493 Serenity
Princess Seraphina clenched her teeth as she watched the Duke depart. Throughout her life, she had been cherished by everyone around her. However, the Duke, of all people, had to treat her like a villain! When all she wanted was to marry him and save this continent!
"Your Highness...." The maid spoke.
"We are leaving," the Princess declared as she rose from her seat and departed the banquet without even offering her goodbyes to the hosts.
Due to the teleportation project, the King of Wugari decided to bestow upon the Envoys from the Rakha Kingdom an estate that they could utilize if they wished to stay in Wugari. Moreover, he also granted them the right to use the teleportation device at their discretion. This chapter is updated by nov(e)(l)biin.com
However, the Princess had no intention of utilizing the device to return to Rakha that night. Instead, she instructed her attendants to escort her to the King's palace.
In the midst of the night, the King had already retired within his palace. Nevertheless, the Princess did not hesitate to request an audience.
"Your Highness...." The King smiled. He was clad in his robe, still in his study, engrossed in reading the latest memorials and documents that required his attention. Since his wife, the Queen left to recuperate, he had been spending all his night on his study.
"May I ask why you have come to the palace at such a late hour? Has something occurred?" Given that the Princess was unmarried, the King did not wish to fuel any unnecessary rumors and was initially inclined to decline this meeting. However, the Princess seemed determined to see him tonight, even resorting to begging for an audience.
Out of respect, the King complied, sensing that something significant was at hand.
"I wish to marry the Duke," the Princess straightforwardly revealed. "This union would not only benefit the Estate of the Rothley Family but also all of Wugari. I implore Your Majesty to consider this proposal."
The King was at a loss for words. He wondered if the princess had truly come solely to make this request. What might be the true purpose behind her visit?
"Your Highness...." The King swallowed. "Are you unwell?" he inquired.
"I am not," the Princess replied. "Your Majesty, I am serious. I know what I am doing. Tomorrow, I intend to present this proposal to the council of Wugari. I shall personally— "
"Your Highness, please forgive me for asking, but.... Are you tired of life?" the King interjected. "Is your desire for death truly so strong?"
"Your Majesty, I fail to understand..."
"Your Highness, if the council or I attempt to influence the Duke's marital choices, it would likely result in him already having a child." A gentle smile graced the King's lips. "The Duke's marriage is not a matter to be taken lightly. I strongly advise that you avoid broaching this topic in the future. The repercussions for both Wugari and Rakha starting a conflict at this juncture would not be favorable."
....
"News travels swiftly."
Rosalind pursed her lips. "Did she propose to you?" she asked.
"She did indeed."
"And?"
"I am already wed," he replied nonchalantly. "I do not require another wife."
Rosalind blinked and observed his handsome profile.
"Good to know," Rosalind uttered before she could restrain herself. She then chuckled. She had expected the Princess would consult him about marriage. While it would have been amusing to witness, at least the Princess displayed propriety by addressing him privately.
She inwardly sighed.
She would have relished the spectacle!
"What are your impressions of the banquet?" he inquired.
"It is... unique," Rosalind remarked. "And enjoyable."
"Excellent," Lucas responded. "Feel free to partake in more banquets. If you desire, you can host banquets or tea parties as well. No need to request my consent or inform me. The Duchy is under your jurisdiction."
Rosalind was at a loss for words. Was he trying to reassure her? "I understand, Your Grace," Rosalind replied. His hand encircled her waist, drawing her nearer as if shielding her from the chill breeze.
Rosalind smiled.
Under the moonlit sky, they stood in silence.
Before them sprawled a beautiful garden, a tranquil and vibrant display of nature's charm, illuminated by the moon. Flowers of varying hues adorned the landscape, their petals glistening softly in the moonlight. Tall trees swayed, leaves rustling softly. The air was cool, carrying a hint of dew, augmenting the serene nocturnal atmosphere.
This was serenity, Rosalind mused to herself.