Chapter 4: An Unexpected Invitation

At that moment, a servant hurried into the hall, carrying an ornate envelope. "Miss, this is an invitation from the territory of Seren."

Wilfred raised an eyebrow and Alicia's eyes widened slightly. The timing was uncanny. She took the envelope, its weight and craftsmanship signifying its importance.

Alicia couldn't help but let out a small, mirthless laugh. "Indeed. It appears that Seren has taken notice of us just as we've taken notice of them. Let's see what they have to say." Her laughter, however, abruptly ceased as she opened the envelope.

Opening the envelope, she saw elegant script inviting her to a grand celebration hosted by the Seren Lord, mentioning that a young and distinguished strategist ——Leonidas Arcana, would be at her service.

Her smile faltered, the lightness from moments ago replaced by a heavy, sinking feeling.

She took a deep breath, calming her racing thoughts. The name shocked and puzzled her. Immediately, she connected it with the talented influential advisor Wilfred had mentioned earlier. Could it be the same person? The hall was silent save for the crackling of the fire, the air seeming to thicken with tension.

Wilfred noticed her reaction and asked cautiously, "Miss, are you all right?"

Alicia shook her head, trying to regain her composure. "It’s nothing, just that the name took me by surprise," she said, her voice trembling slightly, as if trying to convince herself to stay calm. Why had Leon suddenly appeared? Her thoughts flashed back to the moment of her assassination in her past life, leaving her dizzy. Fate was playing a cruel trick on her, forcing her to face the man who had betrayed her.

Alicia walked to the window, gazing out at the garden. The moonlit garden was tranquil and beautiful, a stark contrast to the turmoil within her. She began to ponder Leon’s current situation. Did he, like her, retain his memories? If so, this would be an incredibly awkward situation. After all, she was now a lord, with responsibilities and duties that had drastically changed. She needed to respond formally and with the proper decorum, not just for herself but for the honor of Aisha.

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Her thoughts continued to swirl. What if Leon had no memories? Perhaps she could face him with an air of calm indifference. She had to project the image of a composed and decisive leader, even if her heart was in turmoil. She could not afford to show any weakness in front of him. Any emotional waver could be seen as a sign of fragility, which would be detrimental to her rule’s stability. She was at a loss, unsure how to handle this complex situation.

Just then, another servant entered hurriedly, bringing urgent news. "Miss, there are reports of an attack on Belgrave Village, at the border of Aisha and Seren. Should we send someone to investigate?"

Alicia frowned, deep in thought. Belgrave Village? This was a village situated within Seren’s territory. She considered the significance of this report. The location of Belgrave Village was crucial, right on the border between Aisha and Seren. This might be an opportunity to discuss cooperation and mutual defense with the Seren Lord.

She turned to Wilfred and said, "An attack on Belgrave Village? This might be an opportunity. We can use this chance to meet with the Seren Lord and discuss our shared concerns and possible cooperation." Her voice was firm, her eyes sparkling with determination.

Wilfred nodded in agreement. "Indeed, Miss. Moreover, since the rebuilding of our kingdom after the family’s massacre, we haven’t had the time to formally establish relations with the neighboring kingdoms. Despite the risks, this could be an opportunity."

Alicia took a deep breath and said resolutely, "Yes, we must seize this opportunity. Despite the risks, we cannot back down."

Wilfred bowed slightly. "As you wish, Miss. I will make the necessary arrangements immediately."

Alicia returned to the fire, watching the flames dance. Her mind was filled with memories of her family and the land they had protected for generations.

Her thoughts returned to Leon. His name echoed in her mind. Alicia felt a wave of complex emotions wash over her. She remembered the childhood days they spent together, when Leon was her closest friend, her confidant. Yet it was this very person who had betrayed her in the most intimate way, plunging a dagger into her chest when she trusted him the most. The memory caused a sharp pain in her heart.

"Has he really changed?" Alicia asked herself. It was hard to believe that the man who once betrayed her out of jealousy and ambition could now appear as a protector. She couldn’t discern Leon’s true intentions, but she knew that, regardless, she had to face him.

As daylight faded into night, the shadows in the vast hall of the castle grew longer. Alicia’s resolve grew stronger. She turned to Wilfred and said, "Prepare for departure. We will attend the celebration in Seren."

Wilfred nodded and left the room. Alicia watched his retreating figure, feeling a sense of comfort. No matter how dangerous the future might be, she knew she was not alone. She had Wilfred’s support, as well as her loyal servants and soldiers.

With renewed determination, Alicia began to plan her journey to Seren. She would uncover the truth and protect her people, no matter the cost. Aisha depended on her, and she would not shirk her duties.