That night, as Theo lies in his luxurious bed, his thoughts drift to Lady Victoria's reaction. Despite her youth and impulsiveness, she had shown a genuine interest in him, and he couldn't help but feel a twinge of guilt for turning her away. But tomorrow is the day of his official investiture as Duke, and with it comes a new set of responsibilities and expectations. The empress had assured him that he could enjoy the fruits of his new life without the burden of actual ducal duties, but Theo can't shake the feeling that he's using their kindness solely for his own pleasure.
He rolls over, the silk sheets sliding over his bare skin, and sighs heavily. The thought of the grand ball and the impending ceremonies weigh on his mind, but he tries to push them aside, focusing instead on the excitement of the life that lies ahead of him. The empress had promised him a world of pleasure and power, and it was a tempting offer indeed.
As he drifts off to sleep, his dreams are filled with visions of the three princesses, each one vying for his attention and love. Yet, amidst the chaos of his thoughts, it's the gentle touch of Ely's paw and the warmth of Lily's smile that brings him a sense of peace. He knows that tomorrow will be a day of great importance, but for now, Let's just sleep.
The next morning, the palace is buzzing with excitement, much like the days leading up to a grand festival. Lily enters Theo's room to find him already dressed, his eyes heavy with the weight of the night's contemplation. She notices his tension immediately, the lines on his face speaking volumes of his unrest.
"Are you okay, Master?" she asks, approaching him with concern. Gently, she reaches up to check his forehead for any signs of fever.
Theo sighs and takes her hand in his, looking into her eyes. "I'm fine, Lily," he says, his voice a little shaky. "It's just...I've been thinking about today. Becoming a duke, it's a big responsibility, and I'm not sure I'm ready for it."
Lily smiles warmly and pulls him into a comforting embrace, her soft breasts pressing against his chest as she holds him close. "You are more than ready," she whispers into his ear. "And we're here to help you, every step of the way."
Her words seem to calm him somewhat, and he returns the embrace, his face nuzzling into the crook of her neck. "Thank you, Lily," he murmurs.
The two of them stand there for a moment, sharing a silent understanding that goes beyond their roles as master and servant. Then, with a final squeeze, Lily pulls away, her eyes filled with determination. "Now, let's not keep the palace waiting," she says, her voice firm. "We have a big day ahead of us."
Theo nods, taking a deep breath. "You're right," he says, straightening his shoulders. "Let's do this."
With that, they set off down the corridor, their footsteps echoing through the grand halls as they head towards the throne room, ready to face whatever the future holds for the hero of Astra.
As Theo enters the grand throne room, a hush falls over the assembly of nobles and dignitaries. The room is bathed in the soft glow of candles and the opulent decorations reflect a sense of power and wealth. At the far end, the empress sits upon her throne, her purple eyes gleaming with pride and anticipation. To her right, a beautiful young woman with golden hair and a crown sits, her gaze curious and a little shy. She is the Queen of Bruch, the region Theo's new dukedom encompasses. Lily whispers into Theo's ear, her breath warm against his skin. "That is Queen Julian," she says. "Your lands are now under her protection, Even You don't have to listen to her. but she still holds her own power. The empress granted her this position to help manage the vast lands of Astra like other Queens. She is quite capable and respected."
Theo nods in understanding, his eyes never leaving the queen's. Despite the formality of the situation, he feels a strange feeling to her. Perhaps it's the shared weight of their new titles, or the way she seems to be assessing him, looking for something beyond the hero had promised.
The empress stands, her flowing gown sweeping the floor dramatically. "Welcome, Hero Theo," she says, her voice echoing through the room. "Today, we celebrate not only your investiture as Duke of Bruch but also a formal meeting with your Queen ." She gestures to the Queen beside her, and the room erupts into applause.
Theo walks down the aisle, the three princesses and Lady Beatrice following closely behind. Each of them offers a smile and a nod, their eyes filled with their own secret thoughts and desires. The tension in the room is palpable, and he knows that each step he takes brings him closer to a future he's not entirely sure he's ready for. Yet, as he reaches the throne and looks into the empress's eyes, he feels a strange sense of belonging, as if he's always been meant to stand beside her, ruling this vast kingdom.
The ceremony begins, and as he's bestowed with the title and its responsibilities, he can't help but feel a mix of excitement and dread. The whispers of the prophecy and his role in the kingdom's future swirl around him like a storm, and he wonders if he'll ever truly be ready for what lies ahead. But for now, he'll focus on the here and now, the warmth of Ely and Lily's love, and the promise of a life filled with power and passion.
After the investiture, Theo starts to meet with the high-ranking nobles of Astra, Lily and Ely hovering nearby, their eyes sharp and vigilant. They watch everyone closely, ready to pounce at the slightest hint of trouble. The empress had warned them that not all the nobility might accept Theo with open arms, especially with his unconventional origins and the prophecy looming over them all.
The ballroom is filled with the most influential figures in the kingdom, their jewels and finery glinting in the candlelight. Each one eager to make an impression on the new duke, their intentions ranging from genuine friendship to subtle political maneuvering.
Princess Arabella and Lady Beatrice flank Theo, their grace and charm serving as both shield and guide. They introduce him to the noblewomen, their smiles radiant and their words sweet, hinting that they are more than just friends of the hero.
"Remember, Sir Theo," Arabella whispers into his ear, her breath warm and seductive, "We are all here to serve you, in every way possible." She winks at him, her eyes gleaming with mischief.
Lady Beatrice nods in agreement, her voice soft and melodious. "Choose wisely," she adds, "for the fate of the kingdom rests on your shoulders."
Theo nods, his gaze sweeping over the room. Despite their words, he can't help but feel like a pawn in a game he's only just beginning to understand. Yet, the love and loyalty from Lily and Ely ground him, reminding him of the true purpose of his role.
The evening wears on, and the conversations flow like wine. Yet, not once does anyone cross the line into disrespect or aggression. The ballroom remains a place of courteous dance and diplomatic chatter, a stark contrast to the undercurrents of desire and ambition that swirl beneath the surface.
The night ends without incident, and Theo can't help but feel a little disappointed. Perhaps the whispers of his power and the prophecy had been exaggerated. Perhaps he truly could enjoy the fruits of his new station without the burden of constant vigilance.
As the grand ball winds down and the guests begin to disperse, Ely approaches Theo with a knowing smile. "Master," she says, her voice low and intimate, "it's time for you to retire."
Theo nods, feeling the weight of the evening's events. He takes one last look around the ballroom, his gaze lingering on the figures that had captured his attention throughout the night.
Lady Beatrice and Lady Arabella make their way towards him, their expressions hopeful. But before they can reach him, Lily steps in, her voice firm yet gentle. "Master Theo is quite tired tonight," she says, her eyes flashing with a hint of possessiveness. "Perhaps another time for your discussion."
The two women, despite their noble status, bow their heads in deference to Lily, understanding that to cross her would be to cross Theo. "Of course," Arabella murmurs, her eyes lingering on Theo before she turns away.
Theo gives them a small nod of his own, his eyes filled with a mix of apology and gratitude. As he allows Ely and Lily to lead him away, he can't help but feel a sense of relief that they are there to protect him.
The walk to his chamber is quiet, the three of them lost in their own thoughts. As they enter the room, Theo sighs heavily, his body weary from the evening's exertions. He looks to Ely and Lily, the warmth in their eyes telling him that he's not alone.
Ely moves to help him undress, her hands deft and gentle on the fastenings of his tunic. Lily, ever the devoted servant, pours a glass of water for him, her eyes filled with a soft concern.
Theo takes the glass, his gaze lingering on the two women before he drinks. "Thank you," he says, his voice hoarse. "Both of you."
They nod, their expressions solemn.
As Theo climbs into bed, Ely and Lily both wish him night and try to leave.
"Umm, Lily, Ely it's okay if I ask both of you to sleep with me tonight? Theo asked them with a little bit of concern.
Lily and Ely both their eyes lit up with happiness, They nodded in a hurry and expressed there approval.
"Yes, Of course, Master! You don't have to ask our permission just order us." Lily replied with a smile.
Ely and Lily arrange themselves around him, their bodies a comforting presence. The warmth of their love fills the room, and he knows that with them by his side, he can face anything.
The three of them lay there, their breathing syncing, their hearts beating in unison.
As he falls a sleep, Lily leans in to press a soft kiss to his forehead, her heart fluttering with her own unspoken confession. "What I do, master," she whispers to herself, "I think I fall in love with you." Her eyes glisten with unshed tears, but she holds them back, not wishing to burden him with her feelings.
Ely, who heard Lily's whisper, feels a pang of her own longing. She knows the constraints of their roles, but the bond they share with Theo transcends those boundaries. "We are but his guards, Lily-sama," she whispers back, her voice heavy with emotion. "We can never ask for his love in return, but as long as we can spend nights like this, I am satisfied."
They both nod, understanding the silent pact between them. Their duty is to serve and protect Theo, even if it means hiding their true feelings.
"Goodnight, Master," they murmur in unison, their voices a soft lullaby that soon sends Theo into a peaceful sleep.
Ely and Lily watch over him, their hearts filled with love and devotion. They share a look that speaks volumes, and then they too drift off to sleep, their bodies entwined with his, forming a protective cocoon of warmth and affection.