“Maroon! Look out!” she screamed.


    But Maroon didn’t hear. The carriage thundered toward her.


    Without hesitation, Long Yan lunged, knocking Maroon aside just in time. The carriage screeched to a halt, and the driver hurriedly stepped down.


    A young noble emerged from the carriage. As he approached, Long Yan turned to face him—and their eyes met.


    A jolt of recognition struck her. She knew this man, with golden hair, captivating blue eyes, and fair skin.


    “Are you the Lord of Dukedom?” she asked.


    He nodded.


    Tears welled in Long Yan’s eyes. “It’s you…”


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    That young man was none other than her childhood friend.


    After Long Yan was adopted, a grand ball was held for honoring Long Yan’s ascension as Heiress Apparent at the Imperial Estate. She elatedly danced with a boy, and they shared a bittersweet farewell. She asked the Empress if they could continue meeting, and with her approval, their bond grew over the years. Eventually, they fell in love. They admitted their love to each other and vowed to conceal it from their parents.


    The Empress frequently observed her feelings and one day, asked about them during dinner. Blushing, Long Yan admitted it, but the Emperor was furious. “You are of the Imperial family! I have already chosen a match for you,” he declared. Heartbroken, Long Yan cried through the night, and they stopped meeting. Her destined betrothed was none other than Herbio.


    Now, after six years, they reunited, running into each other’s arms. “I missed you, Vekem.”


    “I missed you too, Long Yan.”


    The crowd cheered, calling her their future Duchess. Vekem took Long Yan and Maroon to the Duke, who, after a long sigh, granted his blessing. Overjoyed, the couple embraced while Maroon scoffed, “Lovebirds everywhere.”


    Long Yan requested extra protection, but before she could explain, a breathless messenger arrived. “Your Grace, the North-West Grand Empire has conquered the South-East Empire! The Emperor and Empress have been killed. The Grand Emperor declared the escaped Princess will bring destruction if not captured.”


    Long Yan froze, “They’ve begun searching for me.”