Prince William's eyes lit up as he quickly asked, "Please, speak!"
"It wouldn't be appropriate to reject this marriage outright," Earl Evan replied smoothly, pouring himself another glass of champagne. "But if Miss Vera's reputation were tarnished, the Modiwen family would naturally have an excuse to cancel the wedding and still maintain the dignity of the half-elf royal family."
"Her reputation tarnished?" Prince William echoed.
"Exactly." Earl Evan swirled his champagne leisurely. "Have you heard of the recent chaos in the North?"
"I've heard bits and pieces..."
"Then you must know the Black Cavalry played a decisive role. Yet, strangely, they didn't receive significant rewards afterward."
Prince William's thoughts raced. He immediately guessed where this was going. "Are you referring to the envoy from the North—Luis Hartmann—who is escorting the bride this time?"
