Provoking a Graceful Bloom

Having grown up together, Selena Campbell and Frederick Lancaster were childhood sweethearts known as the perfect golden couple. To support him, she planned every step with painstaking care and calculated each move to perfection. She eliminated every obstacle in his path and paved the way for him to become the only Warbringer in Aurensia. Selena thought their love would eventually lead to marriage. But one day, a plain-looking young woman suddenly walked into Frederick’s life. At first, he said, "A mountain girl like her? She's beneath you, hardly even worth a second glance." Later, he said, "She's simple-minded and naive. Don't bother with her, Lena." But Selena slowly came to realise that the way Frederick looked at her was growing colder by the day. And when he looked at that young woman, there was a spark in his eyes—like he'd come alive again, full of the passion and recklessness of youth. One day, Frederick turned to her with a weary look and said, "Selena, how's our picture-perfect life treating you? Because honestly... I think I'm getting a little tired of it." That very night, Selena tore up the betrothal contract and left without a backward glance. "You won't survive without me!" Frederick roared furiously. But Selena smiled softly. "No. You're nothing without me, Your Highness." Chapter 1 The first time Selena Campbell saw Freya Talmar was the very moment the latter tried to assassinate Frederick Lancaster, Selena's fiancé. Though Freya was quickly captured after her failed attempt, Frederick did not punish her. Instead, he found something unusual in the ragged, fierce young woman. "Are you really Henry Talmar's daughter?" Frederick asked, narrowing his eyes as he stared at the disheveled girl before him. "Lift your head so I can see you." Frederick was a prince and Warbringer of Aurensia, a man whom every soldier obeyed without question. But in the face of his anger, Freya stood proud and unyielding. "Kill me if you will. If I so much as frown, I have no right to call myself the daughter of the Desert Hawk." Her spirit was unbreakable, her pride fierce. That image was etched deeply into Frederick's mind. He grabbed her chin and lifted her grimy face. "To dare speak so boldly before me means you truly are unafraid of death." "Let me go!" Freya snapped, struggling but unable to break free. "You scum! If you have the guts, then kill me!" Frederick did not take offense. Instead, his thin lips curved into a faint smile. "You are the first woman brave enough to curse me. How interesting." Selena felt her heart tighten for reasons she could not explain. The exchange between Frederick and Freya made her feel like nothing more than a background character in their story. And as time went on, Frederick's actions only made it clearer that Selena had become entangled in the twisted bond between the other two, a pawn in a game of love and war. To force Freya to reveal Henry's remaining allies, Frederick imprisoned and interrogated her himself. Frederick had defeated Henry's forces and was commanding the army's reorganization before they returned victoriously to the capital. Selena, the strategist, found herself with little to do after the battle. Her days passed quietly, spent reading or sewing. Selena and Frederick's wedding was set for the first day of the next month. It was a match arranged long ago by her late parents. From the time they were children, she and Frederick had been the perfect pair — the golden boy and the darling girl, a match of charm and beauty that everyone envied. Selena looked forward to the wedding with great anticipation. She even planned to sew her own wedding gown by hand. However, Frederick seemed quite busy lately. At first, he came home every day to dine with her. But soon enough, entire days passed without a glimpse of him. Rumor had it that he was still rooting out Henry's remaining allies. Each day, he rode across the desert with Freya, pressing her to reveal where the remnants of the enemy forces hid. People said that Freya was fierce-tempered and had faced death without fear in the beginning. "If she was so fearless, why did she end up betraying her family's allies?" Selena asked casually while her maid, Sally Mauve, was gossiping nearby. "It's said His Highness finally convinced her. He made her see that those men were cruel to the border townsfolk. They're not exactly heroes, so she chose honor over blood," Sally replied. Selena slowed her sewing for a moment but quickly resumed. "So, Freya earned herself some credit then?" Sally snorted. "Her father was a notorious bandit. No matter what she does, it won't wipe that away. Still, His Highness is a man of great reputation. He wouldn't punish a young woman like her. Since she cooperated, he likely spared her the law's wrath." Selena said nothing. Sally was never one to keep quiet and soon began complaining again. "But that woman has such a terrible temper. Can you believe she actually tore up His Highness' most prized military book?" "Oh?" Selena raised an eyebrow. "And His Highness didn't get angry?" "At first, of course he was furious. He had her imprisoned, but somehow let her go again. And after that, guess what? Ms. Talmar grew even more reckless. She even wounded one of the soldiers sent to capture her father." Selena's face darkened, her expression serious. "How did His Highness deal with her?" At her young age, Freya could get away with minor mischief. But to injure a soldier? That was a grave offense! Sally huffed. "His Highness said she was still shaken and upset from losing her family. So, he only gave her a few light strikes on the hand before sending her off to rest." A flicker of unease passed through Selena's mind. The general who had led the troops against Henry was none other than her brother, Sebastian Campbell. Before she could say anything, urgent knocking came at the door. "Lady Campbell! It's bad news! General Campbell has been hurt!" Chapter 2 Freya had stabbed Sebastian right in his lower abdomen. When Selena arrived, she saw her brother lying in bed, barely clinging to life. The physician had already bandaged the wound. The trousers he had removed were soaked in blood. With trembling hands, the physician said, "I fear that General Campbell may no longer sire children." Selena's mind went blank. Gideon Campbell, the Duke of Blackmoor and Selena's grandfather, led a household defined by unwavering loyalty and sacrifice. All three of his sons had fallen on the battlefield. Thomas Campbell, Selena's father, was the eldest son and held the title Marquis of Whitgrave. When he died, he left behind only two children—Selena and Sebastian. Selena's two younger uncles had died young. One had gotten married just before going to battle but had no children, while the other had been unmarried. That left Sebastian as the last male heir of their family. And with a single strike, Freya had ended the Campbell line for good. Sebastian was a loyal and upright man, and that wretched woman had ruined his life! Selena grabbed the dagger off the floor and rushed out. "My lady! Don't be rash!" Sally called after her in worry, eyes rimmed red. There was no need to seek out Freya, as Frederick was already dragging her into the courtyard. "Let me go!" Freya yelled, her pride unbroken even as she fought to break free. She lifted her leg and kicked him sharply in the calf. "You scum! Release me at once!" Frederick didn't flinch at the kick, but when he saw the dagger in Selena's hand, his face changed. "Lena..." Without a word, Selena raised the blade and strode forward. She aimed a swift, fierce strike at Freya. "What are you doing, Lena?" Frederick quickly caught her wrist, his voice urgent. "Let's talk this through." Selena struggled to free herself. "She ruined my brother. There's nothing to talk about! She stabbed him once, so I'll return the favor!" "Lena, it's all a misunderstanding. I'll take her to General Campbell myself to apologize." "An apology?" Selena almost laughed, but there was no humor in her voice. "She destroyed my brother's life. Do you think an apology can make that right?" "I won't apologize for a thing! So what if I was the one who struck the blow?" Freya glared at Selena, pride burning in her eyes. "Sebastian led the hunt that caused my father and brother's deaths. I only stabbed him once for that. He got off easy!" "Your family rebelled and brought ruin. Countless innocents died at their hands. They deserved their fate," Selena countered. When Frederick held Selena's wrist firmly, she lifted her head to meet his gaze with cold, red-rimmed eyes. "My brother earned his honor by quelling the rebellion. He's a hero. And this woman? She's not only the daughter of a traitor but also a murderer of loyal men. Are you really going to protect her, Your Highness?" she said, her voice hoarse with anger. "Lena, she's young. She doesn't understand—" "She understands nothing, yet she knows how to bring utter ruin upon my family's legacy?" For as long as Selena and Frederick had known each other, this was the first time they regarded each other with such icy disdain. She was usually patient and never argued with him. He often wondered if she even had a temper at all. But this time was different. For the first time in his life, he witnessed her fury with his own eyes. "No one from the Duke of Blackmoor's household can be bullied so easily," Selena said coldly, staring Frederick down even as he continued to keep a tight grip on her wrist. Suddenly, she relaxed her fingers. The dagger slipped from her hand, but she caught it with her left hand and twisted her wrist sharply. Freya's scream echoed through the room before she collapsed to the ground, trembling in violent spasms. It all happened so fast that even Frederick couldn't react in time. His face went pale with shock, and he quickly shoved Selena aside. "Wretch!" he called out to Freya, gathering her into his arms. Freya's chest was covered in blood. Selena's dagger had cut deeply, tearing through the girl's fragile body. "Guards! Get a physician! Hurry!" Frederick shouted, his face still drained of color. He immediately lowered his gaze and stared hard at Selena, not even noticing the flicker of murderous intent flashing in his eyes. "She's just a young girl. Why are you so cruel to her? You've gone too far, Selena!" Chapter 3 The look Frederick gave Selena was like a knife to her heart. They had known each other for years and were to be married next month. Yet here he was, filled with murderous intent over a young woman he had known for less than half a month. All their years of deep affection and loyalty suddenly seemed laughable in the face of that fleeting flash of deadly rage in his eyes. She couldn't help but smile bitterly. "Are you seeking revenge for her, Your Highness?" "I am a prince! You think I wouldn't dare?" Frederick hissed through gritted teeth, every word dripping with menace. Sally panicked and rushed forward. "Your Highness, this has nothing to do with Lady Campbell. It was Ms. Talmar who attacked—" "Begone!" Frederick raised his foot and kicked Sally hard. She fell to the ground with a heavy thud, coughing up a mouthful of blood. "Sally!" Selena snapped back to her senses and hurried over to help her maid up. Sally tried to speak, but blood spilled from her mouth, leaving her unable to catch her breath. Eventually, her eyes rolled back as she fainted. A panicked Selena shouted, "Sally! Wake up!" Sally had been at her side since childhood. Though a maid, she was like a sister to Selena, who had long considered her as family. When Frederick saw Selena's desperate fear, his anger finally began to subside. Since he rarely saw her so shaken, he instinctively moved to offer comfort. But then, Freya whispered hoarsely, "S-scum... it hurts..." Then, her head lolled to the side and she passed out. Frederick stared down at her pale face and the blood steadily soaking through her clothes. Whatever pity he'd felt for Selena faded in an instant. "Since you've already returned the blow, no one is to speak of this matter again. Anyone who dares do so will answer to me. Now... take Sally and see that she's properly cared for." With that, he lifted the unconscious Freya into his arms and hurried away. Watching his anxious pace and the tension in his back, Selena understood how much he cared for the young woman he held. But she had no energy left to dwell on it. That day, after settling Sally and ordering others to look after her, Selena stayed by Sebastian's side. When he woke around dusk, he said nothing, his expression blank and wooden. Selena said nothing too, silently helping her brother drink some water, then gently laying him back down to rest. Refusing to speak, he closed his eyes. It wasn't until midnight that he opened them again, this time with a calmer gaze. "Lena, that young woman now has Prince Frederick's favor. But he only sees her as an innocent girl, nothing more. Don't read too much into it. I can see clearly that his heart belongs to you alone," he said. A sharp ache blossomed in Selena's chest. Even with everything, her brother was still thinking of comforting her. When Selena said nothing, Sebastian continued in a hoarse voice, "Your wedding to Prince Frederick is set for the first day of next month. You've known each other for years. Don't let a simple misunderstanding defeat you." "I'm fine, Seb. There's no need to comfort me." Selena squeezed his hand and realized it was ice cold, just like her heart. "Get well soon. There will definitely be a way in the future, I'm sure of it," she said softly. "Alright." He closed his eyes once more, but this time he turned his head slightly so the tears pooling at the corner of his eyes could fall unseen onto the pillow. He didn't want his beloved sister to see him cry. Selena saw it clearly. But for the sake of his pride, she had no choice but to pretend she didn't notice. For the next three days, she didn't see Frederick. It was only on the third night that he finally returned, his footsteps heavy as he entered the courtyard. "Lena, I don't know what's come over me lately. Help me. I feel like I'm losing my mind." Chapter 4 Frederick was still the same man. Yet somehow, he didn't feel like himself anymore. He was once a man so confident and full of fire, but he looked nothing like that tonight. As he faced Selena, he looked like a man troubled by love and weighed down with sorrow. He even seemed somewhat weary. Selena poured him a glass of liquor. Frederick had always come to her when something was on his mind, whether he was happy or troubled. Tonight, it was clear he was troubled. After several stiff drinks, he finally looked at Selena and quietly asked, "How is your brother's injury?" "It's better," Selena replied cooly, her face showing no emotion. Frederick knew as well as she did that some wounds would never truly heal. He gently took her hand in his. "Lena, please don't be angry with me. It was my fault that day. I shouldn't have been so harsh with you." In truth, he had always treated her well over the years. He never got angry at her, and if he even spoke harshly to her, he'd immediately apologize. He also never used his status as a prince to lord over her, except for that one time three days ago. Selena lowered her gaze and instinctively tried to pull her hand away, but Frederick held on tighter. "Lena, please don't be mad. I don't understand why I've changed like this." "Changed how?" Selena asked as she looked up at him. His face was marked by pain and confusion, and he looked utterly lost. But he was Frederick, Warbringer of Aurensia. He had faced countless battles and weathered every storm without ever showing a flicker of doubt. Even if the very mountains fell around him, he would remain unshaken. When had he ever seemed so troubled before? Suddenly, he said, "Lena, my heart belongs only to you. It always has, and it always will. There will be no change to our marriage plans. Next month, we wed. From that day forward, I will love no one but you." If this had been the old Frederick speaking, Selena might have felt deeply moved. But as she recalled the murderous gleam in his eyes directed at her that day, she suddenly felt that whatever he said no longer held much meaning. "Are you upset?" Frederick's voice grew heavier as Selena stayed calm and silent. She raised an eyebrow and asked in confusion, "Why should I be happy? Isn't that the promise you made to me previously? Why must you say it again now?" Was he really saying those words to her, or was he trying to remind himself in a different way? This time, Frederick avoided her gaze. After loosening his grip on her hand, he picked up his glass and took a slow sip. Selena was running out of patience. She still needed to tend to Sally and Sebastian. Seeing her impatience only made Frederick's frustration grow. She had never behaved like this toward him before. "Lena, can I share what's on my mind with you? Are we still like we used to be?" he asked. Why had he loved Selena for all these years? Because no matter what he went through, she never left his side. When he was punished for crossing the king, everyone else quickly turned to flatter his brother, the fourth prince. But Selena stayed loyal, always by his side. She was Frederick's safe harbor. No matter the storms he faced, returning to her was the only thing that brought him peace. And now, he hoped he could still find that comfort with her. "Lena, I think... I might have fallen for that wretched woman." Chapter 5 "So, are you here to talk about breaking off our engagement?" Selena asked. Her face remained calm and composed, but her fists slowly clenched tightly inside her sleeves. As her sharp nails dug into the flesh of her palms, there was a sting, but it barely compared to the ache in her heart. Her troubled fiancé had come to her and confessed to having fallen for another woman, then expected her to comfort him as she usually would. How strange the world could be. How utterly cruel. Selena's words about breaking off their engagement struck Frederick's heart with a deep and overwhelming pain. "Impossible! How could I break our engagement? I will never leave you. Not in this lifetime!" He grew agitated and gripped Selena's hand fiercely. This time, his hold was tighter and harder than ever before. Her nails were already pressing against her palms, and his actions drove them deep into her flesh. The pain was sharp, yet somehow, she hardly noticed. She met Frederick's gaze with steady calm. "Then, tell me, what exactly did you come here to say tonight?" "Lena, please don't be so cold to me. We've been through so much together. Are we really going to fall apart over something like this?" Still holding her hand, he grabbed the bottle and drained half of it in one hard gulp, then slammed it down on the table. Pressing his fingertips to his forehead, he closed his eyes, his face twisted with pain. "I don't know what's come over me. She's ugly, scrawny, small, and not even a fraction of your worth. But every night when I close my eyes, all I see are those eyes of hers. Bright and defiant. She looks at me with such boldness and arrogance, like she isn't the least bit afraid. That damn fool... she has no idea who she's messing with." Though he was cursing Freya, the corners of his lips unconsciously curled into a smile. However, he didn't seem to realize he was smiling and still seemed as troubled as ever. "Maybe she's different from any other woman I've known. She doesn't flatter me or try to win my favor. She never obeys me, and her rebellious streak makes me furious enough to want to kill her. Maybe that's why I can't stop thinking about her." Frederick squeezed his eyes shut for a while before returning to his senses. He opened them and gently said, "Lena, give me some time. I'll forget her, I promise. I swore I'd love only you in this life, and I meant every word. I'm a man of my word. Please believe me." "Very well." Selena said nothing more, quietly pulling her hand free. She looked at the man she had loved for so many years. When she was just eight years old, he had saved her from a fire. From that day forward, she told herself she would marry no one else. He had only been twelve back then, but was already a young hero who was brave and full of confidence. Selena had truly liked him. To keep pace with him, she had spent her childhood mastering every skill she could. Not just music, painting, and poetry, but everything one might need on the battlefield. Though she had thrown herself into learning it all, she never showed off or boasted in his presence because he liked gentle women. In his eyes, she had always been a delicate and refined young lady. She was graceful, well-mannered, tender, and almost fragile. But now, he confessed he had fallen for a proud, headstrong young woman who made no effort to hide her spirit. Selena stood up and looked down at the slightly drunk prince. Her voice was calm as she said, "Then, please be sure to rein in your thoughts once you return, Your Highness." "I know you're still angry, but I meant every word I said." Frederick stood up, gazing at her stunning face bathed in moonlight. "Give me some time. I'll forget her, and you'll be the only one in my heart again. I will definitely fall in love with you again!" Chapter 6 Selena said nothing and simply looked at Frederick with a faint, knowing smile. He felt a flicker of disappointment. He had expected her to offer at least a few words of comfort to ease the weight on his heart. After all, he had always been honest and open, never hiding his true feelings from her. Men were often fickle, and Frederick believed he had behaved better than any man under the sun. Still, she wouldn't stay angry for long. Frederick knew Selena was kind and forgiving. Once she had time to think it through, she would eventually forgive him, regardless of what he had done. "Cheer up. We'll get through this. Just wait for me," he said, forcing a smile before leaving. When his figure disappeared beyond the garden gate, the faint smile on Selena's lips faded slowly. She turned and walked toward Sally's room. When she entered, she saw Sally sitting on the bed, wiping away tears. Selena's eyes flickered with concern as she hurried over. "What's wrong? Are you still in pain?" Sally shook her head but looked at Selena with tear-filled eyes. "My lady, I heard everything earlier. His Highness is too much! How could he treat you that way?" Sally had sensed something was wrong between them the moment she heard Freya call Frederick scum. She had noticed how he didn't react as most would, as if he had grown used to being addressed that way. Not even Selena had ever dared speak to him so boldly. It was clear how much Frederick doted on Freya. "My lady, do you really believe he will change his mind?" Selena stared out the window, her eyes calm and unreadable. "Whether he forgets Freya or not is no longer my concern." Sally looked surprised. "My lady..." "No one wants to stay in one place, hoping someone will occasionally look back at them. Since he has already walked away from the world we shared, all I can do is keep moving forward," Selena added. Nine years of love couldn't be wiped away in a day. But once something was broken, it didn't matter how much one tried to fix or protect it. It would never be the same as before. The old saying was right—some things just couldn't be fully repaired. "Focus on getting well. We're going back to the capital soon." Selena stood and headed for the door. "I'll go check on my brother first." Sally wanted to say more, but in the end, she just quietly watched Selena's graceful back and held her tongue. Everyone thought Selena was fragile and gentle, someone who could be shaped and molded at will. But only Sally truly knew how strong she was. When news came that Thomas and his wife, Lara Smith, had fallen in battle, Gideon fell ill and Sebastian fainted. It was the seemingly most fragile woman who single-handedly arranged all the funeral rites for her parents. She seemed fragile, but everyone depended on her the most. Otherwise, Frederick wouldn't go to her for comfort every time he was wronged. He just didn't realize it himself! After that day, Selena stayed with Sally and Sebastian, personally caring for both of them. Seeing that she neither cried nor caused a scene, Frederick assumed she had accepted the situation with Freya. With that, he felt somewhat at ease. For seven days, they didn't see each other. On the seventh day, the army finished its preparations and was ready to depart for the capital. A recovered but still weak Sebastian was leading the soldiers at the front, leaving Sally as the only one standing by Selena's side. When they first arrived here, Frederick had been with Selena. They laughed together and were the picture of ease and happiness, drawing the envy of everyone around. But now, as they prepared to leave, the person next to the prince was someone else entirely. Sally couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness. In contrast, Selena remained calm and composed, as if nothing had happened. By midmorning, the army had been waiting for some time, but Frederick hadn't arrived. The soldiers waited another hour before the prince's carriage finally appeared in the distance, slowly making its way to the city gate. Though the man himself had yet to arrive, the shouting could already be heard clearly by everyone nearby. "You're already engaged to her, so why bring me to the capital? Do you think I'm like her? That I'd sacrifice my dignity for fame and status? I'm not and I won't. I will never share a man with another woman. If you can't promise to love only me for the rest of your life, then don't bother. Now, get out of here!" Chapter 7 When Frederick stepped out of the carriage, his hair was a bit messy. It was clear he'd been in close contact with the young woman inside. He hadn't expected to look up and find Selena standing in the wind, watching him. A breeze stirred, fluttering the soft white fabric of her dress. She looked as graceful and ethereal as ever. It was a complete contrast to Frederick, who had once been carefree and confident, but now looked a little ragged, thanks to Freya. After he got out, Freya sharply pulled the curtain aside before following him. When she looked up, her eyes immediately landed on Selena's flawless, breathtaking face. Her expression darkened, and she turned to glare at Frederick. The fire of her anger blazed brighter, a mocking smile curling at the corners of her lips. "Well, your lovely lady is waiting for you over there. Why do you keep pestering me?" She jumped out of the carriage, her eyes burning with hatred as they locked onto Selena. "One day, I'll make you pay for that wound twice over. Anyone who crosses me will face my wrath, no matter how far they run. Just you wait, Selena Campbell!" Having said that, Freya turned and walked away, showing not a trace of hesitation or regret. Frederick stumbled after her, and in an instant, his tall frame blocked her path. He gripped her wrist firmly, his voice tinged with displeasure as he said, "The army's march can't be delayed. Stop this nonsense. Whatever it is, we'll deal with it back in the capital." "Hey, scum, I've made myself perfectly clear. I am not Selena. I won't be like those women who are willing to share you, or serve you for your power and rank. If it's empty flattery and false affection you want, then go to her. Why are you clinging to me?" Freya struggled fiercely but couldn't break free from the prince's grip. "Let go! Don't touch me with the same hands that touched her!" she shouted. Still, Frederick didn't release her. In a sudden fury, Freya raised her hand and struck him sharply across the face. The loud smack echoed through the silent ranks of soldiers. Every one of them froze, eyes wide, barely daring to breathe. Even Sally felt a chill run down her spine. He was a prince, the king's biological son! Even if Freya was headstrong, she shouldn't have laid a hand on Frederick. Did she have a death wish? Frederick's eyes turned bloodshot with rage. His fingers clenched tighter around Freya's wrist. "Are you tired of living?" he growled. Freya was startled by the fury blazing in his eyes, but still wore a proud, defiant look. "You think I'm afraid to die? If you've got the guts, then kill me!" Frederick didn't kill her. Instead, he lifted her roughly and tossed her back into the carriage. Inside, the sounds of tearing fabric and a woman's screams soon followed. "Frederick, what are you doing? Let me go! Let me go, you bastard!" The sky remained clear and bright, with gentle breezes and not a cloud in sight. However, everyone's hearts felt heavy and weighed down. Selena, Frederick's future princess consort, was here! Yet, at this moment, he was in a carriage with another woman, openly getting intimate with her in front of all the soldiers and even his future wife. - It was nearly an hour later when Frederick finally emerged. Of course, he hadn't actually done anything with Freya; his self-control was far better than that. But his hair was disheveled and his clothing was in disarray—worse than before. The soldiers were still waiting patiently under the bright sunlight, but the graceful figure dressed in white who had been there earlier was nowhere to be seen. "Where's Lena?" Frederick asked one of the guards. "Lady Campbell has already left with General Campbell's troops," the man answered with a complicated expression, his cheeks slightly flushed. Frederick's face darkened. He never expected that Selena would be so petty, so stubborn, to sulk over such a small thing. She wasn't just petty, but reckless too. Didn't she realize that abandoning the army was a capital offense? "I've spoiled her far too much," Frederick muttered in frustration. "Prepare to depart immediately. We're returning to the capital!" Chapter 8 With fury burning in his chest, Frederick took Freya and returned to the capital. He was sure that silence would do the trick. Sooner or later, Selena would come crawling back to beg for his forgiveness. But after they returned to the city, Selena stayed at Blackmoor Estate for ten whole days, not stepping out of its gates even once. At first, Frederick didn't care. But eventually, he couldn't ignore it any longer and sent a guard to find out what was wrong. "Is she ill? Or is General Campbell still injured and needs her care?" The guard returned quickly with news. "Your Highness, General Campbell's wounds seem to be healing well. He paid a visit to the palace today to see the king." Frederick scoffed. "He went to the palace?" A general who abandoned his post had the nerve to see the king? "If General Campbell is well, then what is Lena doing hiding in the estate?" Frederick growled. Selena hadn't come to his residence to apologize. What on earth was she thinking? "Did I kick Sally too hard? Is she still hurt?" "Ms. Mauve appears to be well, Your Highness. She was out with Lady Campbell today, drying herbs in the sun." "She'd rather be drying herbs than come see me?" Frederick had planned to wait until Selena came to ask his forgiveness. When she did, he intended to lay out a few conditions of his own. But day after day passed with no sign of her. On the seventh night, he couldn't bear it any longer and went to Blackmoor Estate personally. At this time, Selena had just finished her bath. With beads of water sliding down her still-damp hair, she entered the side parlor, carrying a small box in her hand. Frederick glanced at it briefly but paid it no mind. She used to surprise him now and then with small gifts. Back then, he'd always been delighted by the gesture. Now, after making him angry, trying to soothe him with such tricks only struck him as dull and unworthy of his attention. Compared to Freya's blunt honesty, Selena's careful little tactics seemed overly delicate, even a bit insincere. "I gave you several days to reflect. Do you even know what you did wrong?" Frederick asked, his tone nothing like the defeated man who had sought her out before. Though his face showed displeasure, there was a confident spark in his eyes. On closer look, a hint of triumph played across his expression. After Selena sent Sally away with instructions to bring tea, she invited Frederick to sit. Every movement was graceful, perfectly poised, and composed. She was truly a lady raised within the sheltered walls of a noble household. Frederick had always admired her elegant manners and refined bearing. But as he looked at her now, he couldn't help but hear Freya's voice echoing in his mind. "I'm not one of those delicate, flattering ladies who live by rules. Stop trying to cage me!" The girls Frederick had known since childhood were all either ladies of noble birth or women at court, each one bound by strict rules and measured conduct. Freya was different. She was wild and untamed, which only made him like her more. He found himself falling deeper than he ever expected, unable to stop. Frederick couldn't deny that Selena was beautiful, but she looked dull and lifeless to him now. Selena saw right through his growing boredom with her. Her expression remained calm and untroubled as she asked, "Then, may I know what you think I have done wrong?" "Is this how you speak to me?" Frederick's displeasure deepened. "You're no longer a child, Lena. "Because you were upset that I spoke with Freya for a few moments, you dragged General Campbell away first. Your petty and small-minded actions have caused General Campbell to desert his post." This wasn't the Selena he knew. Freya was right. Women were jealous by nature. All the gentle obedience and quiet compliance he had once admired had been nothing but a facade. He had been mistaken about Selena all along. The woman he had loved for years was no different from any other common lady. He was truly lucky to have met someone as genuine as Freya. Frederick's face darkened, and his voice turned cold as he said, "Do you know what punishment General Campbell stands to face because of your tantrum? Fifty lashes at least, or even execution under military law. Have you considered that?" He thought Selena would be frightened, but was surprised to find that she remained composed throughout. "Your Highness, are you here to discuss military law with me? If that's the case, then what punishment should be given to Freya for stabbing a general and soldiers without cause?" Chapter 9 "You're still angry about that? It's such a trivial thing, and you're holding onto it even now?" Frederick asked, clearly disappointed in Selena. "Do you truly think ruining my brother's life is trivial?" she replied, just as deeply disappointed in him. The Frederick she once knew, a man who was fair and impartial, had long since vanished. Selena continued, "If you think it's so trivial, then maybe she should stab you next time. Let's see how you feel then." The image made Frederick's stomach tighten. Suddenly, a wave of helplessness washed over him, making him say, "Forget it, Lena. You stabbed her too. Do you know how badly she's hurt? Not just physically, but her pride as well. That wound makes her feel like she's no longer a perfect lady." "Since when was she ever perfect?" Selena countered. "Lena!" Frederick's tone sharpened. "I don't want to argue with you. Let's leave the past where it belongs. As for you and General Campbell deserting the army..." Selena cut in, "I sent someone to deliver a message to the king and begged for permission to escort my brother back to the capital for treatment. His Majesty agreed. I received a verbal edict that allowed us to leave at any time." Her calm gaze rested on the prince's suddenly flushed face, her expression unreadable. "If you don't believe me, you can go to the palace and ask His Majesty yourself." Frederick stared at her. He hadn't expected her to have taken so many steps behind his back. He was still a little upset. But when he caught sight of the wooden box in her hands, the anger in his chest quietly faded. Bringing a gift clearly indicated that she intended to make peace, and he wasn't so petty as to turn her away. Besides, he had come with another purpose today. "All right, let's forget the past. In ten days, we will be married. I've come to say something to you." Selena said nothing, simply listening quietly. Frederick hesitated. Such things were never easy to say. But with the wedding coming up soon, what he wanted to convey couldn't be delayed any longer. "Lena, I... didn't think I needed to discuss this with you. But since we have known each other for so long, I hope we can live in peace going forward, without..." "Do you intend to marry Freya, Your Highness?" Selena's slender fingers traced the wooden box as she spoke, her calm manner unreadable. A faint, mocking smile played on her lips. "Half a month ago, you said you would soon forget her, didn't you?" Frederick turned his face away, avoiding her gaze. Her smile made him uncomfortable. "Lena, I've known you for many years, and have always respected you. But before... Before I truly understood what love between a man and a woman meant, I thought what we had was passion—until I met Fey," he explained, now using an affectionate nickname for Freya. He sighed softly, a hint of helplessness in his voice as he continued, "Lena, I'm sorry. My heart belongs to Fey. She is the only woman I have ever truly desired." "Your parents would never approve of you marrying the daughter of a traitor—" "That is the fault of her father and brothers, not hers," Frederick cut in immediately. "Since you've made up your mind, go beg the king for permission to marry her. Why come to me?" Selena was well aware of the difficulty he faced. With Freya's background, getting permission to marry her wouldn't be easy. Frederick's hand clenched slightly as he pondered his next words. After a long moment, he looked up at Selena, who was calmly drinking her tea, looking completely at ease. That only made his awkwardness stand out even more. Finally, he said in a low voice, "Lena, I initially intended to marry only Fey. But you and I have known each other for so many years. I don't want my breaking off our engagement to leave you with nothing." Selena raised an eyebrow, her perfect face unreadable. "So?" "So, I won't break our engagement. We'll marry as planned, and you'll become my princess consort. However, I have two conditions." His lips pressed together, betraying his struggle. Then, he forced himself to say, "First, you must go to the king. Ask him to grant me permission to take Fey as my secondary wife, and for the two of us to be wed on the same day as our wedding." Chapter 10 Frederick had expected Selena to throw a fit. After all, the situation was unfair. But instead, she simply looked at him quietly, without crying or making a scene. That calm silence unsettled him more than any anger might have. "Lena, you've seen Fey's temper. She'll never willingly share me. That's why I was planning to break off our engagement." He knew those words were harsh. But if Selena had just stayed quiet and done as she was told, it wouldn't have come to this. "The fact that Fey is even willing to marry me alongside you is already a huge compromise on her part. If you can't accept that, I'm afraid our marriage will have to be called off." Selena kept staring at him, her gaze neither warm nor cold. But for some reason, Frederick felt a flicker of irritation stir inside him. "What are you really thinking, Lena? No matter what you're planning, I'm not leaving Fey. Can we just speak honestly, from the heart? Let's stop with all the games and second-guessing, okay?" He didn't want to waste any more energy fighting with her. Besides, Freya was waiting for him at his estate. With her temper, who knew what chaos would erupt if he delayed his return? "Very well. Then, let me speak plainly, Your Highness," Selena said at last. "I recall Freya said that if you can't promise to love only her for the rest of your life, then don't bother with her at all. So, if you marry me, how can you give her that?" Frederick's eyes darkened. "That... is the second thing I need you to agree to." Selena fell silent again and watched him quietly. "I promised Fey that I would never touch any other woman in my life," Frederick said softly. "Then, why bother marrying me at all? Just to make me a widow in all but name?" Selena quipped, finding his words ridiculous. Frederick frowned. "But you'll be my princess consort. That's an honor beyond compare!" When she said nothing, he pressed on, "The Duke of Blackmoor's household may seem prosperous on the surface, but you know as well as I do that it's an empty shell now. Even General Campbell has..." He paused. After all, Freya had caused that mess. However, Frederick didn't blame her. She was a young woman who had lost everything, so it was only natural that she would act rashly. He could forgive her for that. "General Campbell's condition means there's no future for the Duke of Blackmoor's household. Only by marrying me can you live a life of honor and privilege. I will be the support your family needs. For you and everyone in your household, I am your last hope." In his eyes, there was no other way out for her but to marry him. "I know you feel it's unfair, Lena. But as long as you stay loyal, I promise no one will take your place as my princess consort." Frederick fixed his serious gaze on Selena's beautiful face. "It's already a huge concession that Fey is willing to yield to you this much. Once you're both married into my household, it won't matter that you're the main wife and she's the secondary. "She'll have the same standing as you. You're not allowed to use your rank to look down on her. And... I won't let you mistreat her either. Understand?" Selena nodded. "I understand what you mean, Your Highness." She didn't object! Frederick's eyes brightened, and he finally let out a breath of relief. "Since you agree—" Suddenly, an angry voice cut in, "I don't agree!" Freya burst in, anger flashing in her eyes. Led by Frederick's closest guard, William Klein, she strode straight to Selena. In one swift motion, she drew a dagger and pressed the tip against Selena's chest. "If you want to marry him, you'll have to agree to a third condition."