CHAPTER - 14

❈ MORNING ❈

The warm rays of the rising sun caressed Prince Edward’s face, gently rousing him from sleep. He rubbed his eyes, adjusting to the dazzling morning light.

“Huh, it’s already morning,” Edward murmured, scanning his surroundings to ensure their safety. “Good. They haven’t caught up to us. But I won’t let my guard down—we need to leave as soon as possible.”

Edward got to his feet and began preparing for their journey. He felt relieved that they had successfully escaped the pursuit of the Royal Knights.

“Hey, Mary, wake up,” he said, lightly tapping Mary’s cheek in an attempt to wake her from her deep sleep.

Mary stirred, slowly opening her emerald-green eyes, gazing at Edward with a hint of confusion. She seemed slightly disoriented by her unfamiliar surroundings.

“Hmm… What’s happening?” Mary asked softly, trying to make sense of the situation.

“We need to keep moving, Mary. It’s time to go,” Edward informed her, reminding her of their plan to reach a safer place.

The scent of roasted meat lingered in the air from the small campfire Edward had prepared. Mary’s stomach grumbled slightly, and she felt grateful for the meal he had prepared.

“Thank you, Edward. I’m starving,” she said with a warm smile, appreciating his care and thoughtfulness.

Edward smiled back, relieved to see her at ease. He was beginning to believe that, despite everything, they made a strong team—one that could rely on each other in the face of uncertainty.

After a light breakfast, they wasted no time in preparing for their next move. They ensured they had gathered all the necessary supplies before setting off.

“We need to hurry, Mary. We don’t know what might be waiting for us ahead,” Edward said, a hint of unease in his voice.

Mary nodded in agreement. She understood the importance of staying alert and being prepared for whatever dangers lay ahead.

With that, they climbed into the carriage and continued their journey, leaving behind the tranquil lakeside. Though the road ahead was uncertain, they pressed forward with determination, ready to face whatever awaited them.

They held onto each other’s hands, offering silent reassurance and strength.

• POV Charlotte •

A bright morning light bathed the courtyard of Charlotte’s home, marking the start of a day filled with challenges. She had fallen asleep in her research chamber, only to be startled awake by the sound of something falling off her desk.

"Ah, ugh! I need to hurry—they must be waiting for me!" Charlotte exclaimed as she scrambled to pick up the fallen items, a wave of panic washing over her.

Without wasting another second, she grabbed her map and the necessary equipment for their search mission. She rushed out of her research chamber and headed straight for the courtyard, her steps quick and urgent.

As she arrived, she saw a group of elite intelligence operatives already assembled. They were agents working under the Valentine family, and among them stood Olivier de Valentine—her elder brother and Angelica’s as well.

“Charlotte, what’s with your appearance?” Olivier asked, eyeing her disheveled hair and wrinkled clothes.

Charlotte flushed in embarrassment but had no time to worry about her untidy state. “Ugh, there’s no time to change or fix my hair, Nii-sama. Let’s just begin the search for Angelica,” she insisted, determined to focus on the mission.

Olivier observed his younger sister—nervous yet resolute—and gave her a nod. “Alright. Let’s begin the search. We need to find her and bring her home.”

The intelligence operatives also nodded in agreement, ready to carry out their duties. Each of them understood the significance of this mission and was committed to aiding Charlotte and Olivier in their efforts.

“We’ll split into teams and start searching in the designated locations. Hopefully, we’ll find Angelica’s trail soon,” one of the elite operatives suggested, outlining their plan.

Charlotte felt grateful for the support of the elite operatives and her brother. Though she was anxious, she was also hopeful that, with such a strong team, they would succeed in finding Angelica.

With determination and a sense of urgency, Charlotte, Olivier, and the operatives set off on their search. They braced themselves for any obstacles that might arise, fully prepared to bring Angelica home safely.

Meanwhile, Prince Edward and Mary Windsor were nearing the territory of Count Orian after an uneventful journey. Edward exhaled in relief, grateful that they had not encountered monsters or bandits along the way.

As he surveyed the scenery, he found himself admiring the beauty of Count Orian’s lands. The dense forests and gently flowing rivers created a peaceful, almost idyllic atmosphere. The crisp air and the soothing sounds of nature momentarily eased the tension in Edward’s heart.

“With this luck, let’s hope we make it to our destination safely,” he murmured, allowing himself a sliver of optimism.

Beside him, Mary also appeared more at ease. Though their journey was far from over, she was relieved that they had passed through the most perilous parts without major incidents.

“We’re almost there, Edward-sama,” Mary said, offering him a reassuring smile, hoping to lift his spirits.

Edward returned her smile, appreciating her support. “Yes, we are. Let’s proceed with caution.”

However, neither of them knew what awaited them at Count Orian’s estate.

This was merely the calm before the storm.