Always a Catch! Episode 5: How the One That Got Away Visited Home

Maria waves goodbye from her carriage, beginning her three-day journey back to the Muro Kingdom. Prince Renard offers a warm farewell, a hint of romance left behind. Her internal monologue lays out the travel plans, complete with a map, making it clear this is an organized, deliberate return. She is transitioning from one life to another, the route clearly mapped out.

The carriage stops in a bustling border town, and Maria immediately explores the market. She samples local berries, thinking of Renard, a small detail connecting her past to her present. A vendor tempts her with grapes, leading to an exaggerated, comedic reaction to their taste. This moment shows her pleasure in simple things, a contrast to palace life.

A formidable carriage arrives, and Goffredo and Mackie, Maria's personal guards, step out. Their boisterous reunion shows a deep, informal bond, contrasting with the more formal farewells. They discuss her family's reaction to her engagement, particularly her father's potential anger and her sisters' rowdy nature. Teodorico's excitement brings a softer, nostalgic smile to her face.

Goffredo and Mackie maintain their focused watch as the journey continues, stopping at a peaceful country inn. Maria enthusiastically enjoys a hearty meal, noting its robust flavors, a distinct change from palace fare. Her playful bickering with Mackie about her manners reinforces their easy relationship. Later, she quietly contemplates her future, snacking on grapes.

A sudden bump makes Maria drop her grapes, just as the carriage is halted by a group of desperate men with farm tools. Their demands quickly turn to pleas for help, revealing them as villagers whose daughters have been kidnapped. Maria's expression softens as she hears their story, especially about Count Nardi's negligence. A brief, stark flashback shows a girl being snatched, underscoring the urgency.

Maria erupts in fury over Count Nardi's indifference, her resolve hardening to deliver justice. She strategically gives the village headman her personal crest to gain an audience with Raimondo at the capital. The villagers, now understanding her status, are filled with new hope, inspired by her authority. Meanwhile, back in Rubini, Renard worries about Maria's safety, and Raymond reassures him, showing their continued connection despite the distance.

A sound from the bushes leads the group to a bandit camp, where they witness cruelty firsthand. Maria insists on investigating, despite her guards' protective instincts, moving silently through the undergrowth. Goffredo and Mackie confront the bandits, easily dispatching them with expert martial arts. Maria watches, unimpressed by the low-level threats.

Maria spots a bandit escaping with loot and takes him down herself with a single, powerful kick. Another bandit tries a surprise attack, which she effortlessly counters. When the bandit leader grabs a hostage, Maria delivers a comedic monologue mocking his predictable villainy, completely unfazed. She then dispatches him with an explosive punch, rescuing the girl and sending the remaining bandits fleeing in terror.

The village headman expresses profound gratitude, and Maria advises them to be cautious and seek protection, promising aid from the capital. Crossing into the Muro Kingdom, Maria is filled with joy, savoring the familiar scenery. She chooses to walk the rest of the way to her family's mansion, her childhood home. A montage of memories plays, culminating in her triumphant arrival at the grand estate gates.