Rather Than Be Taken, I Will Take (12 Chapters Left to Complete) - Chapter 17

The distance from the capital to the Send Plateau was quite far. Even by carriage, it would take at least four days.

Despite changing horses along the way and pressing forward relentlessly, they only managed to pass through the Muhalhar Mountains—the entrance to the plateau—by late night.

The carriage, which had intended to gallop through the night without rest, became trapped in the thick mountain fog and could advance no further.

Judging it too dangerous, Aden decided to halt just half a day’s journey from the Send Plateau and set up camp for the night. Consequently, the dozens of people traveling toward Havertz territory began bustling about on the mountainside.

Though warmer than the capital even in midwinter, it was still a winter night.

The wind descending from the peak was bitterly cold. Despite tightly fastening their clothes, everyone huddled around the campfire, tongues clicking in discomfort, sipping warm tea.

Ludmila, too, sat alone near the blazing campfire.

She couldn’t tear her eyes away from the flames until her pale cheeks flushed red as though scorched by the heat.

Aden, who had been briefing his aide on the night watch and guard rotation while discussing tomorrow’s schedule, caught sight of her.

He recalled how she had once stared at an utterly ordinary tree as if it were a masterpiece.

Biting his lip, Aden rolled his eyes, dismissed his aide, and turned away.

Picking up a teacup from the fire where tea was being brewed, Aden approached Ludmila and calmly held it out to her.

Only then did Ludmila seem to notice his presence, a brief look of embarrassment flickering across her face.

“I’m sorry. When did you arrive?”

“Just now.”

Read full content of this chapter on r e d c a t t y . c o m