Chapter 226

Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation

When Monica came back with a delighted expression on her face and showed him a butterfly perched on her finger, a creature as common as could be in the jungle, as if presenting him with a precious treasure, Ji Chen couldn’t resist asking, “Monica, have you never seen a place like this before?”

Monica gently shook her head. With a wave of her hand, she released the butterfly and placed her hands behind her, looking around with a touch of melancholy. “I grew up within the palace, where my studies were filled with etiquette and various skills. My father protected me well, and I seldom ventured beyond the palace walls.

The only view I could see every day was the garden outside my window and the high walls that I couldn’t climb.

I always stood on my tiptoes by the top-floor window, yearning to catch a glimpse of the world outside.

As I grew older and had the chance to venture out, there were guards and attendants surrounding me like mountains, except when 1 slept or picked flowers.

Until now…” At this point, the sadness on Monica’s face suddenly vanished, replaced by a mischievous twinkle in her eye. “I suppose I can finally relax a little.”

Ji Chen looked at the girl who had undergone such a sudden change in demeanor, feeling slightly taken aback before breaking into a smile.

“Then let’s cherish this precious time that has come.”

Monica playfully pointed toward the deeper parts of the island, her eyes brimming with anticipation.

“Lord Ji Chen, I’d like to continue further into the island. Oh, by the way, 1 saw a towering mountain peak with a magnificent waterfall near your castle!” “That place? According to the legends here, a dragon once lived on that mountain peak…”

Over the next two days, Ji Chen accompanied the Grand Duke’s daughter on a tour of the island, exploring its various highlights. Initially, he had the idea of simply passing the time, but as they interacted, he found himself increasingly influenced by Monica’s lively and cheerful demeanor. Their interactions gradually changed his perspective, and he grew more attuned to her presence, gaining a deeper understanding of her in the process.

The seemingly strong and mature young woman had, during her unexpected stay on the New Moon Islands, gradually shed her inhibitions and left her cheerful laughter echoing in various places.

But as the saying goes, all good things must come to an end. With the arrival of a piece of news, Monica and her entourage had to prepare for departure.

In the Lord Manor’s grand hall…

“Based on the reports from the patrol units, it seems that the pursuers have abandoned their search for you. They left the stormy sea area yesterday afternoon and headed northwest, so you can leave at any time.”

Upon hearing this, Monica and her companions couldn’t help but smile with relief. Their stay on the New Moon Islands had lasted for approximately five to six days, and factoring in the time required for the return journey, almost half a month had been spent, making their schedule quite tight.

Monica exchanged a glance with the ship’s captain and others before stepping forward.

“Lord Ji Chen, we still don’t know the current situation in the duchy. Every day of delay increases the danger. So, if possible, we’d like to depart this afternoon.”

Ji Chen nodded in understanding. “I completely understand your situation, and I’m more than willing to honor our agreement.

One of the ships is already loading the supplies you’ll need for your journey. It’s estimated that you can set sail this afternoon on schedule.

Additionally, I’ll dispatch another warship and an escort squad to ensure your safe return to the Lienhardt Grand Duchy.”

Monica’s face lit up, and she clasped her hands together. “That’s wonderful! My father must be getting anxious waiting for us.”

The ship’s captain and the chief guard also bowed in gratitude. “We appreciate your assistance. Despite the misunderstandings we had before, the Lienhardt Grand Duchy won’t forget the helping hand you extended when we were in a difficult situation. Under the gaze of the divine, we’ve forged a bridge of friendship.”

“Of course, I hope the friendship between the Crown of the Ocean and the Lienhardt Grand Duchy will endure.”

In the afternoon, at the harbor…

Supplies were smoothly being loaded onto the ship, and the warship was prepared for departure.

The group began to board the ship.

As Monica looked at the sailors and guards who were filled with joy at the prospect of returning to the duchy, she noticed that she didn’t feel as elated as she had imagined for the journey back. Instead, a subtle sense of loss seemed to envelop her.

Was it because she was reluctant to leave this newfound freedom behind?

During her time on the islands, Monica had shed all the constraints that had bound her. She no longer had to worry about every detail of etiquette, nor did she need to be constantly concerned about the opinions of outsiders, fearing that she might tarnish the reputation of the duchy or her father.

Like a canary released from a cage, she fluttered her wings freely through the sky.

These days had been among the happiest in her life so far.

Monica took a deep breath. But this too must come to an end. As a member of the Valencia Family and a potential heir to the grand duchy, she would have to relinquish some of this newfound freedom and embrace her responsibilities.

“What’s wrong? Reluctant to leave?”

Ji Chen’s voice, tinged with a hint of amusement, interrupted the emotions she had been contemplating.

Monica turned around in surprise and saw Ji Chen approaching her, which brought a smile to her face. “Lord Ji Chen, you startled me!”

Even she didn’t realize that she sounded somewhat coquettish as she spoke.

“Haha, uh-oh. If Grand Duke Lienhardt finds out that I scared his precious daughter, won’t I be in trouble?” Ji Chen immediately feigned a fearful expression, jokingly..