Beyond the clearing, the forest was a different sight to behold.
Its ancient grounds were shrouded in a thinning layer of an ethereal mist, giant dark oak trees rose up to the sky, and the soft morning sunlight filtered through their leaves, creating a soothing atmosphere.
But there was also a strange foulness in the air―-heavy with the scent of damp earth, decaying leaves, and something hard to discern.
Alyssane was walking a step behind the Duchess who moved with a hunter's confidence, as if she was not a mere lady but also a dweller of woods. Serena was holding an ornate crossbow, her gaze sharp and focused on her surroundings.
On the other hand, the maid, Marleen, was walking behind them both, with a hard expression on her face as she kept casting some bitter glances towards Alyssane.
"Do you have something to say?" Alyssane asked once.
But the maid only turned her head away with a frown.
