Augustus paced back and forth on his balcony, his mind racing with conflicting thoughts. He had danced with Alexandria, talked with her, and even found himself enjoying her company. But he couldn't shake off the feeling that something wasn't right.

He had always thought that a betrothal should be based on mutual affection and respect, not just political gain. He didn't know if he could ever truly love Alexandria, or if she could ever love him in return. He wondered if he was being too idealistic, or if he was just afraid of commitment.

he takes a deep breath and lets out a heavy sigh. "What am I to do?" he asks himself, his voice soft and almost inaudible. "I cannot deny that Alexandria is a kind and beautiful woman, but I still feel so uncertain about our betrothal. Is it because I am not ready to be tied down? Or is it because we truly are not meant to be?"

The wind picks up, and Augustus shivers slightly, pulling his cloak tighter around him. He gazes up at the stars, lost in thought. "I suppose it doesn't matter what I feel. My duty as the heir to the Marquis is to marry for the sake of our house. And Alexandria is a suitable match, at least on paper. But can I marry someone I do not love?"

He leans against the balcony railing, his eyes still fixed on the stars. "Perhaps I am being foolish," he muses aloud. "Love is not necessary for a successful marriage. Many of our ancestors have married for duty, and their unions were fruitful. But can I bear to spend the rest of my life with someone I do not truly care for?"

Augustus falls silent, lost in his thoughts. The only sounds are the gentle rustling of leaves in the wind and the distant sounds of the city. As he gazed upon the twinkling star.

But as he watches the star twinkle gazing upon what could have been if the car had not hit him could he have become one of the greatest scientists in human history to ever be remembered by all, he also thinks of how he should have valued the time he spent with his sister more even if it has been 27 years.

But on our female lead, as she retreated to her chambers, she couldn't shake off the feeling of unease that had settled in the pit of her stomach. She had come to this palace with a mission, to marry the heir of the Hallgerd family and secure an alliance with her own family. But now that the betrothal was set, she couldn't help but feel conflicted.

Augustus was a mystery to her, a puzzle she couldn't seem to solve. He was cold and distant, and she couldn't get a read on his emotions. Yet, there was something about him that drew her in. Perhaps it was his piercing blue eyes or the way his lips quirked up slightly when he was amused. Whatever it was, she couldn't deny the attraction she felt toward him.

As she entered her room, she walked to the balcony and gazed out at the stars. The peaceful silence of the night sky enveloped her, and she found herself lost in thought. She knew that Augustus was not going to make it easy for her to break through his cold exterior, but she was determined to try.

standing at her window, staring out into the dark sky. The stars sparkled above, a beautiful and peaceful sight. But her mind was far from peaceful.

She couldn't deny that Augustus intrigued her. There was something about him, something that drew her in. But at the same time, he was so closed off, so guarded. It was like trying to break through a wall of ice.

She didn't know what to feel about him. Was she ready to spend the rest of her life with someone she barely knew? But she was determined to find out. She couldn't let him keep his cold exterior forever. She had to break through to the real Augustus, the one she knew was hiding beneath the surface.

As she continued to stare out at the stars, her resolve grew stronger. She would find a way to break through to him, to make him see that there was more to life than duty and responsibility. She would make him see that they could have a future together, one that was filled with love and happiness.

"He may be closed off, but I will not give up," she whispered to herself, clenching her fists in determination. "I will make him see that there is more to life than just duty and obligation. I will show him that there is joy in love and happiness in companionship."

She took a deep breath and exhaled slowly, letting her thoughts settle. She knew that breaking through to Augustus would not be easy, but she was willing to try. For the sake of her family and the alliance, she would do whatever it takes to make their betrothal work.

As she turned to head back inside, she couldn't shake off the feeling that the road ahead would be a difficult one. But with her resolve and determination, she knew she was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

But as the night rolls on and the star twinkle, both of our protagonists head to bed to end their day in a sleepless night.

Next morning.

Augustus was once again buried under the paperwork that piled up on his desk. He looked at the stack of documents and contracts that needed to be signed and approved, feeling overwhelmed by the sheer amount of work that needed to be done. But he couldn't afford to waste any time. The production and raising of the title troops were on track and on time, and he needed to make sure everything was in order.

He sighed and rubbed his eyes, trying to shake off the exhaustion that had been weighing on him for days. As he looked out of the window, he noticed that the sun was already high up in the sky. He had been working for hours and hadn't even noticed the time passing by.

Suddenly, he heard a knock on his door, and Sebastian's voice calling out to him. "Young Master, it's time for breakfast and your sword practice."

Augustus got up from his chair, stretching his arms and legs, feeling stiff from sitting for too long. He grabbed his sword and made his way to the dining room, where a warm breakfast was waiting for him.

As he sat down to eat, he felt his spirits lift a little. The food was delicious, and the company of his loyal butler was always a comfort to him.

As Augustus sat down at the breakfast table, he noticed his father and Alexandria were already there. His father greeted him with a nod and a small smile, but Alexandria seemed to be struggling to find something to say.

"Good morning, Augustus," his father said, pouring him a cup of coffee. "How are the troop productions coming along?"

"They seem to be on track and progressing well," Augustus replied, taking a sip of his coffee.

Alexandria cleared her throat, looking at Augustus. "So, Augustus, what do you like to do in your free time?"

Augustus raised an eyebrow, slightly surprised by the question. "I don't have much free time," he replied curtly, returning to his breakfast.

Alexandria bit her lip, feeling defeated. She had hoped to break through Augustus's cold exterior, but it seemed that he was as unresponsive as ever.

As they ate in silence, Augustus's father tried to make small talk, but the atmosphere remained tense. Finally, the meal was finished, and Sabastian cleared the plates.

"Augustus, Sabastian informs me that it's time for your sword practice," his father said, standing up from the table.

Augustus nodded, rising from his seat. "Yes, I'll be on my way then."

Alexandria stood up as well. "I'll join you," she said, trying to sound casual.

Augustlanced at her, then made his way out of the room. Alexandria followed him but kept a safe distance.

As they made their way to the training yard, Alexandria racked her brain for something to say. "So, Augustus, have you always been skilled with a sword?"

Augustus shook his head, his eyes fixed on the yard ahead. "No, I've had to work hard to get to this level."

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Alexandria nodded, then fell silent. She watched as Augustus took up his sword, the movements of his body fluid and precise. She could tell that he was completely focused on his training, and she hesitated to interrupt.

As Augustus finished his practice and wiped the sweat from his forehead, Alexandria approached him. "You're quite skilled," she said, trying to sound genuine.

Augustus looked at her, then gave a small nod of acknowledgment. "Thank you," he said simply.

Alexandria bit her lip, feeling once again defeated. She had hoped to connect with Augustus, but it seemed that his focus was solely on his duties and training. She resolved to keep trying, though, determined to break through his cold exterior.

After breakfast, Augustus followed Sebastian to the courtyard, where he usually practiced his sword fighting. He wasn't particularly skilled at it, but he enjoyed the physical activity and the chance to let off some steam.

He took his stance and began practicing his moves, feeling the weight of the sword in his hand. As he moved through the routine, he felt a sense of calm come over him as if the sword was an extension of his body, and he was in complete control.

But even as he focused on his sword practice, his mind kept drifting back to Alexandria. He couldn't shake off the feeling of confusion and uncertainty that had been haunting him since their conversation the night before.

He didn't know what to make of her. On the one hand, she seemed kind and caring, and he could tell that she genuinely cared about him and his family. But on the other hand, he couldn't help feeling suspicious of her, wondering if she had ulterior motives for being so friendly.

Augustus arrived at the training yard for his sword practice. He was greeted by the sight of a knight, dressed in full armor and wielding a sword, waiting for him. The knight introduced himself as Sir Marcus, and Augustus realized that he was in for a tough time.

They began their practice, and Augustus quickly realized that Sir Marcus was on a completely different level than him. The knight's swordsmanship was effortless, and Augustus struggled to keep up with his attacks. Sir Marcus easily parried Augustus's attacks and delivered a swift strike to his shoulder, causing him to stumble back.

Augustus felt frustrated and embarrassed. He had always enjoyed swordplay, but it was clear that he was not in the same league as a knight. He tried to focus on his footwork and technique, but Sir Marcus's movements were too quick and precise for him to keep up with.

The knight offered him some advice, pointing out the flaws in his technique and telling him to focus on his stance and balance. Augustus took the advice to heart, but he knew that he had a lot of work to do if he wanted to become a competent swordsman.

As they continued their practice, Augustus became more and more determined to improve his skills. He pushed himself harder, trying to match Sir Marcus's speed and power. But no matter how hard he tried, he could not land a single blow on the knight.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity of clashing swords and sweating profusely, Augustus gave up, conceding defeat to Sir Marcus. He was disappointed in himself, but he knew that he had learned a valuable lesson. He had a long way to go before he could even come close to the skill of a true knight.

As Augustus and the knight take a break, Augustus chuckles and rubs his sore arm. "You know, I think you're getting soft on me. It used to be a challenge to spar with you."

The knight grins, wiping the sweat from his forehead. "Maybe it's because I've been going easy on you lately. Don't want to make you too discouraged."

Augustus laughs, "Oh, please. You know I can take it. Besides, if I don't get my ass kicked every once in a while, I won't improve."

The knight nods in agreement, "True enough. And you have been improving, Augustus. You've come a long way since we first started training together."

Augustus smiles, "Thanks. I appreciate the encouragement."

The two continue to chat and joke around as they take a break from sparring. Despite their difference in skill, they have become good friends over the years of training together.

Alexandria watches from the side, a small smile on her face as she sees Augustus loosen up and enjoy himself. She can't help but feel a twinge of jealousy that she can't seem to break through his cold exterior the way the knight and others can.

But when he left the training yard, Augustus felt a sense of determination. He vowed to work harder, train more diligently, and become a better swordsman. He knew that it would take time and effort, but he was willing to do whatever it takes to maybe qualify to be a true knight.

Alexandria approached the knight as he was taking a break from his sparring with Augustus. "Excuse me, may I speak with you for a moment?" she asked.

The knight turned to her and nodded. "Of course, Lady Alexandria. What can I do for you?"

"I was wondering if you could tell me more about Augustus. He's a bit difficult to read, and I'm not sure how to break past his cold exterior," Alexandria said, her voice laced with concern.

The knight smiled sympathetically. "Ah, I see. Augustus is a very private person. It takes time to get to know him and earn his trust."

Alexandria nodded, taking in the knight's words. "Do you have any advice on how to gain his trust?" she asked.

The knight thought for a moment before responding. "Be patient with him, Lady Alexandria. Augustus has been through a lot, and he's not one to open up easily. But if you show him that you're genuinely interested in him and that you care, he may start to let his guard down."

Alexandria took a deep breath, feeling a sense of determination wash over her. "Thank you for your advice. I'll do my best to earn Augustus's trust and break past his cold exterior," she said, with newfound confidence.

The knight smiled. "I do not doubt that you will, Lady Alexandria. Just be yourself, and everything will fall into place."

With that, Alexandria bid the knight farewell and made her way back to the castle, her mind swirling with thoughts of Augustus and how she could break through to him. Alexandria felt a tinge of disappointment but also determination. She was not going to let Augustus's cold exterior stop her from getting to know him better.

"Thank you for your advice," she said to the knight. "I will try my best to be patient and get to know him better."

The knight gave her a small smile. "Just be careful not to push him too hard. Augustus is a proud man and he doesn't take kindly to being forced to do something he doesn't want to do."

Alexandria nodded. "I understand. I'll be careful."

With that, she left the training grounds and made her way back to the castle. As she walked, she couldn't help but think about Augustus and how she could break through his walls.

She knew it was going to be a challenge, but she was determined to make it happen. She had never met anyone like Augustus before, and she was intrigued by him. There was something about him that drew her to him, something she couldn't quite put her finger on.

When she reached the castle, she saw Augustus's father walking down the hallway. She decided to approach him and see if he had any insight on how to get through to Augustus.

"Good morning, Your Grace," she said with a small curtsy.

"Good morning, my dear," he replied with a smile. "What brings you to the castle this morning?"

"I was just at the training grounds watching Augustus practice his sword fighting," she said. "I was hoping to get to know him better, but he seems to be very closed off. Do you have any advice on how to break through to him?"

The Duke sighed. "Augustus has always been a private person. He's not one to share his thoughts and feelings with others. But I can tell you that he's a good man at heart. He just needs some time to warm up to people."

Alexandria nodded. "Thank you, Your Grace. I'll keep that in mind."

As the Duke walked away, Alexandria couldn't help but feel a sense of frustration. She knew that patience was key, but it was hard when she was so eager to get to know Augustus better. She just hoped that one day he would let her in.

As Augustus returned to his work, he couldn't help but feel distracted. He kept sneezing and couldn't shake the feeling that someone was talking about him. He wondered if Alexandria had mentioned him to the knight or if Sabastian was discussing his progress with the title troop.

With a sigh, he pushed those thoughts aside and focused on the paperwork in front of him. He had a lot to get through and didn't want to fall behind schedule. But as the hours ticked by, his mind kept drifting back to the events of the morning.

He couldn't deny that he enjoyed the banter with Alexandria and the knight during breakfast. It was a nice change of pace from the usual tense atmosphere at the castle. But at the same time, he was wary of getting too comfortable around them. He didn't want to let his guard down and reveal too much about himself.

As the day wore on, Augustus became increasingly tired and irritable. He couldn't concentrate on the paperwork and found himself making careless mistakes. He longed to go outside and take a walk to clear his head, but he knew he had to finish his work first.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Augustus completed the last of his paperwork. He let out a sigh of relief and leaned back in his chair, rubbing his eyes. He glanced at the clock and saw that it was already late afternoon.

He decided to take a break and stretch his legs. He got up from his desk and made his way to the courtyard. The sun was still shining, casting a warm glow over the castle walls. Augustus took a deep breath and closed his eyes, savoring the fresh air.

As he walked, he couldn't help but think about Alexandria. He wondered what she was doing at that moment and if she was still thinking about him. He shook his head, chiding himself for getting distracted again. He needed to focus on his duties and not let his personal life interfere.

With a determined mindset, Augustus headed back to his study to make the wheel of bureaucracy roll with efficiency.