How to Survive as the Wife of the Monster Duke - Chapter 203

Amidst the gathering, Amid stood as the central figure. Those who sought to establish a connection with the Duke Leon, his family, were abundant. As a result, he found himself surrounded by people shortly after the party commenced. While there was genuine interest in the Biflten family, no one dared to initiate a conversation with them.

The rumor that their bodies would freeze upon meeting the gaze of the Duke of Biflten was an exaggeration, but it hinted at the fact that dealing with him was no simple matter. Even the individuals in his vicinity, who assisted the Duke and Duchess, emanated an aura of solemn intimidation. They didn’t need to assert their presence directly like the hosts of the event; their mere presence was enough to compel someone to kneel before them.

Such an image rekindled the power of the winter region, a power long forgotten by the imperial people and the sun-dwellers. For they were the survivors in the treacherous land of icy cold, standing tall against monstrous adversity.

Amid found himself perplexed as he observed their unnaturally pale skin. Wasn’t sunlight supposed to be absent in their realm? His eyes then settled on Ilyin, who appeared remarkably vibrant among the Biflten clan.

Is she a submissive woman? He wondered.

Deciding to discard all the tales Viscount Arlen had shared, Amid made a conscious effort to take the matter seriously, contrary to his usual demeanor. In the past, he had been more interested in illicit gains and the pleasures of women than in any meaningful work.

“Hmm….”

His gaze fleetingly caught sight of Ilyin’s trembling hand. Perhaps she was still unfamiliar with the notion of defying her father. Lost in thought, he witnessed Aden’s hand enveloping hers.

She is an intriguing woman. Rather than being the wife of the third son, he wanted her to become the wife of the esteemed Duke Leon.

To accomplish that, Amid knew he needed to delve deeper into the mysteries surrounding Biflten. Adjusting his posture, he soon found himself on the receiving end of Aden’s chilly gaze.

***

Acid had brought an exceptionally impressive gift—a gift directly from the Duke of Biflten. Among all the gifts received that day, it stood out prominently.

“A black one,” Amid remarked. The rumor had already circulated within social circles that he, despite his aversion to sword practice, had a fondness for ornamental swords in vibrant hues. There were even young noblemen who shared similar tastes.

For his birthday, the gift he received was a magnificent ornamental sword crafted from a unique metal found only in Biflten. If anyone from the winter region were to lay eyes upon it, they might comment, “This doesn’t seem like Delrose style, does it?” Ironically, the sword resonated more with Nos’ aesthetic preference.

Eli vividly described the sword, adorned with intricate engravings and dangling ornaments. “It feels like carrying a small bell,” she remarked. Her comment elicited laughter from Ilyin. Though the sword didn’t quite match Delrose’s taste, its remarkable splendor made it practical even for everyday use. Biflten’s swords were crafted to withstand the harsh winter climate, ensuring optimal functionality.

Moreover, they could withstand Aden’s ability to change the temperature.

Those with discerning eyes lavished high praise upon the Biflten sword. It was a gift that elevated their social standing, showcasing a true reflection of the winter realm’s caliber. The name of the Duke of Biflten, alongside the sword from the winter region, lingered on everyone’s lips. Naturally, Ilyin became the subject of gossip as well.

Ilyin, the beloved daughter who had mysteriously disappeared, reemerged as the hostess of the Duke of Biflten. The story spread wider and farther, captivating the attention of many.

***

Ilyin had relocated from Acid’s accommodations. Surprisingly, the Duke of Biflten possessed a mansion in the warm region as well.

Although Biflten was not an independent principality but rather the territory of the Duke, there existed a mansion in the warm region. Strictly speaking, such a mansion was not necessary, but throughout history, every emperor of the imperial dynasty had desired a mansion in the warm region for various reasons. It served as a symbol and a means to establish a presence, facilitating closer ties with the warm region. In this way, Biflten would remain less distant from the imperial family’s sight.

“Biflten forged a long-standing contract with the imperial family.”

“A contract with the imperial family?” Ilyin furrowed her brows, perplexed.

“Yes,” replied Eli. In a sense, the relationship between the emperor and the duke was akin to a vassal-lord relationship. Ilyin tilted her head, trying to comprehend the implications.

The winter environment within the warm region was unfamiliar to her. Ilyin gazed up at the ceiling. The architectural style, characterized by the use of soft and thick materials to construct walls, aimed to block the chilling cold that permeated from outside. It was a unique feature of the winter region. Even though such robust winter preparations were unnecessary in the warm region, this mansion naturally adhered to the architectural style of winter. If not for the radiant sunlight streaming through the windows, one might easily mistake this place for a winter abode.