"I'm proud of you."
Duke Lorcan held Davina's shoulders firmly with a big smile on her face.
His warmth was akin to a blanket that covered the body during a chillingly cold night.
"You are the youngest person who achieved the Eternal Spirit rank across the entire empire, beating the crown prince by a decade." He took a diadem from a royal cushion that was held by a servant, and then placed it gently on Davina's head. "You bring prosperity to our family, and I am more than honoured to be your father."
On the side, the Duchess and her mother approached when Duke Lorcan pulled away.
She hugged Davina tightly, and then leaned in to her ear.
"I am really proud of you. Keep this up and one day—you might be a sword beside your eldest brother. Unlike your sisters, you can achieve your dreams and be freed from fate. Fly high, Davina. Mom is rooting for you."
And then, the Duchess kissed Davina's forehead as if she were the most precious in the whole world.
