As they enjoyed their lunch in the serene garden, Alexander couldn't help but notice the excitement that danced in Elysia's eyes. He couldn't resist a smile as he watched her, wondering about the reason behind her shopping spree earlier in the day."So, princess," he began, trying to strike up a conversation, "did you find everything you needed during your shopping?"I looked up from my meal, my cheeks flushing slightly. "Yes, thank you for asking, Your Highness. I managed to find some comfortable trousers and shirts that will be suitable for the hunt. Oh, and sturdy pairs of boots, too!"His curiosity piqued, Alexander leaned forward. "I noticed you also visited a jewelry shop. Any particular reason for that?"My eyes flickered with a hint of mystery, and I offered a small smile. "It was a spur-of-the-moment decision. I just followed Lady Evelyn who has eyes for a certain trinket, and perhaps fate brought me there for a reason."He raised an eyebrow playfully. "Fate, you say? And what did fate lead you to?"My cheeks reddened further, and I hesitated for a moment before responding. "I met someone unexpected, someone who seemed intriguing."Alexander couldn't help but feel a twinge of jealousy, though he tried to hide it with a casual demeanor. "Intriguing? Do tell me more."I laughed softly, my eyes sparkling. "Well, he was the shop owner. We had a brief conversation about the various pieces on display. "Alexander leaned back, feigning nonchalance. "And did you find anything you liked?"My expression turned thoughtful. "Not yet, but I am considering going back later to take a closer look. There was one particular piece that caught my eye—a pendant with a moonstone. It had an ethereal beauty to it."He found himself genuinely intrigued by her fascination with the pendant. "It sounds like you had quite an eventful morning. I'm glad you enjoyed yourself."My eyes softened as I met his gaze. "Thank you. It was a refreshing change of pace. And I appreciate your willingness to allow me to have that moment."Enough with the chit-chat, as Alexander has a pressing matter to discuss with Elysia. He was unsure how the princess would take in the news.I picked up my glass and took a sip of freshly squeezed pomegranate juice. It was sweet and refreshing. My reply was animated. I purposely sounded and looked bubbly. Clearly, Alexander was studying me. It is wise for me not to show it all. I myself do not know how the real Elysia might react. In the pretense of having amnesia, Lady Evelyn might dismiss any irregularity in my behavior."Elysia," Alexander's tone changed. His tone is serious and resolute, although his face does not show any alarming emotion.He called my name. That could only mean he wants to say something important or shocking. I have to brace myself for the impact."I have just received news that an envoy from Astoria has arrived, demanding your return. The envoy was led by Duke Lysander. We have to postponed our quest and return to Eldoria this instance." That's why he called my name to cushion the impact of the news he just broke.I took a deep breath, trying to steady myself. "I would expect the envoy's arrival when you abducted me, Your Highness. But I believe we can handle this situation differently."He arched an eyebrow, curious about my proposal. "Explain."I gathered my thoughts, searching for the right words. "Let us send a messenger to Eldoria, asking my cousin, Duke Lysander, to meet us here in Evergrove. I will then personally explain our quest to him. I believe he will understand and respect my decision."Alexander's expression hardened slightly. "I cannot agree to that, Elysia. As the Crown Prince of Eldoria, it is my duty to make things right and explain about the abduction to my father as well as to the envoy.""I appreciate your concern," I replied, my voice steady, "but it would be suffice just to ask the Duke to come here."According to Eldoria's culture, if I were to set foot in the royal palace of the kingdom, it would mean that I already consider Alexander as my betrothed. Why the eff I want to do that? Why oh why do this world has all sort of absurd cultures!His eyes locked with mine, the intensity of his gaze unsettling. "Are you worried about our culture?" He read my mind so wonderfully. A thin line grazed his lips wryly. "Fret not, dear Princess. "We will not impose the practice on you since we are on a quest."I leaned forward, my determination unwavering. "Still, I do not want to travel further from the trail to the King's lair. Returning to Eldoria will prolong the quest and postponing my freedom."He sighed, frustration evident in his voice. "I know you treasured your freedom the most, Princess. But we must return. Help me make amends of my foolish behavior."Alexander looked torn, grappling with his desire to make amends and respect my wishes. "I will have to force you, Princess. But I hope you understand that my intentions are only to clear the misunderstanding... regretfully made by my foolish determination."I heaved a sigh and rubbed my temple. Bringing Duke Lysander here would probably create further misunderstanding. My abduction has agitated the Astorian royalty and the Eldorian, probably in a mess of making excuses for their Crown Prince's misbehavior. By sending an envoy led by Duke Lysander, this matter was seen as a diplomatic dispute that could be solved through negotiation. If the Astorian were to send troops, things would escalate into a war.Alexander may be right about returning to Eldoria. The Astorian royal must be very anxious to know about my condition. We cannot prolong this matter. A stitch in time saves nine. Hopefully, it was not too late to put things in their rightful place.Initially, I was opposed to the quest. Seeking the King of Monsters would destroy everything that Astoria has stood for. Only by pretending to help Alexander on his quest can I actually try to find a way to warn the King. And if the Astorian royals find out about the quest, it will be upsetting.And the memories... I haven't had any time to decipher it. I need to talk to Tumblefluff.