The Devil's Betrothed
Chapter 529: Visit To Luke

Chapter 529: Visit To Luke

Meanwhile, in Arlan’s study.

Kerry bowed respectfully to his master as he entered, bearing news.

"Your Highness, Her Highness is preparing to visit a man named Luke and his family. The Vice Commander has made an arrangements for her departure."

Arlan continued his work, his attention divided.

"Your Highness, any other directives?" Kerry inquired. "Should I arrange to relocate that man and his family..."

"Ensure that whatever she wishes unfolds smoothly," Arlan interjected calmly, his tone unwavering. "If she holds concern for that family and their welfare, see to it that they live comfortably so she need not worry any longer."

Kerry was taken aback by the prince’s response. Shouldn’t his master be his usual possessive self, given that his wife was about to meet another man? Why was he suddenly so composed, as if it were of nothing to be concerned about?

Kerry looked at Imbert, who ordered, "Do as His Highness has instructed."

With a final bow to the prince, Kerry exited the study, pondering the unexpected turn of events. It was so unlike his master.

As Oriana and Rafal stepped out, a knight approached Rafal, whispering urgently in his ear before departing. Oriana observed Rafal’s return, curious about the exchange.

"Your Highness, Luke is currently at Ahrens," Rafal informed her.

"Is he still employed there?" she inquired.

"He had left his job to return to his village previously, but it seems he is now seeking employment in the capital," Rafal explained. "With no ongoing construction work, he may be offered alternative employment."

"I wish to visit him," Oriana declared.

Rafal nodded and directed the coachman towards Ahrens, opening the door of an ordinary looking carriage for her. Oriana turned to her master, Erich, with a sense of hesitation. "Master, perhaps this is not the right time. I will first meet with Luke and gather updates."

"Let me know if you require assistance," Erich offered before taking his leave.

Once Oriana settled into the carriage, Rafal mounted his horse and led the way. Along the journey, the carriage passed by the Thistle Palace. Peering through the window, Oriana caught a glimpse of the palace gates. ’He must be preparing for the royal court if he’s there. I haven’t informed him of my destination. I hope he’ll understand.’

Upon arriving at Ahrens, Oriana watched as Rafal effortlessly acquired information about Luke’s whereabouts within the estate. It was not uncommon for Rafal to be seen in attire other than his princely knight uniform, signaling to the servants and guards that their young master was embarking on a special mission.

The carriage made its way towards the heart of the estate, eventually halting at a designated spot. Rafal dismounted his horse and courteously opened the carriage door for Oriana. Stepping out, she listened as Rafal addressed her.

"Your Highness, allow me to lead the way."

Following Rafal’s lead, Oriana traversed the grounds until they reached one of the residences, where they spotted familiar figures. A composed man stood before a striking young woman.

"...Thank you for offering me work here, Lady Erin," the man spoke, bowing his head respectfully before the noblewoman.

"I did it as a token of gratitude for your protection that day in the market... Hmm?" Lady Erin’s attention shifted to the newcomers. "Brother?" Her expression turned to one of mild shock. "Y-Your Highness?"

Luke followed her gaze, his eyes locking onto the approaching Rafal and Oriana. Though recognizing the young boy he had known for months, he remained rooted to the spot, his gaze fixed.

Erin, by now was aware that young boy Orian was in fact Oriana as she had seen Oriana in a disguise before. On the wedding day when she saw Oriana’s face without a veil, she was stunned but kept it to herself knowing the importance of such matters. She wanted to ask her brother Rafal, but once her brother was on his duty as a knight, he would rarely return home.

"Greetings, Your Highness," Erin bowed respectfully to Oriana.

Luke, who was surprised by Oriana’s presence, snapped back to reality and bowed in respect, acknowledging his lower status as a commoner in front of Crown Princess of this kingdom.

Oriana felt a mixture of emotions at the gesture, uncertain of how to react.

"Erin, come with me," Rafal interjected, gesturing for his sister to follow as he walked away.

Once the Ahren siblings had departed, Oriana finally addressed Luke. "Luke."

He looked at her. That pair of eyes he always found beautiful for any boy to have, now were full of guilt. He was wrong, the person in front of him was never a boy.

He was confident young man who was never to be intimidated by a noble. His gaze devoid of any particular emotions, fixed on her, waiting for her to say what she was there for.

His silence made Oriana feel uneasy. She had anticipated questions or remarks, but instead, he remained quietly composed. It wasn’t surprising; he had always been this way, speaking only when necessary.

"You must have been greatly surprised to learn the truth about me," Oriana began nervously, attempting to gather her thoughts. "I never intended to conceal my identity as a woman, but circumstances... I didn’t mean to deceive you or anyone else..."

"Luke, where are you?" Someone called out, catching their attention. They watched as Ken hurried towards them upon spotting them.

Luke walked past Oriana to approach Ken, seemingly aware of the reason for his arrival.

"Luke, Aunt Gwen..." Ken began, but Luke seemed oblivious, abruptly turning and running off in haste.

"Luke," Ken called out, ready to follow, but another voice interrupted, "Brother Ken."

Halting in his tracks at the familiar voice, Ken finally noticed Oriana.

"Orian, where were you?" he questioned.

Oriana realized that Ken was unaware of the situation, and Luke had not divulged anything about her true identity.

"Brother Ken, I’ll explain later. First, tell me what happened," she replied, concern evident in her voice.

"Aunt Gwen isn’t well. She fainted suddenly. I called a local physician and came here to find Luke," Ken explained urgently.

"I’ll come with you," Oriana offered, raising her hand to halt Rafal’s approach before walking away with Ken.

"What’s happening?" Erin inquired of her brother, who complied with Oriana’s silent directive.

Instead of answering, Rafal simply looked at her. "Just remember what I’ve told you. Don’t ask any more questions."

"Of course, brother. Besides, I’ve liked our Crown Princess ever since I first met her here at Ahrens for the first time," Erin replied with a smile.

Rafal said nothing further, his focus on following the Crown Princess. Her safety was his utmost responsibility.