The Archduke's Songbird-Chapter 78: Treated As A Widow

Jessamyn’s heart was filled with peace, uncontrollably. The thorn that was pricking her heart was finally removed.

Finally, she could breathe again.

After the ceremony, she decided to visit her husband’s grave and stay in the Jasmine Villa for the rest of her life, away from the treacherous nobles. 𝙛𝒓𝓮𝒆𝔀𝒆𝙗𝓷𝒐𝙫𝒆𝙡.𝒄𝓸𝓶

But that peace lasted for only a few seconds as she realized she had to fulfill her end of the deal with the council. The council wanted her to marry Jerrick and it wouldn’t matter who ended the engagement, she would be held responsible.

Eh! She stuck out her tongue. What’s the worst the council could do?

She worried for Ethan’s safety. She wouldn’t want to pass it on to another but seeing how much Jerrick cared for Imogen still, she knew Jerrick would protect Ethan. If anyone could take on the council, it probably would be Jerrick.

As for herself... She could always run to another kingdom leaving everything from here behind. She would miss visiting her husband’s grave but Joar wouldn’t mind it. He would want her to put her safety first.

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Jessamyn patted Isadora’s back as she choked in anger. She couldn’t accept that her lady was wearing black again, under the advice of Wulfhart. Why would he pretend to care about her if he was going to abandon her halfway?

"He left us to travel in a horse cart? See... even Bernard is not accompanying us... Where is he?"

"Isadora..." Jessamyn held her hand. "I think he broke the engagement already. We are not entitled to gain any favor from him," she said. She was pretty sure.

"What?" Isadora’s eyes widened. "It can’t be... Milady, he cannot do that after he~"

"He can do anything he wants, Isadora. He’s the archduke of Ayberia," Jessamyn said.

This won’t be the first time he took back his promise. The previous time, he had the courage to be open with her and it broke her heart. This time, even though he didn’t face her, she was indifferent about it.

Isadora couldn’t accept anything. She didn’t understand how her lady would be smiling so peacefully after this. Is she not bothered? "But... he got the King’s permission and to break it... We have to confront him, Milady. He can’t~"

"We are not going to, Sweet Isadora..." Jessamyn bopped Isadora’s nose with a smile. "We are—I am returning to Jasmine Villa after this ceremony."

Isadora was lost for words.

"You can stay here. Accept the Grand Duke’s offer and you can stay closer with Bernard. You are an adult, Isadora. You can do as you please. I do not want to tie you with me anymore."

Isadora’s eyes clouded with tears. Jessamyn cupped her cheeks. "Did I tell you how gorgeous you are today? Green surely suits you well..."

Isadora was not in the mood to listen to her lady’s praises for her beauty. Her heart was filled with distress.

They reached the palace and since it was a commendation ceremony, all of the important aristocratic families were invited. The entire floor was filled with exuberance and resplendence. Bathed in the soft glow of golden chandeliers that hung from intricately adorned ceilings, the hallway was a symphony of opulence and magnificence.

As they walked through the marble floor, Isadora noticed the tapestries depicting scenes of regal history, their rich colors and detailed embroidery were a testament to the craftsmanship of generations past. Marble columns, stood tall along the length of the corridor, their elegant carvings and gilded accents adding to the sense of majesty.

Not minding the prying eyes of others, and ignoring the gossiping murmurs around her, Jessamyn introduced herself to the master of the ceremonies. This was her brother’s commendation ceremony. She had to hold her head high.

The master of ceremony looked at the list, identified her name and then took a shocked glance at her attire. Surely he wouldn’t have expected the mentioned fiancée of the archduke to wear total black. He pondered for a second before leading her to the side room separated from the main hall with a wooden partition, where the widows were usually seated.

They segregated widows from the other noble ladies in ceremonies like these; widows were considered an eyesore and an embarrassment.

Isadora was not aware of that rule and her eyes watered out of anger. But before the master of ceremonies said anything, Isadora introduced herself as the maid and sat with Jessamyn. Jessamyn tried convincing Isadora to sit in the main hall but Isadora refused.

The scent of fragrant flowers filled the space, mingling with the subtle perfume of polished wood and fine incense, creating an atmosphere of luxury and refinement.

In the front, was the throne. Jessamyn sighed in relief as she got a proper view of the front although she was so far away. This was enough for her.

She sat silently watching as the hall filled up with the attendees. The room was filled from the back as the important nobles would only arrive just before the King’s arrival.

She did wonder about the wolf. She asked him to attend the ceremony. But did he? She didn’t know if she could recognize him in the crowd.

Ah, what am I thinking? I won’t! She sighed.

He likely would be wearing his military uniform, and the chances of her spotting him were slim. However, she resolved to observe everything attentively. It was possible that he would seek her out as well, and there was a chance he might reveal something significant when she speaks to him later.

Top of Form

As the time for the ceremony neared, the hall was almost filled. Only the front row was left out. She was informed that Ethan was in the waiting room. Emily should have been in the side room with her, but she was not.

Jessamyn didn’t mind Emily’s absence, but she was a little surprised Emily missed that chance. She also tried to find Ethan’s ladylove in the crowd.

As everyone’s attention shifted, a resonant gong sounded, prompting Jessamyn to also turn her gaze toward the entrance. The Grand Duke made his grand entrance, adorned in his resplendent blue dress coat adorned with intricate gold embroidery. With an air of elegance, he scanned the room, his brow furrowed in search of someone, before taking his designated seat.

Jessamyn figured he might be looking for Isadora.

"Is Wulfhart next?" Isadora asked. Jessamyn nodded. Top of Form

As the gong echoed once more, the murmurs of the onlookers heightened in anticipation. Unable to resist the urge, Jessamyn stole a swift glance. Jerrick, flanked by six of his men, made his entrance into the hall with a majestic stride, commanding attention with every step.

His green dress coat was adored with silver intricate embroidery and as an addiction, he was wearing a black cloak with an embroidery she couldn’t see properly.

"Look at those men, Milady. I thought Bernard was the tallest in the kingdom but... Wow! That guy is taller than Bernard. That troupe looks intimidating..." Isadora was awed by the scene.

Jessamyn heard the murmurs intensifying. Isadora clutched her hand. "Milady..."

Jessamyn’s eyes widened as Jerrick approached her.