Y/n Pov

The sun was just beginning to rise as our group made its way through the cobbled streets towards the mansion of Lord Carrington. The city was slowly coming to life around us, the early morning light casting a golden hue over everything it touched. Irene led the way with her usual confident stride, while Elsie walked beside me, her hand occasionally brushing against mine in a comforting gesture. Heine and Juliet brought up the rear, chatting animatedly about their latest escapades.

Lila, however, had been unusually quiet since we left the inn. She walked slightly ahead of us, her small figure seeming even smaller as she wrapped her arms around herself. Concerned, I quickened my pace to catch up with her.

"Lila," I called softly, not wanting to startle her. She turned to look at me, her eyes wide and filled with a mix of emotions. "You've been awfully quiet this morning. Is everything okay?"

She hesitated, biting her lip as if unsure whether to speak. Finally, she took a deep breath and met my gaze. "The request giver... Lord Carrington... he's my father," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "I haven't seen him in months."

Her revelation took me by surprise. I exchanged a quick glance with Irene, who had overheard the conversation. She raised an eyebrow but said nothing, clearly as taken aback as I was.

"Your father?" I repeated, trying to process the information. "Why didn't you mention this before?"

Lila shrugged, her eyes downcast. "I didn't know if it would make a difference. He's been so busy with his parties and... other things. I wasn't sure if he would even care to see me."

I felt a surge of sympathy for her and gently placed a hand on her shoulder. "Lila, of course it matters. We're here for you. If you need anything, just let us know, okay?"

She nodded, a small but grateful smile appearing on her face. "Thank you, Y/n."

As we continued our walk, the grand silhouette of Lord Carrington's mansion loomed ahead, its opulent façade reflecting his reputation for lavishness. We reached the ornate gate and were greeted by a pair of guards who, upon seeing Lila, immediately ushered us in with respectful bows.

The inside of the mansion was as grand as one might expect, with marble floors, gilded walls, and opulent chandeliers. We were led to a spacious drawing room where Lord Carrington himself awaited us. He was a tall, imposing figure with sharp features and an air of authority.

"Lila!" he exclaimed, his stern demeanor softening as he saw his daughter. He rushed forward and enveloped her in a warm embrace. "I've missed you, my dear."

Lila hesitated for a moment before returning the hug. "I've missed you too, Father," she murmured, her voice choked with emotion.

After their reunion, Lord Carrington turned his attention to us. "Thank you for accepting my request," he said, his tone now more formal. "I trust you understand the importance of this event. I expect you to do it without any issue."

Irene stepped forward, her expression professional. "We are honored to be of service, Lord Carrington. We will do our best to fulfill your request."

He nodded, satisfied. "Excellent. The wedding ceremony is crucial to the success of an important alliance. Your roles as bride and groom are pivotal."

"Lord Carrington," she began, her voice clear and composed, "may I inquire as to the specific reasoning behind your request for this wedding ceremony? It is quite an unusual mission for adventurers such as ourselves, and understanding your motivations would help us fulfill our roles more effectively."

Lord Carrington, who had been standing by the fireplace, turned to face Irene. His expression was serious, but there was a hint of gratitude in his eyes for her direct approach. He clasped his hands behind his back, adopting a formal stance. I for the other hand still felt confused about the mission, so did Elsie.

"Of course, Miss Irene," he replied, his tone measured and deliberate. "The reason for this elaborate charade is rather critical. I am in the midst of negotiating a significant business alliance with an influential partner, Lord Hadrian. He is a man of great prestige and traditional values, and he places considerable importance on familial and societal rituals."

He paused, ensuring he had everyone's attention before continuing. "Lord Hadrian is a firm believer in the sanctity of marriage and the social stability it represents. By presenting this grand wedding ceremony, I aim to demonstrate my commitment to these values, thus solidifying our potential partnership. The roles you and your companions will play are crucial in creating an impression of unity and tradition."

Irene nodded thoughtfully, absorbing his explanation. "I see. Your intention is to present an image that aligns with Lord Hadrian's values, thereby securing his favor and trust in your business dealings."

"Precisely," Lord Carrington confirmed. "This alliance is of utmost importance to the future of my enterprises. The success of this event could greatly influence the outcome of our negotiations. It is designed after his own wedding to relive it as a bystander as he's interested in feasts the most."

Irene glanced back at us, her eyes meeting mine briefly before turning to Elsie. I could see the gears turning in her mind as she processed the information and considered how best to approach our roles in this critical mission. It was way too obvious that Elsie and I would play the role as bride and groom. My hand breifly brushed against Elsie's and she opened hers, our fingertips touching.

"Very well, Lord Carrington," Irene said, her voice resolute. "We will ensure that the wedding ceremony is executed flawlessly. You have our commitment to perform our roles with the utmost dedication."

Lord Carrington inclined his head in appreciation. "Thank you, Miss Irene, and to all of you. Your assistance in this matter is invaluable, and I am confident that with your help, we will achieve the desired outcome."

. . .

Third person Pov

As the group settled into their respective rooms in Lord Carrington's mansion, Irene received a summon to meet with the lord in private. She followed a servant through the grand corridors, her footsteps echoing softly against the marble floors. Her mind was already working through the details of the upcoming mission, but she knew this conversation would be of a different nature entirely, why else would he summon only her. It kept wondering her but she had a slight idea.

When she entered the study, Lord Carrington was standing by the window, his back to her. The room was bathed in the soft glow of the late afternoon sun, casting long shadows across the richly adorned space. He turned as she approached, his expression serious and concerned.

"Miss Irene," he began, his voice formal but tinged with an undercurrent of worry. "Thank you for meeting with me. There is a matter of great personal importance I wish to discuss."

Irene inclined her head respectfully. "Of course, Lord Carrington. What can I do for you?"

He gestured for her to sit, and once they were both seated, he leaned forward slightly, his eyes searching hers. "It's about my daughter, Lila. I have noticed a significant change in her behavior since her return. She is quieter, more withdrawn. I had hoped that her time away would have been a positive experience, but now I fear something dreadful has happened. Can you tell me what transpired?"

Irene hesitated, carefully considering her words. The truth was harsh, and she wanted to handle the situation with the utmost sensitivity. "Lord Carrington," she began slowly, "what I have to share is deeply troubling. Lila was, unfortunately, caught in a terrible situation. During her time away, she was kidnapped by goblins."

Lord Carrington's eyes widened in horror, and he paled visibly. "Kidnapped by goblins? How could this have happened?"

Irene took a deep breath, steadying herself before she continued. "It is with great sorrow that I must tell you, she was not only kidnapped but also... harmed by them. The goblins subjected her to unimaginable cruelties. She was rescued, but the trauma she endured has left deep emotional scars."

The lord's face contorted with grief and rage. "Harmed? What do you mean? Please, do not spare me the details, as painful as they may be."

Meeting his gaze, Irene spoke with quiet resolve. "Lila was abused in ways that no one, especially a child, should ever experience. She was violated, Lord Carrington."

Lord Carrington slumped back in his chair, his hands shaking his face pale as chalk. "My poor Lila," he whispered, his voice breaking. "She's only twelve years old... How could I have let this happen? I should have protected her."

Irene reached out her hand laying softly on his, her voice gentle but firm. "You cannot blame yourself for the actions of such vile creatures. What matters now is how we support Lila moving forward. She needs love, understanding, and time to heal."

He nodded, tears welling in his eyes. "I will do everything in my power to help her. Thank you for telling me, as difficult as it was. Your honesty is appreciated."

Irene stood, feeling the weight of the conversation pressing on her shoulders. "We will do our best to fulfill this mission and ensure that Lila feels safe and loved. If there is anything more you need from us, do not hesitate to ask."

Lord Carrington rose as well, his expression resolute despite the grief etched into his features. "Thank you, Miss Irene. Your support means more than I can express. Please, keep a close watch on her. She is all I have."

Irene nodded and retreated slowly she knew her next stop would be Lila's room.

Walking through the quiet corridors of Lord Carrington's mansion, her thoughts lingering on the heavy conversation she had just had with him. The lord's grief was palpable, and she knew that Lila needed more support than ever. Being back at her families residence could have opened her emotional wounds. Reaching Lila's room, she knocked gently before opening the door and stepping inside.

The room was dimly lit, with the only source of light coming from the crackling fireplace. Lila was sitting in an  armchair by the hearth, staring into the flames with a distant look in her eyes and arms pulling her knees close to her chest. The flickering light cast shadows across her face, highlighting the sadness and fear etched into her young features.

"Lila?" Irene's voice was soft and gentle as she approached. "How are you doing?"

Lila turned her head slightly, her eyes meeting Irene's for a brief moment before looking back at the fire. She shrugged, her shoulders tense. "I don't know," she whispered, her voice barely audible. But the slight croak in her voice told a different view.

Irene stepped forwards and sat down in the free armchair next to her, the warmth of the fire a stark contrast to the cold reality of their conversation. "It's okay to feel that way," she said, her tone soothing. "You've been through something terrible, and it's natural to feel overwhelmed."

Lila's gaze remained fixed on the flames, her hands clenching and unclenching in front. The bags under her eyes and clearly wet stains on her gown told Irene more than she would like to admit. "I can't stop thinking about it," she admitted, her voice trembling. "Every time I close my eyes, I see them."

Irene felt a pang of sorrow for the young girl. "Lila, I'm so sorry for what you've endured," she said softly. "What the goblins did to you was horrific, and you didn't deserve any of it."

As she spoke, Lila's breathing grew shallow and rapid. Her eyes widened, and her body began to tremble. Irene recognized the signs of a flashback and moved quickly to comfort her.

"Lila, look at me," Irene said gently, reaching out to touch her arm. "You're safe now. No one can hurt you here."

Lila's eyes were wild with fear, and she seemed to be trapped in her memories. Irene stood up and gently pulled Lila into a hug, holding her close and speaking in a calm, soothing voice. "Shh, it's okay. You're safe. I'm here with you."

Lila clung to Irene, her body shaking with silent sobs. Irene continued to hold her, rubbing her back in slow, comforting circles and murmuring reassurances. Gradually, Lila's breathing began to steady, and she relaxed slightly in Irene's arms.

After a few moments, Lila pulled back, wiping her tears with the back of her hand. "Thank you, Miss Irene," she said, her voice still shaky but more composed. "It helps to know someone cares."

Irene gave her a warm, encouraging smile. "You are not alone, Lila. We all care about you, and we will do everything we can to help you heal. Remember, it's okay to feel scared and to ask for help when you need it."

Lila nodded, her expression showing a glimmer of hope amidst the pain. "I'll try. Thank you for being here."

"Anytime," Irene replied, giving Lila's hand a reassuring squeeze. "Now, why don't we go join the others? Being around friends can help, too."

Lila took a deep breath and stood up, nodding. "Okay. Let's go."

Together, they left the room, heading towards the warmth and support of their friends.

An unusual rhythmic sound slowly became louder as they closed in the distance to Y/n's room he shared with his love. Irene could easily make it out to be a girls voice, none other then Elsie's, who's ecstatic whimpers filled the air. Irene opened the door to his room instantly, without giving any warning to the two inside.

There she saw it, just for a brief moment. The two love birds intertwined into each other, Elsie with her back on the bed hands held by Y/n staring down at her. Startled the the two disappeared under the fitted sheet. Irene stared at them in amusement, for how long it would take them to reemerge from their hiding spot.

Seconds later both peered out from the sheet with clear embarrassed blushes on their cheeks. Elsie's ring twinkled on her finger as if it wanted to mock Irene. A gentle sigh escaped her lips looking at them she closed her eyes for mere moment. "You may be engaged but that does not give you the right to do it in every bed you can find." Irene's voice echoed through the room, annoyance lacing her words.

Irene pushed Lila forwards to the bed. "I think its best if we stay over for the night in the same room, for Lila's sake." She stated and sat down at the edge of the bed. Elsie frowned lightly. "I can't believe we couldn't finish." She huffed in annoyance pulling the bedsheet towards her. Irene let her eyes go over the room and found the clothes belonging to Elsie and Y/n discarded near the fireplace, all in one pile. She roled her eyes.

Lila peered over to the discarded clothes a curious cleam in her eyes. "Do you plan to become parents so young already?" She questioned tilting her head to the side. Her blunt question threw Y/n down. A startled scream came out of Elsie, her embarrassment showing clearly on the tainted cheeks. "Well isn't it normal at this age?"

"NO" Two voiced shot at the same time. Elsie looked in surprise to Y/n. "What do you mean no?" She asked curious. Y/n blushed but kept silent as he couldn't utter a word. Irene giggled softly. "Elsie, you are still growing aren't you?" She pat her head softly and Elsie nodded in silence. "Everything has its time and place and you being a mother does not belong into the current time, one day but not any time soon Elsie." She exclaimed calmly.

"We should all be resting for tomorrow as it will be the first of many days we need to play this role, I as your mother, Y/n as your groom, Lila as your half sister and Lord Carrington as your father, at least that's what I think will be the case, isn't it Lila?" She stated and the girl nodded.

"Yes indeed, my mother died shortly after I was born, the reason was of a sickness she got, but I don't know its name."