Felix’s Worry Towards The Engagement

Outside Claude's chambers, Lila and Cedric stand awkwardly until Cedric finally breaks the silence.

"My lady, I apologize for how things unfolded. I assure you, I will be a considerate husband," Cedric says, his expression neutral but with a gentle gaze and sincere intentions.

Lila gazes at Cedric and offers a kind smile. "Thank you. It's not your fault," she reassures him, prompting a sigh of relief from Cedric.

"In that case, I will take my leave," Cedric says, bowing slightly as he begins to walk away, flanked by his two knights on either side.

Lila's smile fades as Cedric walks away, replaced by a pained expression. She heads back to her chambers, her mood somber.

Upon entering, her maids Margaret and Ruby appear, their movements quick and suspicious as if hiding something behind their backs.

"Lady Lila, you're back so soon!" Margaret stammers nervously, a sweat drop forming on her cheek. Ruby mirrors Margaret's nervousness.

However, what truly raises Lila's suspicion is the unusual behavior of Margaret and Ruby. They rarely speak to her unless it's something unkind.

Sensing something amiss, Lila feels a surge of blood and quickly retrieves a handkerchief, coughing up a bit of blood onto it. Margaret and Ruby shoot they're disapproving glares before hastily leaving the room.

Sighing, Lila settles onto her bed, her thoughts consumed by her upcoming marriage to Cedric. She wonders about his parents' disposition—will they be welcoming? She's heard cautionary tales about the challenges posed by mother-in-laws and sisters-in-laws in noble unions. However, being of royal lineage herself, Lila hopes they might extend kindness, albeit tentatively. Yet, she can't ignore her status as the sole blemish in her esteemed family line, adding another layer of uncertainty to her contemplation.

As Lila sighs, she is abruptly interrupted by her elder brother, Felix, bursting into the room.

"Lila," Felix begins, his expression tinged with concern. Startled, Lila stands up, her confusion evident, as Felix swiftly approaches and grasps her shoulders, causing a slight surprise.

Felix asks, "I overheard the maids discussing Father's conversation about your engagement to the duke's son. Is it this true?" His eyes reveal a trace of anxiety and concern.  

"Yes, brother," Lila responds, her voice tinged with resignation. "I am to marry Cedric, likely at the age of 16, as Father wishes for a swift departure." Her last words carry a hint of pain.

"Is it because of your illness, even though there might be a way for you to get better?" Felix asks, his voice tinged with panic, though deep down, he knows there's little hope for Lila's condition. Still, his unwavering optimism is a comfort to Lila, bringing a smile to her face.

"Don't worry, Felix. Maybe leaving is for the best; I've never truly felt happy here," Lila reassures him, prompting Felix to release her shoulders, considering her words.

Perhaps she's right; the Duke's mansion might offer a happier environment. But what if it's worse? He had promised his mother to ensure Lila's happiness. Should he take this chance and, if it fails, bring her back and search for a place that will cherish and protect her?

"Fine... but if they turn out to be vile, I won't hold back down from slaughtering them," Felix states with a protective edge, his voice carrying a hint of harshness, causing Lila to let out a soft chuckle.

"Absolutely, brother. You have my approval for whatever actions are necessary," Lila responds in her gentle and slightly playful manner.

With a subtle smile, Felix nods and bids farewell, expressing the need to return to his sword training duties as the mansion's future heir.

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A week has passed since that incident, and Lila realizes she won't see her fiancé often because he resides in the north. Given her luck, their next meeting might be on their wedding day. It was a pleasant surprise that he made the effort to come down here just to greet her. He's known for being a respectful gentleman, after all, despite being merely 12 years old.

As Lila wanders through the castle corridors, she catches sight of Lucas demonstrating his magic to his noble acquaintances, appearing somewhat boastful. This sight causes a frown to form on Lila's face, wishing she possessed magical abilities too.

Lucas spots Lila and calls her over, prompting Lila to reluctantly approach them. "Oh... Hello brother," Lila says flatly, devoid of emotion, indicating her reluctance to engage in conversation with him, knowing that Lucas will likely show off to her as well.

"Lila, check it out! My fire and ice magic have really leveled up, and my earth magic too! Want me to demonstrate?" Lucas exclaims with enthusiasm, clearly indulging in a bit of showing off.

Lila stifles a yawn. "No, thanks," she replies, already turning to leave. However, Lucas intercepts her, grabbing her arm. "Wait! You've got to see this!" Lucas insists, his tone now tinged with a whining quality that irks Lila.

"I said no!" Lila retorts in irritation, causing Lucas to release her arm in surprise, taken aback by Lila's unexpected and firm refusal.

This infuriated Lucas. "Fine! I'll demonstrate regardless!" Lucas begins using his earth magic, a risky move indoors as it can spiral out of control when he's angry.

"Hey, Lucas—" Lila starts in a panicked tone as the ground begins to shift and crack slightly. "Lucas!" Her words are cut off as a rooftop threatens to collapse on her.

In a reflexive flinch, Lila shields her face with her arms, anticipating the impending crush until someone intervenes—it's the king, using his own magic to halt the falling debris.

To be continued.

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