anwhile, in Arlan’s study.
Kerry bowed respectfully to his master as he entered, bearing news.
"Your Highness, Her Highness is preparing to visit a man nad Luke and his family. The Vice Commander has made an arrangents for her departure."
Arlan continued his work, his attention divided.
"Your Highness, any other directives?" Kerry inquired. "Should I arrange to relocate that man and his family..."
"Ensure that whatever she wishes unfolds smoothly," Arlan interjected calmly, his tone unwavering. "If she holds concern for that family and their welfare, see to it that they live comfortably so she need not worry any longer."
Kerry was taken aback by the prince’s response. Shouldn’t his master be his usual possessive self, given that his wife was about to et another man? Why was he suddenly so composed, as if it were of nothing to be concerned about?
Kerry looked at Imbert, who ordered, "Do as His Highness has instructed."
With a final bow to the prince, Kerry exited the study, pondering the unexpected turn of events. It was so unlike his master.
As Oriana and Rafal stepped out, a knight approached Rafal, whispering urgently in his ear before departing. Oriana observed Rafal’s return, curious about the exchange.
"Your Highness, Luke is currently at Ahrens," Rafal inford her.
"Is he still employed there?" she inquired.
"He had left his job to return to his village previously, but it seems he is now seeking employnt in the capital," Rafal explained. "With no ongoing construction work, he may be offered alternative employnt."
"I wish to visit him," Oriana declared.
Rafal nodded and directed the coachman towards Ahrens, opening the door of an ordinary looking carriage for her. Oriana turned to her master, Erich, with a sense of hesitation. "Master, perhaps this is not the right ti. I will first et with Luke and gather updates."
"Let know if you require assistance," Erich offered before taking his leave.
Once Oriana settled into the carriage, Rafal mounted his horse and led the way. Along the journey, the carriage passed by the Thistle Palace. Peering through the window, Oriana caught a glimpse of the palace gates. ’He must be preparing for the royal court if he’s there. I haven’t inford him of my destination. I hope he’ll understand.’
Upon arriving at Ahrens, Oriana watched as Rafal effortlessly acquired information about Luke’s whereabouts within the estate. It was not uncommon for Rafal to be seen in attire other than his princely knight uniform, signaling to the servants and guards that their young master was embarking on a special mission.
The carriage made its way towards the heart of the estate, eventually halting at a designated spot. Rafal dismounted his horse and courteously opened the carriage door for Oriana. Stepping out, she listened as Rafal addressed her.
"Your Highness, allow to lead the way."
Following Rafal’s lead, Oriana traversed the grounds until they reached one of the residences, where they spotted familiar figures. A composed man stood before a striking young woman.
"...Thank you for offering work here, Lady Erin," the man spoke, bowing his head respectfully before the noblewoman.
"I did it as a token of gratitude for your protection that day in the market... Hmm?" Lady Erin’s attention shifted to the newcors. "Brother?" Her expression turned to one of mild shock. "Y-Your Highness?"
Luke followed her gaze, his eyes locking onto the approaching Rafal and Oriana. Though recognizing the young boy he had known for months, he remained rooted to the spot, his gaze fixed.
Erin, by now was aware that young boy Orian was in fact Oriana as she had seen Oriana in a disguise before. On the wedding day when she saw Oriana’s face without a veil, she was stunned but kept it to herself knowing the importance of such matters. She wanted to ask her brother Rafal, but once her brother was on his duty as a knight, he would rarely return ho.
"Greetings, Your Highness," Erin bowed respectfully to Oriana.
Luke, who was surprised by Oriana’s presence, snapped back to reality and bowed in respect, acknowledging his lower status as a commoner in front of Crown Princess of this kingdom.
Oriana felt a mixture of emotions at the gesture, uncertain of how to react.
"Erin, co with ," Rafal interjected, gesturing for his sister to follow as he walked away.
Once the Ahren siblings had departed, Oriana finally addressed Luke. "Luke."
He looked at her. That pair of eyes he always found beautiful for any boy to have, now were full of guilt. He was wrong, the person in front of him was never a boy.
He was confident young man who was never to be intimidated by a noble. His gaze devoid of any particular emotions, fixed on her, waiting for her to say what she was there for.
His silence made Oriana feel uneasy. She had anticipated questions or remarks, but instead, he remained quietly composed. It wasn’t surprising; he had always been this way, speaking only when necessary.
"You must have been greatly surprised to learn the truth about ," Oriana began nervously, attempting to gather her thoughts. "I never intended to conceal my identity as a woman, but circumstances... I didn’t an to deceive you or anyone else..."
"Luke, where are you?" Soone called out, catching their attention. They watched as Ken hurried towards them upon spotting them.
Luke walked past Oriana to approach Ken, seemingly aware of the reason for his arrival.
"Luke, Aunt Gwen..." Ken began, but Luke seed oblivious, abruptly turning and running off in haste.
"Luke," Ken called out, ready to follow, but another voice interrupted, "Brother Ken."
Halting in his tracks at the familiar voice, Ken finally noticed Oriana.
"Orian, where were you?" he questioned.
Oriana realized that Ken was unaware of the situation, and Luke had not divulged anything about her true identity.
"Brother Ken, I’ll explain later. First, tell what happened," she replied, concern evident in her voice.
"Aunt Gwen isn’t well. She fainted suddenly. I called a local physician and ca here to find Luke," Ken explained urgently.
"I’ll co with you," Oriana offered, raising her hand to halt Rafal’s approach before walking away with Ken.
"What’s happening?" Erin inquired of her brother, who complied with Oriana’s silent directive.
Instead of answering, Rafal simply looked at her. "Just rember what I’ve told you. Don’t ask any more questions."
"Of course, brother. Besides, I’ve liked our Crown Princess ever since I first t her here at Ahrens for the first ti," Erin replied with a smile.
Rafal said nothing further, his focus on following the Crown Princess. Her safety was his utmost responsibility.
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