The carriage moved very slowly.
Duke Seth's condition was deteriorating rapidly, and he could no longer endure any bumps or jolts.
"Flora," Duke Seth advised, "if my curse cannot be lifted, not even by Lord Owen, I will immediately declare you the official heir to my title, making you the next Duchess."
"No, Father, please don't think like that," Flora replied, eyes reddening. "Mr. Owen defeated an army of a million orcs. He'll definitely be able to cure you."
Duke Seth sighed. "Remember, even if Lord Owen can't save me, you must never hold any resentment against him."
"He saved you and Alice, and he warned us how to defuse the crisis caused by Viscount Lewis. He's already done so much for us."
"You must always be grateful."
"Yes!" Flora nodded firmly.
Just then, she heard faint singing and the sounds of people laughing.
Flora was surprised to see that the road leading up the mountain was lined with ancient-style temples.
