"Regardless of whether he is a descendant of heroes or not, I believe that, based solely on Baron Kenley's current capabilities, he is already more than worthy of our serious consideration," remarked Daina.

  "Sister, don't tell me you've developed an affection for Baron Kenley?" Guinevere suddenly smiled enigmatically.

  "What? How could I possibly harbor such feelings for him? Please don't jest with me," Daina responded, caught off guard by Guinevere's sudden query.

  "Because throughout this entire day, I've repeatedly heard you uttering Kenley's name," Guinevere persisted, subtly probing.

  "That's because I was tasked with testing the newly titled noble on behalf of our family, aiming to determine whether he is truly worthy of upholding the honor of the Christophon family," Daina continued to defend herself.

  "Alright, my dear sister. I was merely teasing you. There's no need for such a strong reaction," Guinevere said, a hint of mockery glinting in her eyes.

  Daina quickly placed her hand on her chest and said, "You know very well that I'm not particularly adept at matters of the heart. Moreover, you're familiar with my past. It's extremely difficult for me to entertain such thoughts again. However, what about you? How have you been deliberating on Duke Kurze's proposal for an alliance with the Christophon family? Although Father hasn't explicitly stated his wishes, his intentions are quite evident." Daina, filled with worry, shifted the conversation towards Guinevere.

  Upon hearing Daina's words, Guinevere's eyes dimmed. "I'm not certain."

  "I understand you, dear sister. Such is the nature of alliances. After all, Duke Kurze is the most powerful among the three dukes of the empire. He commands the most formidable military force outside of the royal family. An alliance with them would undoubtedly enhance the stature and strength of our family," Daina said.

  Glancing at the silent Guinevere, Daina felt a pang of sympathy in her heart. She knew that Guinevere had been groomed from a young age to be the heir to the dukedom. In order to mold her into an exemplary successor, their father had imposed a rigorous and oppressive upbringing, subjecting her to a life of solitude that was beyond the comprehension of ordinary people.

  Their father was extremely strict with Guinevere. He not only frequently imposed confinements but also prohibited her from associating with anyone of low or ambiguous status. This arduous existence persisted for a full eighteen years until Guinevere successfully passed the Bronze Trial, after which their father's strict regime softened slightly.

  If it hadn't been for the emergence of the demons and the urgent need for a powerful figure to safeguard Musa Fortress, it's highly likely that Guinevere would still have had very little freedom during her time at home.

  Despite Guinevere's possession of such an imposing castle, in reality, she was often unable to leave this gilded cage. On numerous occasions, Daina had to undertake tasks outside on her behalf.

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  For instance, it was Daina who personally handled the matter concerning Kenley this time.

  "Sister, if you don't desire this alliance, then have the courage to reject it. I can't bear to see you so dejected day after day," Daina said, feeling an inexplicable sense of sadness as she observed Guinevere's solemn expression.

  "It's quite alright, sister. I will comply with Father's wishes..." Guinevere said.

  "But that's not what you truly desire! Isn't that so?" Daina interjected before Guinevere could finish.

  Guinevere's face contorted with sorrow as she averted her gaze.

  "Father eloped with my mother, and that's how I came into the world. But now, he has you under house arrest, transforming into the very person he once loathed. You surely remember how my mother met her end, don't you? That tempestuous night..." Tears welled up in Daina's eyes.

  Upon hearing this, Guinevere closed her eyes. It was a harrowing memory that she preferred to forget.

  "I'm not without understanding of Father's actions, but what's the difference between what he's doing now and what Grandfather did? This might seem to bring you the greatest happiness, but is it truly worthwhile for you, sister?"

  Guinevere took a deep breath. "Sister, please stop."

  Daina fell silent.

  "Father makes his decisions based on his own considerations. As long as it can rejuvenate our family, what does it matter whom I marry? The Christophon family of today is far from what it once was. All I can do is think of our family's future to the best of my ability, as the future heir," Guinevere said, lifting her head.

  "So, I envy you, sister. You still have the opportunity to pursue your own happiness. You're different from me. Don't let yourself be consumed by the pain of the past, sister. You're still young and have the chance to find your own path to happiness. Let go of the past, and I will bless you. I'll help you organize a magnificent wedding and hope that you'll lead a blissful life," Guinevere said, enunciating each word with clarity and conviction.

  "Sister," Daina was momentarily overcome with emotion. She hadn't anticipated hearing such words from Guinevere today.

  Both of them lapsed into silence. The fire in the hearth crackled merrily, yet somehow, the atmosphere in the room was imbued with a tinge of melancholy reminiscent of an autumn breeze.

  "Baron Kenley is an exceptional individual, sister. You might consider giving him a chance," Guinevere was the first to break the silence.

  "I've never even considered..." Daina began.

  "Sister, as I've said, stop dwelling on the past. Put that incident behind you and start anew. You're still in the prime of your life. Don't squander your youth," Guinevere interrupted Daina.

  "I've never wasted my youth, sister."

  "But from my perspective, you have. You could build a family of your own. I want to witness you getting married and having children. Your happiness is one of my most cherished wishes. Do you understand?" Guinevere said.

  "But I'm not even sure if I have feelings for him," Daina blushed.

  "I'll personally assess him for you," Guinevere said, as if she had discovered a new purpose.

  "Sister, you're being too hasty. I don't know him very well, and we've even had some disagreements," Daina said.

  "Sister, I can sense that you hold him in high regard. Isn't that a promising start? In three days, the Kulsmatlin Festival will be here. We can invite Baron Kenley to the castle as our guest. I'll receive him personally and create opportunities for the two of you," Guinevere made a decision.

  "I..." Looking into Guinevere's earnest eyes, Daina was at a loss for words. Finally, she collected herself and nodded. "Alright, but sister, you can't force me into a relationship with him. I'm still not sure if we're compatible."

  "When did you become so hesitant?"

  "I'm not hesitant at all!"

  "Yes, you are. Every time his name is mentioned, your face flushes," Guinevere said.

  "Is that so? You must be mistaken!"

  "It seems I really need to take a closer look at him for you."