In the tranquil confines of her rest room, Rose's mind was a whirlwind of determination and strategy. As Karl slumbered in his work room, she had seized the moment to set her plans into motion. Her heart swelled with the desire to protect him, to ensure their future together was marked by strength and unity.
Turning to Tina, her steadfast maid and confidante, Rose made her request. "Tina, I need paper and pen. There's something I must do."
Tina quickly fetched the requested items, her curiosity piqued by Rose's determined expression. Rose set to work, carefully crafting two separate letters—a secret plan to empower Karl from within. One was addressed to her best friend, Lady Rosella Aaron Candice Lozetia, the daughter of Duke Joseph Aaron Candice Lozetia—one of the four powerful noble families in Flatenia. The other was for her parents, who had become pillars of support in her new life.
With a sense of purpose, Rose penned her intentions and aspirations. She outlined her determination to help Karl overcome the challenges he faced, to elevate his position and power within the intricate political landscape. The letters held her carefully thought-out strategies, ideas, and suggestions, all aimed at ensuring Karl's safety and their shared future.
Once the letters were completed, Rose entrusted them to Tina. "Tina, please give these letters to Sebastian. It's crucial that they're delivered directly to Lady Rosella and my parents."
Tina's understanding gaze met Rose's, and she nodded. "Of course, my lady. I'll make sure Sebastian delivers them safely."
Sebastian, the loyal butler who had served her family for years, was quick to grasp the significance of Rose's mission. Without hesitation, he departed the mansion, the letters in his possession, his steps purposeful and swift.
The morning sunlight filtered into Karl's room, casting a warm glow on his surroundings. He found himself awakening to the sight of Rose standing by his bedside. Her presence was both a surprise and a comfort, her words urging him to rise from his slumber.
"Are you finally awake, Karl?" she asked, her voice gentle yet determined. "I've prepared breakfast for you. Please get ready and follow me downstairs."
Karl, ever the reserved figure, followed Rose downstairs, where breakfast was enjoyed with quiet efficiency. He was about to rise from his seat, his mind already set on resuming his work, when Rose's words stopped him in his tracks.
"Please take a rest for one day, Karl," she implored. "You've worked so hard, and your body needs to rest. I'll handle all of your work. Please trust me, Karl."
He regarded her, his usually impassive expression betraying a flicker of uncertainty. Yet, deep down, he knew that Rose was more than capable. She had proven her dedication and competence before. With a silent nod, he allowed himself to yield to her wishes, understanding that he couldn't carry the weight of the world alone.
As Karl made his way to practice his sword skills, Rose dived into the tasks that had occupied his time. The day flew by, and before he knew it, the sun was beginning its descent. Karl returned from his practice, his muscles taut and sweat glistening on his skin.
Entering the mansion, he found Rose waiting by the entrance, a gentle smile on her lips. "Karl, I've prepared a bath for you. Please get cleaned up and come down for dinner. I'll be waiting in the dining room."
Karl's gaze met hers, his defenses momentarily lowering. In that moment, he allowed himself to acknowledge the care she had shown, the way she had shouldered his burdens. With a barely perceptible nod, he acknowledged her gesture and headed for his bath, his thoughts a mixture of gratitude and a growing sense of connection.
As he soaked in the warm water, Karl couldn't help but reflect on the changes that had occurred in his life since Rose's arrival. Her presence had brought with it a sense of warmth, a break in the cold solitude he had grown accustomed to. She had not only offered him respite but had also shown him a glimpse of a future where he wasn't alone in his struggles.
As the moon cast its gentle glow over the estate, Rose lay in a deep slumber in her rest room, exhaustion from her day's endeavors pulling her into a peaceful rest. Meanwhile, in his work room, Karl stood in the dim light, his expression serious as he conversed with Calos.
Calos had returned from a mission Karl had entrusted to him—an investigation into the threats that loomed over them. With a sense of urgency, Calos began to relay the disturbing information he had uncovered.
"Prince Karen's intentions are clear," Calos began, his voice steady but tinged with concern. "He plans to eliminate Lady Rose. He believes that by doing so, he can inflict more suffering upon you—make you feel helpless, unable to protect those close to you."
Karl's features hardened as he absorbed the gravity of the situation. The threat had escalated to a dangerous level, and he knew he couldn't take it lightly. While Karen might not yet know Rose's true identity, the intention to harm her was enough to put both of their lives in jeopardy.
"We must be prepared," Karl replied, his tone resolute. "I appreciate the information you've gathered, Calos. It's clear that Prince Karen won't rest until he succeeds in his twisted plan."
Calos nodded in agreement, his eyes reflecting his unwavering loyalty to Karl. "Indeed, my lord. Lady Rose's safety is paramount. We must take every precaution to ensure she remains unharmed."
Karl's thoughts churned with a mix of anger and determination. He had faced danger before, but the threat against Rose ignited a fierce protectiveness within him. He couldn't let history repeat itself, couldn't let another person he cared for be harmed.
"We'll need to strengthen our security measures," Karl declared, his voice carrying a steely resolve. "I won't allow anyone to lay a finger on Lady Rose. We'll be ready for whatever Prince Karen attempts."
Calos nodded once more, his commitment to Karl's cause unwavering. "I'll ensure that we have the best shadow knights on guard. We'll watch every corner, anticipate every move."
In the wake of the looming threat, Karl's mind was in constant motion, devising a plan that would not only safeguard Rose but also thwart the sinister intentions of Prince Karen. With a determined resolve, he turned to Calos, his steadfast confidant and right-hand man.
"Calos," Karl began, his voice firm, "we need to take a bold step. Send out invitations to all the nobilities for a welcome party in honor of Lady Rose."
Calos regarded him with a thoughtful expression, quickly grasping the implications of Karl's idea. "A welcome party, my lord? You intend to introduce Lady Rose to the nobilities?"
Karl nodded, his gaze unwavering. "Yes. It's time to reveal her identity openly. By doing so, we not only showcase her powerful family background but also the fact that she hails from another kingdom. This will make it harder for Queen Lily and Prince Karen to target her without facing political and potential warfare consequences."
Calos understood the significance of this move. It was a strategic maneuver that would not only strengthen their position but also serve as a shield against their adversaries. By bringing Lady Rose into the spotlight, they would create a barrier of protection that would make it difficult for their enemies to make a move without facing the repercussions of their actions.
"I'll get to work on the invitations immediately, my lord," Calos assured, his loyalty unwavering. "This will not only showcase Lady Rose's importance but also send a clear message that she is under your protection."
Karl's features softened slightly, a rare display of emotion. "Thank you, Calos. I won't let anyone harm her."
As Calos departed to execute his orders, Karl's thoughts were filled with determination and a renewed sense of purpose. The welcome party would mark a turning point—a declaration that Lady Rose was not just a noblewoman, but also his wife and his responsibility. With the nobilities gathered, they would stand united against the shadows