Chapter 72: Jingling Keys
As Tillian entered Aideen’s bedroom, he could not help but notice her disheveled state right away. Black ink stains adorned the flowing sleeves of her new dress and the surface of her desk. The crumpled papers and blotters were haphazardly scattered, revealing a poorly hidden mess. However, it was her unmistakably red and embarrassed face that truly betrayed her flustered condition.
"Your Highness? Is everything alright? Did I interrupt your practice?" Tillian inquired, genuine concern etched across his face.
Quickly shaking her head, the princess rushed to divert Tillian’s attention from her emotional disarray.
"No, of course not, Your Grace! You did not interrupt anything important! Is something the matter? I heard we are having guests today."
"I see you’ve already heard the news. Yes, several members of the Black Flame Guild arrived here this morning to report to Stanis, and... well, they will stay until tomorrow. So, I have decided to treat them to a little banquet here in the castle’s dining hall. After all, they’ve gone through a lot by coming here this time."
The Duke concluded his explanation, an air of reluctance surrounding him, as if bound by an unspoken prohibition from sharing additional information. Taking another step towards the lady, he finally resumed,
"Your Highness, since our union is imminent, I would be honored if you could join us for dinner tonight. These people hold significant importance in my life, and your presence would mean a lot for all of us. While I respect your feelings and won’t pressure you to do anything against your will, I kindly ask you to consider gracing us with your attendance."
Anticipating a swift rejection, the Duke was taken aback by Aideen’s unexpected response.
"I will attend the dinner, Your Grace."