As Claude stepped out of the room, his younger brother Louis stood there, observing the tense interaction between Claude and their father. Sensing his brother's distress, Louis offered a supportive tap on Claude's shoulder, silently expressing his empathy.

"Come, let's go to your room," Louis said softly, knowing that Claude needed some time and space to process the emotions running high.

In the sanctuary of Claude's room, Louise couldn't help but ask with genuine concern, "Why would you want to give up the throne? I'm content with supporting you as a prince. I have no desire to be an emperor."

Claude let out a heavy sigh, his emotions still raw from the confrontation with their father. "It's because of Elise," he replied, his voice tinged with sadness and longing. "I love her, Louis, more than anything. But our father doesn't understand. He sees her as a commoner, a barrier to our family's legacy and the empire's stability."

Louis listened attentively, knowing all too well the depth of his brother's feelings for Elise. He had observed them together in the castle, noticing the undeniable bond they shared.

"I understand, Claude," Louis said gently, offering his understanding and support. "But it won't be easy. The empire's traditions and nobility won't easily accept a commoner as their empress. The path you've chosen is riddled with challenges."

Claude nodded, knowing that his decision would not only affect him but also Elise. "I know, and that's why I'm willing to give up the throne. I can't let her suffer, and I can't live a life of misery in a loveless marriage. Even if it means giving up my birthright."

Louis regarded his brother with admiration and concern. "You are truly willing to sacrifice everything for love. It's a heavy burden to bear, but if anyone can navigate through this storm, it's you, Claude."

Claude managed a faint smile, appreciating his brother's support. "Thank you, Louis. Your understanding means the world to me. I know it won't be easy, but I can't deny my heart."

~~~

As the day of departure neared, Crown Prince Claude and his trusted aide Theodore were busy preparing for the journey to the Visconti Dukedom. The prince had a mix of emotions, knowing that this expedition was both a punishment and an opportunity for self-discovery.

In his chambers, Claude packed his belongings, making sure to bring only the essentials. Theodore assisted him, ensuring that everything needed for the expedition was accounted for. Maps, provisions, and a few personal belongings were carefully placed in sturdy bags.

"You'll need warm clothing and extra supplies for the journey, Your Highness," Theodore said, laying out a set of thick, travel-worn clothes. "The Visconti Dukedom's terrain can be treacherous, and the weather can be unpredictable."

Claude nodded, appreciating Theodore's attention to detail. "Thank you, Theodore. Your guidance has always been invaluable."

"It's my duty and privilege, Your Highness," Theodore replied with a warm smile. "I will accompany you throughout this expedition to ensure your safety and well-being."

Claude knew he could rely on Theodore's unwavering support. The journey to the Visconti Dukedom would be arduous, but having his friend by his side brought him comfort and strength.

Finally, the day of departure arrived. Claude donned his travel attire, a symbol of his willingness to face the challenges ahead. As he stepped outside the palace, he was met with a small crowd of well-wishers, including his brother Louis, who stood with a determined look in his eyes.

"I'll be waiting for your return, brother," Louis said, offering a reassuring nod. "Take care and stay safe."

Claude smiled, touched by his brother's words. "Thank you, Louis. I'll do my best to return unscathed."

With that, the prince and Theodore set off on their journey. The expedition took them through diverse landscapes, from lush forests to rugged mountains. They faced wild beasts, encountered unfamiliar cultures, and formed alliances with local leaders during their two-week travel to the Visconti Dukedom.

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Throughout the journey, Claude's mind was filled with thoughts of Elise and the choices he had made. He reflected on the complexities of love, duty, and sacrifice, realizing that the path he had chosen was far from easy. The expedition provided ample time for introspection, helping him gain clarity on his desires and responsibilities.

As they finally reached the Visconti Dukedom, Claude's heart raced with nervous anticipation as he sensed that something momentous was about to unfold during his expedition. The weight of his choices and the uncertainty of the future hung heavy on his shoulders, leaving him anxious yet determined to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

As Crown Prince Claude stepped into the grand hall of the Visconti castle, he was met with a display of formalities befitting his royal status. The servants lined the hall, their demeanor respectful and composed, as they greeted him with deep bows.

The duke and duchess stood at the forefront, their presence commanding and gracious. As Claude approached, they curtsied deeply, a sign of respect and honor to the prince. "Your Highness, welcome to the Visconti Dukedom," the duke said with a warm smile, his voice carrying a hint of formality.

"It is an honor to have you as our esteemed guest," added the duchess, her eyes reflecting genuine warmth.

Claude returned the formal greeting with a slight bow. "Thank you for your hospitality, Duke Visconti, Duchess Visconti. I am grateful for your welcome."

The duke's sons, who stood beside their parents, followed the protocol, offering their own respectful greetings to the crown prince. Though there was a sense of curiosity in their eyes, they maintained an air of deference.

As the formalities concluded, Crown Prince Claude couldn't help but feel a sense of curiosity about the renowned princess of the Visconti Dukedom, Amaryllis. He inquired politely, "Where is the renowned Princess Amaryllis? I have heard much about her."

To his surprise, the duke replied with a gentle smile, "Amaryllis is resting in her chambers, Your Highness. She is expecting, and her pregnancy has required her to take some time to rest."

Claude's eyes widened in astonishment. He had no previous knowledge of Princess Amaryllis' condition, and this revelation caught him completely off guard. The news of her pregnancy added an unexpected layer of complexity to the situation, one that he hadn't anticipated.

"I was not aware," Claude said, his surprise evident in his voice. "Please extend my congratulations to Princess Amaryllis and your family."

The duke nodded graciously. "Thank you, Your Highness. We are delighted with the news and look forward to welcoming a new member into our family."

As the conversation continued, Claude found himself reflecting on the significance of this revelation. The knowledge of Amaryllis' pregnancy added another dimension to his time in the Visconti Dukedom. It underscored the importance of family, responsibility, and the delicate balance between personal desires and royal duties.

~~

After the small talks and dinner, Crown Prince Claude and his hosts concluded the evening's affairs. It was settled that Claude would accompany the Duke and his heir, Alphonse, on their expeditions against the monsters, while his second son, Alexander would remain to protect the Visconti Dukedom during their absence.

As the night settled in, Claude retreated to his room, He then called his loyal shadow guard, and when the guard entered the room, his face held a solemn expression.

"Tell me everything you know about Elise," Claude said with a sense of urgency in his voice.

The shadow guard bowed respectfully before responding, "Your Highness, we have been closely monitoring Elise's whereabouts as you requested. However, it seems that she has vanished from her usual residence. Our inquiries revealed that she was approached by knights of the duke, but beyond that, her trail goes cold. Her neighbors claim they have not seen her since the encounter with the knights, except when she occasionally visits her bakery."

Claude's brow furrowed with concern. "What did these knights want with her? And why has she disappeared?"

"I'm afraid we do not have all the answers, Your Highness," the shadow guard replied. "The neighbors said she is still visiting the bakery, but we couldn't confirm this information. It's as if she's trying to remain unseen."

Claude sighed, feeling a mixture of frustration and fear for Elise's safety. "I should have been there to protect her," he said, his voice tinged with regret.

The shadow guard offered reassurance, "Your Highness, we will do everything in our power to find her and ensure she's safe."

Claude nodded, appreciating his guard's dedication. "Thank you for your efforts. Keep searching for her, discreetly."

"Yes, Your Highness," the guard promised.

After dismissing the shadow guard, Claude was left alone in his room, the weight of the news still heavy on his mind. He took a sip of his wine, hoping to find some solace in its warmth and distraction in its taste.

To his surprise, amidst the swirling thoughts, he caught a glimpse of what appeared to be Elise's hair, a vision that made his heart skip a beat. He blinked twice, but the image vanished as quickly as it had appeared. He thought he might be imagining things, attributing the vision to the effects of the wine on his senses.

Deciding to shake off the strange encounter, he convinced himself that he needed rest and sleep to face the challenges of the upcoming expedition. He put aside thoughts of Elise for the moment, pushing them to the back of his mind as he closed his eyes.

In the darkness of his dreams, Elise's image still lingered, her presence haunting his thoughts and stirring his emotions. It was clear that his heart and mind were deeply entwined with her, and the mystery of her whereabouts only fueled his desire to find her and ensure her safety.