(Chapter 17)
It didn't take long for Lorcan Frostborne, the Duke of the North, to defeat the Orc King who now lay lifeless before him. Everyone who witnessed the battle stood in stunned silence, in awe of Lorcan's extraordinary abilities. His strength surpassed that of ordinary humans, and there was no doubt that Lorcan truly deserved his title.
"You are truly remarkable, Your Grace," said Aedric Thornshade, the first to speak after the long silence. The soldiers began to approach, some rushing to tend to the wounds the Duke had sustained.
"We've wasted too much time here," Lorcan muttered, his smile a thin curve. However, the look in his eyes revealed deep disappointment.
Aedric, perceptive as always, immediately recognized the reason behind the expression. Aedric was certain that Lorcan's disappointment stemmed from his desire to meet Clarisse Faeloria as soon as possible.
Two weeks later, the border had been cleared. All the monsters that had threatened the region had retreated, many of them defeated. Lorcan felt satisfied with the work his men had done, but his mind remained occupied with his personal affairs involving Clarisse.
Once all the soldiers had recovered, they returned to their territories. Many citizens welcomed their return with cheers, chanting Lorcan's name with pride, as if he were a hero.
Lorcan responded to their cheers with only a brief acknowledgment. Upon arriving at his residence, Lorcan decided to take three days off to rest. During his time off, he received a letter from Clarisse that caused him to smile faintly as he read it:
— Congratulations, Your Grace Duke. I have heard of your success in defending the border. —
Though the letter was short and simple, Clarisse's attention meant a great deal to him.
However, amidst the pressure of his duties as Duke, Lorcan felt burdened by the many soldiers who had been lost in the battle against the Orcs. He was determined to provide proper compensation for the families of those who had been left behind.
"You should rest, Your Grace," Aedric said, placing a cup of coffee on the table.
Lorcan took a deep breath, his mind drifting to Clarisse. His desire to meet her was overwhelming, but the mounting responsibilities forced him to be patient.
"Have you informed the Academy Head?" Lorcan asked.
"I've relayed your message. He welcomes your visit at any time," Aedric replied.
"Is graduation close?"
"Yes, Your Grace."
"Then, I must go there immediately."
Lorcan rose from his seat. "Would it be strange if I came during the graduation?"
"Not at all, Your Grace. I'm sure Lady Clarisse would be delighted to have you there."
"I see."
"However, the nobles may find your decision rather surprising."
"If it concerns them, I don't care."
At the Academy Dormitory
That night, Clarisse Faeloria sat in contemplation, her mind filled with worries about her future. Time seemed to be moving too fast, and now she was preparing to graduate with the second-highest rank, after the Crown Prince, Kaelion Arvasyn. Yet, her thoughts were still haunted by the marriage that awaited her.
"Is it true that after graduation, I'll become the Duke's wife?" Clarisse murmured to herself.
The image of herself and Lorcan on their wedding day, with her wearing a grand bridal gown, flashed through her mind. A mixture of excitement and anxiety surged within her, tightening her chest.
Clarisse sighed deeply. Despite being known as a talented student, she didn't feel ready to bear the great responsibility of being the Duke's wife. She recalled the advice of her mother, Eleanor Faeloria, but realized that theory often differed greatly from reality.
"I'll have to ask for more time if Lorcan wants children too soon," Clarisse thought. "They say the first night is important, but I'm not ready. However, mother would be furious if I refused and disappointed the Duke."
With great worry, Clarisse closed her eyes, trying to calm herself. Yet, her thoughts remained filled with images of an uncertain future.