The morning sun filtered through the thick curtains of Amara's room. Ethan woke up first, his eyes settling on Amara, who was still fast asleep. Her soft breathing filled the quiet room, and for a moment, Ethan allowed himself to enjoy the peace.
But peace wasn't something he could afford for long.
He carefully slipped out of bed, tucking the blanket around her before heading to his study. The documents they had retrieved still demanded his attention, and time was of the essence.
When Amara finally joined him an hour later, Ethan was already buried in maps and files.
"Good morning," she greeted, her voice warm.
He glanced up, a small smile softening his otherwise sharp features. "Morning. Did you sleep well?"
"I did," she replied, sitting beside him. "What's the plan for today?"
Ethan leaned back, his fingers tapping against the edge of the desk. "We need allies. The journal is powerful evidence, but it will only be effective if we have credible people supporting us. We can't fight Cecilia's network alone."
Amara frowned slightly. "Who would be willing to help us? Most of the influential families have already taken her side."
"That's what we're about to find out," Ethan said.
Ding!
New Task Unlocked: Secure Trusted Allies
Objective: Identify and recruit influential individuals who can support Amara's case.
Reward: 7000 Pampering Points + Rare Skill: Alliance Builder.
Amara's Emotional Update: Determined and Hopeful
Current Mood: Motivated.
Reward: 2000 Pampering Points.
Their first stop was the estate of Duke Blackwood, an old friend of Amara's father. Though the duke had withdrawn from public life after her father's death, his influence still carried weight in the noble circles.
The grand Blackwood estate loomed ahead as their carriage pulled up. Ethan and Amara were greeted by a butler who led them into a stately parlor.
"Duke Blackwood will see you shortly," the butler said before leaving.
Amara's hands fidgeted in her lap. "Do you think he'll help us?"
Ethan placed a reassuring hand over hers. "We'll find out soon. Just remember, you're not the villain here. Speak your truth."
When the duke entered, his sharp eyes scanned them both before softening as they landed on Amara.
"Lady Amara," he greeted, his voice gruff but kind. "It's been years."
Amara stood, her voice steady despite her nerves. "Your Grace, thank you for seeing us. I wouldn't have come if it weren't urgent."
For the next hour, they explained the evidence they had uncovered, showing him pages from the journal and recounting the events that led to Lady Rowe's demise.
The duke listened intently, his expression darkening as the truth unfolded.
"So, Cecilia is behind all of this," he muttered. "I suspected she was ambitious, but this..."
"She won't stop until she destroys Amara completely," Ethan said, his voice cold. "We need your support to expose her."
The duke nodded slowly. "I'll help you. Your father was a good man, Amara, and he wouldn't want his daughter to suffer like this. But be warned—Cecilia won't go down without a fight."
Ding!
Task Complete: Secure Duke Blackwood's Support
Reward: 4000 Pampering Points + Skill: Persuasive Diplomacy.
Amara's Emotional Update: Relieved and Encouraged
Current Mood: Optimistic.
Reward: 1500 Pampering Points.
Their next visit was to Countess Lorraine, a prominent socialite with ties to several influential families. The countess had a reputation for being sharp-tongued but fair, and her approval could sway many others.
Amara hesitated outside the countess's estate. "She's not exactly... friendly."
"Then we'll make her see reason," Ethan replied firmly. "Follow my lead."
Inside, Countess Lorraine greeted them with a raised eyebrow, her gaze flickering between them. "To what do I owe this unexpected visit?"
Ethan wasted no time, presenting the evidence and explaining their intentions. The countess listened, her expression unreadable, until they finished.
"You've certainly brought me an interesting tale," she said finally. "And if it's true, it's a scandal that would shake the entire aristocracy."
"It is true," Amara said, her voice steady. "I know I haven't earned your trust, but I'm asking for your help—not for me, but for justice."
The countess studied her for a long moment before nodding. "Very well. I'll support you. But be prepared—Cecilia won't hesitate to retaliate."
Ding!
Task Complete: Secure Countess Lorraine's Support
Reward: 5000 Pampering Points + Rare Item: Silver Quill of Influence (Boosts persuasive communication).
As they left the countess's estate, Amara turned to Ethan. "Do you think this will be enough?"
"It's a start," he said. "The more allies we have, the stronger our case becomes. Cecilia may be powerful, but she's not invincible."
Amara nodded, her resolve hardening. For the first time, she felt like they had a real chance of winning.
End of Chapter 29