On a cold winter night in the Duke's palace, an unusual stillness enveloped the grand halls, with only the muffled sounds coming from the Duchess's chambers breaking the silence. Within those walls, the anguished cries of the Duchess echoed as she faced the trials of labor, while the Duke, William, sat in his private office, anxiously awaiting news. He chose not to approach her; the distance felt safer.

As the minutes ticked by, the screams gradually faded into a tense calm. After an hour, a soft knock sounded at the door, followed by the entrance of a maid. A bright smile lit up her face as she bowed respectfully. "It’s a girl, a healthy girl! Thank God," she announced with joy.

William's heart raced as he quickly made his way to the Duchess's room. He knocked gently and stepped inside. The first sight that greeted him was the Duchess, lying exhausted and peaceful, her sweat-drenched forehead betraying the effort she had just endured. A few steps away, the maid approached, cradling a beautifully embroidered red cloth, revealing a precious bundle—his daughter.

With care, he took the fabric in his hands and unwrapped it, revealing the tiny face of the baby. Her delicate hands waved playfully in the air, and he instantly recognized the striking resemblance to both himself and the Duchess. He let out a deep sigh, realizing that, despite his initial reluctance, he now held a life filled with potential—a child innocent of the circumstances that shaped their world.

He leaned down and kissed her forehead, feeling the warmth of her small body radiate through the fabric. Her green eyes sparkled with life, and he couldn't resist planting kisses on her cheeks as well. For a moment, he exchanged glances with the servants, who watched the scene with quiet reverence.

"May God bless her," he murmured, a newfound affection swelling in his heart. "I will name her Esmeralda. I will take her with me while I write a letter to the king about her arrival. Please ensure the Duchess gets some much-deserved rest."