(Chapter 19)
"Congratulations on your achievement as the top student," said Lorcan Frostborne, Duke of the North, with a sincere smile.
"Thank you, Your Grace," Clarisse Faeloria replied, slightly blushing.
From a distance, Kaelion Arvasyn, the Crown Prince, watched them with a serious expression before finally deciding to approach.
"Your Grace, it's been a while."
"Crown Prince," Lorcan replied respectfully.
"I heard that you managed to defeat the monster that attacked the border," Kaelion said, his voice filled with admiration.
"Just luck," Lorcan answered briefly.
Kaelion smiled. "I don't think it's just luck. You always manage to complete your tasks perfectly. We are all very grateful for what you've done, Your Grace."
"Thank you," Lorcan replied, short but polite.
"I also heard that you and Clarisse are getting married soon. Is that true?" Kaelion asked, trying to gauge Lorcan's expression.
Lorcan gave a slight smile. "Yes, as you already know, that's the truth."
In the middle of their conversation, a young woman approached. Caelira Duskthorn, the daughter of the Duke of the South.
"Crown Prince, Your Grace," Caelira greeted politely.
Lorcan nodded, realizing that the person he was speaking to was Kaelion's fiancée, the future Crown Princess. Though Caelira was known for her friendly and shy demeanor, Lorcan saw a courage in her that few others noticed.
Kaelion briefly glanced at Caelira standing beside him, while Lorcan observed their relationship. From Lorcan's observation, it was clear that Kaelion and Caelira weren't very close, a fact that made Lorcan feel the need to maintain some distance between Clarisse and Kaelion.
"My lady, may we speak privately?" Lorcan asked, his voice firm yet gentle.
"Privately? Oh, of course, Your Grace," Clarisse responded, a little surprised.
They excused themselves from Kaelion, leaving him alone with Caelira.
Lorcan and Clarisse walked together, with Clarisse leading Lorcan around the Academy, showing him the surroundings. When they encountered some other nobles, Lorcan refused to engage in the conversation, as there was something more important he wished to discuss with Clarisse.
Clarisse was amazed by Lorcan's firm and cold attitude toward the other nobles. His expressionless gaze made her a little nervous, and she tried to conceal her feelings with a calm demeanor. Lorcan, noticing Clarisse's nervousness, cleared his throat to ease the tension.
"I've been looking for a good day. Our wedding can be next month, on the 20th," Lorcan suddenly said.
"... You mean the wedding?" Clarisse asked, her eyes wide.
"Yes," Lorcan replied without hesitation.
"Your Grace, don't you think this is too soon? I just graduated, and next month we're getting married. Isn't that a little rushed?" Clarisse tried to express her concern in a quiet voice.
"It may seem quick, but it's the best decision for both of us. Are you really not fond of this marriage?" Lorcan asked, his gaze unchanged.
"I'm just not ready, truly. I'm nervous, and I feel like I don't know anything about being a wife. The more I think about it, the harder it feels, Your Grace," Clarisse admitted honestly.
"I'll do my best to make you feel comfortable. In the North, there will also be plenty of magical tools to keep you warm in the cold climate there," Lorcan said, trying to reassure Clarisse.
Clarisse could only nod quietly, accepting Lorcan's words.
In the middle of their conversation, Jonathan Faeloria, Clarisse's father, hurried over and immediately greeted Lorcan. Lorcan only responded with a brief nod before speaking with Jonathan about the preparations for the wedding scheduled for next month.
"As for the dowry, we're very well-prepared. You don't need to worry about arranging it as soon as possible, Your Grace," Jonathan said eagerly.
"If you're ready, I can arrange it sooner," Lorcan replied.
Clarisse asked for permission to leave them. Lorcan noticed that Clarisse seemed dissatisfied, but he chose to ignore it and returned to focusing on his conversation with Jonathan.
"You're lucky to be marrying such a handsome man as the Duke," a familiar voice made Clarisse turn her head.
What she saw was Selviana Larethiel.
"Lady Selviana," Clarisse greeted, trying to smile.
"You look worried," Selviana said, noticing Clarisse's unease.
Clarisse fell silent, unsure of what to say.
TO BE CONTINUED