Clint sighed softly, scratching the back of his head. 'So this is how it starts, huh? Being a bunny was easier…'
Meanwhile, in the west wing of the Duke's estate, Elric stopped in front of a tall double door carved with the crest of the Beaumont noble house. He gave a firm knock and waited only a second before a soft click echoed.
The door opened by itself likely through a magical mechanism and Elric stepped inside without hesitation.
He bowed deeply the moment he entered. "Your Grace," he greeted, his hand resting lightly over his chest.
The Duke was standing near a tall mirror at the far end of the elegant chamber, adjusting the cuff of his sleeve with slow precision. Sunlight from the tall windows cast a soft glow over his white hair, making the red of his eyes appear even more striking as he glanced sideways to acknowledge Elric's arrival.
"Elric," the Duke said simply, his voice low and composed as always.
