Duchess of Cornelia Street

"Are you sure you don't want us to come with you, my lady?" My head maid said as she was fidgeting.

"I'll be back before you know it, Martha." I gave her a reassuring smile and I wear the backpack that she handed to me.

I starred the mirror to make sure that I look presentable when I leave the castle. I'm going to a long journey.

When I turned around, Martha was already sobbing and I couldn't help to feel sad as I watch her. I have known her since I was young and considered her as my mother.

"Please, stop crying. I'm going to be fine and you know that." I hugged her .

"I never thought there would be a time like this. You were just still like a baby in my arms yesterday and then.. " She wiped her tears as she let go her body from my grasp. "If ever you need anything I wouldn't hesitate to come over."

"Thank you, Martha but we should not be careless when crossing the portal especially there's a glitch." I replied.

"I understand, my lady." She pushed some strands of my hair and placed it neatly behind my ear. "Please, be careful. I would die to save you if anything happens."

We heard a knock and I thank whoever it is. Martha's sentiment would take me longer.

"Excuse me for my intrusion." A familiar voice said.

"Come in." I commanded.

The door opened and it was Wilhelm. He was wearing his casual attire, a black tunic that is tucked in his fitted leather pants with a black handle sword hanging around his waist and boots that could kick a skull if someone's trying to lay a hand on me.

He bowed. "I'm here to escort you, my lady."

"Well, then.." I tapped Martha's shoulder and I no longer want to see her crying face again. It makes me not want to go. "Please look the castle for me, Martha. I promise to be back clean and whole."

She nodded but she's trying to cry again. I instantly turned my back and wore my cloak. After that, Wilhelm is walking behind me as we walked through the hidden passage that leads downstairs.

When we reached the gate in discreet, we made sure no one saw or followed us because it would cause confusion to my herd if they saw me sneaking outside in the middle of the night. The moon's light helped us as we walked through the forest silently and the only sound I could hear is our footsteps stepping on those twigs.

After a few moments of being careful, we reached to our destination. The huge portal is in front of us and has a mixture of undefined colors. I dampened my lips. Will I able to solve everything?

"I'll be going, Wilhelm. Thank you for coming with me."

He nodded. "My lady, before you go, I want to give you this."

He handed me a silver necklace with a round shape red diamond pendant.

"What's this for?" My brows creased while looking at the pendant.

He scratched his head, avoiding my gaze.

"I-I made it. I hope you'll wear it, my lady."

Without any hesitation, I wrapped the necklace around my neck. I don't have anything on me since I'm on a disguise but this is the first time Wilhelm gave me something. I want to wear it to show him that I am thankful for his loyalty.

I smiled to him and he looked down. Why does he act like a shy puppy now when he's like a beast on the battlefield?

"I'm going. There's no time." I turned around but he held my hand, stopping me again.

He kissed the back of my palm and I felt an unfamiliar sensation when his lips touched my skin.

"Please, be careful, my lady. I'll be waiting for your safe return." He said.

I grabbed my hand back to myself. "I'll be going and don't try to stop me again. See you around, Wilhelm."

I took a few steps towards the portal. I tried to put my hand and thankfully, I felt nothing. I went in and fear already consumed me when I saw a dark void. I turned around to see Wilhelm for the last time before the portal closes. I could hear that he's saying something, I waved my hand but the portal already swallowed me into the pit of void.