~ Nineteen - Season V ~

“Thank you for accompanying me all the way here.

“For now,” I turned to the two guards behind me, “I would like to have a moment alone.”

After I woke up from my nap, I decided to take a quick stroll around the castle grounds. Luckily, the guards told me that Bethilda had a small garden. So, I asked them to show me its location.

The two guards shared glances with each other, worried and unsure. One of them replied, “But Your Highness, His Majesty specifically said that should you ask for our company, we are not to leave you alone. Especially when you are outside the castle.”

I chuckled. “There is nothing to be scared of, gentlemen. With the location of the duchess’ residence, it’s a bit impossible for enemies to attack from within these walls,” I explained. “At the same time, I don't think that these walls are penetrable from all fronts.”

The guards looked at each other again, still uncertain of what to do.

I sighed, which made them turn to me. “I assure you, I can manage on my own. I