The morning sun filtered through the curtains of the guest room, warm and soft. Oliver had barely slept, mind turning over Isolde's words again and again.
Finally, he sat up, exhaled, and said quietly:
"…I'll do it."
Isolde, already braiding her hair at the vanity, glanced over with a knowing smirk.
"So you've decided?"
"Yeah," Oliver nodded. "I'll join the expedition."
She didn't react dramatically—just a small, satisfied smile.
"And your condition?"
"It still stands." He stretched his neck. "No one can know it's me. Not the other adventurers, not the soldiers, and definitely not the otherworlders."
Isolde hummed. "Then tell her. Before breakfast."
*****
The group was escorted to a small sitting room where Princess Elisha waited, sipping tea with Ronald standing behind her.
Elisha brightened immediately.
"You're early! I thought you all were exhausted last night."
Oliver stepped forward.
"Princess… I've decided. I will participate in the Velanthris expedition."
