Chapter 70: Whispers in the Dark
As the carriage journeyed towards the palace, Erios’ plea echoed in my mind like an ominous warning. His worry was palpable as he accompanied me to the carriage, his concerned eyes watching me closely. I could sense his fear for my safety, and it only added to the unease festering within me.
"Erios, I will be fine. You don’t need to worry. I’ll return safely," I reassured him, though my words felt feeble against the backdrop of uncertainty that clouded my mission. Alex remained conspicuously absent, as if avoiding me in the aftermath of the previous day’s tumultuous events.
"Take care while I’m away," I said, my voice carrying a blend of determination and trepidation as I closed the carriage door. The carriage rumbled to life, setting off toward the palace, leaving Erios and his concerns behind.
The journey progressed, but it wasn’t long before the knight approached from the side, bearing news that brought our expedition to an unexpected halt. "Duchess, we may need to find shelter nearby," he informed me.
"Shelter? Why? Is there an issue with the carriage or something else?" I inquired, my curiosity piqued as I peered out of the carriage window.
"No, there’s no issue with the carriage, but the road ahead has been damaged for some reason. We won’t be able to proceed until morning. Repairs are already underway," he explained, his words punctuated by the clatter of tools being readied for work.
"Are there accommodations available nearby for the night?" I questioned further.
"Yes, I’ve dispatched one of my subordinates to check nearby resting places, and he’s informed me that there’s a small establishment not far from here. We can stay there until morning," he replied.
"Very well, make preparations to stop there. We’ll rest for the night and continue our journey tomorrow," I instructed. My thoughts raced ahead, contemplating the possible implications of these delays. Were they orchestrated by Erios, or was someone else pulling the strings?
"Duchess, we have arrived," the driver announced when we reached our destination.