Filed To Story: Queen of the Battlefield Her Return to Glory Novel Online Free
Lily smiled and said, “I was hoping to take you to see the fish, Lady Fiona. But since you’re tired, let’s head back.”
Yuvan’s family soon took their leave.
Throughout the encounter, Violet had not exchanged a single word with her cousin, which displeased Molly greatly. She had known Violet would be staying at Hell Monarch Estate when they entered the capital, and she hoped to foster a good relationship with Violet for easier access to the estate in the future.
Little did Molly expect that the stubborn girl would go out of her way to avoid her. It seemed that spending time training in the mountains had made Violet wild and unruly, and she had no sense of decorum at all.
It was Rafael’s day off, and he felt as though Yuvan had ruined half of it. Helen shared his sentiments, expressing her disdain for Yuvan’s family and how they expected her to play host.
“I can’t stand a heartless man like him,” she fumed. “Though he and the late king were brothers, he’s not an ounce like him. He tortured his legitimate wife to death-he truly is a despicable man!”
Gillian interjected gently, “They came all this way, and you’re the only one with enough seniority to handle them properly. We can’t have Prince Rafael or Lady Sophie dealing with them. After all, they’re younger than Prince Yuvan. It wouldn’t make sense for an elder to visit the younger generation. Isn’t it more fitting for you to step in? By doing so, you’ve helped Prince Rafael and Lady Sophie.”
–
“I know, but I’m just so angry. I want to slap Yuvan twice,” Helen said, her expression darkening. “There are plenty of heartless men out there, but I’ve rarely encountered one who is both cruel and callous.”
Gillian blinked. It wasn’t exactly like Helen had met many men, though.
Meanwhile, Rafael returned to Orchid Hall with Sophie. “Let’s change clothes and go out for a bit. We’ll have dinner outside tonight.”
“Where to?” Sophie asked.
Rafael replied, “I originally planned to take you out today, but they wasted half the day. Now we’re left with only a few hours, and we can’t go too far. Let’s head to Richspire Peak to see the maple leaves. I’ve heard this year’s are particularly vibrant.” Given their busy schedules, they hardly had time to nurture their relationship. Today was a rare chance to enjoy each other’s company without any other obligations.
Thomas had recommended a great spot, one that was serene and cool, away from the crowds. A half-day excursion in the autumn leaves would surely be better than staying in the estate.
Sophie tilted her head and considered it. “But Vivi’s busy talking to Carmen and practicing her swordplay. Should we wait for her?”
“Wait for her? Why?” Rafael shook his head. “It’ll just be the two of us. We’re not taking any maids or guards, not even Lulu.”
“Oh, I see. Then, when will we be back?” Sophie asked, her brow furrowing slightly. “I was hoping we could pick Ryan up together since he’s going to be staying at the academy next month. Plus, Vivi might be upset if we went out without her.”
Lulu and Pearl followed behind, preparing to assist with their outfits.
At first, they were excited to overhear the conversation. It was rare for Rafael to take some time off to enjoy an outing with Sophie But as the conversation unfolded, their spirits dampened. It was clear
Rafael intended to be alone with her to strengthen their relationship and create some unforgettable memories.
Their mistress truly had no sense of romance whatsoever.
Rafael said, “Everything’s arranged. Next weekend, I’ll pick up Ryan with you. As for Violet and Carmen practicing swordplay, let’s not disturb them. Come on, let’s change into riding clothes. We need to set off quickly so we can return in time to catch the sunset.”
Thomas had mentioned that watching the sun dip down from Richspire Peak’s halfway point was a sight to behold. The summit seemed to glow with a golden light, inspiring a sense of peace that would wash away all worries. “Alright,” Sophie conceded, but she felt a twinge of guilt. She usually went everywhere with Violet, and leaving her to deal with Carmen and Greta felt somewhat unjust.
Sophie hoped Violet didn’t get too upset.
Just as they stepped out, still adjusting to their outfits, Luke entered with news. “Your Highness, Your Grace, Mr. Young and his wife have arrived.”
“What? Mr. Young?” Rafael paused, momentarily taken aback. “Did they say what it was about?”
Luke shook his head. “They didn’t mention anything, but I noticed they seemed troubled. I’m not sure if they’re dealing with some sort of problem.” Rafael frowned. “A problem? With their family? Why would they have trouble solving it?”
Trevor was the Royal Tutor, with connections that surpassed even Rafael’s as the Hell Monarch.
Regardless, with distinguished guests arriving, their plans for the day-whether it was Richspire Peak or anywhere else were clearly off the table.
Rafael had been looking forward to taking Sophie to Richspire Peak since he first heard about it from
Thomas After days of planning, iet was disappointing to have to entertain Yuvan and now Trevor as welt. All his planning had been in vain.
Seeing the disappointment in Rafael’s eyes, Sophie finally understood, albeit a bit late, that he had been hoping for a fun outing together as a couple. She took his hand, offering reassurance. “Let’s go see what’s going on. If it’s not anything serious, we might still make it to Richspire Peak,” she suggested.
“Huh?” “What?”
In the main hall, both Rafael and Sophie were taken aback by the words of Trevor’s wife, Mildred. They exchanged glances that spoke volumes of their confusion. Neither of them knew how to respond.
“This matter really has to be entrusted to you, Prince Rafael, Lady Sophie,” Mildred sighed, the wrinkles at the corners of her eyes crinkling.
Sophie said with a troubled look, “But shouldn’t matchmaking be handled by a professional matchmaker? Or at least a government-appointed matchmaker, or someone of high moral standing? I’m still quite young. I really can’t bear this heavy responsibility.” Mildred sighed deeply again. “You may laugh at us for saying this, but my granddaughter has always been well-behaved and sensible, except when it comes to her marriage. I’ve secretly scouted several suitable matches for her in the past, but she hasn’t liked any of them. She insists on marrying only that man. We’ve tried to persuade her repeatedly, but she refuses to listen. She’s adamant about marrying him, and is even sulking with us over it. She won’t hear a word from her mother.
“Seeing her so stubborn, we figured he’s a decent man, so why not let her marry him? As long as she’s happy, that’s what matters. But when we sent a matchmaker to propose, he declined, claiming he didn’t want to hold up our granddaughter. Reluctantly, we’ve come to seek your help. After all, you returned from the Southern Frontier together, and he respects you. I thought you would stand a chance if you tried to persuade him.”
Trevor chimed in, “Honestly, whether this marriage can be arranged or not isn’t the main concern. I just want to understand why he doesn’t want our granddaughter. He says he’s afraid of hindering her future, but I believe that’s just an excuse. If it’s about that, then wouldn’t marrying anyone else be a delay as well? Don’t you agree, Your Highness, Your Grace?”
Sophie parted her lips slightly, unsure of how to respond.
She knew the reason all too well. Thomas wasn’t genuinely interested in marriage. He was merely spreading rumors so that Viola would move on.
However, she couldn’t just say that to Trevor.
Sophie had a vivid memory of Rosalind from Eleanor’s birthday banquet, where she had gifted the grand princess an orchid painting by Kyle. It was Rosalind who had confirmed its authenticity when others had claimed it was a fake.
Besides, Rosalind was known as the most talented young woman in the capital, her reputation echoing throughout the city and even into half of the kingdom. With such et
Who prominent family background, wouldn’t know her? If she decided to marry, every representative from the noble families would likely scramble to compete for her.
Yet, among all the refined young men and even the royal relatives, Rosalind only had eyes for Thomas, a man who had once been married If Rosalind married him, she would essentially be a second wife. If her feelings weren’t well-thought-out and were instead impulsive, it would be disastrous for both Thomas and herself.
Leona had once declared her desire to marry Samuel at first sight, only to regret it soon after. Now, they had become nothing more than a resentful couple. Of course, Samuel couldn’t be compared to Thomas-they were worlds apart.
Thomas was a hero now, but once married life began, that heroism would fade into the reality of everyday life. There was a risk that Rosalind might be idealizing Thomas and thought of him as perfect because of that. If she discovered his flaws after marriage and found him unsatisfactory, it could lead to trouble.
“Honestly, we just need an answer to help that foolish girl move on,” Mildred pleaded with Sophie with hopeful eyes.
Rafael then asked, “Mr. Young, what do you think of this match? If Thomas agrees, will you truly consent to it?”
Trevor shrugged. “What good would it do to disagree? Rosalind may seem gentle, but she’s as stubborn as a hot iron rod-hard and scorching. She won’t listen to anyone. She’s a sheltered young lady. What does she know about the world? Her knowledge is all obtained through only books. Fortunately, Thomas is a good man, far better than many young nobles. If it can be arranged, we wouldn’t oppose it.”
“But this isn’t his first marriage,” Rafael insisted.
Trevor looked at him in surprise. “With all due respect, Your Highness, you’re not Lady Sophie’s first husband either. As a young man, you shouldn’t be so rigid in your thinking.”