The Cursed Villainess and the Tyrant Duke Episode 12: The Duke’s Warning

Episode 12: The Duke’s Warning

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The grand palace corridor, dimly lit by golden sconces. Evelina walks briskly, her heels clicking against the polished marble floor. Her mind is a whirlwind of emotions from her encounter with Valerius.

Evelina Everhart

*in mind*I need to stay focused. The last thing I need is to get tangled up with him.

Just as she turns a corner, a figure steps into her path. Duke Moraine, his silver hair gleaming under the torchlight, eyes her with a knowing smirk.

Morvaine [Duke]

(Amused)Leaving the banquet so soon, Lady Evelina? One might think you were avoiding someone.

Evelina halts, forcing a neutral expression.

Evelina Everhart

(Calmly)Not at all, Your Grace. I simply find the air out here more refreshing.

Morvaine [Duke]

(chuckles) Ah, I see. But tell me… how refreshing was Duke Draven’s company?

Evelina tenses for half a second but quickly regains her composure.

Evelina Everhart

(Coolly)If you have something to say, Your Grace, I suggest you do so directly.

Duke Moraine steps closer, lowering his voice.

Morvaine [Duke]

(Smoothly)Very well. A little advice, my dear. Valerius Draven is not a man you should be entertaining. He is dangerous.

Evelina narrows her eyes, folding her arms.

Evelina Everhart

(Firmly)And yet, the Emperor trusts him enough to keep him close. Should I not trust His Majesty’s judgment?

Morvaine [Duke]

(smirking)His Majesty keeps many things close. Some as weapons… some as bait. The question is, which one are you?

Evelina clenches her fists but keeps her face impassive.

Evelina Everhart

(Calmly)I appreciate your concern, Duke Moraine. But I assure you, I know how to handle myself.

Duke Moraine watches her for a moment, then chuckles softly.

Morvaine [Duke]

(softly)l certainly hope so, Lady Evelina. Because if you’re not careful, you may find yourself in a game you cannot win.

With that, he steps aside, allowing her to pass. Evelina walks away, her heart pounding.

Evelina Everhart

(in mind)First Valerius, now Duke Moraine… Just how deep does this web go?

As she disappears down the corridor, Duke Moraine watches her retreating figure with a knowing look before turning back toward the banquet hall.

***

Depressed author

enjoyyy(◕‿◕)

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