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Chapter 46 - Chapter 46

Of course. Continuing with the established "expert literary translator" approach, here is the polished English translation for the chapter.

The next day, the long-awaited moment had arrived. Íris had barely managed to sleep, filled with excitement for the start of a new training and the possibility of learning new techniques. Leticia, meanwhile, was filled with a sense of nostalgia, recalling her own training days with Master Yoshi.

Leticia's feeling intensified when she saw who awaited them: Sir Raphael, one of the Master's most experienced assistants, a man with a serene countenance and the wisdom of his fifty years etched in his gaze. Upon recognizing Leticia, a warm and genuine smile lit the instructor's face.

Íris, for her part, could hardly contain her excitement. To be in the presence of the same master who had assisted in the training of Princes Ryuuji and Aleph was an honor.

After brief introductions, Sir Raphael adopted a more serious posture.

"Before we begin," Sir Raphael started, "I will conduct an assessment of your skills. Princess Leticia, please, a step forward."

As he reviewed the initial stances for Leticia, his movements served as a demonstration for Íris.

"The base style the princess learned is the same as the princes', but her primary style has its own particularities, just as each kingdom has its own."

Íris absorbed every word, fascinated as much by the theory as by the promise of the practical teachings to come. A sudden curiosity then filled her.

"Sir Raphael!" she began, her curiosity overcoming formality. "What was their training like? Were they good students?"

"I wish I could answer your question, but a prince's training is protected by a confidentiality agreement," he replied, kindly but with unquestionable firmness.

Íris nodded, understanding. A trace of disappointment passed through her eyes but was quickly replaced by a determination to learn.

In the middle of the afternoon, Ryuuji appeared at the training grounds to observe how the training was developing. Sir Raphael approached, his face lit with a respectful joy. The teenager he had trained years ago had given way to a man with the bearing and aura of a true ruler.

Ryuuji, upon seeing his former instructor, inclined himself in a deep bow, a gesture of humility that would have surprised many.

"Sir Raphael, I thank you in the name of the Autumn Kingdom for being here, assisting them in their training."

"It is I who should be thankful for the opportunity to teach such dedicated students."

The training with Sir Raphael progressed steadily in the following days. Leticia and Íris, under his guidance, honed their techniques and strengthened the friendship that was blossoming between them.

With the first phase of the training completed, and amidst preparations for the second, a call from the prince interrupted their routine: Ryuuji requested Íris's presence in his office for a private conversation.

"What does Your Highness command?" Íris asked, with her usual posture of reverence and readiness.

Ryuuji indicated for her to sit, signaling that this was not a strictly official matter.

"How is your training going, Íris? And how has your interaction with Leticia been? I would like to know the details."

With a sparkle in her eyes, Íris enthusiastically recounted the initial combat training sessions she had already begun with Leticia, her growing admiration for the princess's skills, and how, with each passing day, a sincere friendship seemed to be flourishing between them.

As Íris spoke, Ryuuji stood up and approached her, bringing with him the small, dark wooden box that Kirin had delivered, marked with the symbol of autumn. He requested that she come closer and, with a delicate gesture, he moved the brown hair from her neck, placing the necklace with the orange crystal there. The stone emanated a gentle warmth. Íris touched the pendant, surprised and confused by the nature of the gift.

"Ryuuji, to what do I owe this honor?"

"Consider it an... aid for your training, Íris," Ryuuji said, his voice low and confiding. "This necklace is important. It will be our secret. And under no circumstances are you to give it to anyone."

"I will keep it with the greatest care and affection," Íris replied, touched by the gesture.

Although she did not fully understand the meaning of the crystal, she understood that it was a recognition of her effort and a vote of confidence, something that would strengthen her dedication to her training and to the protection of the kingdom.

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