BV

The rhythmic thumping of the carriage wheels was a constant companion, echoing the unsettling beat of Chloe Sereknight's new reality. Just moments ago, she had been the esteemed fiancée of Prince Leddorio, the first prince of the Coloflare Kingdom. Now, she was nothing more than a banished woman, disowned and condemned. Yet, her gaze, as she watched the passing scenery, held a serene detachment that belied the recent tumult. It was a stark contrast to the 'impudent and disgraceful' attitude she had displayed during her condemnation at the Sacred Church, making one wonder if that entire spectacle had been a meticulously crafted farce.

Her exclusive butler, Sheen Purpleton, ever attentive, broke the silence with a soft, anxious inquiry. "You must be tired, milady."

Chloe offered him a side glance, her lips curving into a self-deprecating smile that puzzled him. "I guess so. Too many things happened today... if only I knew that things would end up like this... I would've prepared more for it. But well, since you're with me, I guess all is good. But Shin, are you really okay with this? Having to escort someone like me?"

Shin's response was immediate and resolute. "What is milady even asking? I will be wherever milady resides in."

Chloe's smile flickered, a hint of melancholy in her eyes. "That's fine and all, but no matter what you say now, you cannot possibly follow me up to the convent, do you?" From this day forward, Chloe's engagement was annulled. Her life, now stripped of her ducal title, was destined for the quiet confines of a convent. The carriage, relentlessly shaking, was carrying her towards that very fate.