Her Majestic Battle Cry

now stood in a row outside the gates.

Those who had once caused a scene at Highstone Estate Their heads were lowered, and fear was clear in their eyes.

Ahead of them stood a group of burly men, their fists so massive they looked like they could crush skulls with a single blow.

When Thomas dismounted, his cold gaze swept over their faces, and a thin, chilling smile escaped his lips. The formidable aura he exuded was enough to make the men’s legs weak with dread. One by one, they huddled closer together, too afraid to meet Thomas’s frosty stare.

Trevor had ordered the main gates to be opened. When Mildred heard that the Farrell family had come to propose marriage, she suddenly felt her health improve by half. She immediately ordered hot water to be brought for a bath, calling for her servants to prepare her clothes and makeup, eager to meet with them in person.

Rosalind, however, had no idea what was happening. For the past few days, her granddad had insisted that she remain in Amber Hall. He had also forbidden any of the servants from passing on the rumors circulating outside to her,

On the surface, she appeared calm–reading books, admiring the snow, and sipping coffee. But deep down, she was struggling. She thought she could handle it with grace. But when the rumors came crashing down on her like an unrelenting tide, they caught her completely off guard.

Luckily, while she was hurt, she didn’t crumble.

Her resilience came from the countless books she had read. Through their pages, she had glimpsed so many lives–stories of struggle and strength. She had learned that in this vast and complex world, everyone had their own difficult path to walk.

She knew that no one’s journey was ever a straight path, and hardships were inevitable. But she also knew that after the trials, happiness would come–just as difficult moments would eventually pass.

She comforted herself, telling herself that as long as she didn’t care about the rumors, they wouldn’t hurt her.

Moreover, she had long ago resigned herself to the possibility of never marrying, so it didn’t

matter.

It really didn’t matter.

The warmth from the silver charcoal stove filled the room. With practiced hands, she prepared coffee, her movements smooth and serene. As she heard the distant sound of drums and trumpets, she paused for a moment, then gave a faint, bitter smile. It seemed likely they were trying to draw attention with more than just storytelling by the gate–they had brought out the drums to lure in a crowd.

“Ms. Rosalind!” Her maid, Josie, rushed into the room, her beautiful eyes sparkling with excitement. “General Farrell has come to propose! He brought Mrs. Murray as a matchmaker, and the gifts–oh, there are so many of

they were here for the wedding already! Anyone who didn’t know better would think

The cup crashed onto the table, and Rosalind’s pale hand trembled slightly. “General Farrell?”

“General Thomas Farrell!” Josie was practically bouncing with excitement, knowing better than anyone what was in her mistress‘ heart. Rosalind had never truly let go of Thomas.

Rosalind took a deep breath. “How could this be?”

“It’s true! Mr. Trevor even opened the main gates to welcome him! I swear it’s no mistake.” Josie’s voice was thick with emotion, her eyes misting.

Rosalind stood up, ready to run outside, but stopped short at the doorway. Taking a deep breath, she stepped back and returned to her seat, her heart pounding so hard it felt like it might leap out of her chest.

She couldn’t go out–not yet. Not unless her grandfather summoned her first.

Days of irregular meals had left her looking a little pale, but now, with her emotions surging, a flush crept up her cheeks. It was the kind of red that called to mind autumn winds brushing through a maple grove–vivid and breathtaking, spreading inch by inch.

After a moment, she steadied herself, her lips curling into a faint, bittersweet smile.

Thomas was a good man–truly a good man. He knew of the rumors attacking her and had come to shield and protect her. She was deeply moved and incredibly grateful. The warmth of his kindness spread through her like a comforting fire on a cold night.

Yet, she couldn’t accept it.

She felt unworthy of accepting him. Back when his assignment was still uncertain–whether he had to be sent to the Southern Frontier or Victory Pass–she couldn’t bring herself to leave her family behind.

So, she didn’t have the right to still be in love with him.

Because she had let go of him back then, she now felt she didn’t deserve to accept his kindness.

Rosalind’s thoughts were a tangled mess, but amidst all the confusion, the clearest feeling was gratitude. His arrival felt like a hero descending from the heavens, rescuing her from a dire situation. novelbin

It was the kind of scene that countless women had dreamed of, and now it was unfolding in her own life.