As the maids helped her prepare, Luna's white wedding dress flowed around her. She hummed softly as they combed her silver hair into a stunning Celtic knot. When they finished, she stood up and gazed at her reflection in the full-size mirror.

The elegant, long-sleeved floral ballgown with lace underlay fit her perfectly. Her wavy hair was tied back, showcasing her light yet alluring makeup. The soft pink eyeshadow made her eyes sparkle, and her rose-colored lips curved into a sweet smile. "It's perfect," she whispered, unable to look away.

Just two months after giving birth, Luna couldn't believe how beautiful she looked. A knock at the door broke the spell. "It's time, my lady," the butler announced. Luna nodded and stepped outside, where a surprise awaited her.

"Audrey!" she gasped, seeing a familiar face beside the carriage. "You didn't think I'd let you walk down the aisle alone, did you?" he asked with a smile. Luna smiled back, feeling a flutter in her chest. "Will you accompany me?" she asked, and he agreed.

As they walked towards the groom, Luna thought to herself, "I never wanted to get married, and yet here I am, getting married for the second time." She glanced at her groom and smiled, wondering why her heart was racing. She didn't love him, but there was something about him that drew her in.

Memories of the past flooded her mind - the obstacles, the pain, the hardships. It was just the beginning, and Luna steeled herself for what lay ahead. There was so much that happened before and she was now lost in all those things that happened in the past two years.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

The Imperial Palace's banquet hall buzzed with laughter and gossip as Luna Oleander arrived, her garnet eyes scanning the room. The clock struck 10:00 pm, and the air thickened with anticipation. Nobles' glares pierced her like daggers, their whispers unmistakable.

She closed her eyes, took a deep breath, and reopened them, steeling herself against the venomous stares. Tonight, she wouldn't let them get the better of her. Tonight was a celebration – the end of the two-year war, and her father's friend's triumphant return.

Memories of her father flooded her mind, aching her heart. She pushed them aside, focusing on the joyous occasion.

"Greetings, Miss Oleander." A woman in her thirties, clad in red, approached with an overbearing smile and heavy makeup.

Luna ignored the greeting, turning her back. Her silver hair swirled in the ponytail, a subtle rebuff.

The woman sneered, "Looks like the young miss has no manners whatsoever." The surrounding nobles chimed in, eager to join the ridicule.

"Arrogant."

"All she has is her family name yet acts out of line."

"Well, even if she is, she should at least greet Countess Brenard. That's an insult to her."

Luna's patience snapped. She turned, her eyes flashing, "An insult, you say? Perhaps Countess Brenard should consider her own manners – greeting a duchess without curtsy or propriety, and daring to speak informally to someone of higher status."

The nobles recoiled, taken aback. Countess Brenard's face paled.

"Have you ever seen a countess address a duchess so casually, without introduction?" Luna's voice dripped with disdain.

The nobles exchanged uneasy glances. Countess Brenard's embarrassment deepened.

"If I were in your shoes, I would've left this place by now, Miss Brenard." Luna's words cut deep.

The countess fled, gritting her teeth. The nobles dispersed, eager to avoid Luna's wrath.

"Looks like someone soured your mood again," Arum said, approaching with a warm smile.

"Should we teach them a lesson?" Lazuli asked, her bright blue eyes sparkling.

Luna chuckled, her tension easing. "Arum, Lazuli! Long time no see."

"Well, it really has been a while," Lazuli replied. "We've been too busy lately."

"My! Luna, you've got so thin! Aren't you eating properly?" Arum gasped.

Luna laughed. "I guess I was too busy these days."

"Seriously, you look haggard. Don't skip meals," Lazuli teased.

Luna smiled, grateful for her friends' concern.

"Anyways, congratulations, Arum. Your father has been victorious in the war," Luna said.

"The emperor is probably going to reward your family," Lazuli added.

"Has your father thought of what he'd like if the emperor allows him to choose for himself?" Luna asked.

Arum's eyes sparkled. "I think he has, but he won't tell us."

As they chatted, the royal family's arrival was announced.

The grand hall fell silent as everyone bowed, their eyes fixed on the emperor. Callisto Clematis, the 21st ruler of Evimería, sat upon his throne, its golden accents glinting in the candlelight.

"Well then, shall we reward the hero of the war now? Name it, Duke Rezef Lily," the emperor declared, his voice echoing through the hall.

Duke Rezef Lily, a man in his forties with striking red wavy hair tied back, revealing piercing emerald green eyes—the hallmark of the Lily duchy—stepped forward.

"Whatever you like, your majesty," Rezef replied, his powerful voice commanding attention.

"I thought about it long and hard and came to a conclusion that I will grant one wish of yours. How's that?" The emperor's eyes sparkled with intrigue.

Rezef hesitated, unsure if his majesty would approve. "Don't hesitate. I'll keep my word," Callisto assured.

After a weighted silence, Rezef spoke, his voice laced with trepidation, "Then... I would like to ask you to release my brother."

A collective gasp rippled through the nobles, followed by an uproar.

"Silence!" The emperor's command cut through the chaos.

Callisto's expression turned stern. "You want me to release your brother Owen from prison, knowing he massacred the Wisteria duchy and attempted to kill you?"

Rezef remained silent, aware of the impossibility.

The emperor's laughter boomed, "Hahahaha. I didn't think you'd ask for something like this. Fine. I'll grant it."

Before the nobles could protest, Callisto continued, "But he will be removed from the duke's family. He'll live as a noble with no title."

Rezef's eyes gleamed with gratitude as he bowed deeply. "Thank you, your majesty."

The emperor added, "Of course, he can earn his title back through contributions. Until then, he'll be a fallen noble."

Callisto stood, addressing the assembly, "Hear ye! I, Callisto Clematis, hereby release Owen, third child of former Duke Felix Lily, from prison. He shall not be held accountable for past crimes and may regain his title through merit."

As the emperor sat back, a hint of a smile played on his lips. "Blood is indeed thicker than water, even for brothers who fight for power."

With a wave of his hand, he declared, "Enjoy tonight's banquet to your hearts' content."

As Luna stepped out of the carriage, the warm spring breeze whispered through her silver hair, rustling the delicate strands like autumn leaves. The gentle caress carried the sweet scent of blooming flowers, filling her lungs with the promise of new beginnings. Before her stood the majestic Lily mansion, its grandeur familiar yet tinged with an air of unease, like a whispered secret. Last week's imperial banquet had left an indelible mark, a subtle tension that lingered like the fading notes of a melancholy melody.

She strolled past the gates, the soft crunch of gravel beneath her feet echoing through the stillness. The greenhouse beckoned, its glass walls glinting in the sunlight like a thousand tiny diamonds. Inside, the sweet fragrance of lilies enveloped her, transporting her to a world of serenity. Every variety of lily grew here, each one a testament to the family's dedication and love. Delicate petals unfolded like tiny ballerinas, their pure white, golden, and pink hues dancing in the soft light.

As she sipped chamomile tea, Luna's gaze wandered across the lush greenery, her thoughts drifting to the significance of this visit. The gentle steam from her cup rose like a misty veil, shrouding her concerns.

Heels clicked on the floor, breaking the silence like a dropped crystal. Lazuli and Arum burst into the greenhouse, their laughter infectious, their smiles radiant as sunbeams. Seeing Arum's joyful face relieved Luna, washing away the worry that had etched her own.

Luna's voice dripped with relief as she spoke, her eyes crinkling at the corners. "It looks like you're alright. I was worried about you for nothing." She settled into the plush chair beside Arum, the soft cushions enveloping her.

Arum winked, a mischievous sparkle dancing in her eyes. "Really? I'm flattered the coldhearted Duchess of Oleander worried about me."

Lazuli chimed in, her tone playful, "Coldhearted, haughty, selfish, and not to mention, the Flower of Thorns." Her emphasis on the last phrase drew a chuckle from the trio.

Their laughter intertwined like the delicate petals of the lilies surrounding them. The tension dissolved, replaced by warmth and camaraderie.

"I suppose," Luna conceded, a hint of amusement coloring her voice. "But not everyone sees me that way."

Arum nodded in agreement. "Right, only those who don't know you well. I mean those who aren't me and Lazuli."

The three friends shared a knowing glance, their bond strengthened by shared experiences.

Lazuli inquired, "How's everything in the duchy?"

Arum's expression turned wistful. "Pretty much the same. I guess it didn't matter to anyone that Uncle Owen's been released, except Mother."

Luna's eyebrows arched, curiosity piqued. "Is that so?"

Lazuli teased, "Seriously, Luna? At least pretend to be surprised."

Luna shrugged, a hint of nonchalance in her voice. "Why bother? Everyone else seems unaffected."

Lazuli took a sip of her tea, the steam rising like a whispered secret. "So, what's Uncle Owen doing nowadays?"

Arum's eyes widened. "Nothing much. He's become Dad's secretary."

The room fell silent, the only sound the soft clinking of cups.

Luna and Lazuli's voices merged in a simultaneous gasp. "What?"

Their shock hung in the air like the faint scent of smoke, foreshadowing the turmoil to come.

Arum's voice painted a vivid picture as she recounted the events of the past week. "After the banquet, Uncle Owen was brought here, and his wounds were treated. Father offered him to stay, but he refused."

Lazuli's eyes widened. "So, Rezef made Owen his secretary as punishment for trying to harm him? That's an unusual way to keep your brother close."

Luna's gaze turned introspective. "Makes sense," she said, her voice low and thoughtful.

Arum and Lazuli exchanged curious glances, seeking elaboration.

Luna's eyes locked onto theirs. "Owen's pride as a noble wouldn't allow him to stay without a purpose. He might feel guilty for attempting to kill his brother. Rezef, cleverly, shackled him to this household as his secretary, disguising punishment as mercy."

Lazuli's eyes sparkled. "Oh, I see!"

Arum's face lit up. "Why didn't I think of that?"

Luna's expression turned solemn. "And, of course, Rezef might have another reason."

Arum leaned in, her voice barely above a whisper. "What?"

Luna's pause hung like a held breath. "To keep an eye on him. He massacred Wisteria; he's capable of worse. It's wise to remain cautious."

The unspoken warning settled between them like a veil of unease.

Luna stood, her movements fluid. "I have an appointment with Duke Lily. You know his punctuality."

Arum smiled, her eyes crinkling. "I'll send cinnamon pie to your place today. Make sure to eat it."

Luna grinned, a hint of mischief dancing in her eyes. "As long as it's edible."

Arum pouted, her lips curling upward. "I've improved my baking skills."

Luna chuckled. "We'll see about that."

With farewells exchanged, Luna departed the greenhouse.

Outside, the head butler awaited, his dignified demeanor a testament to his years of service.

"Where's the Duke?" Luna asked.

"He's waiting for you in his office, my lady," the butler replied.

Luna nodded, her heels clicking on the marble floor. "Lead the way."

The butler's knock echoed through the door, a gentle announcement of Luna's arrival. "Come in," Rezef's warm voice invited, carrying the hint of a smile.

The door swung open, revealing Luna's poised figure. Her curtsy was a fluid motion, elegance personified. "Greetings, Duke Lily."

Rezef rose from his chair, his movements unhurried, and settled into the plush sofa. The afternoon sunlight streaming through the windows danced across his face, highlighting the lines of warmth and wisdom etched upon his features.

"No need to be so formal, dear," he said, his voice infused with affection. "You're Grace's child, and he's like a brother to me. Call me uncle, as you used to."

Luna's gaze softened, her expression betraying a hint of nostalgia. Rezef's gesture invited her to sit, and she settled beside him on the sofa, the soft cushion enveloping her.

"Well, I have to maintain my dignity as the head of Oleander duchy," Luna said, her tone measured. "I cannot be informal with you when I've come to discuss matters as the duchess."

Rezef's chuckle was low and soothing. "Yes, that's right, but to me, you've always been a child of mine. Speak comfortably, dear."

Their conversation unfolded like a rich tapestry, woven with threads of politics, commerce, and social welfare. They discussed the centuries-old rivalry with the Skylock empire, the budding business partnership between Lily and Oleander duchies, and the rebuilding of Dahlia city's roads after the devastating floods.

As they spoke, the room seemed to shrink, leaving only the two of them, lost in the intricacies of governance and the dance of diplomacy.

---☆----☆---

As their discussion drew to a close, Rezef's expression turned contemplative. "Luna dear, have you given thought to your partner for your coming-of-age ceremony?" he asked, his voice gentle as the afternoon breeze.

Luna's slender fingers gathered the documents from the table, her movements economical. "No, I haven't. Two months remain; plenty of time to decide." Her gaze met Rezef's, a hint of curiosity sparking within.

Rezef's brow furrowed, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "I heard from Damien you're not planning to hold the ceremony." He scratched his head, a gesture of puzzlement.

Luna's pause was fleeting, her voice measured. "That's correct. I see no value in it." Her words hung in the air like autumn leaves, brittle and detached.

Rezef's concern deepened, etched on his face. "And why not?"

Luna's shoulders squared, her tone firm. "It's a waste of time, money, and energy. I can use that time for the duchy's and empire's welfare."

Rezef's silence was palpable, heavy with unspoken thoughts. Luna stood, her movements fluid, and turned toward the door.

Rezef's words halted her departure, his voice laced with concern. "You know, Luna, your coming-of-age ceremony could be an opportunity to find a lifelong partner."

Luna's hand froze on the door handle, her back rigid. She spun around, her eyes flashing like summer lightning. "What?" The word exploded from her lips, fueled by long-held annoyance.

"Why would I need a partner? To secure Oleander's lineage?" Her voice dripped with disdain. "I can adopt from a collateral family."

Rezef's expression softened, his tone gentle. "Marriage is more than producing heirs. It's sharing life's joys and sorrows with someone you love."

Luna's gaze narrowed, her voice clipped. "I have Arum and Lazuli. They're always there for me."

The air vibrated with unspoken emotions, the weight of Rezef's concerns and Luna's resistance hanging like an unbridgeable chasm.

Rezef's words cut through Luna's defenses like a gentle breeze on a summer day, yet carried the weight of a looming storm. "You don't understand, Luna. Do you think Arum and Lazuli will always be by your side?" His pause hung in the air like a held breath.

"Think rationally, child. They'll soon be adults, with marriages and lives of their own. They may leave the capital, perhaps even the empire. What then?" Rezef's eyes, filled with concern, locked onto Luna's.

Luna's stomach churned, as if the ground beneath her feet was shifting. The thought of Arum and Lazuli, her closest friends since childhood, leaving her side was unbearable. Their laughter, their whispers, their presence – all might soon be memories.

Rezef's voice, laced with empathy, wrapped around her like a warm cloak. "I want your happiness, Luna. I want you surrounded by those who love you unconditionally." He knew marriage was a topic she'd always avoided, but his words flowed from a place of love.

Luna's glare flashed like a shield, protecting her vulnerable heart. How could Rezef suggest such a thing? Arum and Lazuli, gone? The distance between them, once a mere thought, now felt like an insurmountable chasm.

Rezef's gentle touch on her shoulder was a whispered promise. "You've built walls around yourself since your parents vanished. Don't let solitude consume you, Luna. I just want the best for you." His voice cracked with emotion.

Luna's composure teetered on the edge. She turned, her movements fluid, and shut the door behind her. The hallway's silence enveloped her like a shroud.

As she walked, her emotions swirled like a tempest. Her heart ached, her mind reeled. The thought of a future without Arum and Lazuli by her side was a desolate landscape.