"Joe?"

Joe gazed at his father, lost in thought. He then said, "Another war could start at any time."

Jeffrey shook his head, gripping Joe's shoulders firmly. "Son, no, war isn't..."

"Inevitable," Joe finished his father's sentence. "War will always come. One day, I'll be forced to join and leave you behind. You'll be old, tired, and in need of care. Even if you refuse to marry that noblewoman, this village, Lady Ita's village, and other villages will suffer at the hands of another noble family."

Jeffrey noticed Joe's trembling hands, prompting Joe to admit, "I'm scared, honestly. One day, I'll have to fight to death......... Dying seems too simple."

Jeffrey embraced Joe, who spoke bitterly, "Mother died, Kaelen died, Titus died so easily. It will happen anyway. At least if I go to war, I'll know someone is taking care of you."

Tomorrow morning, Joe set out to deliver messages to neighbouring villages, while Jeffrey remained at home reading a book, awaiting Bot and Rhothomir.

Suddenly, there was a soft knock on the door. Jeffrey stood up and called out, "I'm coming!"

Opening the door, he found Lyra standing there with a smile. "Good morning, Jeffrey."

Jeffrey nodded warmly. "I've been expecting you, Lyra."

Jeffrey smiled as he handed her a purse filled with coins. Lyra looked surprised and asked, "For what? I..."

Jeffrey gently placed the purse into her hands and said sincerely, "For taking care of my son for a year while I was away. Thank you."

Lyra looked at the purse in her hands, visibly moved. "But... that's a lot. Please tell me you're not blaming yourself for Edmund's death?"

Jeffrey averted his gaze, his voice heavy with emotion as he recalled Edmund. "Edmund... he saved me once, you know?"

Lyra's demeanour softened as she listened intently.

"We were mining in the cave, a year after I lost Basil, Beatrice's father," Jeffrey continued. "The roof suddenly started shaking. I helped others escape but couldn't save myself... I never told Beatrice this, but Edmund didn't stop throwing big rocks until he rescued me. His arms were broken, yet he kept digging until I was safe."

Jeffrey sighed deeply, his voice filled with regret. "So... seeing him dead, it scarred me deeply. I've had nothing but nightmares, Lyra. Just nightmares I can't shake. That's why I want to help you. It's not just for your sake, but for my own sanity. Please accept it as a token of appreciation for your hard work. And I'm sorry I couldn't save Edmund."

Lyra nodded in understanding, clutching the purse tightly. "I forgave you, Jeffrey, I did a long time ago, but did you forgive yourself?"

Jeffrey coughed, his throat so dry he feared he might cough up blood. He shook his head and managed to say, "Sorry........ Lyra. I'll......... see y.........you later."

Lyra nodded understandingly as Jeffrey entered the house. In the kitchen, he hurried to drink water, sighing as he touched his parched throat, feeling the desert-like dryness in his throat.

After quenching his thirst, he sank into a chair, memories flooding his mind. He shook his head, his gaze fixed on the door of the house, whispering to himself, "Joe? Where are you, kid? Please... don't leave me alone!"

After three hours, Rhothomir and Bot knocked on the door, and Jeffrey opened it. Immediately, Rhothomir looked concerned and asked, "Jeffrey? Are you sick?"

Jeffrey shook his head. "No, let's come in and finish our discussion."

Once seated, Bot nervously fidgeted with his hands while Rhothomir patted his back reassuringly. Bot's anxiety stemmed from one overwhelming concern: his daughter's future, something he would do anything to secure.

Jeffrey sat down and, after taking a quick breath to steel himself for a new and unfamiliar path, he began, "I agree to..."

Bot sighed deeply, relief washing over him as he covered his face, his breathing heavy as if he might faint from the tension. "Thank you, Jeffrey! You will..."

Jeffrey interrupted him firmly. "I haven't finished, Bot."

Bot appeared puzzled, shifting his gaze between Rhothomir and Jeffrey. "You accepted, then?"

Jeffrey nodded resolutely. "Yes, but under certain conditions. If you cannot agree to them, you'll need to find another suitor for your daughter."

Bot nodded eagerly. "Yes, yes! Just lay out your conditions. I'll pay whatever you ask!"

Jeffrey faced Bot squarely. "I will marry your daughter, but I won't touch her for three years. During that time, we won't live together."

Bot's confusion only deepened further. "Why three years? Once you're husband and wife, sharing a house, even a damn mansion, is normal, isn't it?"

Jeffrey responded firmly, "My wife passed away a year ago, my Beatrice's funeral was just last week. I'm not a man who would seek comfort with other women immediately after losing his own. My wife meant everything to me, and no one can replace her. That's my first condition."

Bot nodded in agreement. "That's acceptable. Just marrying my daughter and ensuring that king won't lay a hand on her is sufficient for me. What are your other conditions?"

Jeffrey stated confidently, "I intend to develop this region into a thriving community for everyone. I need your assistance as my father-in-law and an experienced merchant. Managing finances and directing investments will come naturally to you. I rely on you to be my right hand in leadership, and naturally, I will reward your dedication with additional compensation ONCE our region achieves wealth and prosperity."

Bot raised his hands in acceptance, saying, "Agreed. Anything else?"

"That's all," Jeffrey replied. "Are you committed to this journey with me, Bot? Are your heart and soul in this endeavour with mine?"

Bot nodded firmly, gripping Jeffrey's hand tightly. "Yes, I'm with you. I've got your back, and you've got mine, son."

Two weeks later, Rhothomir and Bot returned to Celea city. Their carriage arrived at a grand mansion and came to a halt.

Stepping out, Bot sighed wearily from the long journey. Rhothomir called out, "Uncle?"

Bot waved his hands dismissively. "Just go. I've had you with me for a whole month, visiting many places, the last being Gostave's house. Get back to your duties."

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Rhothomir nodded, walking towards the gates where he would then take a brief stroll to his office at the Royal Offices. However, he paused near the gates upon hearing his uncle.

"Thank you, son."

Rhothomir turned to see Bot looking at him gratefully. "Thank you for everything. I'll reward you handsomely when..."

Rhothomir shook his head firmly, stating, "That doesn't work with me, Uncle."

Bot sighed in annoyance as he said, "Alright, when I have time, you, me, and Evangeline will pack some food and head to the forest for a picnic, like we used to in the past. Is that good for you?"

Rhothomir nodded enthusiastically, smiling. "Better than coins, I like that. I'm eagerly looking forward to it."

Bot returned the smile as guards opened the gates for Rhothomir, who departed for his duties. Inside the mansion, Bot was greeted by bowing maids and servants. "Welcome back, sir!"

Bot acknowledged them with a nod as he made his way towards the stairs, lost in thought. With each step, memories flooded back, unforgettable despite his efforts.

"She's a mean woman! From the moment I first saw her, I knew what kind of person she is!"

Bot looked away, his gaze fixed on the stairs leading to the second floor.

"Look at her, all beautiful and well-dressed. That won't hide her terrible attitude!"

Bot stared at the staircase ahead.

"She's lucky her father is a noble and a wealthy merchant, or else no one would waste a moment with her!"

Reaching the second floor, Bot was weary as he approached the doors of a large room.

"That woman... I've even heard her own mother didn't like her!"

"Hahahahaha, that's why she passed away. She couldn't handle her daughter or even be around her!"

Bot reached the door but hesitated to knock, lost in his memories.

"She's a horrible person. Even my brother called off his engagement with her!"

"Hahaha, you never told me that!"

Bot forced a smile, his eyes widening. "You just couldn't see it. Your friends were more trustworthy to you than my words. It's a good thing you didn't marry my daughter."

"I regret to inform you, sir, but I must cancel my engagement to your daughter. I've found a good woman. I'm sorry."

Bot turned away, muttering, "Good riddance. We don't need you, and she certainly doesn't need you. We'll be just fine."

"I'll tell you this, and I'm never wrong: she'll end up paying men to sleep with her because that's what happens to an arrogant woman with nothing good about her except her looks!"

"Hahahaha, that's true. She'll end up begging for bastard children!"

Bot sighed as he knocked on the door. After a moment, a maid with tall red hair and striking green eyes appeared. She was tall and possessed an undeniable beauty, though dressed in the modest attire of a maid, her demeanour exuded the presence of someone of high rank within the noble household.

She regarded Bot respectfully and said, "Lord Bot, welcome back home. Please come in."

Bot smiled warmly, saying, "Agatha, I missed you."

Agatha returned the smile. "I missed you too. Was your journey successful?"

"For the most part, but the important thing is that I accomplished what I set out to do."

Agatha's eyes widened in delight as she clapped her hands. "I knew you could do it!"

Bot smiled proudly. "Yes, now all that's left is finding someone worthy to marry you."

Agatha blushed and chuckled. "No need to rush. First, let's finish planning this wedding."

Bot nodded thoughtfully. "I heard the Rox noble house is preparing for a wedding. Did they send invitations?"

Agatha frowned, looking away and crossing her arms in annoyance. "Yes, but only to you and me."

Bot turned to Agatha with concern. "Just for us? What happened to the invitations?"

"I threw them in the fire," Agatha replied firmly. "Curse their wedding. I'm not going, and neither are you. They disrespect Evangeline. They've always been jealous of her."

Bot nodded in agreement. "We will..."

"Father?"

A gentle hand took hold of Bot's shoulders, and a soft yet firm voice said, "I missed you, father."

Bot's shoulders eased as he looked at his daughter, Evangeline, in her long tael hair and blue dress. With her orange eyes and a beautiful smile, she hugged Bot. He replied, "Daughter, I missed you too. I hope you're alright."

Evangeline nodded. "I'm with Agatha, so everything is fine. And you? Was your journey safe and successful?"

Bot nodded wearily and stood up. "I'm exhausted, but we need to talk. Let's sit on the couch."

After settling onto a large cozy couch, Agatha brought three cups of honey and lemon tea, serving Bot and Evangeline before joining them.

Bot spoke first. "Daughter, I've found a man for you. His name is Jeffrey Gostave, a war champion respected in the eastern region. With him, the king will never approach you, EVER!"

Evangeline nodded, saying, "Thank you for helping me, father, and for always protecting me. But can I ask some questions?"

Bot nodded. "Of course. Agatha, please send the messenger. Tell him to announce that my daughter is to be married in the next two months to Jeffrey Gostave. Please hurry."

Agatha nodded and walked out of the chamber. Once she closed the door behind her, she jumped with joy, thrilled that her friend Evangeline was finally getting married.

As she jumped happily, two maids stared at her in confusion. Agatha quickly composed herself and said, "You two, back to work!"

The maids nodded and hurried to the third floor to continue their duties.

After they left, Agatha smiled as she descended to the first floor to fulfil Bot's request.

In Evangeline's chamber, Bot responded to her question, saying, "He is a good man, brave man."

Evangeline nodded, asking further, "And his wife died last year? Isn't he a womanizer who just wanted to marry another woman at the first opportunity?"

Bot shook his head, smiling. "You don't know how much effort it took to convince him. He was stubbornly honourable. People like him often succeed in being good people but not necessarily good businessmen."

Evangeline nodded understandingly, saying, "Sorry for asking so many questions. I'm just afraid, father."

Bot looked at Evangeline and smiled reassuringly as she continued, "I'm afraid I won't be happy, that I'll suffer. Maybe I am a bad person and all those noble women were right, father."

Bot shook his head gently, saying, "No... No, no, no, daughter. You are a kind girl. You've done nothing wrong. They were jealous of you, and this man will protect you. He is who your mother would have chosen."

Evangeline softened, placing her head on Bot's head, who continued, "You are a good girl, remember that. You will live happily. Agatha and I will be by your side all the time, alright?"

Evangeline nodded, and then Agatha entered the chamber, saying, "Lord Bot, I've prepared a light dinner for you, a hot bath to help you relax, and your bed is ready. The messenger has also been dispatched to spread the news."

Bot nodded wearily, "Let's go eat. I'm tired, hungry, and everything hurts."

Evangeline then stood up and asked, "Father, I forgot to ask, where will I live with Jeffrey?"

Bot turned to her and explained, "You will stay here for three years. After that, you will move to Eldoria City."

Both Evangeline and Agatha looked puzzled and glanced at Bot for clarification. Bot continued, "His wife passed away last year. Out of respect for her, he won't live with you until three years have passed."

Evangeline nodded, touched by Jeffrey's gesture of respect. She had never heard of a man doing something like this before. Agatha looked at Evangeline warmly and said, "You're marrying a man, a true man, darling."

Bot sighed, and both Evangeline and Agatha turned to him. He said with a playfully annoyed face, "That man will be a thorn in my side, I assure you of that."

Agatha and Evangeline smiled as Bot walked out of the chamber. He made his way to the dining room with a smile on his face, thinking to himself, "He may be annoying, but I like that kid."

Meanwhile, in Goven village, it was nighttime, and the villagers were gathered for a meeting. Cox, Safle and her husband, Tyka and Urien, Joe and Lyra, and all the villagers listened intently as Jeffrey finished his tale, saying, "And that's the end. I will become a noble."

The villagers nodded in agreement. Lyra spoke with a warm smile, "I'm happy for you, Jeffrey. You'll lead us to prosperity. I believe in you."

Tyka, Urien, and the others expressed their agreement, but then Cox stood up with a furrowed brow. "It's a good thing you're not living with that noblewoman for three years. So, there was no need for this."

Cox revealed an iron hammer he was carrying, he used it for his job, he said while staring at it intently. "If you had really married that noblewoman and lived with her right away, I swear on my mother and father's souls that I would have cracked your skull open with this."

Jeffrey nodded earnestly. "You know I love and respect..."

"I don't care," Cox interrupted Jeffrey abruptly, his voice heavy with emotion. "I thought... I made a mistake, thinking you would forget Beatrice. She was like my daughter, a daughter I couldn't save that day."

The villagers bowed their heads, recalling the tragic night. Joe trembled as memories flooded his mind, watching Cox with a bitter voice. "I thought maybe you would forget her... that's why... I... I..."

Cox choked back tears, and Jeffrey approached him, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder. Cox looked at Jeffrey earnestly and said, "Don't... Don't ever forget your wife, Beatrice. Never forget her, EVER! Do you hear me, Jeffrey!?"

Jeffrey nodded solemnly, a tear slipping down his cheek at the mention of Beatrice's name. He briefly lowered his head, then lifted it to find all the villagers looking at him, their expressions varied-some tearful, some resolute-as they regarded him as their leader.

"I will never forget Beatrice," Jeffrey declared firmly. "I will never forget Edmund, Kaelen... I will never forget the people we buried in this village's ground... And if someday I dare to forget..."

Jeffrey turned to Cox, his expression serious. "You can then split my damn skull with that hammer!"