LOGINRoselyn glanced at her husband, wrapping her fingers around the cup of warm water while gazing at the snowflakes that were beginning to fall slowly outside the window, feeling grateful for the protection and warmth the man always provided.
The afternoon was spent going through the neglected reports. Kaelus examined the supply charts and the Northern defense maps, while Roselyn signed the harvest permits for the rebl
Roselyn glanced at her husband, wrapping her fingers around the cup of warm water while gazing at the snowflakes that were beginning to fall slowly outside the window, feeling grateful for the protection and warmth the man always provided.The afternoon was spent going through the neglected reports. Kaelus examined the supply charts and the Northern defense maps, while Roselyn signed the harvest permits for the rebloom petals needed for the upcoming Snow Festival.As evening approached, Kaelus led Roselyn to the balcony overlooking the estate's courtyard. Down below, workers were busy arranging ice lanterns along the walkways, lighting a warm, golden glow across the snow."Is the preparation always this lively every year?" Roselyn asked, enjoying the evening breeze that was gradually blocked by Kaelus stepping up be
The journey felt as if it had stripped away all warmth. Weeks spent crossing a raging sea were followed by an endless climb through fog-shrouded mountains.At last, it culminated in a vast expanse of white. Snow covered every corner of the Northern territory, glinting softly under the dim, cold morning sun.Roselyn peeked her head out from the velvet-lined window of the carriage. The moment the gap opened, her breath instantly condensed into a thin mist that quickly dissolved in the freezing air.Rows of pine trees cloaked in white mantles stood neatly along the driveway, bringing a long-awaited silence."We're finally here," Roselyn murmured softly, her voice nearly swallowed by the creak of the carriage wheels against the packed snow.Beside her, Kaelus reached for Roselyn’s gloved hand. He squeezed it tightly, bringing a sense of calm before the carriage door was opened by an esquire.Once the footstep was lowered, Kaelus stepped down first and turned back to assist his wife. His s
Kaelus reached for Roselyn, his fingers tracing down her arm to her shoulder to make sure no injuries remained. Even though it was clear Roselyn was fine, she accepted her husband's attention and returned Kaelus's handhold tightly."I'm fine, Kael.""Let me check for myself, Rose." Kaelus looked intently at Roselyn's form, as if only now realizing how thin the line was that had just separated them from disaster."We don't need to worry.""But—""Kael, thanks to Derrick, we managed to avoid a catastrophe."Kaelus lowered his voice. "I'm sorry. I was too stubborn because I hate him.""You were just trying to protect me. I understand that very well.""Still, if you hadn't insisted on stepping down...""The reality is I did step down. And we both survived." Roselyn tightened her grip even more. "That is all that matters right now."Meanwhile, Selen moved quickly. He gave firm instructions to several soldiers to find a way down to the bottom of the ravine to ensure no victims were hit by t
The gazes of the Valthorne soldiers shifted toward Derrick, one by one, heavy with disdain they no longer sought to conceal. Even the driver, who typically bowed with utmost deference, averted his face, unwilling to look upon him any longer than necessary.Roselyn stepped forward, placing herself beside Kaelus."Derrick," her voice was soft, yet it carried clearly through the profound silence. "Please stop pursuing me.""Rose—""Everything is over between us. You know that, do you not?"Derrick offered no reply, his eyes locked onto Roselyn as though memorizing her features for the very last time."If you walk away now," Roselyn continued, "I can still retain a single fond memory of you. At the very least, as a fellow human being."Those words struck deeper than any blade ever could. Derrick stumbled half a step backward, as if he had just taken a devastating blow to the chest."I do not ask for you to cherish my memory. I merely implore you to believe me regarding the wheels.""They
The carriage moved slowly, its wheels creaking faintly as they traversed the ascending dirt road. Sunlight filtered through the gaps in the curtains, resting upon the lap of Roselyn, who leaned gently against Kaelus's shoulder."Once we reach the North, what do you wish to do first?" Roselyn asked softly."Ensure you rest comfortably before I inspect the territory.""And after that?""Take you around to see the preparations for the festival. I heard there is a stall selling snow confections.""I also want to see the fireworks.""Of course. We can watch them from the tower.""You mean the tower from our wedding night?""Indeed. There is no higher vantage point in the North.""I wonder... my belly feels as though it is growing larger by the day.""You have nothing to worry about, Madam. I shall carry you."Roselyn let out a soft laugh, resting her head deeper into Kaelus's shoulder. She parted the curtain slightly, allowing the light filtering through the pine forest to stream in more f
"Where is Roselyn?"Derrick’s breath came in ragged gasps as his horse charged into the forecourt of the Sirius residence. He had not even dismounted when the question burst harshly from his lips, directed at Selen, who had just stepped outside upon hearing the commotion at the gate.The ducal crest he had shown the guards was still clutched tightly in his hand—something he had used to force his way into a territory of lesser rank."Why is the Duke looking for her?""Just answer my question.""She has already left.""Left where?""To the North. Her procession just left the Capital.""How long ago?""Less than an hour.""Which route did they take?""The eastern route, along the slope."Without another word, Derrick yanked his reins sharply. The horse let out a loud whinny, its front hooves rearing high before slamming back into the ground.However, before he could turn his horse toward the gate, a group of Sirius guards formed a tight line, blocking his exit. Matthew, the head guard who
Roselyn ran out without looking back. The night chill pierced her skin, shielded only by a thin gown, but it was nothing compared to the frantic hammering of her heart. It throbbed between anxiety and a strange sense of satisfaction for having just trampled on the Duke’s ego.The four-hour journey
"Prove your love, Lady. Try serving me tonight."The voice was soft, yet it carried no melody—only the toll of a death knell.Roselyn remained motionless on the cold marble, letting her knees go numb. Her dignity as the sole daughter of Count Sirius had long been cast aside. All that remained was a
A stifling silence enveloped the balcony, broken only by the sound of Roselyn’s ragged, fractured breaths. Before her, Kaelus stood motionless, like an ice sculpture untouched by time.Roselyn lowered her head, trying to steady her racing heart. "Forgive me for forcing you to witness such a shamefu
No one greeted Roselyn as she left the room. There was only a silence that felt like an insult, making her misery complete.A few servants were called to drag her away, but Roselyn brushed their hands off.Step by step, holding onto the wall, she walked down the corridor with every joint in her bod







