Molly trailed Jayce through the snow, heading towards what she presumed was Colton’s camp. It was remarkable how he navigated with such precision, while she would meander for days before locating anything in proximity to her destination.
They traversed in utter silence, with only the wind whistling through the trees, while no other sound could be detected for miles. A small frozen lake ahead made Molly acutely aware of their location.
“We must remain silent,” Jayce murmured as she prepared to speak about the lake. “I am uncertain whether the cabins have been seized by the other rogues or if Colton is present. Remain low.” He whispered.
Jayce firmed his hold on her hand and crouched as he guided her along the trail leading to the cabins. She attempted to regulate her breathing, yet it only intensified her urge to choke as they continued walking. They halted beside a substantial tree, and she endeavoured to listen above the intensifying winds, yet she discerned nothing.
It seemed as though there was no soul for miles. They approached one of the structures, maintaining proximity to the walls as they cautiously glanced around the corner. The spectacle astonished her. Everything was looted and overturned, presenting an appearance of complete abandonment. Jayce ventured deeper into the camp to examine the wreckage, but it was evident that no threat remained.
“They have all departed,” Molly remarked as she trailed behind him. Jayce inspected each cabin, but found no signs of life within.
“They likely evacuated upon learning that the rogues were approaching.”
“Or the rogues had arrived and compelled them to leave,” Molly remarked sorrowfully. Upon arriving at her cabin, she entered to change into clean, warmer attire, and Jayce followed suit. She spent valuable seconds cleansing the dirt from her body and assembling a bag of essentials before rejoining Jayce outside. The sight astonished her; he had shaved the unruly beard he had cultivated. He appeared rejuvenated in a dark jumper and tailored jacket. For the first time since his arrival, Jayce appeared more akin to a prince.
Molly approached him and glided her fingers over his smooth skin. He clasped her hand and scrutinised the knife on her belt that Colton had bestowed upon her. “Several horses remain in the stables.”
“We require only one.” Molly retreated and placed her hands in her pockets. “We are returning to Life Pharmacy, correct?”
“I assume you are unaware of any alternative locations to search?” Jayce exhaled in exasperation and struck the snow with his foot. “We ought to have departed when I suggested. None of this would have transpired had we done so.”
“Do you believe this is my responsibility? I am not the individual who convened nightly with Colton to deliberate on matters of kingdom politics.”
“Certainly not. You are indifferent to the kingdom and its political affairs.”
“I am concerned with what is just.”
“You are solely concerned with your own liberty,” Jayce retorted. Molly folded her arms across her chest as a surge of anger welled in her throat.
“At least I am not attempting to usurp my own brother by collaborating with recognised adversaries. I am uncertain of your objectives in recruiting Colton, but neither faction would be amenable to cooperation.”
“I am endeavouring to establish peace!” Jayce growled. Molly recoiled at the noise. “If I can secure the allegiance of the rogues, the crown will be mine. Not even the charismatic crown prince could persuade the rogues to reconcile with the kingdom, but I can.”
“Do you genuinely believe that achieving peace between the rogues and your kingdom would secure you the crown?”
“My father has endeavoured to reclaim the north since prior to my birth. No one from the kingdom has ventured through this region due to the malevolent tales and inhabitants; however, I could be the one to restore peace.” Jayce moderated his tone as it began to elevate. “Ashton is disinterested in approaching the north due to its reputation. I would not exhibit such weakness. The kingdom requires a formidable leader, not a charming imbecile,” he retorted.
Molly was unaware of Jayce’s resolute ambition for the crown; he had meticulously planned everything in his mind. She was already aware that he did not come here for the toxic plant, but rather for his own advantage. She was unaware of his significant advantage in the game.
“I had anticipated that you had transcended your affections for my foolish brother-”
“I harbour no feelings for him!” Molly exclaimed with anger. “How could you believe I have affections for him while being with you as I have?”
“You would not be the first maid to clandestinely share a bed with multiple princes.”
His words were frigid; she did not anticipate their profound impact. Molly averted her gaze and proceeded directly to the stables without uttering another word. She did not require him; she never required him, regardless of what her misguided mind attempted to convince her of.
Her vision was obscured by tears, which she swiftly wiped away. She would prefer to perish rather than allow him to witness her tears. Upon opening the stable doors, she encountered an elderly acquaintance beside one of the horses. Sir Antony faced her with a smile.
“I am pleased that you arrived.”
“Sir Antony.” Molly inclined her head, uncertain of how to proceed. The elderly man merely chuckled, causing her to feel warmth ascend her neck. She had not yet relinquished her former habits.
“There is no necessity for that, my child. It appears I have been uninformed regarding certain issues among rogues. Upon awakening this morning, I found the house and village deserted.” Sir Antony caressed one of the horses, a melancholic expression manifesting on his face.
“Have they not informed you of anything?” Molly enquired incredulously. “You must have observed the tension-”
“I was informed it was being addressed appropriately; however, I now realise that was false.” He looked past her shoulder. She could sense Jayce’s presence without needing to turn around. Sir Antony refrained from smiling, yet he also did not scowl. “You resemble her closely.”
His gentle tone surprised her somewhat. Molly turned to observe Jayce tightening his jaw. They all understood he was referring to Jayce’s mother, who previously resided in this very camp. “This must explain my father’s animosity towards me.”
Molly cleared her throat and advanced towards Sir Antony. “Can you assist us? They may be more amenable to reason if you intervene, as they hold you in high regard.”
