Cedric’s Departure For The Capital

Lila's eyes widen in disbelief. Could her father truly have saved her? Perhaps he does care about her after all!

"Lucas..." Claude's voice cuts in, his gaze turning deadly as he looks at Lucas, causing Lucas to flinch.

"How are..." Claude starts to speak, and Lila's eyes widen with hope, thinking Claude might actually care for her, until he continues, "How are we supposed to arrange Lila's marriage to the Duke's son if there isn't even a body to wed?"

Lila's heart sinks immediately at his words, and Claude's cold stare shifts to her. "Lila, be more cautious next time. We can't afford to lose you before the illness takes its toll," Claude says icily, as if he never had any concern for Lila.

"Yes, father..." Lila responds, her gaze dropping slightly in disappointment at the prospect of her father harboring even a trace of affection for her. However, she knows deep down that such a notion is merely a distant fantasy, one she can never attain, and she begins to suppress her tears once more.

Claude stares at Lila as if he could throttle her on the spot but restrains himself, recognizing the necessity for her to stay alive. With that acknowledgment, he turns away, followed swiftly by his knights.

"Hey, Lila, I didn't-" Lucas begins, his tone reflecting remorse, but Lila cuts him off. "Forget it," she says sadly, already walking away. Lucas watches her retreating figure, a hint of surprise crossing his face before he shifts his attention back to his noble acquaintances, offering apologies and resuming jovial conversation with them.

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In the northern kingdom, within the dukedom's borders, Cedric dons his suit's jacket, casting a glance at his servants.

"Prepare immediately for our journey to the capital," Cedric commands authoritatively, prompting the butlers to nod and swiftly begin organizing everything.

Cedric intends to travel to the capital to offer Lila a formal proposal—an admittedly foolish endeavor, but Cedric has always been a stickler for proper procedure, even in matters of arrangement.

With a sigh, Cedric exits the room, making his way downstairs and out to his waiting carriage. The journey to the capital will span two weeks by standard route, though expedited travel could cut it down to ten days at best.

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6 days later.

While strolling leisurely in the garden, Lila tilts back her umbrella to enjoy a better view of the blooming flowers and chirping birds. Her peaceful moment is interrupted when a maid approaches her.

"The queen requests your presence, milady," the maid announces calmly, prompting Lila to stop in surprise. "My mother? Is she in her chambers?" Lila asks, assuming Queen Elizabeth would be in her usual place as she starts walking.

"Wait, she's in the forest," the maid adds, her tone carrying a hint of panic that Lila picks up on, although she remains unaware of any deeper significance. "Ah, alright..." Lila nods, deciding to go to the direction of the forest, curiosity piqued. As she walks, Lila mutters to herself, "The forest? What could she be doing there?"

Upon entering the forest, Lila is greeted by two signs. One, adorned with a skull symbol, warns of danger, while the other, featuring a sunshine symbol, assures safety. Without hesitation, Lila chooses the path marked safe, trusting her instincts.

As she ventures deeper into the forest, the canopy of trees above casts dappled sunlight on the forest floor, creating a magical atmosphere. Unknown to Lila, hidden in the nearby bushes are two mischievous maids, stifling giggles and exchanging smirks as they observe her.

Lila continues her journey, the tranquillity of nature surrounding her as she remains unaware of the playful eyes watching from afar.

To be continued.

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