The Duke's manor buzzed with frenetic energy as wedding preparations intensified. Seamstresses darted around, needles flashing as they meticulously crafted my wedding dress. Messengers hurried through the corridors, delivering invitations to nobles and dignitaries. Servants scurried to and fro, ensuring every detail was perfect for the upcoming celebration. Amidst this whirlwind of activity, I found solace in the sanctuary of the hidden training hall, the rhythmic clang of steel against steel a soothing counterpoint to the chaos.

My weapon, Mana Dimension, had become an extension of myself, its weight and balance perfectly attuned to my movements. I had poured my heart and soul into its creation, imbuing it with enchantments that resonated with my power. With each swing, each parry, and each thrust, I felt a growing sense of mastery—a confidence that extended beyond the realm of combat.

One afternoon, as I paused to catch my breath, wiping the sweat from my brow, I sensed a familiar presence. Kazmir stepped into the hall, his usually impeccable attire replaced with a formal uniform that hinted at an important meeting.

"Thanks," I muttered as he handed me a towel, his gaze lingering on me for a moment before he spoke.

"You look like you've been fighting a war," he teased, leaning casually against the doorframe with his characteristic smugness.

"Training is its own kind of war," I replied, dabbing at my face. "What brings you here?"

"I need to go to the Imperial Palace to finalize the formal announcement of our marriage," he said, shifting slightly. For a moment, his usual confidence seemed to waver. "His Majesty has requested your presence as well. You don't have to come if you don't want to."

I studied him for a moment. Was this the same man who confidently kissed my hand during the hunting competition? A soft smile tugged at my lips as I saw the faint trace of unease in his expression.

"I'll come," I said, my tone playful, "but only on one condition."

He raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "And what would that be?"

"You'll owe me a favor later," I replied with a grin, tapping his shoulder.

Kazmir chuckled, the tension easing. "Done. Now go prepare, My Lady. The Emperor doesn't like to be kept waiting."

As I prepared for the palace visit, Kazmir explained that the announcement of our wedding would be open to public witnesses. Compared to the private guest list for the ceremony itself, today's event would expose me to the curious eyes of nobles and commoners alike. I carefully adjusted the gloves that covered my hands, ensuring that the marks on my skin—the ones that could give away my identity—remained hidden. My veil, too, served as a shield, concealing not only my face but also the lingering traces of a past I wished to keep buried.

The sound of wheels clattering against cobblestones filled the air as our carriage, adorned with the emblem of the Grand Duke, made its way toward the Imperial Palace. Inside, Kazmir leaned back in his seat, arms crossed, his usual smug smile tugging at his lips.

"You're awfully quiet," he remarked, tilting his head to study me. "Are you regretting this already?"

"Quiet doesn't always mean regret," I replied, adjusting the veil that covered my face. "I'm just wondering how you plan to handle it when the Emperor inevitably asks who I really am."

"Oh, that's easy," Kazmir said, his grin widening. "I'll tell him you're my secret weapon. A master swordswoman disguised as my bride."

I rolled my eyes, unable to suppress a small smile. "You're impossible."

"And you love it," he shot back with a wink.

As the palace gates came into view, the playful banter faded into a more subdued silence. Memories of the time I had spent within those walls—hidden in plain sight, always looking over my shoulder—rushed back, tightening my chest. Sensing my unease, Kazmir reached out, placing a comforting hand over mine.

"I'm here," he said quietly. "You don't have to face this alone."

I nodded, grateful for the gesture, and together we stepped out of the carriage.

__________

Inside, the grandeur of the Imperial Palace was overwhelming. The marble floors gleamed under the sunlight streaming through towering windows, and the air buzzed with whispers as nobles turned their gazes toward us.

"Glory to the sun and moon of the Empire," Kazmir greeted, bowing deeply before the Emperor. I followed suit, my veiled face concealing my features, my gloved hands hiding the scars that marked my past.

"This is Lady Ava Liron, Your Majesty," Kazmir announced, his tone proud yet steady. "My soon-to-be duchess."

The Emperor's piercing gaze lingered on me. He knows, I thought, my chest tightening under his scrutiny.

"Liron… an unfamiliar name. Would you mind lifting your veil my lady if you could?"

Before I could respond, Kazmir stepped forward smoothly. "Your Majesty, my fiancée's health is delicate currently," he said firmly. "Her choice to remain veiled is a necessity, not a slight. Also, as to inform you that she is of noble blood and as her origins, she has a knack for horse riding and combat skills, from the Alanian Empire of the South."

The Emperor studied him for a moment before nodding but with a doubtful gaze on my side. "Very well. A bride from another Empire instead of choosing someone from here? But on your wedding day, the veil must come off."

The conversation should have ended there, but the Emperor leaned forward, a sly smile tugging at his lips. "For me to approve of this official wedding ceremony and since you claim she is skilled in combat, she must join the Ironclad Tournament of the Five Weapons during the Spring Festival. Let the empire witness her talents."

Kazmir stiffened slightly, but I stepped forward, my voice calm, and in my mind, we have to get his approval no matter what.

"I will gladly accept your invitation, Your Majesty. I hope my skills will meet your expectations." I said while bowing to show that I was willingly accepting his challenge.

I want to pinch Kazmir's ears after he said those lines that I am good with riding horses and combat skills. I just told him I wanted to keep lowkey, but ended up in this situation. The word of the Emperor cannot be defied as it's considered a law in Ironclad.

I want to go outside as I am not used to this kind of cover-up. It felt so stuffy that any moment I want to just strip it off.

"Glad to know. Now, people of Ironclad Empire, and for Grand Duke Kazmir Xylos of the Northern Region, as you have protected and maintained the peace and safety of our people, let it be known even to the farthest cities or empires may this wedding ceremony be spread as we have to celebrate our hero's wedding." His Majesty announced and Kazmir held my hand as if he was in relief after hearing the announcement.

Considering that His Majesty was so sly even before, I forgot to anticipate this part. He's scheming something, he can see this as a political marriage and have an upper hand between the Empires as two of the powerful empires when it comes to weaponry are to be allies.

Whispers followed us like shadows as we left the palace.

"Who is she? Is she truly of the noble blood from Alanian Empire?"

"I can't remember if a noble family has the name Liron. I should ask my cousin there."

"She's probably hiding scars or disfigurements under that veil."

Kazmir leaned closer as we walked, his voice low. "Ignore them. They'll tire themselves out eventually."

I nodded, though the weight of their words lingered.

As he escorted me to the carriage, I couldn't help but glare at Kazmir.

"What's with the glare, My Love? I'll join you at the boutique after I meet with His Majesty," he said, helping me step inside. "Try not to let anyone drive you crazy before I get there."

"We need to talk about this 'Alanian Empire's backstory," I whispered as he leaned forward to give me a kiss on my forehead still covered with a veil.

Kazmir grinned, leaning in even closer to whisper in my ear. "Fair point. But admit it—it's a good story. Stay safe, My Love."

I felt my ears flush as I felt his breath. "Good enough to fool the Emperor. We still need to talk about this later." I muttered while shaking my head. I waved at Kazmir as the carriage took off from the Imperial Palace. Since Helena didn't join, I requested earlier to make the veil easier to remove during the dress fitting.

The carriage ride to the boutique passed uneventfully, though I found my thoughts replaying the encounter in the palace. The Emperor's suspicious tone and the nobles' whispers gnawed at me. I pulled my gloves tighter and adjusted my veil, silently reassuring myself that no one would connect me to my past.

The boutique was bustling when I arrived. Noble ladies crowded around, their sharp gazes sweeping over my fully covered figure the moment I entered. Whispers rippled through the room like a gust of wind.

"She's probably hiding a horrid scar." Buzzing like bees. That's why I hated joining the high society that's full of gossip instead of minding their own business.

"Or maybe she's a commoner trying to pass as a noble."

Ignoring their words, I followed Madam Venice into a private fitting room filled with glamorous decorations and a luxurious feel. Her warm smile and the reassuring pat on my hand helped me relax.

"Don't mind them, my Lady," she said gently. "Shall we begin?"

I nodded and allowed her assistants to begin measuring and adjusting the fabric of my gown while I only left my veil and undergarments worn. For a moment, the air felt lighter, and I let myself enjoy the luxurious fabric against my skin. But, of course, peace was fleeting.

"Let me in!" The familiar shrill voice of the First Princess Mithy echoed through the boutique. "Do you know who I am? How dare you block me!"

Before anyone could intervene, the door burst open, and the princess stormed inside, her entourage trailing behind her like a flock of terrified birds. Her eyes locked onto me with a mix of curiosity and disdain.

"So, you're the one they're serving now," she sneered, looking me up and down. "You don't even look like a noble."

To be continued...