Rebirth Of The Duke's Daughter

Chapter 35

Prince Leroy's gaze was steady as he asked, "What happened to Mila? Why is she recuperating in the Asiradda Kingdom?" He knew that Leo was likely privy to information that the maids and servants were not.

Leo met his eyes, his expression thoughtful before he responded. "Do you remember the poison she received at the event?" he asked, bringing to mind the time when a siren had bitten Mila. Both Leroy and Ambrose recalled the incident, a moment that had left everyone shaken.

Leo continued, his voice calm but serious. "The poison may have been purged from her system, but there's always a chance that traces remain. The healers in Asiradda have extensive knowledge about water elements and beasts. If anyone can help her, it's them. They might even be able to heal the scar she bears." Leo's words carried a weight of concern, though he remained composed. He knew, however, that the truth about Mila's situation was far more complex than what he had just shared.

Both Prince Leroy and Ambrose listened intently, sensing there was more beneath the surface, but neither pressed further. Instead, Prince Leroy spoke up, his tone respectful. "We apologize for sneaking in unannounced. We'll take our leave now."

With that, the two men quietly made their way back out, slipping through the window as they had entered. It was a more discreet exit, avoiding the main entrance where they would have risked being noticed again. They hadn't been invited in the first place, and it was best to avoid further complications.

As they left, Leo remained in the room, his thoughts heavy. He didn't have long to wait before he sensed his father's presence nearby. Turning slightly, he addressed him, his voice filled with concern. "Father, are you sure this is the best option? If it's discovered that we're lying, the consequences could be severe. We could face execution."

Duke Reynard stepped into view, his expression resolute. "It's the only option," he replied, his tone firm. The reality of their situation was not lost on him. Mila was the chosen fiancée of the Zameth Kingdom's heir, a position that could not be easily altered. The emperor had made it clear—Mila was the only suitable match, despite her unique abilities. They couldn't risk offering a maid or commoner, knowing full well how the distinction between commoner and nobility was strictly maintained in the Zameth Kingdom.

Mila's lineage, though complicated, was secured by her father's title as a Duke, providing her the necessary standing, despite her mother's lower birth.

Leo nodded slowly, understanding the gravity of their situation. They were walking a dangerous line, but for now, it was the only path they could take.
***
Mila brought their group to a halt as they entered a part of the Mireraweth Kingdom's town. The streets were quiet, the air thick with the weight of poverty. They were fortunate that their masks and cloaks were unique, designed to obscure their identities. The masks could only be removed by the wearer, and the cloaks offered a special protection. However, Mila knew that if someone with strong enough mana or a powerful spell encountered them, the disguise could be compromised, though it would require a significant amount of energy. 'Hollowglen,' Mila thought as she surveyed the town. The sight that met her eyes was grim—people in ragged clothing, their faces etched with hunger and despair. 'What has the emperor been doing while these people are suffering?' The thought filled her with anger and sadness as she moved forward, taking in the dire situation.

'Mila, this place doesn't seem well. I wouldn't say I like it,' Vivian's voice echoed in her mind, mirroring the unease they all felt as they looked around.

Sara and Emmett were equally shocked, their eyes widening at the sight of sickly, malnourished people. The fields, once fertile, were now little more than patches of mud, struggling to produce any viable crops. It was a scene of despair and neglect. Mila turned to Emmett, her voice steady but filled with a quiet determination. "Sir Emmett, ask around and find out what has happened here. Offer them some coins for their cooperation."