As Lord Elesten and I walked to Young Lord Ethan's bedchamber, I couldn't help but notice the young lord's attachment to Lord Elesten. "Lord Lance, I see that Lord Ethan is deeply fond of you," I said, my voice barely above a whisper. "Does he understand his situation? Does he know that he's a duke and I'm his wife?"

Lord Elesten's expression turned sympathetic as he replied, "Lord Ethan doesn't fully grasp his reality, Lady Wyrmsley. He's still adjusting to his new circumstances." As we reached the bedchamber, Lord Elesten gently placed Young Lord Ethan on the bed. "Uncle, it hurts," Young Lord Ethan murmured in his sleep, his small voice tugging at my heartstrings.

Lord Elesten's eyes filled with compassion as he looked at the young lord. "This is why I didn't leave the Duchy, Lady Wyrmsley. Lord Ethan needs care and attention to thrive." I nodded, feeling a sense of understanding wash over me.

As we stood outside the bedchamber, Lord Elesten explained that this was the private bedchamber of Duke Claude when he transformed into a child. I felt a pang of sadness, knowing that Duke Claude had kept his true nature hidden from me. "Duke Claude must've hated me a lot that he didn't tell me about this curse," I said, my voice laced with regret. "I do understand him a bit now, why he treated me with such cold demeanor."

Lord Elesten nodded sympathetically as I opened the door to the young Lord's chamber. The room was a stark contrast to our bedchamber, with its grandeur and lavish decor. This room was simple, filled with kids' toys and light colors, as if prepared specifically for a child. Seeing Young Lord Ethan sleep peacefully made me think of a wonderful idea. I should surprise him when he wakes up with a special gift.

"Sleep well, Lord Ethan," Lord Elesten said, gently kissing the young lord's forehead. But just as we thought he was fast asleep, Young Lord Ethan's eyes fluttered open, and he cried out, "Uncle, don't leave me!" Lord Elesten quickly reassured him, promising to read him a bedtime story.

I watched the tender moment between Lord Elesten and Young Lord Ethan, feeling a sense of warmth in my heart. "Lord Lance, you should spend time with Young Lord Ethan," I said, smiling softly. "We'll talk again when time settles. I'll be on my way then, sleep well Lord Ethan."

Lord Elesten nodded, holding the storybook. "That would be nice, Lady Wyrmsley. Let's talk again when we have some time." As I left the bedchamber, I couldn't help but feel a sense of purpose. I would get Young Lord Ethan a special gift, something that would bring a smile to his face.

After returning to my chambers, I thought about the perfect gift for Young Lord Ethan. A dog to play with? A teddy bear that looked like a human? Or perhaps some sweets that he would love? I couldn't decide, there were too many options.

As I prepared to head out, Edyth approached me, concern etched on her face. "Lady Celeste, would you like me to come along? It would be safer with someone to accompany you." I smiled, appreciating her concern. "Thank you, Edyth, but I'll be fine. Sir Permio will be with me."

Sir Permio stood tall, his expression confident. "Don't worry, my lady. I'm a skilled swordsman, and I'll keep you safe." I chuckled, teasing him about his skills. "You're very skilled, Sir Permio. I'll be fine with you by my side."

With a final wave goodbye to Edyth, I set off in my carriage, feeling excited and purposeful. As I rode, I thought about the Zaar siblings, Edyth and her brother, and their story. They were the children of a fallen noble, survivors of a tragic event that had left them orphaned and alone.

The Marquess Ephiren Zaar, their father, had been a renowned nobleman known for his power and neutrality. But his downfall had come when the late Empress condemned the Zaar Marquisate. The siblings had survived by hiding in a small room in the annex, and it was Duke Clevines II, the former duke and Claude's father, who had discovered them and brought them to the Duchy to safety.

As I pondered their story, I felt a sense of gratitude towards Duke Clevines II, who had shown them kindness and compassion in their time of need. I hoped to do the same for Young Lord Ethan, who needed care and attention to overcome the challenges he faced.