Chapter 39

When they had arrived at the capital, they settled down in their mansion which was large compared to the other buildings around. However, it could not beat the humongous Manor in the woods.

After settling down, everyone was exhausted from the long ride and immediately fell into a deep sleep. 

The next morning was different, everyone was energetic and ready to explore what the capital had for them. Though they might be nobles of this land, truth be told they hadn't ventured out of their Manor in almost a year. 

Isabella and Envius were out and about in the city after informing her parents about them not coming home till night time.

"Today marks the start of the Crescent festival! I want us to experience this festival together at night when it starts.. for now, let's go to some boutiques and get you spruced up for our ahem..date tonight." Isabella hinted while pulling Envius hand along as she recalled her favourite shops that she used to visit often when she was younger. She wondered if they were still in business.

Envius followed along obediently while his eyes were lifeless. He was obviously out of it since yesterday morning but Isabella had not questioned him about it.

They went from boutiques to boutiques, looking for clothes that'll fit Envius. Before they knew it, the sun setted and the festival began. 

Shopkeepers set up their shops with multiple bright ornaments and fairy lights, hoping to catch the attention of passers-by and arouse them with the goods they were selling. 

Just in a few minutes, the empty path they had just walked through changed into a bustling street full of activities and buzz. It was a captivating night market.

At the centre of all the shops was a large stone statue, it shone brightly in the night light more than it did in the morning. It was white in color with a gold tint that resembled the color of the moon. 

Isabella caught sight of the festival commencing and immediately finished up her meal. "Make sure you leave some room in your stomach for later. There's some good food that only gets sold during the Crescent festival." She stated, leaning her face against her palm while she watched Envius happily chomped down the rice cakes. His cheeks puffed and deflated repeatedly.

Envius finished up the rest of his meal while he watched Isabella pay with some silver coins. He looked out the door of the shop and was taken aback by the new view. Taking one more step forward, he peeked his head out of the shop. Mesmerised by what he had seen.

Isabella ran out of the shop and grabbed his hand and dragged him from shop to shop. Testing out brooches and bracelets on him, feeding him with numerous goods that were drizzled with delicious sauce and syrups and finally ending off the fun day at exactly 12. Standing beneath the feet of the statue.

She placed her hand together and leaned her forehead on her hands. She started whispering things under her breath. "I wish everyday could be as fun as today. I want to be with him forever." She prayed to the goddess of the moon. When she finished her prayer, she saw Envius doing the same thing.

However, he wore an exhausted and nervous expression on his face hidden behind his hands that were shaking. Envius finished and turnt back to Isabella with a weak smile.

"What's... wrong?" Isabella asked.

"The-" Envius paused and stood up straighter with a jolt. "I think I ate too much... a little dizzy that's all." He claimed, reaching out and holding Isabella's rough and cold hands.

"Let's return home. I have to leave early tomorrow for my preparation." Isabella said.

They both reached home tired as they washed themselves up and settled in the same bedroom. 

Envius' arms were being used as a pillow by Isabella. She refused to let go and insisted they sleep in the position she had set.

"My arm might break like this." Envius said with a plain expression as if he was dead serious.

Isabella laughed and hugged him. "Maybe they will, maybe they won't. Sleep tight." 

Envius nodded and watched Isabella drift off to sleep in less than a minute. He recalled the day and all he remembered was her bright shining smile whenever she was content with something. It was more beautiful than anything he had seen before. 

Suddenly, he felt a sharp pain in his chest. It reached up to his throat and heated his body in an abnormal way. He had never felt this strange sensation or feeling before. Was it because he had too much fun for the day? Or was it maybe his stomach acting up?

Then it struck him. He wasn't meant to be this entitled right now to the happiness he felt. It didn't...fit right with him. He was just there for the sake of orders. Whatever he had just prayed for today went down the drain in an instant.

The sensation he felt was guilt. He was guilty of putting Isabella and her family in danger. And putting an end to their reign. He was nothing more than a decoy. Not worthy of love. He looked at Isabella and hugged her with his other arm. And touched his forehead against hers. 

"I'm so sorry. It's my fault. I'm sorry.." Envius whispered and apologised profusely but Isabella slept like the dead.

God's wrath is a curse

However, he still grant love

Though we will need a hearse

For our love like a fleeting dove

The only way we'll remain together

Is when we're eternally asleep.

Envius POV

We'll never be happy together in this lifetime for my sins and mistakes I've done. If we do meet in the next life, I'll find you, even if I do not remember you. As my heart longs and aches for you. My dear beautiful shining Isabella. I'm...sorry.

The night passed by as fast as light. While I watched her silently leave in the early morning for her competition. I grasped onto that memory, knowing that it'll be the last time I see her.