Chapter 20: The Long-Distance Communication Paper

The sheet of paper in her hands was one she had seen before—Luke had shown it to her once.

A letter that defied logic and reason, a miraculous invention that transmitted written words across distances to its counterpart paper.

“…Teacher?”

Her hands trembled as she picked up the letter, her breath unsteady.

And then, words began pouring onto the page in rapid strokes.

Can you see this, Lady Elin? Of course, you can.

There’s no way my invention, the long-distance communication paper, would malfunction.

Luke’s characteristic confidence was evident in the very first sentence.

In case you haven’t heard, I am currently in the underground prison. It’s quite cozy here… and cold.

Elin let out a gasp, her chest tightening.

I hope you’re not too worried. Other than it being cramped, cold, and poorly lit, it’s not so bad.

“…Not bad? It’s awful!”

The guilt weighed heavily on her chest, pressing her down.

Moreover, I even prepared this long-distance communication paper in advance, didn’t I?

So, don’t worry too much.

His reassurance brought back a vivid memory—a promise sealed with their pinky fingers that he’d take responsibility in a way that wouldn’t cause worry.

“Just wait until you’re out,” Elin muttered, a fiery determination in her voice.

The thought of reclaiming his pinky finger made her even more resolute as she continued reading.

Since you haven’t responded yet, I assume you’re still unconscious.

Please reply when you read this.

A pause in the lines signified a day passing before the next letter began.

Day two. Morning in prison is far from cheerful… or refreshing.

Luke’s second day commenced with his usual quips.

I expected this experience to be similar to life at the academy, but prison life is far more unpleasant.

Elin couldn’t help but chuckle dryly. “What were you expecting?”

The worst part?

No coffee.

Not the taste of the food, but the absence of my beloved iced Americano.

It’s been three days, Lady Elin.

Three days! My hands are beginning to shake.

Elin tilted her head.

“Three days without caffeine, and his hands are trembling? That’s not normal.”

She paused, reflecting. Had she ever seen Luke go without coffee?

…Never.

“I’m going to make him quit coffee,” she declared resolutely, nodding firmly at the thought of issuing an order he’d begrudgingly follow.

If Luke were there to hear her, he’d probably let out a wail of despair.

In the meantime, I’ve been researching ways to lift your curse, even from here.

Elin’s conviction softened slightly.

“…Maybe I’ll allow it… a little coffee.”

The fact that he was working for her even while imprisoned made her relent.

Fine.

How indulgent could Luke possibly get?

A bit of coffee wouldn’t hurt.

If he had heard her thoughts, he would have sighed in relief.

I’ve found a potential way to temporarily alleviate your curse.

More precisely, I’ve identified someone who can help.

Once you wake up, we’ll visit them together. Please respond as soon as you see this message.

The letter ended on a note that left Elin with more questions than answers.

Who was this person he had found? How did he plan to find them while imprisoned?

Despite her racing thoughts, the first words Elin hastily scribbled in response were:

I’m sorry.

It was a disjointed, hurried apology, but it was the only thing she wanted to say in that moment.

The desire to apologize outweighed her curiosity about his discovery.

Suddenly, the paper glowed faintly as a new message appeared:

Lady Elin?

You’re awake!

His words were quick, almost urgent.

How are you feeling? Are you alright?

I’m… not fine.

Her initial instinct to downplay her condition faltered. She had always believed in Luke—trusted him.

There was no point in lying to him now.

I see. Your handwriting’s barely legible.

That’s my usual handwriting.

A pause followed before another reply appeared.

Ah. In that case, perhaps we should focus on improving your penmanship when I return.

“Hehe,” Elin giggled despite herself.

Her body was still feverish, and her limbs felt like lead, but the exchange with Luke lifted the heavy veil of despair that had been suffocating her.

Even as her body ached, her spirit felt lighter.

Drink plenty of water and stay in bed. Rest is the priority.

I will. Don’t worry about me. Is it uncomfortable there?

Very much so. Much worse than I anticipated.

I’m sorry.

There’s no need to apologize. In fact, I consider this punishment a bargain.

Elin could almost hear the familiar, lighthearted chuckle in his words.

The Duchess believed separating us would weaken our bond, but here we are, still talking.

Her lips curled into a small, triumphant smile. “So much for that plan, Mother.”

But of course, Luke had foreseen her schemes and prepared accordingly.

“What about where you’re being held? Do you know where exactly?”

Luke’s reply carried a note of caution.

Why do you ask?

I want to visit.

The response was immediate.

Visit here? Why? You should be resting.

Because I miss you.

The silence that followed seemed to carry his internal conflict.

I’m flattered, but no. You need to focus on your recovery.

“…Tch.”

Elin had suspected he’d refuse, but hearing it still stung.

Her pout deepened as her hair drooped visibly.

Luke’s next words, however, rekindled her curiosity.

Besides, there’s no need for you to come.

Why not?

Because I’ll come to you.

The confidence in his statement left Elin speechless.

“How… how would you do that?”

Is there anyone with you right now?

The mysterious tone in his question made her instinctively glance around her empty room.

No. I’m alone.

Good.

Before she could process his cryptic response, a soft hum filled the air behind her.

Whoosh—

A shimmering portal opened in the corner of the room, illuminating the space.

Luke stepped through, brushing off his slightly disheveled coat.

“…How?” Elin’s eyes widened in disbelief.

Luke grinned, raising a hand in greeting. “Well, I am a spatial mage, after all.”