'If I were that boy's grandfather…'
For a moment, Capone let his imagination run.
If Michael had been his grandson, he would have doted on him every day, showered him with praise, never missed a chance to boast about his talents or celebrate his achievements.
But reality was different.
Karl never treated Michael with particular affection or showed any emotions just because he was his grandson.
That same blank face, that dry tone as if it made no difference whether Michael was his grandson or not.
'That old man probably doesn't even realize how amazing his own grandson is,' Capone thought bitterly as he looked at Michael again.
It seemed a shame that such an exceptional young man had grown up without receiving the recognition and affection he deserved.
Caught up in his own misguided assumptions, Capone let out a soft sigh.
Karl, of course, had no idea that Capone was fuming with envy beside him and even if he had known, he wouldn't have cared in the slightest.
His gaze had shifted to the princess.
In an instant, the sharpness in his eyes softened. The heavy air around him lightened.
"Have you been well, Your Highness?" he asked.
His voice, though deep and rough, was unmistakably gentle.
Capone's jaw dropped. He had been silently worrying that Karl might act rudely toward the princess.
'My goodness… this old man can actually be tender?'
Princess Astrid quickly straightened her posture and replied with grace.
Michael's deep respect and affection for Karl were well known, which naturally made everyone around him tense.
"Thanks to you, I've been doing well, Grandfather," Princess Astrid said with a small smile. After a moment's hesitation, she added carefully, "May I call you Grandfather?"
Duke Capone held his breath in apprehension.
Please, don't let that gruff old man embarrass Her Highness…
He could only hope Princess Astrid wouldn't be hurt.
But Karl's response was completely unexpected.
His face visibly brightened.
The corners of his eyes curved like crescent moons, and a warm smile spread across his rugged features. Slowly, he reached out his hand and gently took Astrid's small hand into his own.
"Of course you may. Please take good care of my lacking grandson."
Capone's jaw nearly hit the floor.
What… what am I even witnessing right now? I must be hallucinating!
He blinked blankly, replaying the surreal scene in his mind.
Karl who had always been cold and curt, like a bitter wind in midwinter was now smiling like a gentle grandfather, his eyes soft, his demeanor warm. This was the same man who seemed so stoic one might think he wouldn't bleed even if stabbed?
It was like watching a dream.
Incredible. I've lived a long life, but I never thought I'd hear such tender words from that man. Absolutely incredible.
Capone stared at Karl, still unable to close his gaping mouth.
Karl, however, was utterly unconcerned with whatever expression Capone wore or what thoughts he was harboring.
With his usual indifferent face, Karl turned his head and looked at Duke Capone as if nothing had happened.
"We all have to depart for the Kingdom of Therma early tomorrow morning. Let's get some rest."
His gaze passed over Capone.
It was a look that clearly said, Don't get in the way of the young folks move along.
An utterly blatant look.
Capone opened his mouth to protest, then closed it again.
He let out a very loud sigh but didn't voice a single complaint. Instead, he simply turned away.
Tch. Who's interrupting anyone? I'm not that oblivious, thank you very much!
Despite his muttered grumbles, a faint smile formed on his lips.
And with that, the two elders quietly withdrew.
Princess Astrid and Michael stood side by side, seeing them off.
Their hands remained naturally intertwined.
Though the night air was cold, the warmth between their clasped hands was undeniable.
As Duke Capone walked toward the palace, he glanced back over his shoulder and without even realizing it, smiled.
The late-night garden was peaceful and beautiful.
Soft moonlight enveloped the pair, and the stars, now piercing through scattered clouds, twinkled down as if to offer their blessing.
It was a scene straight out of a fairytale.
Capone gave a small nod to himself.
A tale worthy of being passed down through the generations of the Rania Kingdom. Maybe I'll be the one to write it.
Michael and Astrid spoke for a long time.
They spoke of war, of the future, of each other.
And through every moment of that long conversation, their hands never once let go.
As the court bell rang out softly, the royal palace was abuzz with activity.
Preparations for the Continental Council to be held in the Kingdom of Therma were in full swing.
The palace maids carefully readied a thick cloak and warm gloves for Princess Astrid.
They weren't just practical for blocking the cold wind they were also designed to highlight her elegance and beauty.
The cloak, made of the finest velvet, shimmered subtly in the light. Its edges were lined with dazzling, luxurious fur.
The pure white fur gleamed with a silken sheen, and its soft texture was soothing to the touch.
The head maid, now too old to accompany the princess on her journey, let out a sigh.
"To think she has to ride a dragon… Oh, my poor princess. How cold it must be up there…"
She nearly teared up at the thought of how terrifying it might be for the delicate princess.
The head maid continued fussing over every detail.
"Make sure to pack her fur hat too. Her Highness is already quite frail. If she catches a cold, it'll be a disaster."
The other maids, wearing sympathetic expressions, continued their careful preparations.
Nothing must befall their kind and beautiful princess.
Meanwhile, the royal messengers were organizing the necessary documents for the council into leather pouches.
Knights checked their swords and armor, hurrying to finish their preparations. Only the most elite had been selected for this journey.