The warm rays of the sun pierced through the dense foliage of the forest as it reached its zenith, casting pockets of light onto the ground.

I reached for my waterskin, hoping to quench my unrelenting thirst, but even after draining the last drop, my parched throat still yearned for more.

I pulled out my pocket watch to check the time, and it was almost nine in the morning, which reminds me of how Corianne poisoned me 24 hours ago. I couldn't help but wonder how Evrart is coping with the weight of his responsibilities.

The secret of my departure, along with the lingering presence of his mother surely weighed heavily on his mind. Knowing him, I could only imagine the rage that burned within him, and Corianne would undoubtedly bear the brunt of his fury.

And rightfully so, for it was her actions that had driven me to leave. But deep down, there was another motive that fueled my determination – the need to avenge our father's killer, whoever they may be.

The sword wielded by the perpetrator emitted a fiery glow, indicating that the flames originated from them. Considering that there are no sources of fire in the battlefield, it only narrowed down the possibility that the individual is the one possessing fire power.

While I couldn't recall which specific Izavene that possessed such abilities, this knowledge would aid me in my search.

It will be logical to assume that he’s the leader of the army, because he’s also the one commanding the ones behind him. He spoke in Marrosian language, which I too understand.

Someone leading the army can’t be just anyone. They could be a noble, a high-ranking knight appointed by the emperor, or even a member of the imperial family.

The idea of someone from the imperial family added an intriguing layer to the unfolding mystery. Things would be more interesting if the culprit turned out to be of royal blood.

With a firm grip on the reins, I pulled back, signaling my horse to come to a halt. I dismounted as the horse stopped, and my mind is consumed by the thrilling possibilities that lay ahead.

I filled my waterskin as I knelt down by the water’s edge, taking a moment to appreciate the surprisingly clean taste. After quenching my own thirst, I guided my horse to the river, allowing it to drink as well.

I sat on the grass beside the flowing river with a loaf of bread in my hand. It’s hard not to reminisce about the lavish breakfasts I used to enjoy back at the palace.

Those days are now nothing more than a distant memory. As a fugitive on the run, satisfying food is a luxury I could no longer afford. I knew it would be hard but I made my decision, and I have to endure the hardships that came with it.

Bella lowered down to eat some of the grass, and I looked at my reflection on the river.

Did I make the right choice? How sure am I that I’ll achieve my goals? I can’t imagine any other option but leave the palace.

It’s only been a day, but the thought of not achieving the things I have in mind would lead me to something else, and that bothers me.

My life in the palace was a failure. Therefore, failing is not an option now. I have to be strong whether I’m alone or not.

The town I’ll be heading to might be selling a messenger bird that I can use to send letters to Jarvis.

But what if there’s none? I have to come up with a second plan. However, I can only come up with one once I see Marrossi for myself.

Half an hour later, I climbed back on my horse and continued the trip. The horse seems to have enough rest because it can run faster than earlier. As we continue going through the forest, I remembered how Jarvis looked at me when I first said that I’m going to live as a fugitive, especially his reaction when I said that he can’t come with me.

He’s got a higher chance to live if he’s there. Bringing him with me may sound good for the sake of having company, but he will be a hindrance to achieving my goals.

I won’t let anyone stop me from getting what I want.

──•~❉᯽❉~•──

As the sun disappeared below the horizon, the vibrant colors of dusk slowly faded away, signaling the approach of nightfall.

It was at this moment that I decided to set up a small camp for myself. I had made it a point to stop at four different locations before settling down, mindful of not overexerting my horse.

After all, if it will become too exhausted, I would be left without any means of transportation upon reaching my destination.

I gathered some wood and added it to the fire, ensuring that it continued to crackle and cast a warm glow. With the fire providing much-needed warmth, I proceeded to set up my compact tent, seeking refuge from the chilly air. The cold temperature compelled me to draw closer to the fire, seeking its comforting heat to keep me warm.

The gentle chirping of crickets filled the night, their symphony providing a soothing backdrop to the otherwise silent surroundings.

Despite my weariness, a part of me longed for the company of others. However, in this desolate place, it was just me and my horse, Bella. At some point, I believe things are better this way than having someone else.

"Hey there. I hope you're not too exhausted. It has indeed been a long day for both of us. Let's rest here for the night and continue our journey when the sun rises," I said, glancing at Bella, who seemed to be equally tired as it lazily blinked its eyes.

Curiosity got the better of me, and I couldn't help but ask, "Is your name really Bella? Why did Jarvis choose that name for you? It's a lovely name for a horse." I stretched out my arms on the ground and rested my head on them, gazing up at the night sky, partially obscured by the surrounding trees.

As I pondered how much longer it would take us to reach the small town, I couldn't help but feel the discomfort of lying on the hard ground. "I can't bear lying like this for much longer. It's difficult to get a proper sleep," I muttered to myself.

Just then, the rain began to pour, forcing me to seek shelter inside the tent to avoid getting soaked. I still ended up getting partially wet despite my efforts. Bella, on the other hand, found a spot near the woods where the fire had once been and managed to find some rest. Left with no other choice, I decided to try and sleep, despite the uncomfortable surroundings.

──•~❉᯽❉~•──

The neigh of the horse jolted me awake, and I was greeted by the warm rays of the sun as I opened my eyes. It was a clear indication that the weather was pleasant, which will make traveling easier.

"Thank you for waking me up. We should have set off earlier, just like we did yesterday. Let's get moving," I said, swiftly gathering my belongings and mounted on Bella's back.

I found myself absentmindedly petting it as I settled into the saddle. "Who would have thought that a horse could wake me up? You're quite clever for a horse."

Our journey through the forest had lasted for six hours. Words fail to capture the immense relief I felt upon finally emerging from the dense foliage. The forest had offered nothing but an endless expanse of trees, grass, plants, and woods, with only occasional glimpses of the river.

While nature is undoubtedly beautiful, the lack of decent sleep and the absence of companionship made the experience all the more challenging. Who would have imagined that silence could be so deafening?

I dismounted from Bella's back as I spotted an inn and made my way towards it. The innkeeper happened to step outside, and for the first time in a while, I felt a sense of eagerness to engage in conversation with someone.

"Good evening, ma'am. Is your inn open for new guests?" I inquired, and the innkeeper gazed at me intently, as if she could see through my soul, before offering a warm smile.

"Yes, we do have five available rooms. It appears that you're not from around here. Are you a noble lady from Marrossi?" I didn’t answer her question, as it feels uncomfortable to tell a stranger about personal information.

"No, I came from Eurhyia. The thing is, I have money, but I'm concerned that your currency might be different. So, I brought this," I said, retrieving the bluish-green emerald ring that had been gifted to me by the Marquess of Alryne, Warren Ruivenfiere.

"I believe this could sustain a family for over a year. This should be enough." I wanted to mention that I had plenty more jewelry, but I refrained. I had brought all my valuables to use as payment in situations like this until I could find a place to exchange them for money.

The innkeeper's eyes widened in awe as she accepted the ring and examined its intricate details. "This is incredibly precious, miss. Are you absolutely certain you don't mind? The cost of accommodation is only 20 copper pieces, and this is an emerald," she expressed, and the astonishment cannot be hidden in her tone.

"Eurhyians don't use copper, silver, or gold. The currency there is called Eurhyian Bevquel. I understand that it's not valid here, so please keep the emerald as a token of my gratitude. In exchange for the accommodation, I kindly request three things. First, I would ask for food enough for two days, as I plan to stay for that duration. Second, lead me to a place where I can have a messenger bird. Lastly, I would greatly appreciate it if you could keep my presence here confidential," I enumerated, hoping that she would be able to fulfill my requests.

"I can certainly provide you with food for two days and keep your stay here confidential, but I apologize but I can’t assist you to buy a messenger bird. This small town doesn’t sell them, so I hope you understand.”

I nodded, though I couldn't help but feel a tinge of disappointment. I would have to find an alternative solution.

"Alright, just the two requests then," she said, leading me to a tidy room. It was a simple space with a single bed, a curtained window offering a view of the forest, and a bathroom equipped with a dipper and bucket. It seemed that this is how the commoners here bathed, by scooping water from the bucket. It would suffice for now.

"This is the best room we have, miss. I'll leave you to settle in," she informed me before closing the door behind her. It was a bit surprising that she didn't inquire about my request for confidentiality, but I could only hope that she would stick to her word.

──•~❉᯽❉~•──

I carefully placed my bag under the bed and ensured that the room was securely locked before leaving. My priority now is to find a way to communicate with Jarvis. Since it was still early in the evening, the market should still be open, that can provide me with potential solutions.

But then, I noticed that the horse was not where I had left it. Before I could explore the market, I needed to locate the horse first.

I heard a familiar sound from behind as I walk through the dimly lit alley. I turned and found myself facing the horse – a presence that I didn’t notice when I entered the alley. It didn’t appear out of the blue, didn’t it?

"Good thing you're here. Have you been following me? I barely noticed you when I entered this passage," I remarked, half-expecting the horse to understand and respond.

To my astonishment, a shimmering light enveloped the horse, and when the light dissipated, a woman appeared before my eyes. The shock of the transformation caused me to lose my balance, and I stumbled backward, falling to the ground.

“Oof!”

The woman's grin widened, seemingly amused by my reaction, and she extended a hand to help me up. Her friendly smile raised suspicions in my mind.

"Did you just ... wait, you're not my horse, are you?" I muttered to myself, glancing sideways.

"I must be exhausted. Now I'm seeing things," I closed my eyes tightly and rubbed them, hoping to dispel the illusion. But when I opened my eyes again, the woman with the friendly smile was still standing before me.

My mind went blank for a moment as I realized that what I had witnessed was not a figment of my imagination.

"I know what you're thinking, mi'lady. You're shocked because your horse turned into a human. Or an Izavene, to be precise," she explained, her words sinking in. I glanced at her and noticed that we shared the same gray eyes and mahogany hair – the characteristics typical of an Izavene like myself.

"I believe I deserve an explanation. I don't think I need to say what my questions are," I stated, my curiosity piqued.

"Let's start with introductions. Although the marquess introduced me to you as Bella, my real name is Estelle. I would appreciate it if you called me by that name. The marquess is unaware that there is an Izavene in their mansion's stables. You may think that I have been playing tricks on you all this time, and in a way, that's true. It's understandable that you reacted the way you did, considering you are not a resident of the Ruivenfiere Empire. However, if you were, witnessing me transform into my original form would be normal. I am a Poudretteite Izavene, and as Izavenes possess powers based on the ring they are born with, my ability allows me to transform into an animal of my choice. You mentioned that you were searching for a messenger bird, correct? I can serve as your messenger bird and deliver your letter to the marquess. I promise to keep your letter safe," Estelle explained, offering a solution to my predicament.

The woman's introduction fueled my anger, making my blood boil. How could she expect me to trust her after she had tricked me? It was clear to me that she was sent as a spy, but one question remained in mind: Who sent her and what is the motive behind it? I knew she wouldn't answer truthfully, and there was a high chance she would lie about it.

"Well, you certainly played your part convincingly, didn't you?" I retorted; my voice laced with skepticism. "Besides, if it's not you, how else am I supposed to send the letter? The innkeeper herself confirmed that there are no messenger birds available in this small town.”

It's either I’ll use her as my horse again, get rid of her, or rely on her as a messenger bird.

Now that I think about it, she might be useful as a messenger bird than a horse.

Estelle maintained her friendly smile, as if trying her best to assure me that I could trust her. However, I couldn't shake off the bad feeling that lingered within me. Nevertheless, it would be good to ‘test’ her loyalty.

"Fine, be my messenger bird. I will leave this place in two days. But don't get your hopes up. This doesn't mean I trust you," I declared, my tone resolute. "That's all I have to say."

There’s a possibility that ‘Estelle’ would leave and return to her master. But if she’ll deliver the message to Jarvis, he would recognize my handwriting if it’s authentic or forged.

I pulled out a blank sheet of paper from my bag, and wrote a short letter to Jarvis in Eurhyian language. He’ll understand what I mean, regardless the length of the message.

“Reglyez yeflin er kruleveg Izavene. Zuierez vehzinha.” (The bird is an Izavene spy. Kill it.)