Saved By The Mad Duke

The tall and imposing doors of the Throne Room swung open with a slight creak, extending a silent invitation to three guests. Count Constantine Crueder, accompanied by his dedicated personal assistant and unwavering guard, strode purposefully through the expansive, sunlit hall. Their destination: the thrones, where King and Queen Ruan awaited the arrival of their visitors. "Good morning, Your Majesties. Count Constantine Crueder has arrived to seek an audience with you, as indicated in our recent correspondence."

The king acknowledged the man with a somewhat dismissive nod, motioning for him and his retinue to approach.

"Lord Constantine, have you made progress in resolving the matter concerning the vanished princess? It has been nearly a week, and regardless of her current status, news of her disappearance could tarnish both my and your reputations simultaneously."

The Count shook his head, his aged face etched with a bitter and disappointed expression as he responded,

"I apologize, Your Majesty, but I’m afraid my knowledge is built upon mere assumptions. With the hired mercenary, tasked with escorting the princess, now deceased, there remains no one to bear witness to the unfortunate events of that fateful evening."

He paused, pivoting to gesture toward his assistant, signaling him to join him. The count’s assistant complied with a quick nod, covering the distance in just a few broad steps. He then placed a large, old wooden box in front of his lord. Constantine continued,

"However, a couple of nights ago, I received this. The contents of this box may be startling, but I venture to assume that it is imperative for Your Majesty to witness what lies within."

Euris rested the side of his face on his left hand, his elbow casually leaning against the ornamented arm of the throne, and spoke,