Chapter 288 Entrusting the Future T

The morning sun filtered through the castle's arched windows, casting a warm, golden light over the council chamber. Despite the tranquil glow, tension hung thick in the air. Duke Mathias Torin stood at the head of the table, his expression as severe as the decision he was about to announce. Beside him, Meus waited in stoic silence, his sharp eyes taking in every detail of the room. Across from them sat Zuria, poised and composed, her hands folded neatly on the table.

"I've reached my decision," Torin said, his deep voice cutting through the murmurs of the gathered advisors. "I will lead an expedition to the ruins of Aepilia to retrieve what was promised. However, I cannot leave the North without a capable hand to guide it."

The room stilled. All eyes turned to Zuria, who met Torin's gaze without flinching.

"You mean to leave me in charge," she stated, her voice calm and measured.

Torin nodded. "You are as capable as I, though your methods differ. With Meus accompanying me, the twins Aeress and Maerti will report directly to you. The North's safety and its stability will be your responsibility, my love."

A ripple of whispers swept through the room. Though Zuria had proven herself a wise and capable leader, she lacked the imposing presence of her husband. Some advisors exchanged doubtful glances, while others whispered behind raised hands.

Zuria smiled faintly, her serene composure unshaken. "Understood. I will ensure the North is well cared for in your absence."

Torin's features softened briefly. "You may lack my sternness, but your cunning surpasses my own. Those who underestimate you will learn the error of their ways soon enough."

She inclined her head gracefully, the faintest glimmer of amusement in her eyes. "Then I shall endeavor to disappoint no one."

After the meeting adjourned, Zuria lingered, her sharp mind already organizing the tasks ahead. She turned her attention to the twins, who had stood silently by the door throughout the discussion.

"Aeress, Maerti," Zuria said, her voice firm but kind. "You will oversee the daily operations left by Meus. I expect precision and loyalty."

The twins exchanged a glance before bowing in unison. "We will not fail you, Lady Zuria," Aeress said, her tone steady.

"Consider the North secured," Maerti added, her voice edged with burning passion.

As they exited, Meus stepped forward, his usual stoic demeanor softened by the faintest trace of hesitation. "Madam, I leave this place in your capable hands. My loyalty is with you, as it is with Lord Torin. Should you have need of my information network Aeress and Maerti shall give you access."

Zuria's expression warmed, though her wit remained sharp. "I will not let your trust go to waste, Meus. Nor will I allow your absence to create doubt in the minds of others."

Meus nodded, satisfied. "You will do well, Duchess Torin."

Later, Torin stood outside a familiar door, its intricate carvings catching the light. Inside, faint murmurs hinted at the occupant's wakefulness. Taking a steadying breath, he knocked once. The door opened on its own, revealing Zero reclined in a high-backed chair, his amber eyes glinting with mischief.

"Ah, Torin," Zero greeted, his tone amused. "What a rare pleasure."

Torin stepped inside, the door clicking shut behind him. "I'm leaving for Aepilia tomorrow," he began without preamble. "I need a favor."

Zero arched a brow. "A favor, is it? This should be entertaining."

Torin hesitated only briefly. "You once promised me two requests. I'm using the first. Protect the North in my absence."

Zero studied him, his gaze sharp and calculating. "This is the favor you choose to spend? You could ask me to annihilate your enemies."

"I could," Torin agreed, his voice steady. "But vengeance is a blade I mean to wield with my own hands. What I need from you is peace of mind—that my home, my people, and my wife are safe."

A slow smile spread across Zero's face. "Very well. Consider it done."

Torin felt a weight lift from his shoulders, but before he could express his gratitude, Zero added, "Oh right I almost forgot. I'll join your little expedition."

The statement hung in the air like a thunderclap. Torin's composure cracked, and he frowned. "Why?"

"Curiosity," Zero replied simply, shrugging as though the answer were self-evident. "That vault of yours—it sounds fascinating. But I have no interest in slogging through the wilderness for weeks. Here." He tossed a small, smooth marble to Torin, who caught it instinctively.

"What's this?" Torin asked, turning the object in his hand.

"Hmm, it doesn't really have a name so let's call it the calling stone," Zero explained. "When you reach the vault, smash it on the ground, and I'll join you. Until then, I have no intention of trudging along with your caravan."

Torin opened his mouth to object, but Zero waved him off with a chuckle. "No protests. You'll thank me later." With that, Zero gestured toward the door. "Off you go. You've preparations to make."

Later that morning, Zuria dined alone in the castle's private dining hall. The table was laden with delicacies, but her appetite wavered. As she lifted a forkful of seared venison to her lips, a faint but unpleasant scent made her stomach churn. Setting the fork down, she frowned and sniffed the air.

"Does the meat smell strange to you?" she asked the maid serving her.

The maid leaned closer, her brow furrowed. "No, my lady. It smells perfectly fine to me."

Zuria's nausea intensified, and she pushed the plate away. "Call for the castle physician."

Moments later, the physician entered, her expression professional but curious. She examined Zuria carefully, her fingers pressing lightly against the duchess's wrist as she took her pulse.

"Well?" Zuria asked, her tone clipped with unease.

The physician smiled softly. "It may be too early to say definitively, but you may be with child, my lady."

Zuria froze, her breath catching. "Are you certain?"

"Have you had your monthly bleeding?" the physician asked gently.

Zuria hesitated. "No, but I assumed it was merely late."

The physician nodded. "A missed cycle is often one of the first signs. I'd advise rest and care. Congratulations, Lady Zuria."

A complex mix of emotions swirled within her—joy, anxiety, and a quiet resolve. The physician hesitated. "Shall I inform the Duke?"

"No," Zuria said firmly, rising to her feet. "He must focus on the expedition. This news would only burden him. For now, this remains between us."

The physician inclined her head. "As you wish, my lady."

Alone in the dining hall, Zuria placed a hand on her stomach, her expression a blend of hope and worry. "Don't worry," she murmured, "I'll protect you I swear it upon your older sister's name."