Chapter 248 - Preparations Before the Escape (1) (1/2)

After the annunciation ceremony, I have gone back to my private quarters to prepare for the masquerade ball. But before everything else I have to call on William and Jack to run through on our escape plan for the final time.

”Martha, can you please call sir knight and my male servant.” I ordered. ”I want to give them some instructions before the masquerade ball starts.”

”Yes your highness.” Martha politely bowed and exited my room.

After a while Martha came back with William and Jack.

”Your highness, they are here.” Martha announced. I looked around and saw them standing at the door.

”Thank you Martha.” I smiled. ”You can go now. I wouldn't want you to miss your carriage home.”

This will be the last time I see Martha. Inside my heart, I wish her the best in the future. Maybe when this is all over, I can visit her on her family's farm.

”Y-Your highness.” Martha let out a small sob. ”Why does it feel like you are saying goodbye for good? It is like I won't ever see you again.” Her face was contorted, trying to stop the tears from falling.

”Silly Martha.” I force a smile. I also feel like crying seeing her like that. But I cannot let her se me this way. ”Of course this is just a goodbye for now.”

I stood up from my seat and walked towards her. She was now shedding tears and sobbing.

”Can I hug you Martha?” I asked. She nodded while wiping her tears away. I pulled her in my arms. ”Thank you for taking care of me while I was here. You have been very good to me Martha. I hope that your family's farm would do well so that you don't have to go back to work here again.”

”B-But your highness… serving you has been a happy experience for me. Of course I will come back again.” Martha said.

I shook my head. ”I will do fine Martha. Do not worry about me.” I smiled. ”If your family needs you more there in your home town, then you don't need to go back here.”

”B-But princess…” Martha wanted to say otherwise but I stopped her from saying any further by pressing my fingers on her lips.

”Promise me that you would do your best in your family's farm.” I said with a smile. ”You do not need to go back here. Understand?”

Martha was surprised but nodded in agreement after.

”That's good.” I said. ”You may go now Martha.”

”Thank you your highness.” Martha curtsied and was about to exit the door.

”Oh and Martha…” I called out to her and she looked back. ”Please be safe and happy with your family.” I said sincerely.

Martha smiled. ”Thank you your highness. Please be safe as well.” She bowed and left the room.

With the door closed, Jack, William and I were left inside the room.

”You let her go home to her family?” Jack asked.

”Yes. It will not be safe for her here if she is left after we escape.” I said. ”She has informed of her vacation in advance to her superiors. Our escape will not implicate her.”

”That is so kind of you princess.” Jack said with a smile.