The Duché de Valoire, with its capital Soliére, a formidable stronghold, situated in the southwest region that borders the Great Forest from the Kingdom of Rivoisé. With its dense forests, and fertile land, Duché de Valoire stood as one the most formidable in the realm. The dukes of Valoire were mostly tasked for defending the kingdom from the unknown creatures of the Great Forest.
The current Duc de Valoire is Monsieur Antoine de Valoire, 53 years old. A trusted general and advisor to both the late King Philippe III and the current monarch, 25 year-old King Lucien II de Rivoisé, Duc Antoine had proven himself time and again on the battlefield. He once fought with the king in the battle of Sanguine Plains against the Fouliér faction, whom that supports the Monsieur le Duc d'Fouliér, the king's cousin, as their king. Having outlived most of his children, only his 19 year-old daughter, Madame Claire de Valoire, heiress of the Duché, remains.
On this particular afternoon, winter of year 567, the duchy celebrated the feast of St. Louise. As the king's carriage approached, Duc Antoine stood uptight, ready to welcome his liege into his manor.
"Your Majesty!" Duc Antoine said, bowing respectfully as King Lucien disembarked from the carriage. "I welcome you to my manor once again."
"Ah, my most trusted general, Monsieur de Valoire," the king said, clasping the duc's hand in greeting. "It is always a pleasure to visit Valoire. How fare are you and your family these days?"
"We fare well, Sire," the Duc replied, gesturing for the king to follow him inside. "Please, allow me to present my esteemed household."
As they entered the manor, the Duc led the King through the grand hall, proudly introducing him to his retinue and vassals. The king's presence lent an air of excitement and significance to the gathering, his charm and demeanor putting everyone at ease.
"How is Valoire lately?" King Lucien asked, once they were seated in the opulent banquet hall. "Any news or information that requires my attention?"
"Valoire prospers, thanks to your recent aid, Sire," Duc Antoine replied, his tone respectful yet firm. "However, there are matters of grave importance that I wish to discuss with you."
"Very well, Monsieur de Valoire," King Lucien replied, his expression serious. "We shall discuss these matters after we've enjoyed our feast."
"As you wish, Sire," Duc Antoine nodded, concealing his concerns beneath a mask of composure. "Please, allow me to lead the way."
As the feast began, the hall filled with the sounds of laughter and conversation, the mood festive and jovial. Musicians played a lively music that added to cheerful atmosphere. The aroma of smoked meat lingers around the hall as they were served to the guests.
Moments later, a gorgeous woman entered the hall, her presence commanded attention. Her attire is lavish and meticulously detailed, featuring a dress with an elaborate corset and jewel adornments, which are typical of aristocratic fashion. The dress is further embellished with intricate lace around the neckline and patterned puffy sleeves, adding to the opulence of her ensemble. Around her neck, she wears a necklace with a striking blue gem pendant, complementing the blue patterns on her sleeves. The woman is one of elegance and nobility, befitting the daughter of a duke.
King Lucien's gaze was drawn to her effortless poise and the warmth of her smile, which lit up the room like the sun.
"My daughter, Miss Claire de Valoire, Sire," the duc said as he proudly introduced his daughter to the king.
"It is my pleasure to meet you, Your Majesty," Claire said with a charming smile as she bowed and greeted the king. "Your noble exploits are known throughout the land."
"Your beauty also emanates in this very room, Madame," King Lucien replied, gallantly kissing Claire's hand, their eyes meeting in a brief yet tantalizing moment.
Claire maintained her joyful expression. "You flatter me, Sire."
"Shall we grace the dance floor with our presence?" King Lucien suggested, his voice carrying a hint of invitation.
"With pleasure, Sire." Claire accepted, her hand resting lightly in the king's as they made their way to the dance floor.
As they danced, their movements fluid and graceful, drawing the attention of the guests around them. The music smoothly flowed with every step, completely immersing themselves in the process.
Meanwhile, Duc Antoine observed the exchange from afar, a proud smile tugging at the corners of his lips. His daughter's elegance and the king's charm were a sight to behold.
The feast lasted until night, as it drew to a close and the guests departed, Duc Antoine escorted King Lucien to his private office, the weight of their impending discussion hanging heavy in the air.
"I trust you enjoyed the feast?" Duc Antoine remarked as they settled on their seats.
"It was a splendid affair, Antoine," King Lucien remarked, taking a seat opposite the Duc.
"Now, let us address the issues that weigh upon your mind," King Lucien said, his gaze steady as he awaited Duc Antoine's proposal.
"Before we proceed, I must offer my condolences again for the passing of the late queen," Duc Antoine began, his tone gloomy. "It's been four years, I hope you are faring well, Sire."
"I appreciate your words, Antoine," King Lucien replied, his expression grave. "It has been a trying time for the royal family, but we shall endure."
"I feel your deep sorrow, Sire." Duc Antoine continued, his voice gentle yet insistent. "However, isn't it time to find a new queen, Sire?"
King Lucien's brow furrowed in thought, his mind grappling with the weight of Duc Antoine's suggestion. After a moment of contemplation, he met the duc's gaze with determination.
"Is that the urgent matter you want to talk about, Monsieur Antoine?" King Lucien conceded.
"Indeed." Duc Antoine replied, a glimmer of anticipation in his eyes. "I would like to arrange a marriage between you and my daughter."
King Lucien's gaze softened as he considered the question.
"That is quite a proposal, Monsieur Antoine," King Lucien said, his voice measured. "But what do you hope to gain from such an arrangement?"
"Enemies flock around the corner, and my time is almost here, Sire. I wish for the security of my daughter when I pass on. Our union shall secure our hold in this kingdom," said the duc. King Lucien pondered, weighing the implications of the duc's words.
After a moment of consideration, the king nodded slowly. "That is a valid point, Monsieur de Valoire." he said finally. "I also find your daughter to be interesting. She exudes elegance, enough to pique my interest."
"However." The king warned. "The Roise Faction shall not take this too lightly."
"Don't worry, Sire." Antoine replied. "With my influence together with your prowess, they won't have a choice but to approve of this arrangement."
"Indeed," King Lucien thoughtfully said. "You're allied with Duc de Montaigne. With our union, I shall gain the support of the nobility from the western region."
"Very well, I hereby accept your proposal." King Lucien said as he stood up from his seat. "Monsieur de Valoire, I would like to request your daughter's hand in marriage."
"I'm glad we're on the same page, Your Majesty," said the Duc as he also stood up from his seat. "I will inform my daughter tomorrow. I'm sure she will be delighted to marry you, Sire."
"Very well, Duc de Valoire," said the king as he stood, extending his hand to Duc Antoine. Then, he raised a glass of wine on the table, "Let us raise a glass to the future of Valoire and Rivoisé!"
They continued to talk about their plans for the future. Their meeting ended and the king retired in his bedchamber at the duc's manor, preparing for departure tomorrow. The duke also retired in his bedchamber, ending the feast at his manor at once.
While these events unfold, a figure slipped silently from the shadows of the duc's manor. Unlike the radiant beauty she had exuded earlier in the day, she now wore a hood as dark as the night itself.
She walked out of the manor, avoiding the guards. Making her way through the western district of the city, she went to a nearby inn, where she was to meet someone deeply familiar after reading a letter about his return. A clandestine meeting in the Duché de Valoire.