Chapter 50: "The Dethroned King's New Title"
With hastened steps through the thick forest, Maro and Ely escaped with the guidance of the rebels. Minister Anna and Minister Holter also followed from behind, as well as the mercenaries who pledged true loyalty to the dethroned King.
"Our base is a hundred steps away from here. Please look out for thorny plants and vines ahead," one of the rebel strategists named Samson said, "Do not worry about the enemies going after us. This mountain range is our territory, so even without trails, we won't get lost."
"No wonder my men weren't successful in dealing with you. This is a very strategic place to hide," Maro said as he pulled Ely's hand, shoving away the leaves of the bushes. "It was as if nature itself protects you all."
he responded, "Yes, you are right, Your Highness-"
"You don't have to call me that from now on. I am no longer a King, and I have turned my back on the royal family. I am now a fugitive."
"Then what should I call you?"
"You decide."
"It's still odd that a great person like you isn't a king. How about this… since you were the reason why we got all the royal artifacts and you will be guiding us from now on, I shall bestow you a new title," Samson said with a big smile, "The King of Rebels… How about it?"
"King of Rebels, huh…" Maro grinned, "I like it very much."
The group then arrived at an area guarded by other bandits and rebels. In the middle of it was an entrance to a stone cave. Inside were several lit torches that illuminated the dark space. They walked until there were two paths to take.
"On the left, there is a hidden stairway going downwards, where we hide treasures, weapons, armors, and other relevant things," Samson pointed to the right, "Here on the right side is the resting area. As you can see, we have totally developed this gigantic cave into our lair."
"I see. Lead us to the sleeping area. Ely needs to rest, it's been a tiring day for her."
They headed over to the right path, and the first-timers gaped at the view.
There was a greatly spacious, common space in the middle, where there's a wide public kitchen and several dining table sets. Around them were several holes, covered with thin curtains, and these served as the rooms. To reach them, carved stairs leading to each level could be used.
"Wow…" Ely reacted and her eyes sparkled in awe. She felt like she was inside a beehive.
"I've asked them to give you a good space. It's the most secured one because I've relocated the best fighters near it."
They walked over to the said space, which was eight levels upwards. When they reached it, Samson slid the curtain to the side, exposing the thick mattress inside. The makeshift bed had a blanket and a long pillow. There was a wooden drawer at one side where their prepared clothes were.
"I hope this room is alright with the both of you-"
"B-both of us?" Ely asked, "You mean… Maro and I will share this space from now on-"
"Ah, yes, will that be a problem? We assumed that both of you were-"
Maro raised his hand, interrupting him, "This space is enough for us. Don't worry. Ely is basically like my wife," he grinned at her, and her cheeks turned red like a tomato.
"Sir, excuse me," a man with a brown bandana came to report the progress of their missions, "All the royal artifacts are now transferred in the basement. "
Samson nodded, "Good, what about the king's mercenaries? Did they catch up with us?"
"As expected, no," he replied to his superior, "The forest is too cruel to them. Most of them were poisoned by deadly plants and encountered venomous snakes, while some got lost."
"Destiny is in our favor. I just hope that this will last long," Maro said as he tucked Ely on the bed. "I'm sure my brothers are furious right now. I took the artifacts with me, plus Ely."
"After assessing the situation, it will be best to stay low for now. Please rest well… King and Queen of Rebels."
Maro, pleased with their new titles, chuckled as the others bid goodbye to them. They slid the curtain once again, and afterwards, Maro went to the drawer at the side and took a look at the clothes. He grabbed two sets, one for him and one for Ely.
"Maro, I've been wanting to ask a while ago, but we were busy escaping. How did you get out of the palace? And what happened, why are you now sided with the bandits and rebels?" she asked, turning her head towards him.
"I was in contact with Minister Holter and Minister Anna, three days before your wedding. When I was transferred to the servant's room, that's when I got the chance to communicate with them through the window. The mercenaries in charge of that room were apparently our allies."
Ely sat back up and stood in front of him. She touched his cheek as her tears fell, "I'm so glad you've managed to get out of that hell…"
Maro told her, "I was ready to let you go because I've become a fugitive, and not the wealthy man you first met in the bathing room. I know I can't give you a good life anymore."
She shook her head, "I am willing to go to the ends of the earth with you."
"Me too. But for now, I'll have to undress you."
Ely's turned beet red, "What are you saying?"
"You should take off that wedding dress. It's from my rival."
She turned her back, "Then please help me undress, Maro."
"Is that an invitation to- Nevermind," he grinned as he unzipped the back of her gown.
As soon as the satin wedding gown dropped to the ground, Maro hugged her from behind. "I love you so much, Ely," he whispered to her.
"Maro, I love you too," she faced him and placed her arms around his neck.
"We'll be together from now on," he planted soft kisses on her lips, and he wished for that moment to last forever.
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