Side Story Chapter 37

"I cannot believe he tried to pass his duties off to someone else. The man's audacity is truly astounding!"

Ursuline made the outburst as he warmed himself by the brazier, his voice dripping in contempt.

"Does he think his daughter's hand is so high an honor that he can justify such a brazen proposal? What arrogance!"

"The duke has no sons," said Gabel, who had been sipping wine nearby. "No doubt he is planning to put his responsibilities on a son-in-law. But why make this offer to Sir Riftan, of all people, instead of one of his vassals?"

Ruth looked up from pensively staring into the fire. "He likely did not wish to antagonize anyone on his side. With a territory so vast, the absolute loyalty of his vassal knights is imperative. He could not risk earning their enmity. Many of Dristan's western nobles are still waiting for the chance to take the duke's land. A divided army would have dire consequences for him."