Rivals
[Rrrr..]
Duke Alfred and Adela were riding in the carriage on their way to the academy. Alfred had received a summons from the academy, and as Duke of the Kingdom, he was required to appear there. For the entire journey, Adela and Alfred didn't speak to one another. They were both calmly seated and facing each other. Adela was staring out the window, and Alfred was sitting on the opposite side, taking in the scenery.
Despite Adela's best attempts to hide her true nature, it eventually emerged. She was at a loss about where to begin. Her father ignored her so many times in her previous life because of her selfishness. Perhaps she deserved it. Indeed, she deserved to be despised.
Alfred abruptly shattered the ice between them. "Adela, do you have any precise ideas concerning the mission?"
"No, Father. I... I didn't adequately try to research Sofia."