Return of the Crowned Heiress novel Chapter 136

"Don't worry, I know what I'm doing. That kick won't cripple you, but if you dare touch me again..."

Arnold winced, beads of sweat forming on his forehead as he tried to endure the pain. Felicia felt a sense of satisfaction wash over her.

Just then, the group of women who had been trailing behind approached with concerned looks when they saw Arnold's pained expression. "Mr. Lawson, what's wrong? Are you feeling unwell?"

Of course, Arnold couldn't confess the truth. Gritting his teeth, he slowly stood up while trying to appear unfazed. He strained his voice as he replied, "I'm fine."

Realizing that returning to the bus was no longer an option, the vice principal consulted some local villagers for directions and led the others toward a road suitable for vehicles.

Not wanting to spend the night in the mountains, they had no choice but to follow Felicia further along the path.

Felicia paid no mind to her followers and confidently led the way. After walking for half an hour as twilight set in, she finally caught sight of the picturesque village at the foot of the mountain.

The sounds of chirping insects and birds mingled with the wafting smoke of cooking fires, creating a warm, homey atmosphere.

Felicia paused, taking it all in.

Arnold and the women caught up with her. They were ready to throw some sarcastic remarks, but they halted in shock at the sight before them.

Prior to their arrival, the college had warned them that Alverton was impoverished and backward, with no proper roads and a lack of basic infrastructure. They were visiting a truly desolate place, but they weren't there for a vacation in the first place.

They were greeted with a village with white walls and gray eaves decorated with dark wooden beams and elegant roofs. The roof tiles had been arranged in pleasing harmony.

This place was serene and beautiful, worthy of the title paradise.

Arnold's surprise was evident. He instinctively looked at Felicia, sensing that she seemed quite familiar with this place. It was almost as if it were her own home.

Feeling the lingering ache from earlier, he gritted his teeth and followed.

She dared to kick him, didn't she? He would make sure she understood the consequences one day!

The mayor of Alverton, Charles West, had not been informed about the college's visit beforehand, so when the bus arrived, he went to communicate with the other party. Only then did he learn about the training program, which prompted him to hurry and arrange for villagers to prepare their homes for hosting.

Felicia made a beeline for a quaint little courtyard. A smile brightened her face as she called out, "Nana!"

An elderly woman who was busy weaving a bamboo basket instinctively looked up. Upon recognizing Felicia, she excitedly dropped the basket and hurried toward her.

"Licia! Is it really you? You've come back!"