It has been long...

The soiree hosted by Mr. and Mrs. Ruiz stretched into the evening, during which Emily and Raylen enjoyed each other's company. The Princess noticed how the same people who had previously badmouthed her were now singing her praises. 

When a yawn escaped Emily's lips, Raylen asked her, "Do you want to head back to the castle? We don't have to stay until midnight." 

"Yes, I think it would be nice to head back," Emily replied as she felt her muscles beginning to ache. During their carriage ride back to the castle, she inquired, "Did you hear any news from Balor?" 

"Nothing so far. They haven't been able to locate my mother's soul, and Viktor has been on a rampage. I don't think he's ever lost a soul he made a deal with before," Raylen replied. "We are currently focusing on searching for people who are missing or those who have recently died."

Emily gave him a questioning look, as she didn't quite understand.