Return of the Legendary Runesmith-Chapter 126 - 125- Fiancé

The gathering had no more than fifty people. Those present included people from the Vermillion side, ministers of Valmora, and a few high-ranking nobles like Duke Ironhart and Count Lockwood.

They stood in small groups, sharing casual conversations about the world and their personal lives.

Many were drawn to Count Lockwood since it was the first time in years that he had attended an event like this. Some had even thought that the Lockwood family might lose their title due to his long absence.

However—

"Lady Melissa has been outstanding," praised the foreign minister of Valmora. "She not only took care of your family but also served exceptionally well as the Baroness."

"Indeed, Sir Lockwood," said another, nodding toward Melissa, who stood beside Adam. "The way the county cooperated with the capital was so smooth, it felt like you never left the throne."

Count Lockwood smiled warmly and placed a gentle hand on his wife’s back. "I must have used up all the luck from my previous life to have someone like her by my side."

His words made Melissa lower her eyes, a soft smile gracing her lips.

Elsewhere, the King was speaking with Patriarch Vermillion, with Duke Ironhart and the Prime Minister close by.

"I hope you’re enjoying yourself, Sir Reid," said the Prime Minister, raising his glass.

Patriarch Reid nodded. "Yes, I met a very peculiar but brilliant young man, and I already feel that coming here was worth it."

His words made the others look at him with interest.

Reid continued, "Your treasured runesmith—and someone I’d very much like to bring back to Grimvale—Adrian."

His comment surprised the group. While the King and Prime Minister had some idea of the runesmith’s abilities, Duke Ironhart knew more than most, since Elana often spoke of Adrian in her letters—or when she visited her home just a few days ago.

"Ah—yes. Adrian," Godric said with a nod. "I’ve been hearing about him from the Tower and my son. He’s a very talented young man."

It struck him that perhaps he hadn’t paid Adrian as much attention as he deserved. After all, for the Patriarch of the Vermillion family to come and meet him in person... certainly warranted some extra thought.

...

While the older generation talked near the front, four young people gathered off to the side, chatting and laughing about old memories.

"Honestly, Edward, you haven’t changed a bit," said a brunette who had once been his classmate. "I thought becoming the Crown Prince would make you arrogant."

Edward grinned. "I’ve always been arrogant, Kylie. That’s why you can’t see any change in me." His joke drew a giggle from her.

"Still, man... you’ve been like a ghost since graduation," added a black-haired guy with a bit of a pot belly and small eyes. "So busy with work you couldn’t even show up at Professor Taylor’s retirement ceremony."

Edward shrugged lightly. "I had responsibilities, Marcus. I couldn’t just ignore my duty. And I’m pretty sure Professor Taylor would’ve understood."

Marcus slowly nodded. He knew that, among the four of them, Edward’s role kept him tied to the capital more than anyone else. He had to work harder than the rest.

A brief silence fell before the fourth person—a black-haired girl—spoke up. "By the way, what’s going on between you and Aria?" she teased, a grin on her face. "I heard she’s doing well as Headmistress. You still visit her regularly, right?"

Everyone at the academy had known how much Edward adored Ariana. They’d been the perfect couple, even the teachers cheered them on.

But no one knew what had happened after Edward finally confessed his feelings.

Edward was about to say that they were no longer in touch, but then Kylie suddenly waved her hand. "Oh—there she is."

Edward spun around, and his breath caught in his throat as he saw the woman walking toward them.

Ariana stepped forward with quiet grace, her silver hair tied neatly in a bun at the back of her head. The black dress hugged her figure beautifully, the fabric flowing like a river of ink. On her left side, a slit ran high up her thigh, revealing a hint of smooth skin with each step.

The dress swayed with her movement, its gentle shimmer catching the light. She moved with a quiet confidence, her silver hair gleaming, her presence soft but captivating.

She looked stunning.

"Hey, Ariana. Long time." The other girl, Lyra, greeted the silver-haired beauty.

Ariana gave a faint nod, "How are you all? It’s been a while."

"We are doing good but what about you? We never heard anything from you after graduation. And it seems you have been ignoring our golden bachelor here as well." Said Kylie with a teasing grin as she nudged Edward with her shoulder.

Ariana remained unchanged, "We have our duties to fulfill so, naturally, we don’t meet regularly."

"That so~but in the academy you two were practically inseparable." Kylie’s words made the other giggle and Edward had a helpless smile on his face.

It was true. Edward barely paid anyone attention in the class but it was different with Ariana. He always spent most of his time with her, had lunch with her, trained together, and studied for exams together.

So yes, they were quite close.

Ariana was now regretting coming here. If not for Adrian, she wouldn’t have even bothered leaving her room.

Without knowing about people’s situation, they comment as if they know everything. Ariana inwardly growled.

It was then, "Well, now she spends most of her time with me." Said a familiar voice as Ariana felt a warm hand pressing against her back.

Adrian stood tall in a crisp white suit that fit him perfectly, making him look sharp and elegant. A pair of black specs rested on his nose, adding a touch of class to his already striking appearance. His smile was warm and charming—one of those smiles that made people stop and stare.

A single strand of his dark hair had slipped down over his forehead, giving him a relaxed, mature charm that balanced the sophistication of his outfit. He looked effortlessly handsome.

His appearance took their breath away, the two ladies blushing to see his warm eyes on them

"A-Ariana...this..."

"Uh, I am Ariana’s fiancé, Adrian. Nice to meet you."

That statement made Edward’s eyes wide. And the shock elevated when Ariana only smiled and lowered her gaze, seemingly accepting what he just said.

His expression suddenly turned bitter as he said, "Excuse me for a bit,"

Everyone turned towards Edward who made a quick escape.

Adrian grinned at the sight.

That’s right. Keep your hands away from my woman.

°°°°°°°

A/N:- Thank you for reading.