A Determined Rejection

Elis's eyes widened in shock at Kiev's bold remark.

"M-marry me?" she stammered in disbelief.

Rafe, who heard the declaration, was equally taken aback by the Mederian Prince's resolute decision. The healer didn't expect him to willingly adhere to the consequences of his intimate action with the maid without resistance.

"You heard me," Kiev stated adamantly, his tone brooking no argument. "I'm not going to repeat it. Let's settle this matter quickly."

Confusion clouded Elis's expression as she hesitantly questioned, "But... but... why would you propose such a thing?"

Armel, too, found himself unable to close his gaping mouth, bewildered by the Mederian Prince's unexpected declaration.

"It's the custom of the Cassians, Elis. According to our traditions, if an unmarried woman shares a bed with a man, it signifies that she belongs to him," Rafe explained.