Ludwig appeared dejected, and witnessing his pain only added to my own turmoil. I knew that my decision hurt him deeply, yet I couldn't ignore the necessity of it.
"Did I do something wrong?" His voice was filled with remorse and desperation. "I know I failed you before, and I'm sorry. But I promise, Louise, I will never let anyone hurt you again. Please, just give me another chance. I..."
Tears streamed down my face uncontrollably. I couldn't hold it in any longer. "I am Amelia's daughter," I confessed abruptly, before I could reconsider.
I avoided looking at him, afraid of seeing anger or disappointment in his eyes. If this was to be our final meeting, I wanted to remember Ludwig with a sense of innocence and beauty, not anger.
When he didn't react immediately, I forced myself to meet his gaze. Instead of anger, I saw doubt in his eyes.
"Are you sure?" His voice was surprisingly soft, leaving me unsure of his emotions. I nodded firmly, though his expression remained filled with disbelief.
"The woman who killed your father, stole the Ones, and caused chaos in your whole kingdom is my mother," I admitted, closing my eyes as I spoke.
To my surprise, instead of reacting angrily, Ludwig asked curiously, "How can you say that she's your mother?"
I took a deep breath before explaining, "Although I have no memories of my parents, and I can't recall my mother's name, her face is etched into my core memories. Every detail, every feature, is vivid in my mind."
"Are you certain about this?" Ludwig inquired again.
With a hesitant nod, I replied, "Yes, I am."
Ludwig paused, deep in thought, before continuing, "When I first sensed your blood in Primotheus, I realized that you are my Fate. But I also sensed a connection to Amelia. However, I am certain she is not your mother. The bond in your blood is not pure enough for a mother-daughter relationship."
I listened intently, feeling a mix of emotions. A glimmer of hope emerged within me at the possibility that Amelia might not be my actual mother. However, it left me questioning my identity as her supposed daughter.
"I brought you here with me because I thought you could help us find her. Initially, I doubted that maybe you were sent as a spy to gather information," Ludwig admitted, his gaze averted as he spoke. I was taken aback by his words, my mind racing with a mix of confusion and disbelief.
"It's difficult to believe your story of coming from the human world when we could sense that you're not human at all. Your tale is further cast in doubt by the fact that the only way to the human world is through portals, and we know none have been opened. Moreover, it's highly unlikely that you would be unaffected by a Sealing Charm," Ludwig continued, his tone somber.
My body tensed, a sudden chill running through me as his words sank in. The realization that Ludwig and others had probed into my mind left me feeling vulnerable and exposed. Despite my preparation for his reaction upon learning of my connection to Amelia, hearing these suspicions from him still stung deeply.
"But as time passed and you took no action, we decided to delve into your memories," Ludwig confessed, his discomfort evident. His revelation only deepened my confusion, leaving me with more questions than answers.
"Alexa cast a spell allowing us to delve into your past," I heard Ludwig confess, leaving me uncertain of my emotions. "This spell isn't simple. It can only be cast a few times on a person, granting just half an hour to explore their memories."
"So that's why you know my full name, even though I've never shared it with anyone in this world," I realized, the pieces starting to fit together.
Ludwig nodded, confirming my suspicions. "I'm really sorry," he said, his gaze shifting to the side. "I did it because..."
"I understand," I interrupted, exhaling deeply. "You had to do it to ensure I'm not one of your enemies."
I felt a wave of irritation wash over me as I grappled with the invasion of my privacy, yet simultaneously, I couldn't deny understanding his rationale.
"I understand your motives," I stated evenly. "Given the weight of responsibility on your shoulders, safeguarding your family, people, and the kingdom from potential threats is paramount. Especially considering my familial ties to the woman who nearly brought ruin upon the kingdom. However, I can't ignore my discomfort at your intrusion into my memories without consent."
Ludwig's gaze dropped, and he nervously bit his lip. While I had every right to be angry, a single glance at his troubled expression softened my resolve.
"Once we found no trace of Amelia in your memories and realized your origins from the human world, the situation grew more complex," Ludwig explained, his voice tinged with concern.
"I kept our connection a secret because if it's true that you have no ties to Amelia despite sharing her blood, there's a high chance she would seek to eliminate you upon discovering you have a stronger claim to the throne than she does," Ludwig elaborated, his explanation filling me with an overwhelming sense of happiness that seemed to lift me off the ground.
His actions weren't driven by shame or embarrassment. Rather, he had concealed our bond to ensure my safety.
"I don't understand why your mother resembles Amelia, but I can assure you she's not your biological mother because your bloodlines are different," he asserted confidently, leaving no room for doubt.
While I comprehended Ludwig's explanation, a part of my heart still clung to the hope that Amelia wasn't my mother. The complexity of the situation weighed heavily on me, and I found myself praying fervently that Amelia wasn't tied to me by blood.
"Even if it turns out that she is your biological mother, it doesn't change the fact that you are my Fate. You shouldn't bear the burden of her sins," Ludwig stated firmly, his tone serious and resolute.
His words widened my eyes, and I felt a sense of liberation wash over me, as if invisible shackles had been lifted. Ludwig observed my reaction intently, furrowing his brow, before a look of realization dawned in his eyes.
"Did you believe I would be angry if I discovered you and Amelia are related?" Ludwig's words struck a chord within me, though I couldn't meet his gaze as he spoke. "Is that why you've been pushing me away?"
I wanted to assure him that I wasn't rejecting him, but I hesitated, realizing that my actions had conveyed otherwise earlier.
"I couldn't care less," he continued, a hint of irritation in his voice. "I'm not that shallow, Louise. I may have a hot temper, but I'm not foolish. Whether she's your mother or not, her sins aren't yours because you didn't participate in them. They were her choices, not yours. She's just your mother."
Ludwig pulled me into a hug, and for the first time, I didn't resist.
"Is that why you were considering leaving?" Ludwig's voice softened, offering comfort. I couldn't find words to respond to his question. He sighed, a faint smile playing on his lips. "Now that we've cleared the air, you're staying, right?" His hopefulness tugged at my heartstrings.
"Who are you?" I blurted out, unable to contain my curiosity. "What have you done with the Ludwig I used to know?"
He looked at me strangely, clearly puzzled by my question.
"Why are you suddenly so outspoken? That's not like you," I remarked, trying to suppress any hint of amusement.
I anticipated a scowl or irritation from Ludwig, but what I didn't expect was for him to blush. Yes, blush—his face turning a shade of red, his cheeks flushed, and a shy smile gracing his lips.
"Are you blushing?" I teased, unable to hold back my laughter.
"Shut up," Ludwig retorted, looking away and clearing his throat, his embarrassment evident.
I continued laughing, which only seemed to darken Ludwig's expression.
"You're definitely blushing," I stated amidst giggles.
"Enough, Louise," he replied, trying to mask his embarrassment.
I struggled to contain my laughter, but it escaped in bursts, much to Ludwig's annoyance evident in his exasperated stare.
In a moment of frustration, Ludwig unexpectedly lifted me, eliciting a surprised scream from me. Before I could react further, we were back on the bed, with him panting heavily beside me.
"You're not leaving my side," Ludwig's voice was firm, almost commanding, yet I sensed a hint of self-assurance in his eyes as he spoke those words.
We lay in silence on the bed, returning to a familiar closeness as Ludwig embraced me tightly with all his limbs, his favorite stance.
I hesitated at the sudden intimacy between us, feeling like everything was moving too fast. Slowly, I attempted to create some distance between our bodies, but Ludwig swiftly pulled me back, our chests pressing against each other, his rapid heartbeat syncing with mine.
"Let me rest for a bit," Ludwig's tone was serious as he spoke. "I've depleted my energy after transforming into my Ascendant form." He sounded genuinely fatigued, so I acquiesced and allowed him to rest, though I still felt self-conscious about our current situation and position.
I contemplated getting up from the bed, but I was afraid of disturbing Ludwig's rest, so I remained still, not daring to move. It was the least I could do to help him recover.
As a few minutes passed in silence, I observed Ludwig's sleeping face intently. Only then did I notice the numerous scars that adorned his skin, gradually healing over time. His arm was wrapped in a bandage, a reminder of the encounter with Amelia's black fire. I felt an urge to reach out and touch him, but I restrained myself.
I let out a sigh, feeling a mix of emotions. I was elated by the unexpected turn of events—Ludwig's confession of love was something I hadn't anticipated. I had feared that revealing my connection to Amelia would anger him, yet here we were, sharing a tender moment. It felt like the sky had granted me a miracle.
But amidst the joy, I was still overwhelmed by my thoughts, feeling a bit dazed by the whirlwind of emotions and revelations.
As the realization that Ludwig wanted to marry me sank in, my heart raced with a mixture of excitement and anxiety. His declaration from earlier echoed in my mind, filling me with both joy and uncertainty.
Questions swirled in my mind, casting doubt despite my desire to trust in Ludwig's love and his efforts to protect me. Was his love genuine? And why did everything feel like it was moving so quickly?
Furthermore, the idea of marriage raised more questions. We hadn't even started courting, and now marriage was on the table? I didn't even know Ludwig's surname. How could we consider marriage already?
Then there was the looming possibility of becoming the Queen of the Fire Kingdom in Fortunalia. I was completely unprepared for such a role. I knew nothing about being a queen. What if Ludwig was just acting out of obligation or duty, and he would regret it later? The uncertainty weighed heavily on my mind.
"What's the problem?"
Ludwig's sudden question startled me, nearly causing me to scream in surprise. However, I quickly realized that he was awake, his eyes still closed.
"It's nothing," I replied, turning away from him and trying to find a comfortable position to sleep. My mind buzzed with thoughts, but my body yearned for rest.
"What's wrong, Louise?" Ludwig's voice was soft as he moved closer on the bed, resting his face on my shoulder as we lay there.
I swallowed nervously, trying to collect my thoughts while ignoring the gentle caresses of his hand that tickled my hair.
We lapsed into silence once more, the only sound being our synchronized breathing. Eventually, I spoke softly, unable to contain my curiosity any longer. "You didn't inform me about our Fate bond because you initially believed I was aligned with Amelia. When you realized I wasn't, you kept it hidden to protect my life. But why didn't you tell me?"
The question had been weighing on my mind, and although I wasn't sure if it was the right one to ask, I needed to understand his reasons.
Ludwig's initial silence prompted me to ask again, this time wondering if his hesitation stemmed from concerns about how I would react to his plans regarding Amethyst.
"I didn't tell you because I didn't want to frighten you," Ludwig finally responded, prompting me to turn back and face him once more. "I witnessed how terrified you were when you first felt our Fate String. I saw your tears when your body reacted so strongly to mine."
His words sent a jolt through me as I remembered that intense moment, feeling an inexplicable connection to Ludwig that had overwhelmed me.
"That's why Alexa created this," Ludwig explained gently, tracing his fingers over the pendant around my neck.
I looked down at the pendant, realizing its significance in tethering our Fate and understanding why Ludwig had chosen to keep certain truths hidden from me.
Ludwig's gaze on the pendant was mesmerizing, and as he spoke, explaining its purpose, I began to understand its significance even more.
"Inside this pendant is my blood, which helps alleviate any pain when we're apart," Ludwig continued. "It also reduces the pull of the Fate String, the invisible force that draws us together. It lessens the longing, tricking your body into thinking we're still close due to the blood, although it's not always the case."
His explanation made sense, and I realized that wearing the pendant had indeed eased my discomfort and dizziness, attributing it to its unique properties.
"But now that Amelia is no longer a threat, there's no reason to keep hiding our bond out of fear," Ludwig attempted to remove the pendant, but I stopped him.
"No," I interjected firmly, shaking my head and holding his hands. "Alexa gave this to me."
At the mention of Alexa's name, Ludwig froze, and after a moment, he didn't try to take the pendant off anymore.
Ludwig's whisper carried a weight of explanation as he continued to unravel the intricacies of our bond. "I didn't want to scare you, Louise," he murmured softly. "You're not familiar with our customs, having been raised in a different world. Here in Quailsham, royal marriages coincide with the passing of the throne, while for ordinary citizens, having a Fate bond is akin to marriage in your world. If I had revealed that you're my Fate, it would signify that I respect and acknowledge our bond. Once you reciprocate that acknowledgment, it would automatically mean we are married in Quailsham."
His words left me speechless, and he added, "I was afraid that you might not understand the significance of Fate bonds and that you'd reject me because of it. That's why I didn't tell you earlier. I planned to end the war first, explain everything to you, let you see who I am entirely, and then reveal our Fate bond. Unfortunately, events spiraled out of my control."
I took in his words, realizing the depth of his considerations and concerns, and the weight of the situation settled heavily on my shoulders. Ludwig's words left me puzzled and a bit uneasy. "What do you mean by 'let you see who I am entirely'?" I couldn't help but ask, seeking clarification.
"I don't mean it in the way you're thinking," Ludwig replied, his tone serious and devoid of any amusement or embarrassment.
"Then what else does that phrase mean besides what I'm thinking right now?" I questioned, a hint of bitterness creeping into my voice.
"I may have desires, but I also have self-control," he asserted firmly. "Rest assured, Louise, I wouldn't act on them impulsively. What I meant is that you haven't seen all of my scars. Not yet, at least," he whispered, his tone suggesting that I should take note of this fact.
"I don't understand," I admitted honestly, feeling a mixture of confusion and curiosity.
Ludwig paused, inhaling deeply as he elegantly brushed his forehead, as if gathering his thoughts and composing himself. "What I mean is, I first wanted to show you the scars left by Amelia's fire before asking for your decision on whether you will accept me as your Fate."
I never realized that Ludwig's scars troubled him so deeply. I hadn't noticed any sadness or shyness in him because of his scars. Consequently, I was unaware that there was a part of him still concerned about how others would perceive his body, including what I might think.
However, as I gazed into his eyes, I detected uncertainty and insecurity, emotions I never imagined Ludwig would experience about himself. It was a revelation that he was feeling this way because of me, and my heart ached with empathy.
Emotions overwhelmed logic and reason as my entire being yearned to comfort Ludwig and convey that I desired nothing but him—every part of him, including his scars.
I kissed Ludwig so suddenly and swiftly that even I was taken aback by my own actions. However, it was too late for second thoughts or withdrawal. As I felt his soft lips, I found myself engulfed in his presence.
His warm hands grasped my waist as I positioned myself to straddle his body, our lips still locked in an intimate embrace. Once I was above him, my desires and needs became overwhelming. I continued kissing him fervently, not stopping until I could no longer catch my breath.
"You are the most handsome man I have ever laid my eyes upon, so please don't think otherwise, Ludwig," I stated firmly, gazing directly into his eyes to convey the sincerity of my words and the unwavering nature of my feelings, unaffected by any scars.
His eyes appeared dazed, and he responded with another kiss.
He swiftly reversed our positions, positioning himself above me and attempting to undress me. However, before he could even touch my clothes, the room's door swung open abruptly, causing Ludwig to curse loudly, the sound echoing through the room as he hurriedly covered me with blankets.
"Hiyasmin, could you please knock first?!" Ludwig exclaimed, clearly frustrated by the interruption.
Hiyasmin, now approaching us, displayed no signs of delight, amusement, or any positive emotion. She seemed indifferent to our activities, focused instead on delivering serious news.
"We have a problem," she announced gravely, her tone enough to convey the urgency of the situation.