General Julber observed, a faint smirk playing on his lips. "Unfortunately, you only arrived one minute above expectations."
With practiced discipline, Runia knelt. "I accept the punishment, General."
"Stand up."
"Yes, General." Runia rose, her gaze steady.
"You did well, Runia. You've passed the test. It is time for you to join the force." A genuine smile replaced the general's smirk.
"The force?" Runia echoed, a spark of anticipation in her voice.
The next morning, as dawn painted the sky, Runia was honing her martial arts near the tranquil lake, her movements precise and powerful.
"My Lady," Carine's voice was respectful but firm, "you have been called by your father to return to the capital in the first week of autumn."
"The first week of autumn?" Runia paused in her practice, her focus shifting.
"Yes, My Lady."
"Alright." She placed her sword down, a sense of duty settling upon her. "Since it is in a week, we should begin our journey."
"Yes, my lady. I will go pack." Carine bowed and departed.
Later in the day, about noon, Runia sought out General Julber. "General J?" she called, her voice carrying a clear calmness as she approached his tent. "Are you in here?" As the question left her lips, her purple bracelet vibrated, and in a flash, she found herself by the lakeside, General Julber already present.
"Runia, what is the matter?" he asked, acknowledging her sudden appearance.
"I have been called back to the capital by my father."
"True," he mused, "I might have almost forgotten. You are to be a Rose in two weeks."
"Yes, that's right."
"So when will you be hitting the road?" he inquired.
"Probably Thursday, so I can be there for the weekend. My cases are being shifted tomorrow."
"That sounds good. I will go with you."
"Really? Thank you!" A rare, uninhibited joy lit Runia's face, and she bounced on the balls of her feet.
"Don't forget tonight's training section," General Julber reminded her before vanishing with a subtle shimmer.
Runia's joyful bouncing ceased. She turned, her eyes catching sight of a figure in the distance, a silhouette that sparked recognition. "Your highness?" she called out, her voice carrying a hint of surprise as she began to walk towards him.