Chapter 82: Departing

Despite our exhaustive efforts, the investigation yielded no fruitful leads. No matter how thoroughly we searched, it seemed as though the escapees had vanished into thin air. Their tracks were lost amidst the dense foliage of the forest, leaving us with little to go on.

I informed my father of the situation, and he promptly dispatched word to the Marquisate of Valenoir, alerting them to the problem by the fleeing individuals. The Marquis pledged to keep a vigilant watch over the northern border, but even with their assistance, our efforts proved fruitless.

We sent out numerous scouting parties, each tasked with combing through the surrounding area in search of any sign of them. Yet, despite our best efforts, none of the scouts managed to locate them. What was even more perplexing was that none of the scouting parties encountered any hostile forces, indicating that the escapees had managed to evade detection entirely.

It was a frustrating and disheartening turn of events, leaving us with more questions than answers. But I refused to give up hope. I vowed to continue the search, determined to uncover the truth behind the disappearance of the fleeing individuals, no matter how elusive they proved to be.

Yet as it would come my vow came unfullfielled as two weeks passed without any fruitful finding which meant that I had failed and that If I had any hope to find them before,not it was basically impossible.

As I descended the grand staircase of the mansion, I caught sight of my parents waiting for me at the bottom, both wearing warm smiles that seemed to brighten the room. My father's hand rested gently on my mother's back.

They were undoubtedly eager to see me off to the Royal Academy, where the entrance exam was renowned for its difficulty, even among nobles. It was a prestigious institution, and gaining admission was a significant achievement for any aspiring scholar or noble heir.

However, I knew that my path to the academy was somewhat different from that of most students. While many would have spent countless hours studying and preparing for the rigorous entrance exam, I had received a letter from the Grand-Master himself, personally recommending me for admission, which was a good thing since I had not spent a single moment studying which meant that unless I proved extraordinary on the practical exam, I would not

pass.

It was a rare and prestigious honor, bestowed upon only to three each year. The Princess was among those who received such recommendations, . As for the third recommendation, I was unaware of its recipient or if it had even been utilized.

Behind me, a young man of 21 years trailed along, his long black hair falling messily around his face, adding to his somewhat clumsy appearance. He struggled slightly under the weight of my luggage, his expression a mix of determination and uncertainty.

This was Rolf, the son of our loyal butler, Rox. My father had arranged for him to accompany me as my personal servant, a notion that my parents had wholeheartedly agreed upon. It was customary for nobles to be allowed one servant from their household, and Rolf was the chosen candidate.

Despite his youth and apparent clumsiness, Rolf was eager to prove himself capable of serving me to the best of his ability, as he also wanted to make his father proud.

Though he was inexperienced, I knew that with time and guidance, Rolf would grow into his new responsibilities. For now, I allowed him in as I certainly needed an errand boy in the academy and he was the perfect candidate.

I stood a few steps ahead of my parents, my posture tall and composed as I gazed out at the open landscape before me. The sun was setting, casting a soft golden light over the rolling hills and fields in the distance. As my mother approached me for a hug, I reciprocated with a warm embrace. She had always been one to show her affection freely.

Meanwhile, my father stood a little ways off, his eyes filled with pride as he looked upon me. "Who would have ever thought that I would become jealous of my own son," he said with a wistful smile. "It's a strange feeling, but not an unpleasant one." He then placed a hand on my shoulder, giving it a reassuring pat.

"Remember, sweetheart, if things turn bad, run away and don't worry about anyone else. Your life is the most important thing," my mother whispered in my ear as she hugged me tightly. I nodded, taking in her words before gently asking her to release me.

"If you need anything, just write to me and I'll send it to you," my father chimed in as Rolf passed by with the luggage, heading towards the carriage.

"I will," I replied with gratitude in my voice. And with that, I bid them farewell and made my way towards the waiting carriage. The sound of horses' hooves clomping against the cobblestone road could be heard as we set off on our journey into the unknown.

Standing outside the grand entrance of our opulent mansion was a magnificent carriage, crafted from polished wood and adorned with intricate carvings. The gleaming chariot exuded an air of elegance and refinement, befitting its occupants.

As I made my way towards the carriage, the door swung open with a soft creak, revealing the lavish interior awaiting within. Plush upholstery lined the seats and soft carpet muffled my footsteps as I ascended the steps.

Taking my seat inside, I sank back against the luxurious cushions, feeling the gentle sway as the coachman guided the horses forward. With a curt nod to the coachman, I directed him to depart.

As the carriage began to roll forward, I gazed out the window at the familiar scenery of our estate fading into the distance. Ahead lay the path to the prestigious Royal Academy, a place filled with countless opportunities and challenges that I was eager to conquer. Unfortunately I did know that in just three short years, two major crises would strike during my time at this renowned institution. But for now, all I could do was brace myself and sleep through the travel.