Zach was in the study room, idly flipping through a book while Vivian reviewed some documents. The quiet afternoon was soon interrupted by Sebastian's arrival, a letter in hand.
"My lady, a letter has arrived from Frosthold."
Vivian raised an eyebrow, setting her papers aside as she took the sealed envelope. With a graceful motion, she broke the seal and unfolded the parchment. As her eyes scanned the contents, a soft chuckle escaped her lips.
"Oh my, this is quite bold," she mused, shaking her head in amusement.
Zach's curiosity piqued. "What does it say, Mother?"
Vivian cleared her throat and read aloud.
To my esteemed aunt Vivian and my dear rival Zach,
I, Elias Frost, formally extend an invitation for Zach to visit Frosthold. It is of utmost importance that he experiences the grandeur of our city, tastes the delicacies we have to offer, and, of course, loses to me in a game of my choosing. This will be a valuable learning experience for him.
Signed, your Zach's future superior, Elias Frost.
Zach's expression darkened. "That little—" He took a deep breath, trying to maintain his composure. "He's obviously just calling me over to gloat."
Vivian simply laughed, shaking her head. "As expected of Elias. Such confidence." She then placed the letter aside. "Well, he certainly made me laugh, but no, Zach is not going anywhere."
Sebastian, who had been standing attentively, cleared his throat. "There is another letter, my lady. This one is from Lord Leo Frost."
Vivian's amused expression shifted slightly as she accepted the second letter. As she read, her fingers lightly tapped against the armrest of her chair.
"What does that one say?" Zach asked, tilting his head.
Vivian sighed, setting the letter down. "Leo makes a fair point. He believes this trip would be good for your education. Exposure to different perspectives, broader experiences he argues that such things will benefit you in the long run."
Zach narrowed his eyes. "Or maybe Elias just begged him to write that."
Vivian chuckled. "Perhaps. But it does hold merit." She tapped her chin thoughtfully before finally sighing in defeat. "Very well. You may go to Frosthold."
Zach blinked. "Wait, really?"
"Yes. But remember, this is not just for fun. You are to learn something from this experience." Vivian gave him a pointed look. "And no causing trouble."
Zach groaned. "When have I ever caused trouble?"
Sebastian coughed into his hand. Mia, who had been sitting nearby, giggled. "Big brother is always making funny faces when he's frustrated."
Zach slumped back into his seat, already mentally preparing himself for whatever Elias had planned. "This feels like a trap…"
Vivian smirked, handing the letter back to Sebastian. "Send a reply. Inform them that Zach will be visiting."
As Sebastian left to deliver the response, Zach leaned back with a sigh. "I swear, Elias is up to something."
Vivian merely smiled knowingly. "That's for you to deal with."
Zach sat at his desk, tapping the quill against his chin as he thought about how to respond to Elias. The invitation to Frosthold was exciting, but he knew better than to go unprepared. With a small smirk, he dipped the quill in ink and began writing.
"Elias,
I accept your invitation. I hope you're prepared because I certainly will be. Whatever you have planned, I won't be caught off guard. See you soon."
—Zach
After signing his name, Zach set the letter aside to dry before handing it to Sebastian for delivery. That part was simple, but now came the real challenge preparing for the trip.
Vivian had already taken charge of the travel arrangements, ensuring that everything was set for a smooth journey. However, Zach, knowing how unpredictable Elias could be, decided to make his own preparations.
First, he visited his wardrobe with Mia trailing behind him like a curious little duckling. She watched as he carefully selected his outfits, making sure to pick clothes that balanced comfort and formality.
"Big brother, why are you looking at your clothes so seriously?" Mia asked, tilting her head.
"Because Elias is unpredictable. I have to be ready for anything." Zach said, holding up a coat before nodding approvingly.
Next, he gathered supplies a notebook for observations, a few books for studying, and some small trinkets that might serve as gifts or trade items. He even requested Gregor to prepare a small board game set to bring along as a goodwill gesture.
The most important step, however, was securing some 'emergency plans.' After seeing Elias in action before, Zach was not going to take any risks. He asked Sebastian to prepare a backup set of clothes in case of any 'accidents' whether it be from spilled drinks or mud-filled pranks.
When everything was set, he took a deep breath, satisfied with his preparations. The only thing left was to wait for the day of departure. As he sat back in his chair, Mia hopped onto his lap and giggled.
"Are you excited, big brother?"
Zach chuckled. "Excited? Maybe. Prepared? Absolutely."
Days has pass after the letter was receive. Zach travel was set. With a simple goodbye with his mother and sister who want to follow him nothing eventful happen. He only tries to listen in the news about the game he produces and it seem everything is fine.
The carriage rocked slightly as it traveled along the dirt road, the rhythmic clatter of the wheels filling the air. Zach sat beside Sebastian, arms crossed, his face void of its usual enthusiasm. This was going to be a long trip.
Three days by carriage? Zach internally groaned. Back in my old world, I could get across the country in mere hours. Planes, trains, buses—heck, even a car ride would be better than this! And don't even get me started on air conditioning...
He sighed, shifting in his seat for what felt like the hundredth time. The wooden carriage, while well-crafted, was nothing compared to the cushioned seats of modern transport. The heat, the occasional bump, and the never-ending road made him long for something as simple as scrolling through a phone or listening to music.
Mia wasn't here to entertain him, and with only Sebastian for company, conversation was limited. The butler, ever composed, remained upright, scanning the surroundings with a keen eye, ensuring their journey remained uneventful.
Zach eyed the trees lazily passing by and dramatically slumped forward. If only I had a window seat with a nice cold drink... He glanced at the water flask beside him and took a sip, but it was warm. He frowned. Figures.
Sebastian raised an eyebrow. "Young Master, you seem troubled."
Zach waved him off. "Just thinking about how slow this is."
Sebastian nodded. "Carriage travel does require patience."
Patience? Zach internally screamed. This is pure suffering!
Despite his complaints, the journey continued. There were no shortcuts, no highways, and certainly no flight tickets. This was his reality now, and he had to endure it.
At least, until he figured out how to bring air conditioning to this world.