Chapter 110: Reunion with Elise

After a series of challenges, Emma and Alia successfully evaded the patrolling soldiers around the castle and silently slipped out. Under the night sky, the quiet country road slowly came into view under the glow of their car's headlights. Although the darkness seemed to offer them some cover, both of them knew that this night would be anything but ordinary. Emma drove an old yet steady vehicle, speeding along the countryside road. The car's stable hum and the occasional sounds of insects mixed to form a serene nighttime scene.

Soon after, they arrived at Elise's hometown. The car stopped by a quaint little bridge, where the moonlight bathed the river, creating a mirror-like surface that reflected the shadows of trees and a nearby cottage. This place had none of the bustle of the city or the excessive luxury of urban life. Instead, it exuded an ancient, tranquil feel. The air was filled with the earthy scent of soil and the fresh, green fragrance typical of the countryside. The houses were built against the mountainside, with low rooftops and wooden frames that offered a sense of warmth and intimacy.

The stream gently flowed beneath the small bridge, and the occasional croak of a frog broke the night's silence. Though the village was not wealthy, it was full of natural simplicity and the quiet charm of rural life. The brightly lit village stood in stark contrast to any image of poverty. From the distant houses, warm light could be seen filtering through the windows, as if this place was forever surrounded by warmth and hope.

Emma stopped the car, opened the door, and led Alia out. Together, they walked deeper into the village. As they followed the winding path, faint barks of dogs and the hushed voices of people could be heard in the distance, perhaps villagers gathering after a day's work, chatting casually.

Emma turned to Alia, a hint of curiosity in her voice. "I always thought your little maid was an orphan. I didn't know she had family."

Alia paused for a moment, then softly replied, "She's not an orphan. She was chosen to serve me when she was little. You could say she's like a sister to me. She does have family, and this is her hometown. It's not rich, but it's enough to get by."

Her gaze softened as she recalled the stories Elise had shared with her about her past. Alia let out a quiet sigh. "Elise was always a sensible and obedient girl. She could have grown up like any other girl, carefree and happy. But then, some changes happened at home, and she had to start working early. That's when my mother, Celesta, took notice of her and made her my maid. At that time, her family wasn't doing well, and she used the money she earned to help them. Slowly, things got better at home. She's always been my most reliable companion, a pitiful yet respectable girl."

Upon hearing Alia's description, Emma's expression softened. She nodded slightly. "It seems she's not just your maid but also your friend, even family."

Alia didn't reply, her gaze distant as she continued to walk, as if lost in thought. She knew that Elise was one of the most important people in her life. Right now, all she hoped for was to find her safely and uncover the mystery behind everything.

The two of them arrived at Elise's parents' house. Under the night sky, it seemed especially quiet, as though time had frozen in the stillness. The area was surrounded by low wooden houses, with small flower gardens covered in grass and trees. There was a natural, warm aura to the place. Moonlight reflected off the stone pathway, casting a faint silver glow. Alia's heart raced, and her hands trembled slightly as she thought about Elise's safety. She couldn't help but knock gently on the door.

"Knock knock knock—"

After a long silence, no response came from inside. The air felt thick with unease. Alia furrowed her brow, and her knocking grew more frantic. Each passing second seemed to stretch longer, her anxiety building. As she waited, she kept thinking, "What happened to Elise? Why hasn't she answered my calls?"

Emma stood silently beside her, her expression growing more serious. Her eyes scanned the surroundings, always alert to any signs of danger.

Just when Alia's anxiety was about to overwhelm her, a soft sound of something dropping broke the silence. Instinctively, both Alia and Emma turned to see a figure emerging from the dim interior of the house. As the moonlight illuminated her, Alia's heart skipped a beat—there stood Elise.

Elise froze for a moment, her gaze wary as she saw the unfamiliar faces. She took a step back, her expression tense. "Who… who are you?"

Seeing Elise safe and sound, Alia almost breathed a sigh of relief. All her worries instantly dissipated, but at the same time, strong emotions surged within her. Without thinking about hiding her true identity, she rushed forward and enveloped Elise in a tight hug.

"I'm so glad you're okay. I've been so worried about you," Alia's voice trembled slightly, and she could feel Elise's warmth. In that instant, all her anxiety melted away into silent comfort.

Elise, initially startled by the unexpected embrace, stiffened. She hadn't expected a stranger to suddenly hug her. But as she heard that familiar voice and felt the familiar scent, all her doubts vanished. She stood there stunned for a moment, then gently pushed Alia away, her eyes wide with shock and emotion.

"Livia…" Elise's eyes filled with tears, and they slipped down her cheeks. She hadn't expected her beloved Alia to come looking for her, even risking everything to reach her. A wave of warmth flooded her heart, and the deep gratitude almost overwhelmed her.

Emma stood quietly to the side, her expression calm but with a hint of a satisfied smile. Seeing Alia and Elise reunited, she knew that despite the dangers of the night, this moment of reunion proved their resolve and the deep bond between them.