Chapter 65: Ambush-2
The forest where she planned to hunt lay beyond the capital’s boundaries.
Inside the carriage, cooled by a magic artifact, she sat comfortably, watching the dusty road stretch out ahead. The soft hum of the enchantment filled the silence, shielding her from the harsh sunlight beating down outside.
But Abel wasn’t as lucky.
He rode the horse, completely exposed to the sun. His chest rose and fell heavily with each breath, sweat soaking through his clothes, dripping down his brow, and stinging his eyes. The heat blurred his vision, yet he kept a firm grip on the reins—if only to stop himself from collapsing.
If they ever gave out awards for being pathetic, I’d be the most decorated man in the kingdom, he thought bitterly, clinging to humor just to keep his thoughts from slipping into despair.
"Just a little more, Your Highness. There’s shade ahead. Once we reach the trees, you’ll feel better," said a soft voice beside him.
It was one of the few who still called him Prince without scorn. That gentle voice, that simple kindness, was enough to pull Abel back from the edge. He gave a faint nod to Bennet, as if that small gesture was all the strength he had left.
The convoy crossed the invisible line that marked the end of the capital’s reach—into the untamed forest where no laws echoed and no guards usually patrolled.
"Stay sharp!" the Commander barked, his tone cutting clean through the quiet. "The last survey was two weeks ago. We can’t be sure what’s out here now."
The soldiers stiffened, hands tightening around weapons, eyes sweeping the dense woods with practiced caution.
But the truth was something else entirely.