The fact that Raven was brought up as a slave, but he could read and write was outright suspicious. He tried so hard to hide his past by presenting himself as a nobleman ever since he was young to avoid any unnecessary questions and envy, but it seemed like the rumors had already spread the moment he was caught reading a book on the first day.

I didn't expect the emperor would agree with the idea as easily as he did.

Raven noticed I didn't answer his question, prompting him to sigh audibly as he put his hands up in surrender, "You don't have to hide anything from me. There's nothing to be worried about. I just want to give you a short break because you look so tired. And His Majesty Lavis brought up the idea himself, so don't even think of turning it down."

I didn't expect that at all.

Lavis?

Well, Lavis wasn't the type to spill information regarding the emperor's doll anyway. If he was the one who suggested it, I guess going out for a walk would not be a problem.

After contemplating for a while, I turned to Raven and nodded.

***

After several days of endless preparations, the long-awaited day of the prayer festival finally arrived.

With Lina's help, I was donned in a green dress that looked and felt luxurious, topped with a simple beige cloak draped over my shoulders. Lina had me put on a simple pair of shoes that had low heels and it was fairly easy to walk on, and it did not make any clicking noises onto the pavement.

Thinking of going out for a stroll was making me anxious. But to be honest, I'm also excited since it would be my first leisurely stroll after a long time. Being cooped up inside the premises with nowhere to go for months had me really frustrated.

A couple of knocks on the door got our attention. Lina swiftly ran towards it and pulled it open, bowing as she said brightly, "Iona, the High Priest is here!"

It was still early in the morning. I was planning on dropping by to see Lavis later since the prayer festival won't start until noon, but he's here picking me up earlier than I expected. It was only a few hours ago when Lina and I were fussing around the whole night and I could honestly say it was worthwhile.

And of course, the emperor didn't come to visit yesterday. I heard he was too preoccupied with work the whole night.

Why isn't he coming? Scratch that, I actually prefer being on my own with Lina right beside me. It's much better for me anyway.

I glanced at the empty bed, letting out a soft sigh before heading towards the door. I beckoned Lina to let him in as I courteously bowed in greeting, "Hello, High Priest."

"Hello, good morning to you." Lavis had a soft smile on his bright face. For a brief moment, I was utterly mesmerized by his beauty that was different from the emperor's. His blonde hair was neatly tied to the side and the way he presented himself spoke of elegance and sophistication.

The beauty he possessed was not surprising; it was only expected since he's brothers with the emperor who was just as attractive.

He was not wearing his usual priestly robes, opting for a green casual attire. I heard the temple was exceptionally busy because of the lack of workers, and it seemed like Lavis wouldn't also be participating in today's ceremony with the excuse of accompanying me instead and somehow, I actually felt touched by his consideration.

Then, his efforts of treating me suddenly came to mind. I bowed my head to show him my gratitude, "Thank you so much for your help. I heard the High Priest was the one who had healed me."

His smile widened at my words, "You're welcome. I should've come earlier that day to stop His Majesty. I'm sorry you had to go through such an uncomfortable experience. Are you still feeling any discomfort?"

I nodded, "Isn't the High Priest's divine power one of the most powerful in the Empire? I was blessed enough to be healed by such an impressive being, so I could honestly say that I am fine now. The doctor also said there's nothing to worry about anymore."

"How nice of you to say that. Such a wonderful compliment from a beautiful lady. I guess I am blessed as well." Lavis replied.

I tried to recall the etiquettes from the novels I've read previously, but I came up with none. I cleared my throat silently, looking at my hands to see if it was in an awkward position because I badly wanted to treat him as politely as he did me.

And besides, this mini break wouldn't be possible if it weren't for him, and I am somehow growing fond of him because of his consideration. Right now, I could say he was one of the best characters in the novel for me.

Lina said her goodbyes and said she needed to go clean up the bedroom instead of frolicking around. I know she was still blaming herself for what happened that day and she was trying to make up for it by working nonstop. I made a mental note of talking to her about it soon.

Just before I left the bedroom, I pulled the hood of my beige cloak over my head and flashed Lavis a smile, "I hope you have a good day today."