The feast was in full swing when Archduke Lionel rose from his seat, his movements drawing the attention of everyone in the room. The music faded, and a hush fell over the hall as he raised his glass.

"To the Adrian household," he began, his voice carrying effortlessly. "A family that has always stood as a pillar of strength and wisdom in our Empire. Tonight, we celebrate their return and honor the bonds that unite us."

A round of applause followed, but Lionel wasn’t finished. He turned to Adrian, his expression thoughtful. "Adrian, as one who holds your family in the highest regard, I have a proposal to strengthen our alliance further."

The room fell completely silent. Adrian’s brow furrowed slightly, though his expression remained composed. "What proposal do you speak of, Lionel?"

The Archduke’s gaze shifted to Liam, and a small smile played on his lips. "My daughter, Lady Elara, has just turned twelve. She is bright, talented, and well-versed in the ways of nobility. I propose a betrothal between her and your grandson, Liam."

The hall buzzed with whispers. Mara and Lilia exchanged glances, their expressions unreadable. Liam, meanwhile, froze in shock.

Adrian’s eyes narrowed slightly, and his voice was calm but firm. "Lionel, Liam is but eight years old. While your proposal is… intriguing, I must ask: why now?"

Lionel chuckled, unbothered by the scrutiny. "Because potential like his should not go unrecognized. I’ve heard tales of his talent, even from afar. A union between our families would ensure that both his future and mine are secure. Elara, despite her age, has the maturity and intelligence to be a suitable match for him."

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Adrian glanced at Liam, who looked up at him with wide eyes. The boy’s nervousness was clear, but Adrian placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. Before Adrian could respond, Evelina spoke, her voice steady but not dismissive.

"Archduke, your admiration for Liam is greatly appreciated," she began. "However, decisions of such magnitude cannot be made on a whim, especially when they concern the lives of children."

Lady Catriona nodded, adding, "We believe in fostering bonds naturally, rather than forcing arrangements. If this proposal is to be considered, we must first allow Liam and Lady Elara to meet and become acquainted."

Evelina turned to Lionel, her expression kind but firm. "If the two of them find each other agreeable and wish to build a connection, then we would gladly take their wishes into account. However, no decision will be made without their consent."

Lionel seemed to consider this for a moment before nodding. "A fair condition. I respect your approach, Lady Evelina. It’s only right that the young ones should have a say in their own futures. Perhaps they can meet tomorrow?"

Adrian inclined his head. "Very well. Let them meet and spend time together. But let us keep this matter private for now—there is no need to place unnecessary pressure on the children."

Lionel smiled, his posture relaxing. "Agreed. I look forward to seeing how they get along."

The conversation shifted soon after, but the proposal lingered in Liam’s mind long after the feast ended. As the family retired for the night, Adrian pulled Liam aside.

"You handled yourself well tonight," Adrian said, his voice kind. "Proposals like this may come again as you grow older. Remember, you always have the right to decide your own path."

Liam nodded, his thoughts swirling. The idea of meeting Lady Elara filled him with nervous anticipation. The world of nobles was far more complex than he had imagined, but with his family by his side, he felt ready to face whatever challenges came his way.

The next day would bring new experiences, and perhaps, the beginning of an unexpected friendship. Only time would tell if the Archduke’s proposal would lead to something more.