[A/N: Reynold, as Duke's eldest son, has the title marquis.]
...
The mist around Reynold had finally dissipated, leaving the forest in an eerie stillness.
He stood before Princess Ling Yan, her figure both graceful and commanding. The white veil she wore added a layer of mystery.
Beside her stood the masked man, his posture rigid and alert, his eyes warily staring at Reynold.
Reynold's mind had cleared enough to regain his composure, though the glimpses of the illusion still lingered.
"Where are your forces, princess?" Reynold asked, breaking the silence.
Ling Yan's veil fluttered lightly as she answered. "They were separated when we entered this world."
She continued, her voice soft. "And as we wandered through the forest, we found you standing frozen in place... and then, without warning, you charged at us."
