Chapter 818: The count’s arrival
The Duke nodded in response. He was silent for a long moment as if something heavy was running through his mind. Finally, with a slightly apologetic expression, he spoke.
“I know I am placing a burden on you, Kraven,” the Duke said, his voice lower now, almost weary. “I also know that you are not ready to bind yourself in this marriage.”
He paused and rubbed his temple as if the weight of leadership had suddenly grown heavier.
“But… at least give it a chance. Speak with her. Learn who she truly is. Ask her what she thinks of this arrangement. You don’t have to rush into anything, but please… do not make her miserable the way you once did.”
The Duke’s eyes held a rare vulnerability as he looked at his son. There was no anger in them — only the hope of a father who had seen his family nearly torn apart by past mistakes and now desperately wanted to see a different path.
“I remember how things were before you left for Ezakael,” the Duke continued. “The kind of loyalty that the count showed is rare, Kraven. Very rare. I won’t ask you to love her immediately. I won’t even ask you to pretend to be the perfect husband right away. But show her respect. Show her that the man who returned from Ezakael is different. That the rumors no longer define you.”
He leaned back in his chair, the wood creaking softly under his weight. “The duchy needs strong alliances now more than ever. The King’s visit was delayed, the southern borders are restless, and there are whispers of greater threats. House Azmed’s support could be the difference between stability and chaos. And Lady Elara… she is not just a political pawn. She is a talented mage, intelligent, and from what I’ve heard, kind-hearted. Give her a chance to see the man you’ve bee. That is all I ask.”
Julian remained silent for a long moment. The Duke’s plea was genuine But for Julian, it was another variable in an already plex equation.
“I understand, Father,” Julian said with respect. “I will give her a fair chance. I won’t repeat the mistakes of the past.”
The Duke studied him for another long moment, as if searching for any sign of the old Kraven. Finding none, he nodded slowly, seeming satisfied.
“Okay then. Go to the main hall. Your mother and sister are already there, and the Count should be here anytime. I’ll join you in a few minutes as well.”
Julian bowed slightly and turned to leave. As he stepped out of the Duke’s office and into the corridor, the weight of the conversation settled over him. The Duke’s words echoed in his mind — the plea for respect, the reminder of past scandals and the hope for a stronger alliance. It was clear that the Count Azmed’s visit was more than a social call. It was a test. A chance to repair old bridges and secure new ones.
As he walked toward the main hall, Julian’s mind was already calculating. He would observe Lady Elara carefully — her demeanor, her intelligence, her potential loyalty. If she proved useful, he could weave her into his plans. If not… well, there were always ways to handle plications.
**
When Julian reached the main hall, the atmosphere was filled with excitement. Long tables had been arranged with fine linens and gleaming tableware. Olivia and Vanessa were already there, overseeing the final touches. Olivia’s eyes met his for a brief moment before she looked away again, that familiar flush returning to her cheeks. Vanessa, on the other hand, waved him over with a bright smile.
“Brother! e help us decide where to seat the Count and Lady Elara,” she called.
Julian joined them and slipped seamlessly into the role of the dutiful son.
He helped arrange the final touches in the grand hall. Vanessa directed him to adjust the placement of a large floral centerpiece on the main table — a beautiful arrangement of deep red roses and white lilies that symbolized both the Astran and Azmed houses. Julian lifted the heavy vase carefully and positioned it exactly where she wanted it, then stepped back to survey the overall effect.
“It looks good,” he said. “The colors balance well. It shows respect without being overly flashy.”
Vanessa beamed, clearly pleased. “Exactly! I knew you’d understand. Lady Elara always loved flowers. She used to pick them with me in the gardens when we were children.”
Olivia worked quietly nearby, adjusting the silverware on one of the side tables. Every now and then, her eyes would flick toward Julian, linger for a fraction of a second before she looked away again.
Meanwhile, the Duke arrived a few minutes later and his expression softened as he saw his family working together. He stood at the entrance of the grand hall for a moment, taking in the scene — his wife, his daughter, and his son collaborating on the preparations. A rare, genuine smile touched his lips.
“This is good,” the Duke said, his voice warm. “Seeing all of you together like this… it gives me hope for the future of our house.”
He walked over to Olivia first and placed a hand on her shoulder. She smiled up at him, though Julian could see the slight tension in her posture. The Duke then turned to Vanessa, praised the floral arrangements, before finally looking at Julian.
“You’ve done well here, Kraven,” the Duke said, nodding approvingly. “It shows maturity. The Count will notice that.”
Julian bowed his head slightly in acknowledgment. “I only want what is best for the family, Father.”
The Duke’s smile widened, clearly pleased with the response. For a brief moment, the hall felt almost peaceful — a family united in preparation for an important guest. But that peace was short-lived.
Just then, a soldier entered the grand hall and bowed deeply before speaking.
“My lord, the Count has arrived.”
The Duke straightened immediately. “Very well. Let us greet them properly.”
Julian, Olivia, Vanessa, and the Duke then made their way to the front yard together. The morning sun was bright and warm, casting a golden glow over the carefully maintained grounds. Servants had lined the path with fresh flowers and banners, creating an impressive wele for the arriving guests. The air carried the scent of blooming roses and polished armor from the knights standing at attention.
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