"Brother, everything is packed and ready. I have checked them again for you," Charlene Saint-Clemont said as she wheeled herself closer to Raphael. "It is time to depart."
"...Truly going to flee? Just me alone?" He continued to gaze at the stained tricoloured badge on the table, his eyes vacant as he murmured.
"You are leaving for my sake, dear Raphael," Charlene''s voice was gentle yet resolute. "I implore you, command you, to preserve the last family ties for me, this lonely, helpless maiden."
Upon hearing these words, his gaze shifted towards her. "Then, what about you? My sister! Abandon you, far away from home all alone! "
"They would not do anything to a poor paralytic like me," Charlene smiled and shook her head. "Don''t you remember? Four years ago, when people stormed into our castle, torches held high, their faces ablaze with such rage, only to turn to pity upon seeing me in this state! After all, what use am I to them, a disabled girl who cannot even stand up?"
"If you insist on taking me along, it will only burden us both, dear brother!" She appeared so fragile in this moment, yet possessed a power that convinced from the depths of one''s soul.
Edith entered the room with slow steps, her heart heavy, and asked, "Are you prepared, Raphael?"
"Thank you, Edith. I knew you would come," Charlene turned, offering her friend a serene smile. "I''m afraid only with your presence, will Brother be willing to set off!"
Raphael paced around the room anxiously, his long boots leaving heavy echoes upon the floor.
"I''m just so cowardly in your eyes! All the comrades stay, awaiting the verdict of fate, only I alone, must flee Paris under the shroud of night, like a condemned criminal!" His voice rang out with agitation.
"It''s merely a precaution, Raphael," Edith''s voice was dry. "Even if the Committees really dare to take action, the people will rally all their strength to shield Citi