"Your Grace, Duke Ashbourne," Imperial Princess Eliana said, her voice dripping with curiosity and a hint of accusation. "I've been wondering... where did you find your daughter? Didn't the Ashbourne duchy declare her death years ago?"
She paused, studying Lucifer's expression. "You hadn't been searching for her. I presume it's as if Lady Riona Ashbourne materialized out of thin air."
Lucifer's gaze narrowed, his jaw clenched. "What are you insinuating, Princess?"
Eliana's smile was a thin, icy line. "Merely seeking clarification, Your Grace. The Ashbourne family's secrecy surrounding Riona's past raises questions. Is she truly your daughter, or is she an imposter?"
"Your Highness, Riona is indeed my daughter, my flesh and blood," Duke Ashbourne declared, his voice firm and authoritative. "My wife had hair just like her; a rare and beautiful trait."
