The one that lived that night

By the third day after Larissa's engagement ceremony, even the weather took on a peculiar demeanor, carrying particles of sand that everyone presumed had originated from the desert. Such an occurrence happened only once a decade, adding an ominous backdrop to the already tumultuous events surrounding a heartbroken Adela.

"There you are," Arkin coughed, interrupting Adela just as she was about to enter her father's study. His exasperation mirrored her own emotions.

As if afflicted by a collective fever, the behavior of the older generation had surpassed mere suspicion and breached the boundaries of acceptability.

"Is the Baron still missing?" Adela inquired, her worry palpable.

Arkin let out a sigh, weariness evident in his voice.