The Next DayIn the early morning, before the rest of the castle stirred, the King, Queen, Elara, Seraphina, the Honor Guards, and Knight Commanders gathered by the gates leading to Eldorath's outer territories. This marked the beginning of a two-week journey toward the Nebula region. Aedric, already prepared, was busy securing his pack to Augustine's saddle, giving the horse an affectionate pat. One by one, the knights moved with quiet efficiency, adjusting straps and checking weapons for the long road ahead.Breaking protocol, Elara approached Aedric, Seraphina a step behind her, both looking somewhat out of place amidst the solemn assembly."How long do you think you'll be away?" Elara asked, hands clasped behind her back, her expression carefully neutral.Aedric paused, considering her question before meeting her gaze. "As long as it takes to catch this man. We won't risk him threatening your life again," he said, flashing a reassuring smile. But he noted the flicker of unease in her eyes.Elara glanced down, masking her worry with a slight smile, but Seraphina's concern was harder to hide. "Will it be dangerous?" she asked, looking first at Elara, then Aedric."Of course it will be." Elara's response was sharp, almost instinctual, and she glanced at Seraphina with a hint of frustration.Before the tension could grow, Aedric looked between the two women, as if about to say something, but the heavy groan of the castle gates interrupted him. Malachi, already mounted on a sleek black steed radiating a faint magical aura, called to the knights."We're moving."Elara and Seraphina turned back to Aedric."Good luck," they said together, a slight blush coloring their cheeks as they exchanged surprised glances.Aedric chuckled, giving them a respectful nod before swinging up onto Augustine. "Take care of yourselves, both of you," he replied warmly.The knights saluted, fists to their chests, as the party rode through the gates, their figures framed in the morning mist. The blare of horns rang out across the kingdom, signaling their departure—a rare sound in times of peace, and one that stirred excitement and uncertainty among the townsfolk.As the party traveled through the countryside, they passed quiet villages and watched as townsfolk lined the roads to see the rare sight of knights venturing out. The journey's monotony was broken only by the checkpoints held by the Eldorath Military Forces, each a reminder of the kingdom's structured and layered defense.Aedric felt a familiar surge of pride for the Eldorath Military Force—a mandatory five-year service for all citizens. The military, while distinct from the knightly orders, was no less respected. Its soldiers had fought beside the knights countless times, their shared history deep and storied.Near the border, at their final checkpoint, two guards sat on hay bales, waving the knights on with a respectful nod. Malachi turned to his team as they cleared the last barrier."If any of you planned to turn back, now's your chance. This is the last point of retreat. In half an hour, we'll break for the night before crossing into Tuzkar territory." He paused, his expression serious. "Remember, the Tuzkar once waged war against Nebula after their rulers fell to Korin's forces. Though they are attending the royal gala, don't mistake that for loyalty. The tension remains, and if word reaches them of trouble in Nebula, it could mean a renewed conflict."The knights nodded their understanding, some exchanging glances as the weight of their task settled over them.Malachi gave them a single nod of approval, then faced forward. "I didn't mention this back at the castle, but it's an honor to serve with you all. Let's bring justice for those who lost their lives to this man, understood?""Understood, Honor Guardsman," the knights echoed in unison as they rode forward, resolve etched in each face.Back at the CastleIn her tower, Princess Elara watched from her window as a procession of carriages arrived in the castle courtyard, filled with servants, chefs, and courtiers preparing for the royal gala. Seraphina, sitting nearby and carefully mending a gown, glanced over, sensing Elara's quiet distraction."Your Highness, have you chosen a dress for the gala yet?" she asked gently, hoping to coax Elara from her silence. "The black gown would be fitting, as it's a gift from the Elven clan in attendance. Or perhaps the red from our own tailor, or even..." she hesitated, "the dress Aedric made for you?"Elara's silence stretched on, her gaze distant, but she finally murmured, "Aedric's dress."Seraphina offered a small, relieved smile, but it faded as she spoke, her voice tentative. "Thank you, Your Highness. If you'll allow me, I'll prepare it for tomorrow."Seraphina gathered the gown and left quietly, her footsteps echoing down the corridor. Elara watched her go, her chest tight with unspoken thoughts, before turning back to the window to watch the preparations.In her own quarters, Seraphina shut the door behind her, leaning back against it as she fought the sting of unshed tears. Frustration and helplessness welled up within her, emotions she had carefully hidden even from herself. Seraphina longed for that connection with the highness she has loved over the years..and now..it seems that they are getting more distant as the seconds go by..