Chapter 05…
The Treasure Becomes a Mirage.
The carriage was passing through a deep forest that separated the Kingdom of Rubellite from the neighboring country—a forest so dark and vast it was rumored to be the dwelling place of a demon king. It was a detour from the main highway that officially connected the two nations, but the coachman who had come to fetch them had explained before departure that this route would be a shortcut.
Even so, it was unheard of for any carriage to travel through this forest. The steward had pleaded desperately that they take a safer road instead, but Yvette had coldly dismissed his concerns.
“The count from the other side has arranged everything. There’s no reason to worry. If you keep insisting, I’ll have you leave the household together with Felicia.”
Hearing Yvette glare and say that, Felicia smiled softly at the steward and shook her head. She could not afford to lose the man who had loyally served the Dupla family for so many years—not while her father was away.
“Thank you for worrying about me. But I’ll be fine. Please continue to look after the Dupla household.”
Understanding her resolve, the steward bit his lip tightly and bowed his head.
“My lady, please take care. I pray for your happiness.”
As the carriage began to roll away, the steward stood for a long while, praying fervently that the unease in his heart would not come true.
Outside the carriage, someone shouted. Then came the sound of heavy footsteps—rough, hurried—and a scream, followed by a dull thud as something fell.
Felicia stiffened, and in the next moment, the carriage door burst open.
“Lady Felicia, please run!”
One of the attendants rushed in to pull Felicia out.
The carriage was under attack.
A group of assailants, their faces hidden beneath black cloths, swarmed upon the servants one after another. Their blades soon turned toward Felicia.
No—rather, it was as if Felicia had been their target from the very beginning. The moment they spotted her, they all lunged at once.
The attendant shielding her was struck down, collapsing on top of Felicia.
Felicia fell as well, striking her head hard against the ground.
Through the haze of pain and fading consciousness, a fierce wind brushed her cheek.
A dark figure appeared before her eyes, cutting down the attackers in an instant.
Then, turning back, the shadow gently lifted Felicia into its arms.
(Like a ruby… so beautiful…)
For an instant, she caught a glimpse of glimmering, crimson eyes—radiant and otherworldly.
(At last, my escort from the underworld has come for me… Ah, I really am going to die…)
Wrapped in a black cloak, Felicia closed her eyes, unable to resist the throbbing pain and dizziness.
The figure holding her pressed her close, as though protecting something precious.
