Helpless

Oriana departed from the King's chamber after issuing her instructions to the commander. "We are headed to the palace of Hibiscus," she informed him with a firm tone.

The commander nodded in understanding as they made their way out, and the carriages were directed towards the residence of the Second Prince. It marked Oriana's first visit to the place. The atmosphere inside the Hibiscus palace was as charged with tension as it had been in the Oak palace.

Filled with worry, Oriana hastened to reach the Second Prince's chamber, guided by a servant. Upon entering the room, she discovered the Queen and the Second Princess, Lenard's wife, Miera, standing beside the bed, tears streaming down their cheeks. The Royal Physician was deeply engrossed in treating the Prince, though his countenance seemed gravely concerned.

Oriana's eyes desperately scanned the room for Arlan but found no trace of him.