Violet: No Way Back

3 October, 1348. Bentworth Manor, Earldom of Rhie, Islia

It was mid-afternoon and Violet found herself rushing through the unfamiliar corridors of a large, handsome manor house.

The royal family and courtiers had arrived at the Earl and Countess of Rhie's imposing home just in time for the midday meal. King Edward had confirmed they'd only spend a single night there, before departing the following morning and continuing the journey south.

The previous night, the court had camped out near the bend of a tranquil river. It had been a beautiful starry night and sea of tents had looked very pretty, but the lack of sturdy walls would've made sneaking around to meet the prince without getting caught, far too risky. Leo and Violet had agreed to wait until they reached Bentworth Manor.

The prince had been right when he'd told her that the manor was large enough to allow her to move through it undetected, so long as she was careful.