Yayang_Dwi_8171

In the aristocratic world filled with strict rules, Clarisse Faeloria, a young noblewoman, is faced with a harsh reality: an arranged marriage she cannot escape. Despite living a life of luxury, freedom has always been a dream just out of reach. When her family accepts a proposal from Lorcan Frostborne, the infamous Duke of the North known for his cold and ruthless nature, Clarisse feels as if her world is falling apart.

This marriage is not just about her—it is about her family's prosperity. Though her heart resists, the weight of societal expectations and the promise of great wealth trap her in a dilemma. How could she entrust her future to a man she has never even met, yet whose terrifying reputation echoes throughout the land?

Will Clarisse accept this marriage for the sake of her family, or will she find a way to defy the fate that has been set for her?

(I am an author from Indonesia, and I have quite a few works written in Indonesian.)

THE DUKE OF THE NORTH'S WIFE

Lorcan Frostborne stood before a large map spread out on the meeting table. The southern region, where the Barbarian King, Khan, ruled, seemed like a battlefield that needed to be conquered immediately. The memory of his loss ignited his determination, and today, he was determined to put an end to everything.

With the help of Rowan Evandril's strategy, Lorcan was confident that the day of reckoning had arrived. "This is my last chance to seek justice," he whispered softly, filled with unshakeable determination.

Kaelion Arvasyn, who stood beside him, placed a hand on Lorcan's shoulder. "Don't let your anger cloud your judgment. We're all here to ensure you return safely," Kaelion said seriously, yet with concern.

Lorcan glanced at Kaelion, then smiled thinly. "I won't fail. Not until Khan surrenders before me."

On the battlefield, the atmosphere was tense. Lorcan led a portion of the troops, while Kaelion and the other knights faced off against a divided enemy force. Lorcan knew that his path to Khan was now wide open.

Khan, with his massive body and gigantic axe, stood in the center of the battlefield, overseeing the fight. When his eyes caught sight of Lorcan approaching, he let out a thunderous roar. "Attack! Destroy him!"

The large barbarian army charged towards Lorcan, but he swiftly cut them down one by one. The aura of power emanating from the battle made all the soldiers around him retreat, watching the intense fight.

Lorcan stepped forward, his red eyes blazing brightly, watching every move of his enemy with precision. He darted quickly, directly targeting Khan. "I've come for you, Khan!" Lorcan shouted, his voice echoing amidst the sounds of battle.

Khan merely laughed, his voice thundering like a storm. "You think you can defeat me, boy? I am the Barbarian King! No one can stand against me!"

With a single motion, Khan's massive axe swung towards Lorcan, but Lorcan agilely dodged, launching a counterattack with his sword. The clash between the sword and axe created sparks that illuminated the battlefield. The sound of their colliding auras was deafening.

Lorcan was unfazed by Khan's arrogant laughter. He knew exactly what he was up against, and his determination gave him the strength to press on. "This isn't just a battle, Khan. This is about honor and my family."

Khan swung his axe again, this time faster and stronger, but Lorcan had already read his every move. Every attack pattern was clear before him. "You're too slow," Lorcan said coldly, spinning his sword and easily dodging the powerful attack.

Khan, who was starting to feel frustrated, furrowed his brow. "You may be fast, boy, but I won't lose!"

Lorcan remained calm. Despite his burning determination, he didn't let it affect his focus. "You talk too much," he replied briefly, his piercing gaze cutting through Khan.

The two clashed again, their weapons meeting in a flurry of steel and sparks. The earth beneath them seemed to shudder with each exchange. The wind howled, sweeping across the chaotic battlefield.

Khan, despite his arrogance, couldn't hide his admiration for Lorcan's strength. "You're stronger than I thought," he said, panting, though a sly smile still lingered on his face. "But this isn't over yet."

Lorcan readied his sword, preparing for the final blow. "This will end soon, Khan. And you will no longer be a threat to anyone."

With a swift and powerful strike, Lorcan launched his final attack. Khan, despite attempting to dodge, couldn't fully evade the assault. A wound on his arm marked the first time the Barbarian King appeared vulnerable.

"You... dare to defy me?" Khan snarled, enraged, yet his gaze now held confusion and fear.

Lorcan didn't respond. He simply took a step forward, raising his sword once more. "This is for my family, and for all those you've harmed."

With a final, powerful strike, Lorcan closed the distance between them, ending the battle with a decisive blow.

(Chapter 35)