55

"Your Highness, your clothes are ready," the maids announced after a short knock on the door. Dastan, standing before the window, wore a deep frown. Despite the excitement surrounding the day's hunt, his mood was far from jubilant. Noori's absence weighed heavily on his mind, as did the absence of the duke. Carriages began to roll into the palace grounds for the hunt.

"The guests will gather in the main hall. Your presence would be greatly appreciated," the maid added, prompting Dastan to nod in acknowledgment.

"Where is the princess? I haven't seen her around since this morning," Dastan inquired, his gaze shifting to the maid.

"Her Highness went for a walk towards the mountain today," the maid responded softly.

"Did she go out alone?" Dastan's posture shifted, his concern evident.

"No, the duke escorted her to the mountain. The flowers are fully bloomed this time of the season, so he took her to enjoy the scenery," the maid explained.