Reborn As Noble Chapter 1226: The Safety of the Nest ( 1226 )
Previously on Reborn As Noble...
A momentary silence lingered on the line before Juria answered, her voice firm and professional.
"Understood, Your Highness. I will mobilize my team right away. We’ll arrive soon."
"Thank you, Juria. I’ll ensure you and your team receive an extra bonus. I owe you all for this."
"Not at all, Your Highness. It’s our duty. We’ll handle it immediately."
"Mm... I’ll wait for you and your team to get here."
Javier released a soft sigh of relief, shifting Liana again in his embrace. Her silver locks cascaded over his shoulder, while her face, peaceful in slumber, appeared gentler than before. Long lashes brushed her cheeks, and her lips, typically pressed tight, now parted slightly with gentle breaths.
He smiled.
This marks the first time I’ve beheld her in such a state.
She always hides everything except her standard serious or elegant poise.
Yet today, her playful, childlike aspect emerged for me.
Wow... I can’t help but ponder how many more facets of her await discovery ahead.
He bent forward and pressed a tender kiss to her cheek.
Hearing Liana’s words about Gracelle... it signals her improving state. Being aware enough to crave companionship, chat a bit, and show some stubbornness... that’s a positive indicator.
A gentle smile curved Javier’s lips, his features filled with warmth as he gazed at Liana’s slumbering visage.
She bears far too heavy a load, ever mindful of her co-wives’ requirements while squeezing in moments to tend to me. She pours herself out for others nonstop, seldom halting to recharge or reveal her fatigue. Still, complaints never escape her.
With a light touch, he stroked her cheek and murmured.
"I’m sorry, Liana... for overlooking your exhaustion, for piling on more weight instead of easing it. And thank you... for standing by me always, for your unwavering support, for remaining at my side despite your weariness."
Javier smiled softly.
That’s precisely why I desire her. That’s why I selected her. Beyond her beauty, grace, or strength, her heart embraces us all fully, yet reserves deep love just for me. Even in irritation, she gives her utmost.
Settling into a close chair, Javier kept Liana cradled in his arms, her head nestled on his shoulder, her form limp in repose.
Tenderly, he ran fingers through her hair, eyes warm.
His gaze lifted when the door swung open. Juria stepped in alongside multiple healer unit members, clad in complete medical gear. They halted at a polite range and offered elegant bows.
"Your Highness."
"Mm..." Javier smiled. "With everyone... uh... out cold," he said, gesturing to Myra, Kalea, and the rest still passed out nearby, "please set up beds and blankets for them. Apologies, but your shift extends until Myra, Kalea, and the others rouse."
Juria’s warm smile radiated poise and deference. "No need to fret, Your Highness. It’s our honor and duty. We’ll manage it all perfectly."
"Mm... Time for me to go." Javier looked down at Liana, face softening further. "She’s fast asleep already, so I’ll carry her to her quarters for real rest."
He adjusted a bit, securing Liana firmly before adding, "Use the mana talkie to reach me if issues arise. When the patient stirs, offer just a little water—a few sips to wet her throat, nothing more. Her recovery’s ongoing, so caution is key."
"As you command, Your Highness." Juria and the healers straightened, delivering one more refined bow.
Rising, Javier breathed into Liana’s ear, "Time to our room."
He watched as Juria’s group delicately hoisted the slumbering healers onto stretchers or led them to nearby beds, tucking each in snugly prior to slipping away silently.
With Liana held fast in his arms, he exited the structure. Right by the doorway, he halted and flicked his fingers. A pair of puppet knights, equipped with advanced mana rifles and multi-layer sensors, appeared flanking the entrance.
"Secure this zone," Javier ordered firmly yet quietly. "Prevent any foe from breaching the primary door. Engage complete detection scan. Thermal, mana traces, movement. Alert on any irregularities at once."
[Affirmative. Perimeter secured. Detection systems active.]
The knights positioned themselves beside the doorway, rifles poised, sensors emitting a subtle glow.
Javier pivoted, bearing Liana to the adjacent building. Garak and Marcor, posted at the entry, saluted sharply upon spotting him, fists thumping over their hearts in salute.
"Your Highness."
Javier flashed a weary yet affectionate smile. "At ease, both of you."
"Understood, Your Highness."
He stepped inside and climbed the stairs, arriving at their room on the first floor. Gently, he pushed the door open, taking care not to disturb anyone.
Inside the room, Gloria, Felicia, Delya, and Mimi lay in deep slumber on the spacious bed, cozily entwined beneath fluffy blankets. Gloria clutched a pillow close, Felicia's arm rested over Delya, and Mimi's ears flickered faintly in her dreams.
A smile crossed Javier's face as he tenderly placed Liana on the bed, adjusting her for maximum comfort. Yet, the moment he tried to draw back, her arms clamped tighter, drawing him into a drowsy, clinging embrace.
Javier let out a quiet chuckle, noting Liana's cheek nestled against his chest, her features serene and blissful, her grip firm as though she'd never release him.
Looks like I'll have to sleep and recharge alongside everyone else.
Even with urgent issues looming, such as the enigmatic group spotted on the mana satellite feed, or the bizarre weapons and detention camp in Amazarak. I simply can't pull away from her now.
Truth be told... I'm feeling rather worn out myself.
With a smile, he settled into position on the bed, tugged the blanket over them, and softly guided Liana's head to pillow against his chest. His eyes lifted to the ceiling, mind beginning to wander.
By this time, Father has surely taken charge of all affairs. I wonder how he'll react once he reviews the report I handed over earlier... detailing the unidentified forces in Amazarak and the threat they might represent.
He looked down at Liana, her silver tresses flowing over his arm, and grinned.
Well... that's a concern for another time.
For the moment... I'll take some rest.
His eyelids drooped heavily, the weariness from the last few days finally overwhelming him. Liana's gentle warmth pressed to him, the rhythmic breaths of the others filling the room, and the tranquil security of the scene eased him into a profound, restful sleep.
( End Of Chapter )