Adeline

  Another day in Veridonia, the bustling capital of the kingdom. I can see the sunrise through the window, casting a golden glow over the city's rooftops. Below, the people move around my father's estate, busy with their work for the day, as the heart of the kingdom hums with life.

  Here I am, sitting up in bed, still groggy while stretching the upper part of my body. I hear a soft knock on my door and a familiar voice behind it.

  "Lady Adeline, the Viscount and Viscountess request your presence at the dining room for breakfast," she says.

  "I understand. Please tell them that I will fix myself up first before I join them," I respond.

  "I'll inform them immediately, my lady. Would you like the other maids to help you change?" she proposes.

  I was about to do it myself, but I think letting the maids help me is better. I love how their hands caress my hair and how they recommend dresses; they sure know my taste.

  "Yes, please. I'll be waiting here," I respond softly.

  I hear the sound of footsteps slowly fading down the hallway. I rise from my bed, not bothering to fix it and it's quite messy.

  Did I really move that much last night?

  After I finish straightening the blankets, sheets, and my pillow, I hear my door creak open. I turn and see the maids bowing politely. Without a word, they immediately start preparing me for the day.

  The maids bustle around me, each knowing her role in the routine. One begins by brushing and styling my hair, her gentle fingers weaving through the strands with practiced ease. Another brings a selection of dresses, holding them up for my consideration.

  "How about the blue one, my lady? It compliments your eyes," she suggests.

  I nod in agreement, trusting her judgment. The maids assist me into the dress, fastening the buttons and smoothing out any wrinkles. As they work, I feel a sense of comfort and familiarity in their efficient movements.

  Once I'm dressed, one maid brings a tray with a basin of warm water and a towel for me to freshen up. The steam rises gently from the basin, and I dip my hands into the soothing warmth. The maid hands me a soft cloth, and I use it to gently cleanse my face and hands, feeling the last traces of sleep wash away.

  "Thank you," I say, as they finish their tasks. "You always know just what to do."

  "Of course, my lady," they reply in unison, smiling as they step back.

  With a final glance in the mirror, I feel ready to face the day. Taking a deep breath, I head towards the dining area, eager to join my parents for breakfast.

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  The dining area of our estate is a testament to Veridonia's riches. As I enter, the aroma of freshly baked bread and roasted coffee greets me. The table is adorned with an array of luxurious foods, delicate pastries filled with rich cream, and plump berries glistening with morning dew. There are platters of smoked salmon, eggs prepared in various styles, and a selection of cheeses from the finest dairies. A large crystal bowl holds a vibrant fruit salad, each piece meticulously cut and arranged.

  My parents are already seated, their expressions unusually guarded. My mother, with her long icy blue hair cascading over her shoulders and striking purple eyes, sits poised with her hands folded neatly in her lap. Beside her, my father's long silver hair gleams faintly in the sunlight filtering through the windows, his piercing blue eyes—eyes that mirror my own—fixed on me. My father gestures for me to join them, and as I take my seat, a maid pours me a cup of green tea.

  "Good morning, Mother, Father," I greet them, trying to shake off the unease I sense.

  "Good morning, Adeline," they reply in unison, their voices carrying a weight that is hard to ignore.

  We eat in silence for a few moments. I nibble on a croissant, its flaky layers melting on my tongue, and sip my tea, the warmth spreading through me. But the tension in the room is palpable. I notice my parents exchanging glances, hesitating as if they are about to say something significant.

  Finally, my father clears his throat. "Adeline, we have something to discuss with you. Something important."

  I look up, curiosity and apprehension mixing within me. "Yes, Father?"

  He takes a deep breath, his eyes meeting mine with a mix of resolve and reluctance. "Your mother and I have arranged for you to be engaged to the Duke of Wintermere."

  The words strike me, leaving me momentarily stunned. I gasp, choking on the sip of tea I had just taken. Setting the cup down with trembling hands, I cough softly, trying to compose myself. "I see," I say at last, though my voice wavers.

  My mother leans forward, her expression gentle as she reaches for my hand. "Adeline, we know this is a lot to take in. Please understand, this is not a decision we made lightly. The Duke is a man of honor, and this union will ensure our family's future."

  I lower my gaze, tracing the delicate rim of my teacup with my fingertip. I've always known this day would come—that my duty would someday outweigh my dreams. Yet hearing the words spoken aloud still stirs a quiet ache within me.

  "I understand the importance of our responsibilities," I reply after a moment, my voice soft yet strained. "But... may I ask why it had to be him? Why now?"

  My father's face softens, and he leans closer. "We wouldn't tell you this if we didn't believe it was for the best. These are uncertain times, and the Duke is a man of integrity and great influence. We believe he can offer you a secure future."

  I glance up, meeting his gaze. The sincerity in his eyes gives me pause, even as a tear slips down my cheek. "I know you only want what's best for me," I whisper, "and I will meet him. But... I hope you understand why I need time to come to terms with this."

  My mother's grip tightens ever so slightly, her purple eyes brimming with emotion. "Of course, we never wish to hurt you. But sometimes, we must make sacrifices for the greater good."

  Her words, though spoken with love, feel like a heavy weight on my chest. I nod faintly, my fingers brushing against hers. "I will do my duty, Mother. I only ask for your patience while I find my place in this."

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  The rest of the meal passes in silence, the luxurious food loses its flavor. Burdened by the inevitability of my new reality. The life I've lived until now will never be the same.

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  In the afternoon, I find myself in the carriage, looking out the window, and wandering in my thoughts. When I was a child, I dreamed of freedom beyond the constraints of noble expectations, and I still do. The thought of running away from my family is tempting, but I cannot bring myself to do it, knowing how much I love them.

  Unlike many nobles, they do not treat me like a tool; instead, they welcome me warmly into their arms, loving me dearly without an exchange. They have even refused other arranged marriages proposed by various nobles, knowing how unsuitable those matches were. I am known for my intelligence and possess a secret talent for magic, wielding one of the most powerful elements, which is Lumina (Light). I yearn for a life of adventure and discovery.

  Anyway, the reason I'm in this carriage is because I'm on my way to meet the Duke. I heard he's not in Wintermere, but here in the capital, attending to... something. It's strange, Wintermere practically runs itself, and the Duke rarely leaves his lands unless it's for something significant.

  There's also the matter of his connection to the emperor. They're uncle and nephew, yet the emperor's hair is blonde, and the Duke's is as black as midnight. It's always struck me as odd.

  The carriage stops in front of a beautiful manor, signaling our arrival. I patiently wait for my butler to open the carriage door for me. As it creaks open, he gestures for me to step out, which I do.

  "Is this the Duke of Wintermere's manor in the capital?" I ask, noting its luxurious appearance.

  "Yes, my lady. I believe he is waiting for you in his study," my butler replies politely.

  As we walk beside each other, my gaze wanders around the surroundings. The greenery is mesmerizing, with meticulously trimmed hedges and vibrant flowers in full bloom. The afternoon sun casts a golden hue over the landscape, creating a serene and almost magical atmosphere.

  Well, of course it is magic i don't think 'almost' is a right word, my bad. Veridonia is protected by a magical barrier that keeps the dark magic at bay.

  My butler hands me over to the duke's butler, leaving me in their care. As I step inside, I am immediately struck by the opulence of the manor's interior.

  The entrance hall is grand, with high ceilings adorned with intricate plasterwork and gilded accents. A massive chandelier, sparkling with countless crystals, hangs overhead, casting a warm, inviting glow. The marble floors are polished perfectly, reflecting the elegant furnishings that fill the space. Rich tapestries depicting historical scenes hang on the walls, adding to the sense of grandeur.

  We proceed down a long corridor lined with portraits of the Duke's ancestors, each one more regal and imposing than the last. The air is filled with the subtle scent of fresh flowers, and the sound of my footsteps echoes softly against the walls.

  The afternoon sun filters through large, arched windows, casting dappled light across the room. The windows offer a stunning view of the manor's gardens, where neatly arranged flower beds and perfectly manicured lawns stretch as far as the eye can see. In the distance, I can see a sparkling fountain surrounded by blooming roses, adding to the manor's beauty.

  The butler leads me to the study, where the Duke awaits. As the door opens, I am greeted by a room filled with shelves of leather-bound books, a large mahogany desk, and plush armchairs. The walls are lined with rich wood paneling, and a large fireplace crackles softly in the corner, adding to the room's warmth and comfort.

  As I step into the Duke's study, I take a moment to compose myself. The room is filled with an air of quiet authority, much like the man standing by the window.

  The current Duke of Wintermere, Lucien Valenhart. Rumors say he can murder you if he wants to just by focusing his gaze on you. Ridiculous, right? But as I watch him now, standing there with his sharp posture and aura of command, I almost believe it.

  He looks like a man who has seen battle—a lot of it. His sharp features and piercing presence certainly don't help dispel the rumors. If anything, they add to the legend. But is he really as terrifying as they say?

  As much as I'm hesitant to admit it, he is good-looking. The sharp lines of his tailored suit are immaculate, and a blue cape drapes elegantly over his left shoulder. I shouldn't be noticing how well the cape sits; this is a meeting, not a dance.

  Everything about him screams untouchable, except maybe for the way his tousled black hair softens his overall look. His stern gaze and unyielding expression might ruin it for others, but not for me—well, not entirely.

  And then there are his blue eyes. They're the same shade as mine, though his are darker, like sapphire. They seem to look right through me, and it's disconcerting in the best and worst ways.

  "Good afternoon, Duke Lucien Valenhart," I say, curtsying slightly. "I am Lady Adeline Wycliffe."

  The Duke turns his gaze toward me, his expression unreadable. He inclines his head slightly in acknowledgment. "Good afternoon, Lady Adeline. Please, have a seat."

  I move to one of the plush armchairs and sit down, folding my hands in my lap. The Duke walks over to his desk, his movements measured and deliberate. He takes a seat across from me, his eyes never leaving mine.

  "I trust your journey was pleasant?" he asks, his voice even and controlled.

  His voice carries authority, and I can't decide if that's intimidating or... no, focus, Adeline.

  I slap my cheeks lightly with both hands, drawing an almost imperceptible raise of his brow. Composure, Adeline! You're here to meet him, not admire him!

  "I take it you're uncomfortable?" he asks, his gaze still fixed on me.

  I quickly shake my head, managing a small, nervous smile. "No, Your Grace. My journey to your manor was pleasant; thank you."

  He nods, as if filing away the information. "I see."

  There's a brief pause, and the silence feels heavy, thick with unspoken questions. Finally, I decide to address the matter directly. "I must admit, Your Grace, that I was taken by surprise by the news of our engagement."

  The Duke's expression doesn't falter. "Understandable. Arranged marriages are often a source of surprise and uncertainty. However, they are also a means of securing alliances and ensuring the stability of our respective families."

  "I appreciate the need for alliances," I say carefully, "but I am also concerned about the personal aspect of such a union. We are strangers to one another."

  His gaze remains steady, unwavering. "That is true. But we need not remain strangers. In time, we can come to understand each other and perhaps find common ground. Our duty to our families does not preclude the possibility of mutual respect and cooperation."

  I paused for a moment, considering his words. "I appreciate your candor, Your Grace. I find it refreshing," I reply.

  "It is better to be clear in matters of importance," he says. "And this is certainly important."

  Why does his seriousness have to sound so considerate? It's unnervingly... charming.

  I hesitate before speaking again, my fingers brushing the fabric of my dress. "I have always valued my independence and the freedom to make my own choices. This arrangement... feels like a loss of that freedom."

  The Duke leans forward slightly, his gaze intent. "Independence is a valuable trait, Lady Adeline. And within the bounds of our roles, I see no reason why you cannot retain your sense of self. My intention is not to stifle your spirit, but to forge a partnership that benefits both our families."

  His words take me by surprise. They are measured, logical, but somehow... sincere. "You speak of partnership and duty. Do you believe that such a union can also bring happiness?"

  He pauses, his composure faltering just slightly as he considers my question. "Happiness... is a complex and elusive goal. It cannot be guaranteed. But a foundation built on respect and shared purpose can create the conditions for it to flourish. That is what I hope to achieve."

  And why does that sound so... reasonable? His voice shouldn't be this convincing!

  I take a deep breath, torn between my apprehension and the smallest flicker of hope. "I see. Thank you for your honesty, Your Grace."

  He gave a nearly imperceptible nod. "I look forward to knowing you better."

  As our conversation draws to a close, I find myself lingering on his words. The path ahead remains uncertain, but for the first time, I feel the faintest spark of possibility.