Chapter 4: Unforeseen Bonds

As Daniel walked toward the lodge to fetch some food, his mind raced with thoughts about the recent incidents. He contemplated whether he should tell Helen about Baron's involvement in their predicament. However, he knew that without concrete proof, his claims would hold no weight. His mission now encompassed both protecting Helen and exposing Baron's nefarious schemes.

When he returned with food in hand, Helen greeted him with surprise at his speed.

**Helen:** Wow, you're really quick with the food.

**Daniel:** Yep, and here are yours, my queen.

**Helen:** No need to call me that (your highness). We're practically husband and wife for now, so call me Helen.

**Daniel:** As you wish, your... I mean, Helen.

Helen laughed, and Daniel was taken aback by her genuine smile. In the novel, she rarely smiled, and seeing her so carefree surprised him. Afterward, they both enjoyed their meal, savoring the simple pleasure of shared food.

The next morning, they set off for Edinburgh using local transportation from the village. During the journey, they conversed with each other and the fellow travelers.

**Random Guy:** Wow, you two really look like a great couple.

Helen blushed, flustered by the comment.

**Helen:** Well, thank you for that.

**Random Girl:** Yeah, you both are really great together. I wish I had a husband like you.

**Random Guy:** (Playfully) Hey, am I not good enough for you?

**Random Girl:** (Playfully) Don't worry, darling. I only belong to you.

Helen, feeling a bit possessive, grabbed Daniel's hand and replied with a smile.

**Helen:** Well, I'm very lucky to have a husband like him. He's really something.

Daniel was left blushing slightly, but he couldn't deny that he enjoyed the charade. Helen's ability to engage with others was striking, perhaps because she was free from her royal responsibilities for the time being.

Upon their arrival in Edinburgh, they made their way to the castle, where Andere anxiously awaited Helen's return.

**Andere:** Sister, thank God you are safe.

**Helen:** Well, my young brother, as you can see, I'm perfectly fine thanks to the bodyguard you appointed for me.

**Andere:** Thank you, Daniel, for saving my sister.

**Daniel:** I was doing my job, your highness. Please excuse me; her highness needs to rest for now.

**Helen:** (Interrupting) Daniel, as I told you, don't call me "your highness." Call me Helen.

Andere was genuinely shocked by his sister's newfound kindness.

**Daniel:** As you say, Helen.

With that, Daniel left the scene, leaving Andere and Helen to have a sibling conversation.

**Andere:** Wow, sister, I can't believe you were so kind to him. What did he do to you?

**Helen:** (Blushing) I don't know, but while traveling with him, I felt really good, and he's a genuinely nice person.

Andere couldn't help but be surprised by the change in his sister's demeanor and thoughts.

**Andere (thinking):** Damn, Daniel, you're really something. It looks like you've made my sister fall for you. I'd be more than happy if you became my sister's future husband.

After their conversation, they departed from the castle, and Daniel found himself back on the training grounds, practicing diligently with his blades.

**Daniel (thinking):** I don't think Baron, my brother, will remain quiet after this. He's bound to come up with more plans, and I have to protect Helen at any cost. Don't worry, Baron; I'll expose you sooner or later, in front of everyone.

Meanwhile, in another part of the kingdom, Baron and his confidant, Rudius, were plotting their next move.

**Baron:** Damn it, that brother of mine! How did he become this strong in such a short time?

**Rudius:** Don't worry, Baron. We'll deal with Andere first, even though he's a monster. I'll make sure your brother won't interfere.

Baron grinned villainously, setting the stage for the next phase of their nefarious plan.