"Astonished"

"It wouldn't be fair to you since you did not bring any escorts to assist you Pri- Zinnia." I stuttered.

"But, if you want Sofia to join, we should ride a carriage since Ellie can't handle us three even though he is big." she explained, pointing at the horse. The horse clearly understood what she meant since he was nodding his head agreeing with the Princess.

"Uhm if I may speak, Grand Duke and Princess Zinnia." Sofia interjected, raising her hand.

"Go ahead." I replied.

"I'm perfectly okay with staying here in the mansion, that's if the Grand Duke is okay with it as well." Sofia said, looking at me with a smile.

I frowned, "Do you not want to be around me, Sofia?"

Sofia vigorously shook her head in disagreement, "That's not what I mean, Grand Duke! All I want is for both of you to enjoy yourselves, and having an escort following you might be inconvenient for both of you," she explained.

"Not at all!" Both the Princess and I exclaimed simultaneously.

"Um, okay. But since there's no carriage and the horse can't accommodate all three of us at once, it might be better for just the two of you to go," Sofia assured, offering a smile.

Indeed, I had informed Sofia rather abruptly without considering her own feelings. She must have been exhausted from her day's work, and now I was imposing on her to accompany us.

"Sofia, I apologize for not taking your situation into account. I'm aware you had a busy day. You can rest in your room now; I'll be fine," I reassured her with a smile.

"Thank you, Grand Duke. I hope you both have an enjoyable evening," Sofia replied with a returned smile.

"I also apologize, Sofia. I'll remember to arrange for a carriage in the future so you can join us," the Princess added apologetically.

"Not at all, Princess!" Sofia answered.

Princess Zinnia offered her a gentle smile before leaping onto the horse. She then turned her gaze toward me and extended her arms.

"Shall we, Grand Duke?"

I chuckled at her invitation and took her outstretched hand.

"Grand Duke, before you go, please keep this with you." Sofia spoke up as she grasped my other hand and handed me a packet of medicine. "It's merely a precaution, Grand Duke. I sincerely hope you won't need it tonight," she added.

"Thank you, Sofia. I'll keep this safe and use it if necessary," I assured her, placing the item she had given me into my pockets. With that done, I mounted the horse behind the Princess.

"You can head inside now, Sofia. We will be leaving now."

"I will. Please stay safe, Master and Princess Zinnia," Sofia said once more and retreated into the mansion.

"Let's go!!" The Princess exclaimed with enthusiasm, gently holding the reins as her horse let out a neigh of readiness.

Having never ridden a horse before, I recalled the teachings that a carriage was sufficient and horseback riding was dangerous. And indeed, I found myself struggling to maintain my balance, desperately gripping the saddle to avoid falling off.

Lost in my struggle, I was oblivious to the fact that the Princess was watching me. Suddenly, she let out a giggle and gently took hold of both my hands, guiding them to rest on her hips. My eyes widened with surprise, and I looked at her in confusion, while she simply smirked mischievously.

"I apologize, Grand Duke. Please hold on to me tightly so you won't fall. I'm afraid this will go on for a few more minutes since the town is a bit far from here." She explained.

I nodded and clasped both my hands on her hips, I breathed a sigh of relief as it was easier to maintain balance this way.

Throughout the ride, I made the decision to keep my eyes tightly shut due to the dust that had irritated my eye. The journey continued for several more minutes until, at last, the horse stopped from galloping.

Sensing the Princess dismounting from the horse, I could hear a cacophony of loud noises emanating from our surroundings.

"Xyriel? You can open your eyes now." The Princess chuckled and held my hand.

Upon following the Princess's instructions, I reluctantly opened my eyes, only to find myself utterly astounded.

The town was adorned with an abundance of radiant lanterns, illuminating the surroundings, while the townsfolk indulged in a blissful celebration. Laughter filled the air as people reveled in merriment, engaging in lively conversations, delightful feasting, joyous dancing, and melodious singing.

The atmosphere exuded an air of tranquility and enjoyment, a stark contrast to the dreary and wearisome gatherings held by the aristocrats.