Why Raeliana Ended Up at the Duke's Mansion - Episode 2
Mb | Jun 7, 2023 | Reading Time: 3 Min.
Raeliana is confronted with a surprise visit from Duke Noah Wynknight. Still recovering from the previous night's festivities, she initially tries to send him away, but upon learning his intentions, she lets him in.
Raeliana is aware of the Duke's reputation and is initially shocked by his appearance. She knows that Noah, as a Duke, possesses the Royal Seal, a symbol of royal authority. During their ensuing conversation, she hints at her knowledge of the Royal Seal, arousing his suspicion.
Meanwhile, Raeliana considers breaking off her engagement to Lord Brooks. When she informs her parents of her wish, she expects resistance, but to her surprise, they support her decision, prioritizing her happiness over the family's welfare. Their understanding acceptance stirs mixed emotions in Raeliana, as she carries the secret that she is not their real daughter.
Afterward, Raeliana resumes her conversation with the Duke. She presses him further about the Royal Seal, trying to unsettle him and extract an answer. Despite his attempts to feign ignorance, Raeliana notices his reaction and decides to continue her tactics.
The discussion between Noah and Raeliana soon shifts to a chess game, which serves as a metaphor for the current political state of the Kingdom of Chamus. She seizes the opportunity to demonstrate her understanding of the political landscape, impressing Noah and making him open to negotiation.
The negotiations end with a deal: The Duke will pose as Raeliana's fiancé for six months, giving her a reason to dissolve her engagement to Lord Brooks. Despite her reservations about the Duke's character, Raeliana sees no other option.
A few days later, Raeliana faces new challenges. She is shocked to learn that she is now expected to receive compensation for the broken engagement. Additionally, she must deal with Adam Taylor, a stern knight assigned to her by Noah. Adam, a former child soldier, is infamous for his unwavering loyalty to Noah and his lethal skills, which earned him the title "The Observer."
Raeliana attempts to break the ice with the silent and intimidating Adam by talking about food and flowers—with little success. However, when her sister Rosemary loses a balloon carrying her wish for Raeliana's happiness, Adam surprisingly retrieves it, revealing an unexpected side of himself. Raeliana begins to see the quiet knight in a new light.
The episode ends at dawn on the day Raeliana is to move into the Duke's villa, setting the stage for the bride training she must undergo as part of her agreement with Noah.
This article was originally published in German. It was translated with technical support and editorially reviewed before publication.