Chapter 11; A First Ember

THRYSTAN

I'm puzzled. Why did she flee like that? Standing amidst the bustling crowd, her brown locks vanish before my eyes. With determination, I dash after her into the labyrinth of streets, but she moves like a shadow, slipping through alleys with familiarity. She knows these streets better than I; she's vanished without a trace.

Returning to the dress shop hoping to find her sister, I'm met with an empty storefront. They've both disappeared, leaving me dumbfounded. I can't believe I've lost her once again. Desperate, I resort to bribery, coaxing Clover into helping me track her down. It feels invasive, but Elaria's warning echoes in my mind, urging me to steer clear of the Wreath and avoid arousing suspicion from Father.

Three days pass in anticipation. I needed to see her again, but without venturing into the perilous depths of the Wreath, stalking becomes my only recourse.

Two guards snap to attention as I approach, their salute crisp and formal. "The brigands are being transport