"Marry … me?" she repeated my words to confirm if she was hearing things right, and though she didn't expect me to hold her hand and kiss it out of the blue, the words didn't sound new to her. She was tensed, but not surprised.
"You don't know what you're saying," she gently pulled her hand back and looked away, a frown was written on her face. "You shouldn't get too close to me."
‘We didn’t know each other for long’ is the most reasonable excuse – we only spoke for three days, and it’s not even 24 hours combined. But there’s always something to be given when two nations are helping each other, and it’s always nothing small.
She can conclude that this is just my pathetic excuse to avoid the person I’m supposed to marry – however, it’s inevitable that my marriage with Kathrynne will happen.
"Why not?" I asked, clueless about what she meant. Unless she's rejecting the offer because of the marquess? “By any chance, are you into someone else?”
She threw a daggered look, pointing out that my speculations are wrong. “It will make sense if it’s all because of the alliance. But it can’t be because of the sickening emotion someone can have – the thing that makes even the greatest hero weak, and if it’s discovered by someone cunning, it can be a fatal flaw. It’s called love.”
Loving her … is the last thing on my mind. While I may have shown interest by delving into her life without her knowledge, I didn't perceive it as such. If I'm being honest with myself, it was driven by my selfish desire to imagine a blissful marriage with her, a means to escape my responsibilities with Kathrynne.
Our goals align, and together we can face Hervouet with determination and strength.
“Still, give it some thought. Your life would better as a royalty than as a commoner. Shouldn't a significant favor be met with something equally significant in return? Furthermore, don't you yearn for greater power and influence? If revenge is what you seek, you could assert your dominance over those Eurhyians who opposed you, forcing them to kneel before you.”
Why do I sound so desperate?
“Fine, if that’s what you want. But don’t say I didn’t warn you,” she replied. Was that her way of giving approval? I couldn't help but feel a sense of embarrassment upon hearing her response, sensing that there was more to her answer than she was letting on.
“Then, that said …” I gently took hold of her right hand, placing my index finger on her wrist.
A small, red beam of light emitted from my hand, revealing a beautiful gold hand chain embellished with red diamond and alexandrite gems. A satisfied smile formed on my lips as I understood its significance.
"What is this?" she asked, her gaze fixed on me rather than the jewelry.
“A symbol of the alliance between us. That's why there's an alexandrite and red diamond in it. Consider it as a gift,” though it was partly a lie, hand chains as such hold special significance, as it can only crafted with my powers, or anyone from the Ruivenfiere family. "Make sure not to let Hervouet catch sight of it when you speak with him. It might give him certain ideas," I cautioned her.
“Then I won’t wear it when I’m meeting with him,” she said, and finally smiled as she observed its features. “It’s nice, thank you.”
“Actually, you can’t remove or destroy it. I’m the only one who can do that. That’s why I’m saying you can’t show it to him. The hand chain also grants you a portion of the power that I possess to a certain extent. If Hervouet discovers that you possess the abilities of a red diamond user, he will undoubtedly think about me. It is a unique creation that only a Ruivenfiere can produce, allowing them to share their power with others. It is not something that is readily available to everyone, for I can only create one in my lifetime.” at this point she should’ve known what I mean.
Creating a strong bondage between us felt like I was playing with fire. I proposed to the daughter of the king whom I killed, and she might do the same to me once she finds out. It will take a while for the effects of the hand chain to work on her, but I’m certain that the big risk I took will benefit me later on.
“I’m thankful but I’m having a feeling that you’re in the advantage with me having this,” she let out a sigh at her realization. “You’re planning something crazy, aren’t you?” she raised an eyebrow as she looks at me.
I really can’t get anything past her. She’s too smart to fool. I can’t win against her when it comes to mind games. I might end up as a dead meat once she finds out why I’m doing this.
“Why don't you just find it out on your own? You're in the library to read books but you're always asking me." I defended, and she laughed hard as if that was the most ridiculous thing she heard from me.
"You're hilarious!" Her voice resonated through the room, but she quickly lowered her tone when she realized I wasn't laughing. This wasn't the first time we found ourselves in such a situation.
"You were the one who initially suggested that you could be my mentor of sorts. And now you're telling me to study? Well, I must say, I haven't had such a good laugh in quite some time," she chuckled, her alexandrite ring glinted as she wipes the tear from her left eye.
“Now that we’re done with the ridiculous topic about Hervouet and my proposal, what’s next?”
"Regarding Jarvis, we need to arrange a meeting with him. I've already informed him that it will take place in Heizen. The date is set for two days from now. The three of us have much to discuss," she stated, crossing her arms and leaning back in her chair. "I had a feeling you would suggest meeting up, so I took the liberty of mentioning it in the letter instead. I’m impressive to think that far, right?” she grinned, complimenting herself.
“You’re clever I admit, and I like it. Heizen is seven hours away from here, so you should leave at five in the morning. I’ll send Ruford to accompany you with a carriage,” I suggested, and she nodded.
“We’re not traveling together?”
“No, because I have to be somewhere else before that. Rest assured; I’ll be there on time.”
──•~❉᯽❉~•──
The day of the meeting arrived, and I set off ahead of them on my horse. The meeting was scheduled for noon, and I made sure to arrive two hours earlier, hoping to have an opportunity to speak with the marquess privately before Thyra arrived. Fortunately, everything went according to plan, and I had the chance to have a conversation with the marquess before Thyra's arrival.
I arrived in a conservatory in Heizen as we agreed on the letters. The area was being tended to by employees who were diligently cleaning and watering the plants.
A man in a long, white coat was overseeing their work, providing them with specific instructions, although his voice was not loud enough for me to hear. The overall appearance of the place was pleasing and well-maintained, what else are the instructions for?
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One of the employees noticed my presence and approached me.
“Good morning, sir. May I ask if you have a reservation? This conservatory is closed today, but our main restaurant is open," she explained things politely, and the man walked towards us, seemingly recognizing me.
"Could you be... His Imperial Highness?" the man with ivory hair and purple eyes asked, his expression remaining flat. The employee hesitated for a moment, unsure whether to bow or not, but eventually decided to do so. However, the marquess did not show any sign of acknowledgment.
"... and I assume you're the marquess. You're here early," I commented, observing the staff bowing to both of us before quickly scurrying away in apparent intimidation. It was an unexpected reaction, and for a moment, it made me feel like a scarecrow.
“As you are. You must be tired after the long trip, but thank you for coming. It’s a pleasure to meet you personally. But … where’s Her Highness?” his eyes narrowed, suspicious of why I didn’t come with her.
Didn’t he get enough sleep last night? I don’t know if I should ask him that but he appeared visibly exhausted.
"I purposely arrived two hours early, hoping that we could have a private conversation before she arrived. How long have you been here?" I replied, following his lead as he directed me to the seat reserved for me.
"I've been here for an hour. I intended to arrive three hours early so that I could assess the place and make any necessary improvements. I didn't want Her Highness to encounter even a speck of dust, wilted flowers, or any imperfections, so I instructed the staff to attend to a few tasks upon my arrival. I also requested them to add some fresh flowers," he explained, calling the attention of the staff to bring us some tea.
It did seem peculiar that he was so particular about not wanting her to see even a speck of dust. The conservatory appeared to be in good condition, and it seemed like he was overthinking things in his efforts to create a flawless environment for her. It made me wonder if their relationship was more than just friendship.
He didn't mention anything about preparing the place to be perfect for his meeting with the crown prince of the Ruivenfiere Empire. Perhaps I should let that detail slide, considering he is not one of my subjects.
Feeling parched, I requested a cold glass of water from the staff, who promptly fulfilled my order. The exhaustion from my early morning journey, starting at three o'clock, was starting to take its toll on me.
“No offense but … you look exhausted. Didn’t you get any sleep?” my question seems to catch him off guard, but he maintained his cool without denying it.
"I'm fine. I had trouble sleeping because I was quite anxious about her arrival. Since it's been a long journey for her, I instructed the chefs to prepare her favorite dishes for later. Some of them are not even on the menu," he explained. Thyra didn't look like someone who'll appreciate a feast at a time like this. She didn't strike me as the type to indulge excessively.
“Technically, we Izavenes can live without food. But drinking is necessary. In Marrossi, food is a needless luxury. Commoners don’t buy it, so it’s mostly a display of wealth. Anyway, did Thyra say anything about me?” the marquess poured our cups some tea as I asked, and paused upon hearing Thyra’s name.
"She mentioned that you have been friendly, kind, and generous towards her, and assured me that I shouldn't worry because you are an ally. Her words were enough to instill trust in me, although I must admit, it does seem a bit peculiar. It's only been about three weeks since she left the palace, and I didn't expect her to establish such a direct connection with the crown prince so quickly. As expected, she is unstoppable and truly amazing," he remarked, acknowledging her abilities.
“Did she tell you how she get there? She was badly wounded before entering Alryne since she was attacked by bandits. My brother found her and helped her treat her wounds since she passed out. She was kept in his friend's place. I happen to be acquainted with that friend of his so we happen to run to each other and I insisted to know her. It wasn't that hard."
Upon hearing the truth about her being attacked by bandits and getting wounded, his expression fell. Regret and worry were evident on his face as he mumbled, "I knew I should have accompanied her." It seemed that he blamed himself for not being there to protect her.
It appears that this guy has a tendency to worry excessively, even when there is no need to. He seems to take on unnecessary responsibility and blame himself for things that are beyond his control. I wanted to reassure him that she is alive and well, and there is nothing to worry about.
She has a way of laughing at my words and giving off an air of superiority, which makes it clear that she is perfectly fine. It seems that this guy has a habit of overthinking and imagining worst-case scenarios. I wouldn't be surprised if he were to panic over something as trivial as Thyra getting bitten by small insects.
“You can ask her the details later, but there’s nothing to worry about. She’s alive, alright? She’s coming today to see you and that’s what matters,” I reminded, and he calmed down. I hope that’s the last ridiculous reaction I’ll get from him.
“Anyway, Her Highness addressed you as an ally, not a common friend alone. Is there anything else aside from that?” he asked, looking at me intently.
“What do you mean?”
"She didn't mention the details of the alliance. I was thinking if there's an engagement involved. I don't know how Marrosians think about alliances but usually, political marriages are included in that kind of scenario, especially if you're the crown prince. Something must be up.”
“We called ourselves allies because we have a mission to be done together that will need Eurhyia’s support which will be discussed later when she’s here. But why are you stressing about political marriages?”
Jarvis went silent to gather his thoughts.
“In Eurhyia, there was an oracle that predicted the birth of a special baby girl – a girl who will both save and be hated by the nation, but also bring immense joy and pain to those who love her. It seems that Thyra fits this description, and the oracle's prophecy has proven to be true. I have personally witnessed people who have been devastated after losing her on three separate occasions.” His inquiry about my relationship with her leaves me uncertain whether he is genuinely concerned or perhaps feeling a tinge of jealousy.
I requested Thyra's hand in marriage not out of love, but rather because I preferred to marry a friend rather than a childhood friend who was behaving differently than usual. Considering his reactions to anything related to Thyra, sharing the news of my proposal would only complicate matters. Besides, there isn't really anything to announce at this point anyway.
"I don't believe in oracles," I commented, showing disinterest in the topic. I don’t know a lot about love – but isn’t it normal for someone you love to be your cause of joy and pain?
The marquess didn’t comment, giving me the relief that the topic regarding oracles is done.
“Aren’t you curious why she’s sensitive about Alryne? I mentioned it in the letters,” he said, and I remember that he did mention that out of Thyra’s personal reasons.
“You mentioned it was personal so I didn't insist on asking," but that doesn't mean I'm not curious.
“The Marquess of Alryne – Warren Ruivenfiere, had visited Eurhyia in the past with the intention of establishing connections with the king. During his visit, he expressed his desire to marry Thyra, but she declined the offer without question. Her decision was based on instinct, but when she discovered that Alryne was a part of the Ruivenfiere Empire, she became concerned that they might attempt to exert control over Eurhyia. Although his motive was never confirmed, she still chose to reject the proposal. This rejection deeply wounded Warren's pride, and he is one of the individuals who became emotionally devastated after losing her. The impact of this rejection seems to have had a lasting effect on him.
I froze into place as I heard him mention Warren. My cousin … tried communicating with the Euhryian king without letting me know. What was he plotting back then? He shouldn't be making connections with other kingdoms without consulting me first. If anything, his actions can lead him to treason.
As I heard the sound of a clicking gate, I noticed his attention being drawn towards the door. Following his gaze, I saw Thyra entering the room. Without any hesitation, the marquess swiftly rose from his seat and approached her with a sense of urgency.
The marquess, overwhelmed with emotion, knelt before Thyra and took hold of her hand. Tears streamed down his face as he pressed his lips against her hand, displaying a deep reverence and affection. His grip on her hand remained firm, showing no intention of letting go.
At that moment, the marquess looked like a dog dying to see his master, his tears serving as a testament to the overwhelming joy he felt upon seeing Thyra again.
However, Thyra's reaction was quite different. She regarded him with a cold gaze, displaying a lack of surprise at his actions and instead expressing her displeasure.
Is this how he reacts when they meet? He must be out of his mind.
“Jarvis, you can’t be like this here. You’re a marquess, the heir of House Vassezac. Moreover, have you forgotten the last thing I told you? You should stop calling me ‘Your Highness’ but call me by my name alone. How dare you defy me?" Jarvis lifted his head to see her, and she bent down to his level and wiped his tears with her handkerchief. “Oh dear, you were crying the last time I saw you. Now you’re crying again like a child.” She added.
Their exchange of words made me cringe. They aren’t friends at all – Thyra is his master, but he's not simply a servant who can be considered a loyal dog, but someone who idolizes his master.