Rosie's Games

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.

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?

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"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."

….

"As I was saying, the greenhouse is indeed a commendable project," Fraunces began. "The Duchy never experienced a woman's touch in the past. The fact that you have been engrossed in these projects is truly good. However, why restrict your time to the estate alone? You are the Duchess. Socializing would be beneficial."

Rosalind nodded without a word.

"I—" Fraunces's words halted as her maid whispered something. "Oh?" Fraunces raised an eyebrow, casting a meaningful look at Rosalind. "Very well, you may depart." Fraunces signaled for her maid to leave.

"Guess what?" Fraunces exclaimed.

"What?"

"The Princess just engaged in a private conversation with the Duke. It seems it pertains to you. They are currently in the sunroom. Shall we go and—"

"No need," Rosalind smiled.

"What?"

"I would prefer to remain here."

"But the Princess? Are you not going to address her?" Fraunces inquired, her brows furrowed. "She just wanted to snatch your husband!"

"No need." Rosalind then turned her attention to the approaching man. "Why eavesdrop when you can ask the involved party?" Rosalind smiled, leaving Fraunces dumbfounded.

"I— Your Grace," Fraunces promptly curtsied to Lucas. She then glanced at Rosalind.

"Proceed…" Rosalind prompted Fraunces.

"What?"

"Why not asked him if it is true?"

"I—" Fraunces widened her eyes, gazing at Rosalind. "Your Grace, I suddenly recalled that my husband was waiting for me outside. I shall take my leave." Fraunces departed from the balcony without waiting for a reply.

"I never imagined my wife had such an inclination to tease young women," Lucas remarked as he took Rosalind's hand. Together, they moved toward the balcony's edge. Seeing this, Magda chose to withdraw and stood guard by the balcony door.

"I heard the Princess spoke to you?" Rosalind inquired.

"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. Nôv(el)B\\jnn