As I surveyed the expansive plains that lay before me, I couldn't help but note the lack of favorable terrain for planning an ambush. The space was wide open and offered little in the way of hiding spots or cover, making it a challenging location for launching a surprise attack successfully.
Contemplating the situation at hand, two possibilities crossed my mind. The first, a sinister thought, suggested that behind the broken-down carriage lurked Lucas himself, orchestrating a trap to cut me down. The second, more mundane option was that it was indeed a genuine accident, and the occupants were struggling with an unfortunate turn of events.
As I surveyed the seemingly simple landscape, my mind could not escape the looming sense of danger. The wide open plains may have offered little in terms of cover, but it was the unknown that kept me on edge.
My eyes were immediately drawn to the broken-down carriage. Elegant designs adorned its sides, hinting at a wealthy and prestigious owner. A distinct emblem caught my attention, a sure sign of nobility and lineage.
But what really piqued my interest were the armed guards surrounding the carriage. They stood tall and vigilant, their weapons at the ready. The more I looked the less it seems it was done by Lucas.
I turned to Caer, and inquired if he recognized the emblem adorning the letter. After a brief moment of scrutiny, Caer nodded and replied with a confident tone, "That emblem belongs to House Varstia, a rising marquisate house located in the eastern region of the kingdom, young master."
I hesitated for a moment, pondering my next move. But ultimately I made my decision and spoke to Caer once again. "Please go there and send my greetings on behalf of our family. Inquire if they are in need of any assistance," I requested. Under normal circumstances, I would have taken on this task myself as it was my duty as the son of a noble house. However, given the uncertainty surrounding this matter, it seemed wiser to send one of our knights instead.
Without hesitation, Caer urged his horse forward, effortlessly cutting through the ranks of guards. As they came to a stop, he exchanged a few brief words with the guards before one of the knights approached the carriage window and lightly knocked on it. The young man's head emerged from inside, his blue eyes shining in the sunlight and his short blonde hair tousled by the wind. His sharp nose and chiseled jawline gave him a regal air, yet his expression was one of utter boredom. However, as soon as the knight spoke a few words to him, his boredom vanished, replaced by an eager and excited gleam in his eyes.
Without wasting any time, he gracefully descended from the elegant carriage and exchanged a few words with Caer before the latter bowed and rode off in my direction. As he approached , my thoughts were interrupted by the knight's voice.
"Sir, the carriage belong to is Frolacht Varstia,and he expressed his request to exchange a few words with you " Caer informed me with a respectful tone.
I paused for a moment, taking in this information before releasing a heavy sigh and stepping out of the carriage. With each step towards the nobleman, I noticed a look of anticipation on his face, as if he had been eagerly awaiting my arrival.
''Good morning, I am the son of Count Laurence Delecroix, it's a pleasure to meet you''
I said offering an hand in greeting. The young nobleman in front of me, reciprocated with a firm handshake and a warm smile. "The pleasure is mine," he said, his voice smooth and well-spoken. "I am Frolact Varstia, son of Rolf Varstia marquis of Verdoinne. I apologize for the trouble, but as you can see my carriage broke down, and I fear we are too distant from a town with the necessary equipment to repair it. I know we just met, but I would be immensely grateful if you could allow me to travel alongside you."
I hesitated for a moment, trying to think of reasons why I should not accept his request. After all, I was fairly certain Lucas had nothing to do with the situation. But then again, I was also kind of sure that the incident was staged to make sure that I stopped in front of it, and I was as such curious to see the reason for that . With a resigned sigh, I nodded my acceptance. "You are welcome inside my carriage," I said. "As for your knights, they may follow us along mine ."
Frolact's face lit up with a grateful smile as he clapped his hands together and gave orders to his knights to move their broken carriage out of the way. He then followed me into my carriage, settling onto one of the plush seats with a contented sigh.
As I peered out of the carriage window, taking in the passing scenery, Frolochct, the fair-haired nobleman, offered a courteous nod as he decided to break the silence and engage in conversation.
"Thank you for allowing me to accompany you on this journey. I was worried I would not make it to the palace in time if I waited for another carriage. Your generosity is truly commendable."
I could tell he was trying to sooth me, but I was curious to see where this conversation would lead, so I kept my doubts to myself.
"We are both noblemen; is it not customary to lend a helping hand to our peers?" I asked with a smile.
"Of course, of course. You are truly a role model,by the way may I call you Favian?" he replied, attempting to cut through any sense of informality.
"If you don't mind me calling you Frolacht, then I see no issue," I countered with a fake smile as the one he had in his lips
Frolochct's smile widened as he appraised me with his eyes. "The banquet was arranged rather quickly, don't you think?"
I nodded in agreement. "The crown likely wanted to boost the morale of the kingdom. It has been too long since we have announced any type victories over the demons," I remarked. From the slight squint in his eyes, I could tell that Frolochct had caught onto my subtle criticism . And I took notice of that
''The announcement of the celebration had come with little notice'' He started '' usually I think that there would have been a lack of participants. In my opinion, a month's notice should have been given for such an occasion. However, I knew that most of the nobles would still make an appearance or send their heirs in their place. Even the war saints, as famous as they are , I expect them to flock towards the capital for the festivities. But why do you think they are all rushing to attend?" My companion asked his gaze locking onto mine and his head tilting .
I played along and replied with fake sincerity, "Perhaps it is because they want to show unity and solidarity with the kingdom."
He chuckled at my response. "If only that were true. No, my friend.I can call you that right?'' He asked and before I could answer he continued '' The real reason behind this grand celebration is for the kingdom to flaunt you like a prized possession. Your heroic feats have spread far and wide, reaching every nobleman's ears."
I remained silent, knowing there was more he wanted to say. I could sense the eagerness to speak to me alone, and I too was looking forward to it after all blessings and curses come from the same jar. And I was not foolish enough to believe he had approached me just to exchange pleasantries at the festival.