The next morning at the Monster Hunt Festival was like a spell had been cast—everything was immaculate, as if the previous day's events had vanished with the night. Everyone also played along with the act and went on with the excitement of the third day of the monster hunt.
Althea sat alone at one of the breakfast tables, nibbling her food and pondering the absence of Iyana, her newfound companion from their recent hunt.
Her quiet meal was interrupted by a voice as smooth as silk. "Do you mind if I join you, Your Imperial Highness?"
Althea looked up to see an ever-charming brunette, smiling graciously. "No problem, Lord Clarinton. How are you feeling today?"
"I am feeling splendid, thanks to you. You would never guess my ribs were crushed to powder yesterday," Mason replied, his grin wide as he pulled out a chair beside her and set down his tray of breakfast. "That is why I wanted to properly thank you for saving my life."
