The Devil's Betrothed novel Chapter 410

Chapter 410: Sneaking In

At Oriana’s guest mansion, Erich had arrived to check on Philip, and Oriana was already by her grandfather’s side. After Erich had completed his work and emerged from the guest room along with Oriana, she broached a request.

"Master, I need a small favor from you," she began.

"What is it?" Erich inquired.

"Um, would it be acceptable for someone to occupy a guest room in your mansion?" she asked, her words laced with a hint of hesitancy.

"Who might I be expecting as my guest?"

"Someone I’ve mentioned to you before," Oriana replied.

"Am I to anticipate a thousand-year-old elf?" Erich inquired with a knowing smile.

She responded with an awkward smile. "I can’t allow anyone to see him here, and your place appears to be a safer option, as it’s less likely to draw attention."

"Do as you please. Not like that mansion belongs to me," the man said as it didn’t matter to him at all.

"One more thing..."

Before she could continue, Commander Conor arrived at the scene. He offered a polite nod to both of them and inquired of Erich, "Any improvement in Lord Verner’s condition?"

Erich shook his head, his expression somber. "We must continue to wait."

Erich then turned his attention to Oriana. "What were we discussing?"

"That I will be there to assist you in preparing medicines for His Majesty and resume my role as your apprentice," Oriana replied, hoping her master would go along with what she said.

"Your Highness, it might not be appropriate, considering your status as a Crown Princess," Conor interjected.

"Commander Loyset, His Majesty has already granted his approval," Oriana clarified. "I requested his permission on the first day I met him at the palace, seeking the freedom to go anywhere and continue my apprenticeship with Master Erich."

Conor found himself without a retort, as the King had indeed sanctioned Oriana’s request.

"Furthermore, Commander, I would appreciate it if you and others refrain from accompanying me there. I wish to be seen as only an apprentice, not a Crown Princess, when working with my master," Oriana stated firmly.

"I cannot approve of that," Commander Conor replied, "But I can assure you that I and my knights will not interfere with your work. They will be stationed outside."

Before Oriana could respond, Erich interjected, "Commander, I understand your concerns, but I am not accustomed to having people around me, as it disrupts my work. I become irritable with unwanted company. I can only permit two of your knights to stand guard at the mansion’s front door. If you still find it difficult to decide, I can inquire on your behalf with His Majesty."

"Commander, no harm will come to me. Please don’t worry too much," Oriana added.

Conor reluctantly acquiesced, his concerns somewhat assuaged. As Erich departed, Oriana smiled lightly at her master’s understanding and trust in her.

Later that night, Oriana was prepared to leave her room, awaiting Yorian’s arrival. As expected, the elf appeared after a brief sojourn outside.

"Have you been waiting for me?" he asked, elegantly entering through the window.

Without giving him a chance to respond, Oriana exited her chamber.

"That witch dares to order a thousand-year-old elf. Has she forgotten who the elder is here?" Yorian mused before disappearing from his spot.

Oriana arrived at Erich’s guest mansion in her carriage, personally escorted by Commander Loyset, who stationed his two knights outside the mansion gate. Upon entering the drawing room, Yorian appeared as well. Oriana introduced Erich and Yorian, marking the first time Erich had laid eyes on the elf. He concealed his astonishment, maintaining his usual composed demeanor.

"I might be a bit of trouble for a while," Yorian stated.

"This girl has already given me enough trouble; I don’t mind a little more," Erich replied calmly. "Feel free to use any room except mine."

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Under the shroud of the night’s darkness, when all was hushed and still, two figures emerged from the rear of Erich’s guest mansion. Oriana, now clad in her usual men’s attire, had discarded her heavy princess garments and was leading the way for Yorian.

"Stay behind me," Oriana whispered as they sought refuge behind a tree, her eyes keenly tracking the patrolling guards.

Despite the presence of guards on patrol, this place differed from the eerily quiet setting of the full moon night. Oriana remained unperturbed, an adept at infiltrating any location.

"I suggest that... Hmm," Yorian began to speak, but Oriana swiftly placed her palm over his mouth and admonished him in a hushed tone, "Do not speak."

Yorian contemplated rolling his eyes at her assertive demeanor, but he acquiesced to her wishes.

’If this is what she desires, let it be,’ he thought.