Chapter 2 Duke-002

Arcanis isn't the only country that still upholds a monarchy in this modern era. However, unlike other European nations where noble titles are purely symbolic and reserved for the royal family, Arcanis retains a deeply rooted royal culture. Although nobles no longer possess territorial power, they still manage family businesses and are known as the old money class, struggling to stay relevant amidst the rise of new money-young entrepreneurs and visionary billionaires. The Ellsworth family, including Barnum, is no exception in this battle.

Barnum immediately accepted Duke Rainhard Kingsley's proposal for his only daughter, who was seen as useless, believing that this marriage would elevate the Ellsworth family's social status.

"Everything has been decided-you will marry Duke Kingsley, Hazel," Barnum said firmly.

Hazel looked at her father with wide, fearful eyes. The small hope that had briefly surfaced couldn't dispel her anxiety. Her heart raced as she imagined a fate possibly worse than being confined to her gloomy room.

Barnum watched his daughter, trying to gauge her reaction. "Hazel, this is an opportunity we can't afford to miss. Duke Rainhard Kingsley wants to marry you. You know what that means, don't you?" he said sharply.

Hazel nodded slowly, though her heart was filled with dread. "But Father... Duke Rainhard Kingsley... there are many rumors about him," she said, her voice trembling, barely daring to voice her fears.

Barnum sighed, looking impatient, and his expression grew more serious. "I know those rumors, Hazel. But you must understand that in this world, opportunities like this rarely come twice. You need to see this as a chance to improve your life and raise our family's name."

To Hazel's surprise, Barnum seemed more concerned with reputation and gain than his daughter's safety. "Father, I'm scared. Duke Rainhard Kingsley isn't an ordinary man."

Barnum looked at Hazel sharply. "Rumors are just rumors, Hazel. No one can confirm their truth. What matters is the reality that he is a Duke with great power and influence. Our family could gain a lot from this marriage."

Hazel's body trembled. Duke Rainhard Kingsley was indeed the source of gossip even more terrifying than herself. Although he was still a cousin to the king, rumors about his mother being a prostitute and his life filled with cruelty made him sound like a character from a horror story. His arrogant and cold demeanor was often said to be his natural disposition, but whispers about him being the head of a mafia in the underworld and killing every enemy in silence made everyone fear him. He was dubbed the "Devil's Blood Duke" for his ruthlessness.

Even more frightening, no one had ever seen the Duke's face in person. As the owner of the Kingsley business empire, Rainhard never appeared in public, adding to the mystery and fear surrounding him.

"Father, I... I don't know if I can do this," Hazel whispered, her voice breaking. "What if all those rumors are true? What if I can't live with him? I don't want to marry him, Father..."

Barnum looked at Hazel angrily. His fists clenched at his sides, and his breathing grew heavier. "What did you just say, Hazel?" his voice rose, showing the simmering anger within him.

Hazel looked down, feeling the fear gripping her. "Father, I just... I'm scared. The rumors about Duke Rainhard Kingsley are terrifying."

Barnum stepped closer, his eyes blazing with anger. "Hazel, do you realize how much I've spent on you all these years? Expensive medicines, doctor's treatments, all the efforts to keep you alive? And now, when there's a chance to improve your life and elevate the Ellsworth family name, you dare refuse?"

Hazel recoiled, shocked, as tears began to well up in her eyes. "I... I didn't mean that, Father. I just..."

"Silence!" Barnum shouted. "You will disgrace this family if you reject the Duke's proposal. Don't you care about the Ellsworth name? Do you want all my sacrifices for you to be in vain?"

Hazel sobbed, feeling the overwhelming pressure. Her father only cared about honor, reputation, business, and family wealth. "Alright, Father. I will marry him. I will do it."

Barnum sighed deeply, his anger slowly subsiding, though his gaze remained sharp. "Good. That's what you should have said from the start. Duke Rainhard Kingsley is no ordinary man, and this opportunity is your way out of your dark life. Don't waste it. I'll give the answer that you've accepted Duke Kingsley's proposal. There's no need for an engagement party. From now on, you are Duke Rainhard Kingsley's fiancée."

Hazel nodded slowly, though her heart was full of fear. "I understand, Father." Barnum looked at his daughter one more time, satisfied with her response. "Now, go back to your room. Rest and prepare yourself. We'll give Duke Kingsley an answer soon."

With a heavy heart, Hazel returned to her room, carrying an even greater burden on her shoulders. Through the gloomy window, she looked at the gray sky, hoping for a miracle to free her from this dreadful fate. Leaving as Duke Kingsley's bride was like walking toward death.

***

That afternoon, Barnum knocked hard on Hazel's bedroom door. Hazel was startled, quickly stood up, and slowly opened the door. Barnum entered with a serious face, carrying an invitation in his hand.

"Hazel, you have to attend a banquet tonight," he said without preamble. "It's the welcome party for the son of Marquess Margaux, who has just returned from studying in England."

Hazel was surprised. Usually, Barnum always decided that Hazel wouldn't attend any gatherings due to health reasons. "Father, I... I've never been to an event like this before," she said, her voice trembling.

Barnum looked at his daughter sharply. "This time is different. You are Duke Rainhard Kingsley's fiancée now. You need to show yourself and carry the prestige of being the Duke's betrothed."

Hazel felt an overwhelming tension. "But Father, I'm not sure if I can. I've never attended such a banquet before. People will stare at me."

Barnum sighed deeply, softening a bit. "Hazel, you have to go. Your presence at this banquet is very important. We need to show everyone that the Ellsworth family is still influential and respected. You're not just carrying our family's name, but also Duke Kingsley's."

Hazel nodded slowly, realizing she had no other choice. "Alright, Father. I'll prepare."

Barnum looked at his daughter with a softer yet firm expression. "Good. Wear your best dress. Show them that you're a daughter of the Ellsworth family."

After Barnum left her room, Hazel stood in front of the mirror, staring at her pale reflection. Tonight, she had to become someone stronger, even though her heart was filled with anxiety. She chose an elegant deep blue gown, hoping to hide her fears behind the beautiful attire.

***

In the grand hall of Marquess Margaux's residence, crystal lights sparkled, and laughter filled the air. Lavishly dressed guests mingled, chatting, and laughing comfortably. However, their attention shifted when Hazel entered the room, accompanied by an Ellsworth family servant. Whispers and sharp glances followed her every step, but Hazel straightened her back, trying to appear graceful and strong, as her father expected.

Hazel stepped into the grand hall of Marquess Margaux's residence with trembling steps. Her pale blue gown fluttered gently around her feet, but her chest was full of anxiety.

"Is that Lady Ellsworth?" someone whispered near the door.

"Yes, she's the one engaged to Duke Rainhard Kingsley," another replied with a tone full of curiosity.

Hazel tried to smile and act normal, but she could feel their eyes following her every move. Although they were interested in the news of her engagement, no one really cared to approach her. They preferred to gather with their own acquaintances, engaging in warm conversations that didn't involve her.

Feeling increasingly isolated and unwanted, Hazel decided to step away from the crowd. She slowly walked towards the balcony, seeking fresh air to calm her nerves. Once outside, she took a deep breath, gazing at the beautiful sparkling city below. The cool night breeze brushed her face, making her shiver slightly. However, she was reluctant to leave. Here, under the starry night sky, she felt a little more at peace. The twinkling city lights in the distance seemed to greet her, offering a bit of solace amidst the unfamiliar crowd.

"I wish I could live as freely as those stars," she whispered to herself, feeling tears welling up in her eyes. "I wish there was something in my life I could decide for myself."

Hazel gazed at the stars from the balcony, enjoying a rare moment of peace in the midst of the bustling party. The night wind grew colder, making her hug herself. However, the tranquility was suddenly interrupted by the sound of approaching footsteps.

A thick coat was suddenly draped over her shoulders, warming her instantly. Hazel was startled and turned around. In front of her stood a handsome man with a blank expression, his sad blue eyes looking at her. "You're cold out here alone. Why don't you go inside?" his voice was deep and calm, yet something in his tone touched Hazel's heart. Usually, no one cared about her. But this man was different.

Hazel was captivated by his good looks, unable to speak for a moment. His sharp and sad eyes, perfect nose, and thin lips formed a faint, hard-to-read smile.

Unconsciously, Hazel stared at the man without blinking. Finally, Hazel managed to regain her composure and smiled faintly. "You should be the one going inside, enjoying the party and dancing with the ladies," she replied softly. "Are you bored, Sir?"

***