Lady Beauty

I bit my lip, struggling to hold back my thoughts. Closing my eyes tightly, I realized that this was one of the reasons why I needed to distance myself from palace politics, especially if returning home wasn't an option anymore.

As I wandered through the bustling streets of the festive town, I couldn't help but marvel at the stark contrast between its vibrant energy and the desolate poverty I had witnessed in the forest. Everywhere I looked, there was a sense of abundance and prosperity.

The air was filled with the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked bread and other delectable treats, tempting me with their savory scents. People moved about with a sense of purpose, their faces alight with joy and contentment.

Among the throngs of bustling Faes, I saw artisans at work, crafting intricate designs and beautiful creations. Merchants proudly displayed their wares, offering everything from colorful fabrics to exquisite jewelry.

It was a world away from the hardship and struggle I had encountered in the forest, and yet, it was all part of the same realm.

As Lily and I ventured through the bustling town, she wasted no time in introducing me to the culinary delights it had to offer. We stopped by a quaint bakery where she insisted I try their renowned Sourdough Scrolls and Pumpernickel. With each bite, I was transported to a realm of exquisite flavors that tantalized my taste buds.

From there, we explored a myriad of stores, each offering its own array of treasures. We perused racks of intricately woven fabrics, shelves lined with leather-bound books, and displays showcasing finely crafted shoes and accessories.

It was a welcome break from the turmoil and uncertainty that had plagued me since my arrival in this world. And as we wandered through the bustling streets, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience this vibrant and lively town.

Later, as we passed by a bank, a thought occurred to me. Remembering the stash of diamonds and gold Ludwig had given me, I decided to pawn them, feeling a twinge of guilt at first for parting with treasures that weren't mine to begin with. But then I recalled Ludwig's words, reassuring me that it was acceptable to do as I pleased with the gifts he had bestowed upon me. With that in mind, I made my way into the bank, ready to exchange the precious gems and gold for whatever value they might fetch.

As I received the payment in the form of Galleons, I wasted no time in putting it to use. With the newfound wealth, I purchased sacks upon sacks of bread from the bakery, much to Lily's amusement.

As we loaded the bread onto the large carriage, Lily couldn't help but tease me about my apparent appetite. However, she soon realized that there was more to my plan than simply indulging in a feast.

With the carriage loaded and ready, I instructed the knights to take us to the foot of Helios Mountain. Initially hesitant to deviate from their orders, they eventually relented after my persistent insistence, despite Ludwig's firm instructions to stick to the original route.

Throughout the journey, Lily continued to offer her colorful commentary, her frustration evident in her lively chatter. But despite her protests, I remained resolute in my decision, determined to see my plan through to fruition. 

As we entered the expansive forest with sparse, dry trees and almost lifeless leaves, a palpable silence enveloped the surroundings. Despite the eerie atmosphere, I cautiously stepped out of the carriage, but Lily's urgent call drew my attention.

Pressing forward, I soon spotted what I had been searching for. Amidst the desolate forest, the same group of children we had encountered on our previous journey stood before us, their faces still bearing the marks of hunger and hardship. It seemed that despite Ludwig's instructions, little had changed for them.

Recognizing me, the children approached with bright, innocent smiles, their eyes reflecting a glimmer of hope. Without hesitation, I hurried back to the carriage, enlisting Lily's help in distributing the sacks of bread to the eager youngsters. Even the knights joined in the effort, lending a hand to ensure that each child received their share of sustenance.

Moved by the children's joy and gratitude, tears welled up in my eyes as I watched them eat hungrily. Their innocent smiles warmed my heart, and I couldn't help but be touched by their resilience in the face of adversity. 

Curious about their living conditions, I approached one of the girls nearby and asked softly, "Where do you live?"

"In the forest, Lady Beauty," she replied, her voice tinged with shyness. Despite her frail appearance, her skin was radiant, and her dark hair gleamed in the sunlight filtering through the trees.

"In which part of the forest?" I inquired further, scanning the surroundings for any signs of shelter or habitation.

"At the trees, Lady Beauty," she answered between bites of bread, crumbs clinging to her lips. "And sometimes, when it doesn't rain, we sleep at Whispering Woods." 

I couldn't help but feel a deep sense of compassion for these children who had made their home amidst the harsh wilderness.

Overwhelmed by a flood of emotions, I found myself transported back to a time of profound loss and solitude, recalling the days of my childhood when I had been alone and abandoned. The pain of those memories echoed in my heart as I realized the parallel between my own past and the plight of these children.

"Really?" I managed to choke out, my voice trembling with emotion. Unable to hold back the tears any longer, I let them flow freely down my cheeks, feeling the weight of my sorrow and empathy for these innocent souls.