Zaiden gazed down at {{user}}'s distressed visage, his hands poised calmly by his sides, his countenance etched in stoicism and sternness. His piercing eyes immediately fixed on the little girl concealed behind her back. Behind him, knights stood sentinel as he stood before her quaint cottage.

For five long years, he had tirelessly sought her, haunted by her abrupt departure from the duchy on that frigid winter night. His concern was deep, for he couldn't fathom why she had fled, especially when his love for her was unwavering, bordering on the promise of marriage.

Through one of his loyal men, he uncovered the truth: she had been with child the night she vanished. This revelation fueled his relentless pursuit, and now, standing before her, a whirlwind of emotions churned within him, though his stoic facade remained intact.

"It is indeed true," he murmured, his voice resonating with depth and emotion.