Chapter 15: Finally the Invitation

Chapter 15: Finally the Invitation



Earlier that day, in the estate of the Claes Family, Duke Claes was being comforted by his wife, Elaine.

"Viktor...I'm sure if we bring the money to the kidnappers, we will have our daughter back," Elaine said, her voice trembling with worry.

Viktor's eyes remained fixed on the letter he had received from the supposed kidnappers. The letter stated that they had his daughter and that if he didn't pay 500,000,000 Elde, he might not see her again.

Elaine continued to hold her husband's hand, trying to provide some semblance of comfort. "We have the means to pay the ransom, Viktor. Let's do whatever it takes to bring her back safely."

As Viktor was about to respond, there was a soft knock on the bedroom door. Their trusted butler, Jenkins, entered, his usually calm demeanor replaced with a barely contained excitement.

"Pardon the interruption, my lord, my lady, but I bring significant news," Jenkins announced. Viktor and Elaine both looked up, their hearts pounding in anticipation. "What is it, Jenkins?" Jenkins took a deep breath, his eyes shining with relief. "Lady Elinalese has been found! She is safe and is currently on her way to the estate. She was rescued by a group of brave individuals and is accompanied by Captain Aelric men!"

Elaine gasped, tears of joy streaming down her face. "Thank the gods! Viktor, she's safe!"

Viktor hugged Elaine tightly, his own tears threatening to spill over. "She's safe, Elaine. Our prayers have been answered."

***

Twenty minutes later, a carriage bearing the crest of the Claes family rolled up the driveway to the estate. Viktor and Elaine stood at the entrance, their hearts pounding with anticipation. The carriage came to a stop, and the door swung open.

Elinalese, looking weary but unharmed, stepped out. Her eyes filled with tears of relief and joy as she saw her parents. Without hesitation, she rushed forward, throwing herself into their

arms.

"Mother! Father!" Elinalese cried, hugging them tightly. "I thought I'd never see you again!"

Elaine clung to her daughter, tears streaming down her face. "Oh, Elinalese! You're safe, you're finally safe!"

Viktor held both his wife and daughter in a strong embrace, his voice choked with emotion. "We're so glad you're home, my dear. We've been so worried."

After a long moment, they pulled back slightly, still holding onto each other. Viktor looked over Elinalese's shoulder and saw Luminova standing nearby with a downcast face.

With deepest thanks,

Duke Viktor Claes and Duchess Elaine Claes]

Vincent looked up from the letter, a smile playing on his lips. "Looks like we're in for a grand evening, gentlemen."

Cedric nodded. "If you are ready, transportation is already prepared outside."

"Oh, thank you for that," Vincent replied. "We will prepare ourselves for the evening. Is there some sort of a dress code that we should be aware of?"

"There was no mention of the need for specific attire. You can dress as you find comfortable."

"Thank you for that because we don't have any formal clothes that we can use," Vincent

chuckled.

"I'm sure that the Duke and the Duchess wouldn't mind the attire of the people who saved their daughter," Cedric assured.

Vincent nodded, appreciating Cedric's understanding. "Alright then, we'll be ready shortly."

Cedric gave a courteous bow. "I'll wait outside to escort you when you are ready." Vincent turned to his team. "Alright, guys, let's get moving. We've got a feast to attend."

As they were preparing for the trip, the system notification popped up. [Congratulations! You have finished the mission: Escort Lady Elinalese Claes and her

subordinates back to the Kingdom of Eldoria safely.]

[Rewards: 5,000 experience points, 75,000 gold coins, and a new feature of the system]

[Gold: 121,800 gold coins.]

[Your level has risen to 6.]

[Experience points: 10800/14,583]

[New feature unlocked! Wheel of Fortune!]