The Dawn of Malice
Chapter 28

Farewell

In the early morning light, Lucian stood before the imposing figure of Duchess Caroline and the graceful Lady Elaine of Caernarfon. He took a deep breath, his heart pounding with nerves but determined to speak his mind. He had made his decision, and it was time to seek Caerus once more. He took a deep breath, feeling a mixture of nervousness and determination as he spoke.

“My lady,” Lucian began, addressing Duchess Caroline, “I am grateful for the sanctuary you provided for me. The Liliosan refugees owe a great debt to you and Lady Elaine.”

Duchess Caroline nodded with a gentle smile – her eyes filled with understanding. “You are always welcome here, Lucian. Your bravery and sacrifices have not gone unnoticed. We are honored to have had you among us.”

“Thank you, Your Grace, Lady Elaine,” Lucian said with gratitude. “You have been so kind to me and the refugees of Liliosa. I will forever be indebted to you for your generosity and hospitality.” Elaine nodded kindly.

Elaine’s eyes glistened with admiration. “Lucian, you have been a true hero to us. Your determination and resilience have been an inspiration. We will miss you dearly, but I understand your desire to replace Caerus. If only I could also…” Lucian could see that she was struggling to continue.

“I know, Lady Elaine.” Lucian spoke gently, “But you have responsibilities now that cannot be left alone and people who cannot be abandoned. Your grandfather would have been proud of you.”

Elaine had tears in her eyes as she curtsied, and Lucian bowed low feeling a surge of emotion in his chest as he bid farewell to both Ladies of Caernarfon. Lucian then stepped out of the estate’s grand door, and to his surprise, he was met by Marseille and Edith. Marseille grabbed his shoulder firmly, expressing his gratitude for everything Lucian had done.

“Thank you, Lucian. You have brought hope to my daughter and saved lives. Your bravery will be remembered,” Marseille said sincerely.

Edith, on the other hand, grabbed onto Lucian’s coat. “You’re my teacher! You can’t go! I don’t want you to leave,” Edith sobbed, her voice quivering. “Who will teach me now?”

Lucian crouched down to be at her eye level, gently wiping away her tears. “Fear not, my dear Edith. I may be leaving, but you will always carry the lessons we’ve learned together in your heart. You’ve learned so much, and I have no doubt you will continue to grow into a brilliant and strong young lady. You are a bright and capable student, and I do not doubt that you’ll continue to learn and grow. Elaine has founded a school in the hamlet and there will undoubtedly be good teachers there.”

He then turned to Marseille, extending a hand in gratitude. “I cannot thank you enough, Marseille, for your kindness and the trust you’ve placed in me. Without your constant supervision over my health during our journey, I would have long since passed.”

Marseille clasped Lucian’s hand warmly. “A small price to pay for the man who saved our people. It was our honor to have you here, Lucian. You’re welcome back anytime.”

With bittersweet farewells, Lucian finally stepped outside the grand door of the estate. He took a moment to breathe in the fresh winter air, feeling a mixture of sadness and hope in his heart. He had to replace Caerus, to fulfill his promise, and to uncover the truth about his past.

As he began to walk away, he was surprised to see Edith chasing after him. The girl held a small parcel in her hand, her eyes red from crying.

“I made this for you,” Edith said, offering the package to him. “It’s a reminder of Liliosa and the time we spent together.”

Lucian smiled, touched by the gesture. He opened the parcel to replace a handmade necklace, adorned with a delicate Liliosan flower carved from wood. It was a beautiful token of their time together, and he thanked Edith with a heartfelt embrace.

With one last wave to the estate, Lucian mounted the horse that the Liliosan refugees had gifted him. He turned to Marseille, giving him a final nod of appreciation, before urging the horse forward and away from Caernarfon.

The winter air nipped at his cheeks as he rode away from the grand estate. With each stride of the horse, his heart filled with determination to replace Caerus, to reunite with his student, and to share the news of the refugee’s new home.

As he rode through the snow-covered landscapes, he felt a crinkle in his saddle. Reaching down, he found a letter tucked within, addressed to Caerus. Lucian couldn’t help but smile. Elaine had thoughtfully given him a letter to deliver, a precious connection between lovers separated by fate and circumstances.