"Hmm, so they're returning to the Empire. Well, it's about time we headed back as well," Ethan remarked.

"I agree; we've stayed quite a while. Considering travel time, we've essentially been here for almost a month," I responded.

"Spending the entire winter break in Defrin Kingdom wouldn’t do. We've received ample recognition for protecting Princess Rainy—no, Queen Rainy—so there’s no reason to stay longer."

Unlike me, a mere maid, Ethan was the heir to Blackwood Estate. This trip wasn’t even part of his winter plans, so if he didn’t return soon, things could get a bit troublesome.

"Now that I …