The newly arrived entourage was escorted to the palace’s guest mansion, where King’s guardian knight, Commander Conor Loyset, and a personal adviser greeted them warmly.
"Lord Luis Mortimer, welcome to the capital," Commander Loyset announced as an older man alighted from the carriage, a young woman at his side.
Lord Luis Mortimer exuded an air of authority, more befitting a ruler than a visitor. Beside him stood his youngest daughter, the apple of his eye. She bore the noble family’s hallmark beauty—light brown eyes resembling her father’s, long flowing golden-brown hair, and delicate features. Her exquisite dress and jewellery befit her status as the daughter of one of the kingdom’s most powerful territorial lords.
Acknowledging the greeting, Lord Mortimer replied, "I expected at least Prince Arlan to be present to welcome us, Commander Loyset."
Conor bowed slightly and responded, "Lord Mortimer, the duties of a Crown Prince keep Prince Arlan engaged with more pressing matters. I trust you understand the need to prioritize the kingdom’s wellbeing over ceremonial welcomes."
Luis narrowed his eyes at the Commander. Despite his politeness, the knight’s words subtly implied that Luis was not a priority for the Prince. As the commander of the knights, Conor was known for his directness, a trait that left little room for objections.
"Father," the young woman beside him interjected gently. "Prince Arlan must be really busy. We can meet him later. Do you want him to see us looking travel-worn?"
He turned to his daughter, his expression softening into a light smile, "Even in a travel-worn appearance, my daughter remains the most beautiful woman. You need not worry about your looks."
She returned the smile warmly. "Thank you, father. But I am tired. Let’s head inside."
Agreeing, Luis chose not to further challenge the commander, and they proceeded into the guest mansion.
Commander Loyset silently exhaled a sigh of relief, grateful for the smooth resolution of the greeting, though inwardly he was less enthusiastic about the arrival of these new guests at the palace.
Meanwhile, Oriana was at Erich’s guest mansion, seeking updates on Gwen’s condition. Erich provided a reassuring report.
"I’ve almost cleared the blockage in her blood vessels. Now, all she needs is to take her medications, eat healthily, and rest as much as possible. It will take some time for her to fully recover."
"Thank you, master, for treating her. I don’t think anyone else could have managed it," Oriana expressed her gratitude.
Erich nodded, then shared some news. "I am leaving Griven."
"Are you leaving already?" Oriana’s expression shifted, reflecting a sense of loss as if a family member was departing again.
Erich offered a gentle smile. "I should have left after the King recovered, but I stayed on for your grandfather and then for Gwen. Now, my duties here are fulfilled. It’s time I returned to help others who need me."
"But..."
"I know you’ll miss me, but I must go," Erich insisted, "Besides, someone has returned, and I shouldn’t keep her waiting."
"Miss Martha has returned from Abetha?" Oriana inquired.
"You should return to her. She’s a remarkable woman," Oriana commented. freēwebnovel.com
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: The Devil's Betrothed