Unaware of Oriana's discreet observation, Arlan continued his solitary walk, stumbling along the way, relying on the support of the pillars between each step. His demeanor suggested a strong desire to distance himself from his current surroundings.
Oriana's heart ached as she witnessed this, her eyes welling up with tears, a glistening film forming over her vision.
'If I were to approach him now, whoever did this to him might spot me. I cannot afford to be discovered and potentially implicate His Highness further. Besides, he might not like to get caught by me in such a vulnerable staten. It might hurt his pride.'
She kept her watchful eye on Arlan as he gradually departed from the dimly lit, abandoned section of the Queen's mansion, reaching the spot where his horse patiently awaited him. He attempted to mount the horse, but...
Slip!
