14 Chapter 14: Fel Utopia

The despair forest, found in the Southern Region of Fel Utopia. Also known as "withered forest." It is very dark that sunlight can't reach the surface because of the tall deciduous trees. It is also filled with catacombs.

"I just have to wait until this curse wore off..." Lareia whispered to herself, tears still flowing from her eyes. "I wonder how is the situation back there? The time I had with them-- was fun."

Lareia started walking, chanting protection spells on herself. The despair forest is well-known for the different creatures that live in it. So far, only members of the Fel royal family has survived in this forest. Anyone who enters fell into despair because of the different confusion spells placed by the creatures.

It was cold and dark, but she was only fascinated by the astonishing beauty in this darkness. It is the first time she went here, and her heart was taken by it.

"A peaceful, enchanted place to hide. I think I was born in the wrong kingdom," Lareia thought to herself, making her smile.

She kept walking on the muddy water, without any direction. Following her guts, she kept strolling into the unknown part of the forest. Slowly, the path she was taking was filled with red roses on top of its thorny vines.

In the middle of these beautiful red roses was a silver fountain, shining as bright as the moon. The main attraction, and the only reason for travelers to risk their lives, "Sagramore's Wishing Fountain." All wishes have their conditions, so be careful what you wish for.

It was built by the first vampire king of Fel Utopia as a gift to the almighty deity of death, Zutomei. In the past, deities visit every kingdom, but they stopped after the time she was born. Lady Zutomei was well-known for being a deity who believes that everything has a price that everyone should pay.

"The rumors said that Lady Aether was very bright, while Lady Zutomei has gloomy yet breathtaking looks. I wonder if it was true?" she wondered inside her head, walking around the well. "Should I wish for something?"

Searching the anima orb, she found a silver coin of the Fel Kingdom. She tossed it around, contemplating if she should do it or not. In the end, she chose not to. Having tons of curses on her, she doesn't want to suffer another one.

"If nothing is stopping you, what would you wish for?"

"A peaceful death," Lareia replied to the unknown voice. As if she already expected someone to ask her.

"You're truly something, Princess Lareia." A bat came hovering in front of her, slowly turning to his human form. A man stood in front of her; red hair, blue eyes, pale white skin, and sharp fangs.

"What an honor to meet you here, Duke Clint," she replied formally, bowing down to him.

Princesses shouldn't bow to other royalties lower than them, but she is in the Fel kingdom. An uninvited guest should lower their heads in front of creatures with a high status in that kingdom. Even after getting her verdict, she still kept every lesson she learned from her kingdom deep inside her head.

"There is no need for formalities, my lady. What brings you here? I apologize for what happened at our last meeting. I was only caught in the moment," he said, looking down. Rumors said that Duke Clint was a kind vampire, but quite a playboy. It seems that these rumors have some truth behind it.

"I also apologize for attempting to harm you and leaving without any notice. It was the only thing I can do at that time," Lareia replied calmly, looking at each red roses.

"Regarding that, as compensation for my ill manners, can I invite Lady Lareia to the Nimbus manor?" He asked in a hopeful tone.

"Duke Clint is the brother of the current king. He became a duke because of being banned from the crown. He probably lives alone in the Nimbus manor, since his only living family member is the king. There is nothing wrong in accepting his offer, right?" she thought to herself. Concluding, Lareia nodded.

"My carriage is waiting at the entrance of the forest, shall we go?" He asked, lending his hand to her. Lareia only looked at his hand and nodded, then walked away.

Clint took his hand back and kept his smile on his face, then followed Lareia. After a ten-minute walk, they arrived at the gates of the forest, a carriage waiting for them.

Without further ado, Lareia opened the door and helped herself in. Clint was about to help her when she successfully got in but still kept the smile on his face. Lareia is doing these on purpose, knowing this, Clint won't let himself get swayed easily.

Lareia rested her body, but she kept herself alert of the surroundings. Clint watched her closely, taking in every feature of hers. She was indeed an enchanting sight.

"You don't have to be alert all the time. You're probably tired. You should get some rest," Clint reassured her.

"There is no need for your concern, Duke Clint."

"Can we drop the formalities? I'm helping you, so please trust even a little bit," he initiated.

"That is improper for someone who has the blood of the royal family running in their veins," she replied blankly. Clint can't help but sigh at her statement.

The carriage halted in front of a mansion filled with red roses on its walls down to the ground. Lareia watched the surroundings in awe; it truly moved her heart of rose thorns.

"We should enter now, my lady," Clint said, guiding the way to the entrance. Lareia followed suit, letting her gaze travel every inch of the rose garden and the mansion of roses.

"What is this mansion called?" she blurted out of nowhere. After realizing this, she covered her mouth with her hands. "I apologize for the unnecessary question."

"It's called the "cruenta rosa," meaning bloody roses," he replied as the giant doors swung open. Maids greeted them, lined up on each side of the red carpet.

"From now on, Lady Lareia will be staying with us. Any discrimination or attempt to hurt her will be punished severely. Understood?" The maids lowered their heads in understanding.

"Lady Lareia, I have a few rules for you, and I hope you will follow it. First, you can't have any contact with anyone outside this manor. Second, you can't leave the mansion without a maid following you, even if in the garden only. Lastly, you will dress and act according to the Fel code."

"I have no problem with those. Can I go to my room now, Duke Clint? I would like to take some time to rest," she replied blankly.

Clint only nodded, and a maid came to Lareia. "Please follow me to your quarters, Lady Lareia," she said, looking down.

They went to a guest room filled with dark colors and no furniture and paintings. "This is the guest room prepared for you. If you have anything you need or any problem, please don't hesitate to press that button that will notify us. I shall take my leave now, Lady Lareia. Have a nice rest," she said, then excused herself.

Alone, Lareia heaved out a heavy sigh and took a bath. She wore her black nightgown and sat on the chair by the terrace. It was sunset, time for vampires and werewolves to hunt their prey.

"I missed them."