Regina's heart swirled with emotions—confusion, thrill, relief, and hesitation. She found herself rendered silent, her gaze fixed upon Fredrick. Uncertainty lingered in the depths of her eyes. She was hesitant to speak.

Breaking the lingering silence, Fredrick playfully remarked, "It appears the lady has been captivated by my charms, for she gazes upon me so intently."

Regina couldn't help but smile.

Just then, an imperial knight approached Fredrick, announcing, "Sir, we have successfully rescued the child."

Despite the interruption, Fredrick maintained his grip on Regina's hand, refusing to let go.

Regina's attention diverted to the entrance, where she noticed a girl walking towards her between two tall men. Tom, filled with excitement, rushed forward and enveloped the girl in a warm embrace, exclaiming, "Sister!". Regina's heart brimmed with joy as she witnessed them.
Gratefulness surged through her, directed toward Fredrick, who had played a crucial role in rescuing the girl.

The image of the sickly, notorious, and carefree child in her memory changed. The man in front of her was a tall and commanding figure. Responsibility and determination emanated from him, transforming him into a pillar of strength. The once-undecided man she had encountered five years ago had evolved, changed by the weight of his experiences. Regina couldn't help but be captivated by the growth and transformation she witnessed within Fredrick.

"Regina," Fredrick called, gently pressing the hand he held, attempting to draw her attention.

Lost in her thoughts, Regina was startled back to the present. "Yes, what is it?" she replied, slightly flustered.
Fredrick chuckled, his laughter carrying a warm familiarity. "Where are you lost, Regina? It seems you haven't outgrown that habit of drifting away into your world."

His teasing remark elicited a smile from Regina, reminding her of their shared history and the playful banter they had engaged in as children.
Friendship has the remarkable power to heal wounds and bridge the gaps created by past hurtful actions. While it may not always be easy, it is indeed possible for a friendship to transcend past grievances.

Regina was grappling with conflicting emotions as she considered her relationship with Fredrick. The memory of being pushed away from his door during a time of vulnerability and need remained etched in her mind.

However, despite the hurt she experienced, she couldn't find it within herself to harbor hatred toward him. She had an understanding of the circumstances surrounding Fredrick's past actions. She knew that the decision to break off their engagement was not solely his own. The external pressures and the intricate dynamics of the Imperial Court influenced his judgment.

Regina's words hung in the air, her gaze fixed on Fredrick. She spoke, "I was just thinking about how much you have changed, Fredrick."
Fredrick's expression softened, his eyes meeting hers with a hint of vulnerability. "Indeed, Regina," he replied, his voice carrying a touch of nostalgia. "Life has a way of molding us into different versions of ourselves."

As Tom swiftly dashed towards Regina, he snatched her hands from Fredrick's grasp, leaving her surprised by his sudden action. Startled, she looked at Tom, awaiting his words.

"Please, look here, Rich Lady," Tom exclaimed, his voice filled with gratitude. "I want to express my heartfelt thanks for saving my sister."

Regina's eyes widened, realizing that Tom was addressing her, acknowledging her role in the rescue. She quickly interjected, redirecting Tom's appreciation. "Tom, you should be thanking the Crown Prince here. It was Fredrick who played a crucial role in helping to save your sister."
Tom turned towards Fredrick. With genuine sincerity, he expressed his heartfelt thanks to the Crown Prince.

Tom's sister stepped forward, exuding grace and poise. With utmost respect, she greeted Regina, recognizing her as the Princess of the Northern Lands.

"I must admit, I came across your diary. Please understand that I didn't mean to intrude on your privacy. In my defense, I was unaware it was your diary when Tom showed me the newspaper cutouts." Regina said.

The girl's worried expression softened slightly, realizing Regina's genuine intentions. She nodded. With a faint smile, she responded, "Thank you for clarifying, Princess Regina. I appreciate your honesty. I understand that it was a misunderstanding."

"You truly possess the grace and manners befitting a daughter of a general, even at such a young age," Regina complimented the girl.
Regina, intrigued to know the young lady's name, gently inquired, "May I know your name?"

The girl's eyes brightened, and with a hint of a smile, she replied, "I am Pem, Your Highness. Pemira Xavier."

"You have a wonderful name, Pem," Regina complimented.

She continued, "Tell me, Pem, why did you want to meet me?"

Taken aback, Pem was surprised that Regina found out about her secret admiration for the Duchess. Her eyes widened, momentarily lost for words.

Regina said, with a hint of amusement, "Your brother is quite the talker, isn't he?"

Pem couldn't help but smile, realizing that her brother, Tom, had unknowingly shared her admiration for Regina. Gathering her composure, Pem replied, "Indeed, Your Highness, Tom can be quite expressive. But my desire to meet you stems from my genuine admiration for your strength and character. You have inspired me in more ways than you can imagine."

Pem's voice trembled with nervousness and determination as she mustered her courage. She softly uttered, "If it is not too much to ask, may I request a favor, Duchess?"

Regina's expression softened, her curiosity piqued. "Of course, Pem. You may freely ask for my assistance. What favor do you seek?"

Pem had always harbored a burning desire to learn swordsmanship and follow in her father's footsteps by joining the army. Her ultimate aspiration was to become a General, commanding her troops. However, traditional and outdated teachings had denied her the opportunity to wield a sword, relegating women to etiquette and household skills.

Pem's hope ignited when she stumbled upon an article in the newspaper. Regina's soft facial features and delicate frame in the portrait stood out, but her thoughts were loud and bold. A Duchess who believed in gender equality and equal opportunities for women, it sparked a fire within her, motivating her to gather information about Regina in the hopes of one day meeting her. And now, at this moment, the day had finally arrived—Pem could share her heartfelt aspiration with the Duchess herself.

Determined and filled with purpose, Pem looked directly into Regina's eyes and spoke with unwavering conviction, "Duchess Regina, I want to learn swordsmanship and become your knight. I aspire to be the first female knight of the empire. I swore to protect you from harm."

Regina's eyes shimmered with a mixture of admiration and pride.
Regina responded, "Pem, your determination and ambition are commendable. You are willing to commit to the challenges that lie ahead. I will support you wholeheartedly in your quest to become a knight."

"But for now, it's important that you take some time to rest and spend moments with your brother," Regina gently advised.

Fredrick had been observing the conversation from a distance. He took a step closer. He couldn't help but feel a surge of pride for Regina and her compassionate nature.

As he stood before her, he extended his hand, a gesture of invitation, and asked, "Would you like to have a cup of tea with me?"

Regina's smile widened, her eyes sparkling with warmth and gratitude. "Yes," she replied instinctively.