The Next Day
Orius received Iria's message through the Master Enaerion and the Duke wasn't that excited to see his sister. Not after what happened!
It was noon. Orius and Valerie, along with Andres and Ophelia and some guards were on their way to Qalagon and they expect to reach the palace before sunset. They left Helsia through another path which they had never known before. The ex-officials told them about it and it turned out that even Zaro Aventine or his soldiers haven't explored the path.
Zane stayed behind along with some guards and 100 specially selected soldiers from the private army who arrived a few days ago. He will aid the ex-officials and keep the Crown Prince informed.
"What will we say to Iria?" Orius asked Andres who was riding a horse beside him. Valerie and Ophelia were riding a carriage.