Esther didn't return even after more than an hour so Prince Theron felt worried. With gritted teeth, he staggered to his feet, using a random stick as a cane to support himself.
"You should wait for her," he heard the old lady's voice from behind the door of her room. His movements must have been too loud because it was still difficult for him to stand, catching her attention.
"I can't," Prince Theron sighed. "You have my gratitude for letting us stay the night. I bid you farewell."
"As you wish," the old lady responded. The Crown Prince no longer hesitated and left.
After coming out of the underground cabin, Prince Theron's unsteady body was welcomed by harsh sunlight through the thin foliage of leaves. Based on the position of the sun, it must have been around noon time. He looked around the forest, and there were no signs of anyone. If soldiers were around then they should be here with Esther.
