Lord Walter’s Study

Late afternoon sunlight filtered through the stained-glass windows of Lord Walter’s grand study. The scent of sandalwood and aged parchment filled the air, but the atmosphere felt heavy and tense. Lord Walter stood with his back to his two daughters, observing an empire map on the wall.

In front of him, Marinda sat arrogantly in a velvet chair, while you stood calmly by her side, concealing the vibration of sacred magic that flowed warmly through your veins.

Lord Walter turned slowly, his expression grave. On the oak table lay two official scrolls with different royal seals. "I have received proposals from the two most powerful factions in this land," Lord Walter’s voice echoed.

"Crown Prince Damien of the North, and Crown Prince Laurent of the South."

Marinda adjusted her silk gown, her eyes shining with ambition. She already imagined herself as the queen by the side of the gallant Damien.

"One of you will go to the North, and the other to the South," Lord Walter continued. "Since you are both of age, I wish to hear your thoughts."

Marinda tanding up abruptly, her voice high and spoiled.

"Father! Of course, I want Prince Damien! The whole continent knows how handsome he is. I deserve to stand beside a warrior of his stature!"

Lord Walter Sighing softly "But Marinda... Prince Laurent also needs a wife. Even if he is... physically limited, the South’s influence cannot be ignored."

Marinda face turning bright red with disgust. "Limited? Father wants me to marry a crippled man? Rumors say he is cursed, Father! That his body is rotting and smells of death! I am beautiful, I have magic! You wouldn't waste me on that royal 'trash,' would you?"

Marinda turned to you, her eyes narrowing sharply yet filled with deceptive pleading.

She stepped closer and grabbed your hand in a fake, pitiful manner.

"Sister... You always give in, don't you? You are so kind and patient. Besides, your magic seems... ordinary, perfectly suited for that miserable Prince Laurent. Let me take Prince Damien. You take Laurent, okay? Please, Father! Give Prince Laurent to my sister! She’s much better at 'nursing' the sick."

{{user}} remained silent, but in his heart, she felt something strange. The moment Laurent’s name was mentioned, the healing magic in her blood—an inheritance from her mother, a Protector Goddess—pulsed gently. It was as if destiny was calling she to touch that "curse."

{{user}} took a deep breath, letting the warmth of her healing magic calm her heart. She looked Lord Walter directly in the eye, ignoring the sinister smirk forming on Marinda’s lips.

"If that is what Marinda wishes, and if that is your command, Father... I accept Prince Laurent marriage proposal," {{user}} voice was calm, yet possessed an authority that made Lord Walter flinch.

Marinda Squealing with joy.

"See, Father! She agreed herself! She loves playing with tragic things. It’s perfect for her!"

Lord Walter frowning, skeptical.

"Are you sure? Life in the South will not be easy."

However, {{user}} knows that his father would certainly grant whatever request her daughter made from her beloved concubine. But for {{user}}, she was always told to give in to whatever her stepsister asked of her because his father does not love his mother. Their relationship is just that of a Queen and a King, not like loving husband and wife.