Chapter 91: The Letter
Caius got to his private study and walked toward his desk while servants rushed in and lit up the space. They placed about two lamps on his desk, making sure the room was bright enough. As soon as they were done, they bowed and left the room, leaving Caius by himself.
Caius slipped out of his coat and tossed it onto one of the chairs in the study before dropping onto his seat. He moved quickly, bringing the lamp to the letter. His brows dipped as he started to read.
To His Royal Highness, Crown Prince Caius Ravenor,
I humbly beg your permission to present what I carry with solemn duty and nothing but faithful intent. May this letter find Your Highness in good health and untroubled mind. I write to inform Your Highness that I have found Rose.
Three days past, I came upon her at the masked auction, where Rose was cruelly placed for sale. I purchased her for thirty thousand gold pieces, not knowing how she came to be there. Though I feared the worst, I dared not assume your involvement in this and chose instead to act in what I felt was right.
At the time, I knew nothing of her disappearance. When I finally spoke with her, she revealed she had been taken from the servant room where she slept during the night by a hooded stranger. Upon waking, she found herself caged among other girls, where she was then auctioned off.
I must ask Your Highness’ forgiveness for not writing sooner. Rose was gravely ill when I received her, and I wished to see her restored before returning her to you. Furthermore, at the time, no word of your search had reached me, and I needed to better understand the circumstances before taking any action.
She is now well. I have done all that is within my means to care for her, and I intend to send her back to you as soon as you give the word.
I know it is bold of me to ask, but if Your Highness would see fit to reimburse the sum I paid, I would be ever in your debt. Thirty thousand gold pieces is no small cost, and the lives of my girls may well hang in the balance.
I send this letter instead of the girl herself to ensure her safety. I fear someone within the castle orchestrated her removal. Until the truth is known, I could not risk her return without discretion.