Story Reader / Event Story / Magpie's Fortune / Story
In Constellia, sunlight pours over the horse ranch, and in the distance the grass sways like rolling ocean waves, glowing with a dazzling light.
Hello, are you [player name]? Mr. Chrome is already here and waiting for you inside.
After changing into riding attire, you follow the signs farther in.
At first, a vivid emerald patch catches your eye. A few glossy, well-proportioned horses trot along the fence.
Drawn by the sound, you discover a sunlit stretch of lush greenery, where Mr. Chrome stands tall, reins in one hand, and gently strokes a pale-gold horse with a gleaming mane.
The golden horse lowers its profound gaze, its slender neck gradually dipping under Chrome's steady strokes.
It playfully lifts its lips, grabbing the hem of Chrome's coat.
Don't do that.
Chrome scolds the horse, tugging the reins firmly. The golden horse relents and walks in a gentle circle.
After making that move, Chrome meets your gaze the moment you step into the stable.
You're here, Commandant.
Last night, Chrome contacted you through a private comm channel and set the time and place for today's meeting.
It's still ten minutes before your agreed time, but Chrome is already here.
Honestly, Commandant, I didn't get here much earlier than you. I just showed up ahead of time so I could scope out what's coming next.
He grips the reins, guiding the horse toward you.
The golden horse trails effortlessly behind Chrome, as if its earlier rebellious streak was just a momentary hiccup.
Chrome glances sideways, keeping a close eye on the horse's movement. Even he can't decide exactly what's happening right now.
But right when he stops in his tracks, settling his gaze on you, the golden horse behind him quietly lowers its head again.
Taking advantage of the moment while Chrome is not watching, it suddenly nudges his waist with its muzzle.
This playful mischief completely throws Chrome off. Caught off guard, he stumbles forward a few steps, ending up so close that he's practically pressed against you.
Faced with the situation, the usually calm and composed Chrome lets out a resigned smile, his fingertips gently grazing the reins.
I'm not fully used to this yet, Commandant. Sorry if I'm making a fool of myself.
After all, anything that involves horses is outside my expertise. I'm still at the novice level.
Novice—that's a term you rarely associate with Chrome. He speeds up a bit when he brings it up.
Looks like you've already got a plan, Commandant.
Well...
Do you have any suggestions, Commandant?
Chrome briefly shifts his gaze, pausing to think. In that moment, he steadies his hands, letting go of any lingering tension, and tightens his grip on the reins.
I understand, Commandant. Can you do me a favor?
My hands are full with the reins. Could you fetch those horse treats over there?
The moment you offer the carrots to Chrome, the golden horse trots over, takes a big, crunchy bite, and happily munches away.
After it finishes eating, Chrome tugs the reins again, prompting the golden horse to move. It gallops and stops with perfect timing, no longer showing any mischievous streak, clearly more cooperative now.
Chrome gently pats the golden horse to convey his encouragement, then turns his gaze back toward you.
Your eyes meet, and you can't help but exchange a smile.
The tension that surrounded Chrome earlier dissolves into the relaxed mood of the moment, bringing him a sense of ease.
Looks like everything's going just the way you wanted, Commandant.
Sensing the hint in your words, Chrome blinks slowly twice, and that vivid azure in his eyes shines even brighter.
Until I fully master a skill, I usually don't want anyone seeing me when I'm still not at my best.
So for you, Commandant, it makes perfect sense if I come across as a little "unexpected" today.
Truth be told, I'm a bit surprised myself.
It surprises me that when I'm with you, I don't feel like I need to keep up a flawless front; I can just let go and enjoy this moment that's ours alone.
Even if we're starting from scratch, I enjoy the thrill of building something out of nothing.
So... Commandant, I appreciate you staying by my side today.
When he hears this, Chrome smiles softly and nods, silently agreeing with you.
Not far away, the riding course stands ready, and a stablehand signals for you to come over.
You two—feel free to start riding anytime!
The voice drifts to your ears, and Chrome and you nod at the staff in unison.
By the way, Commandant, have you ever ridden a horse before?
Then I'm counting on you to show me how it's done.
Then let's make the most of this together.
Sunlight glances off his hair, bathing it in a soft, golden sheen.
Chrome extends his hand, and you can tell this is the lead-up to an official invitation.
