I WILL BECOME THE DUKE

In This Life, I Will Save The Duchy! Part 8

CHAPTER EIGHT: IN THIS LIFE, I WILL BECOME THE DUKE!

"My Lady," they greeted respectfully as Emerald approached the scene, her presence commanding attention. "Ivan?" she exclaimed in surprise as she recognized him.

"It's my mother. She's... she's about to die," Ivan choked out, his voice trembling with emotion.

Emerald's expression softened with concern as she turned to the guards. "What's the meaning of this? Take them to see a doctor," she ordered firmly.

"But, my lady..." the guards hesitated, uncertain.

"I'll take full responsibility. Let them through," Emerald insisted, her tone unwavering.

With Emerald's intervention, the guards swiftly escorted Ivan and his mother to see the doctor. Though the doctors hesitated at first, Emerald's authority prompted them to act promptly, ensuring Ivan's mother received the care she desperately needed.

As Ivan silently observed Emerald taking charge, he couldn't help but feel a sense of helplessness wash over him. He pondered the implications of power and privilege in their society, realizing the harsh reality of the social hierarchy in the Kingdom of Lilac, particularly for those at the bottom. The hierarchy in the kingdom favored nobles at every turn, granting more power with each rung climbed.

Ivan was approached by a doctor and Emerald. "Your mother is receiving care. We'll do everything we can to help her," the doctor assured Ivan before bowing to Emerald and departing. Ivan knew he wouldn't have received such attention without Emerald's intervention, and the reality of his situation hit him hard.

"Thank you," Ivan bowed gratefully to Emerald.

"It was nothing! I'm just glad I could help. I came to visit my butler, who had an accident and got injured. But I'm glad I came because I could assist you," Emerald explained, flustered.

Ivan let out a sigh. "Ah, are you okay? If you're feeling unwell, we can get you checked by a doctor," Emerald suggested, her concern evident.

"I'm fine. I was just lost in thought," Ivan replied, offering a soft smile. Seeing him smile for the first time, Emerald couldn't help but blush.

"Does the marriage proposal still stand?" Ivan inquired.

"Huh, well..." Emerald stuttered nervously.

"I suppose you've found someone else," Ivan said, disappointment creeping into his voice.

"No, it's not that," Emerald hurriedly responded.

"Then, if it's not too late, I'd like to accept your proposal," Ivan stated plainly.

"Ivan, you don't have to feel obligated to accept me," Emerald protested, not wanting to pressure him.

"I'm serious," Ivan asserted, his expression resolute.

"Then why?" Emerald queried, curiosity piqued.

"Before that, can you be honest with me and tell me why you think I'm suitable to be your partner?" Ivan asked, his tone probing.

"To be honest, you remind me of my late father. He excelled in everything he did. That's why I believe you're the perfect person to lead the Duchy," Emerald explained with conviction, her cheeks tinted pink. "And...I really like you," she admitted silently, blushing.

"I see," Ivan responded, clearing his throat to hide his embarrassment. "I need money," he confessed abruptly.

"Huh?" Emerald was taken aback.

"I worked hard to become a knight, but being a commoner made it tough. I applied to noble houses, but they rejected me. I even failed to join the Royal Knights," Ivan revealed, pausing for a moment. Emerald couldn't believe it. "No way, someone like him getting rejected? Sir Daniel would have welcomed him with open arms," she thought.