From early morning, the Ruschev family and their retainers were busily moving around the Tanasha Grand Temple.

Originally, Bialet and Ivan’s engagement was to be secretly conducted at the imperial banquet hall, but it was moved to this location in accordance with the devout beliefs of the Duke.

The Grand Temple was believed to be where the voice of the god Ekarto was heard most clearly, and the Duke argued that it would bring blessings and prosperity to them.

Having gained the royal family’s consent, the Duke made a substantial donation to the Archbishop, and the engagement ceremony was secretly held here.

Of course, since it was conducted unofficially, the high-ranking officials of the Grand Temple were under strict orders of silence.

‘I never thought we would actually have the engagement ceremony in the chapel.’

Initially, Bialet thought it unlikely when she first heard this idea from her father.

However, it seemed it wasn’t a difficult task for the Duke, who had been skillfully managing the Cheilo Altar for a long time.

Everything was proceeding according to Predik Ruschev’s wishes.

The devout Duke seemed to take great pride in his daughter having her engagement ceremony at the Tanasha Grand Temple.

He had personally and meticulously selected each item to be used in the ceremony, even the flowers.

Unhappy with his father’s behavior, Geizen spoke in a somewhat disgruntled voice.

“Anyone would think it’s Father who is getting engaged.”

The Duke, who was plucking dried leaves from the flowers, chuckled and looked at Geizen.

“Huh— That’s something to say. It’s your sister’s engagement, so of course, I as her father should take charge.”

It was fortunate that the royal family’s carriage had not yet arrived; otherwise, they would have thought it peculiar.

Geizen shook his head as if he couldn’t understand his father’s actions and added in a grumbling tone,

“Let’s have a drink when the engagement ceremony starts.”

“You little rascal. Who’s going to cry…”

Imagining the scene, Geizen sighed heavily and whispered to his sister,

“Sister, shall we make a bet?”

“Well, I think we both would bet on the same side.”

Bialet, glancing at her father, agreed with Geizen’s suggestion, and he smiled contentedly.

With some time left before the ceremony started, Bialet decided to straighten her attire.

She headed to a small room temporarily vacant next to the chapel, accompanied by Diane.

Bialet’s dress was sent by the royal family, a neat dress designed with a high neck and empire line.

All the accessories, including earrings and necklaces, had also been passed through the hands of the Crown Prince before being delivered to her.

She wanted to tear everything wrapping her to shreds right there and then.

However, unable to do so, Bialet swallowed a shallow sigh and put on the white lace gloves she hadn’t even glanced at.

Diane, watching this, looked as if she was about to cry at any moment.

‘Here comes the tears again…’

With time still left before the ceremony, Bialet thought she should console her a bit.

“I’m really okay, Diane.”

“…….”

Diane just hung her head, not saying a word.

“Aren’t you going to congratulate me? I’m starting to feel a bit sad.”

As Bialet playfully changed her expression and tone, Diane murmured softly,

“You know better than anyone that I wish for your happiness more than anyone else…”

“That’s right, I know. You’re my loyal confidant.”

Bialet, finding her adorable yet pitiful, responded with a tender smile.

At this, Diane’s mood seemed to lighten a bit, although her lips were still pouting.
“I’ve told you repeatedly that what you worry about won’t happen.”

Unable to reveal the detailed circumstances to her, Bialet spoke vaguely, and Diane nodded slightly.

“I know. Lady Bialet always achieves what she sets out to do. You must have your reasons.”

“So don’t worry too much, Diane.”

“……Yes, my lady. Though it’s late, congratulations on your engagement.”

“Alright, let’s go out now.”

As they entered the chapel, the light shining through the intricately crafted bevel glass was dazzling.

The royal family had also arrived, and the Ruschevs greeted them one after another.

“Glory to the Marta Empire.”

“You may raise your heads now.”

Despite leaning on a cane with a clinking sound, the Emperor’s command, still full of dignity, prompted them to look up.

The engagement ceremony began, and the Archbishop, officiating the ceremony, was conducting the mass from the scriptures at the front.

The Crown Prince, seemingly as disinterested in the god Ekarto as Bialet, yawned repeatedly during the never-ending mass.

Bialet, who was indifferently gazing out the arched windows, turned her head at a voice from beside her.

“Lady, are you listening to me?”

“Please speak, Your Highness, the Crown Prince.”

Ivan, looking displeased, spoke in a tone as if he was hurt.

“The Lady always seems so indifferent.”

“…….”

“Well, never mind. Now that you’re to be my fiancée, I suppose I should understand.”