Oriana spent the next two days at the Verner mansion, where Arlan continued to support her through the mourning rituals. On the third day, she made her way to her grandfather’s grave before departing.
Kneeling before the tombstone, her eyes shimmered with unshed tears. "Grandpa, I’ve planted your favorite flowers around here. I’ll visit often, so don’t feel lonely, okay?" Her voice cracked as tears began to stream down her cheeks.
Arlan stood a respectful distance away, silently observing her. He had witnessed her grief frequently since the loss, and although he felt deeply for her sorrow, all he could offer was his comforting presence.
Eventually, they returned to the palace. Arlan escorted her to the Crown Princess’ palace, the Palace of Honeysuckle and made sure she had everything she needed to rest.
Once Oriana was asleep, Arlan turned to Imbert. "Bring all of my work for the day here. I’ll work from here," he instructed firmly.
Imbert nodded, understanding Arlan’s reluctance to leave Oriana alone during such a trying time. Arlan then made himself comfortable in the lounge area of Oriana’s chamber, settling on the couch to sift through the stack of documents that had accumulated while he was preoccupied with supporting Oriana.
Soon after, someone arrived. A stir of excitement swept through the Crown Princess’ palace when a majestic white wolf emerged from a carriage, leaving the palace servants in a state of shock and awe. With an air of regal indifference, the wolf, guided by a knight, made its way upstairs, its presence commanding the attention of all who beheld it.
It took some time for the servants to recover from their initial fear and surprise. None had ever been so close to such a splendid creature.
Meanwhile, Arlan, deeply attuned to the energies of the palace, sensed the arrival of Snowflake, the white wolf he had summoned. He felt Oriana’s body had started to weaken and she needed healing.
The mental state Oriana was in, helping her body by providing his essence through physical intimacy didn’t feel appropriate but at the same time he feared if her body weakened and she suffered that pain in her heart once more.
Seeing Arlan in the corridor, Snowflake walked towards him, seemingly glad to see him.
He gently caressed her forehead, affirming, "She needs you." He then led Snowflake into the chamber. True to her nature, Snowflake climbed onto the bed and curled around Oriana, enveloping her in a warm embrace.
Arlan, his mind still preoccupied, stepped out to speak with Imbert, who appeared to have urgent news.
"What’s the matter?" Arlan inquired as Imbert and Rafal approached, bowing respectfully.
"We’ve received word that Marquis Mortimer is on his way to the capital," Imbert reported.
Arlan’s composed expression briefly faltered, revealing his concern. "Where is Alex? Is he aware of this?"
"He certainly is," Imbert confirmed.
"Keep a close watch on Alex, and ensure he doesn’t do anything rash," Arlan instructed firmly.
Rafal, understanding the gravity of the situation and aware of Arlan’s preoccupations, suggested, "Perhaps it would be wise to send him to Lord Nathaniel for a while. Apart from Your Highness, he only listen to Lord Nathaniel."
"Arrange for Nathaniel to meet with me," Arlan said, the lines of worry etching deeper into his face.
"Yes, Your Highness," they both responded, preparing to carry out his orders.
Arlan returned to the chamber, all of a sudden he felt like he had more things to worry about. For now, with the help of Snowflake, he could at least take care of Oriana. fɾeewebnoveℓ.co๓
When Oriana awakened, she was greeted by the comforting warmth and the serene presence of her beloved pet, Snowflake.
"Snowflake," she murmured, her voice low and hoarse.
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