, the Marquis and Marchioness bid them farewell.

.

.

.

Following taking a refreshing shower and getting dressed, Adrian threw himself onto the bed and stared up at the ceiling.

It had been a while since he had lounged on such a soft bed; it seemed that living as a prince had raised his standards.

Since it was 2 pm, Adrian decided to take a nap, however just when he closed his eyes, his Telesphere rang—disrupting his peace.

"Tsk."

Feeling annoyed, Adrian reluctantly opened his eyes and lifted his hand to check the caller ID. 

Soon, the name of his beloved brother appeared on the screen.

"Haa…"

Letting out a frustrated sigh, Adrian begrudgingly answered the call.

"What is it?"

// They said that they had delivered the item you requested to the Corbenik Mercenary at Axton City. //

Nathaniel informed him and Adrian arched his brows, not expecting to be this quick.

"They did?"

// Yeah. I'm on my way to your room now, so get ready. We're heading to the city. //

"Noted. Then I'll contact my Grandfather."

// Alright. //

After their conversation ended, Adrian called Graham to inform him of their plans and Graham suggested taking Asher and Ferdinand along with them.

"I understand."

// Be careful. //

"I will, thank you."

Not long after, Nathaniel entered his room whilst waving a small bottle in his hand.

"I brought something for you."

Adrian raised one of his eyebrows.

"Hair-changing color potion?"

"Well, if you crave attention then we can skip this part."

Nathaniel shrugged and put the bottle into his pocket.

Ho? 

As expected of his brother, Nathaniel was always attentive to the smallest details.

"No, give it to me."

Adrian held out his hand and he handed him the item.

Fredinand who stood behind Adrian stepped forward and offered a hand.

"Your Highness, may I assist you?"

"Yes, please."

Adrian gave him the bottle and Fredinand began applying it to his hair.

After a few moments, he stepped back.

"It's finished, Your Highness."

"Thanks, Fred."

"It's my pleasure."

Adrian stroked his hair and was surprised to find that it wasn't wet or sticky at all.

He moved towards the mirror and a boy with black hair and blue eyes stared back at him.

However, he noticed that his brows and lashes were still white.

"Pfft, you look like a rare crossbreed dog."

Adrian's lips quivered upon hearing Nathaniel's remark.

He wanted to refute but damn, he couldn't agree more.

"But, why black, though? I want blonde hair."

Nathaniel rolled his eyes in boredom and retorted.

"Black hair is way COOLER than blonde, you know."

"Yeah, yeah, says someone with black hair."

Seeing Nathaniel try to open his mouth to respond, Adrian quickly cut him off.

"Let's go."

But, whatever, at least this hair would make him less conspicuous.

Leaving the mansion, they spotted Asher waiting next to the carriage. 

He greeted them warmly and they boarded the carriage to head towards the city.

Dropping at the City Square, the townspeople chatting and laughter filled the air, creating a lively atmosphere.

The colorful souvenirs and food stands were neatly arranged, tempting the senses of passersby with the delicious aromas emanating from them.

Nathaniel took the lead and guided him through the crowd, while Asher and Ferdinand followed closely behind. 

Adrian couldn't help but feel a sense of confusion. 

Wasn't Nathaniel saying that they were heading to the Corbenik Mercenary? 

Then why did they end up in the bazaar section?