Anne looks at her intently. She would like to ask the question she wanted to ask from the beginning.

"How is his Majesty treating you?"

Rachel is surprised by her friend's question. She can't look her in the eyes and tell her that she is in a contractual relationship with the duke. Her position is not stable, and this charade will end in one year.

"His Majesty treats me well. All my needs are being looked after."

Rachel laughs to dismiss the worry in her friend's tone. The only thing that bothers her these days is the daily bedroom activities. The duke has a long-standing stamina that he can go on until dawn. It's taking a toll on her health.

Anne noticed that Rachel lost weight, but her curves are more defined now than previously. The duke of Astrid is known for his strong physique and mana power. His Majesty is almost considered a demigod, but her friend's constitution is so weak.

'I heard a rumor that he has an insatiable desire for blood and flesh. I hope Rachel is given the time to rest otherwise her body will collapse of exhaustion'.

"Alright, but don't overexert yourself. Your health is important".

Anne can't be privy to their marital relationship especially on a personal level like the bedroom matters. She can only support her friend on this matter. Rachel must put a leash on the duke's insatiable desire.

Rachel understood what her friend meant. She is embarrassed that Anne notices the change in her body. These days, she felt that she lost weight and her bosom seems to be bigger than usual.

"I will take care, I promise. I'm glad you're here now".

Rachel smiled warmly for she felt the support of her best friend. She will not be alone to stand in this world.

She still feels anxious knowing the background story of this world, a power play with lots of deception, greed, and gore. Watching it on TV is thrilling, but experiencing it firsthand is dangerous.

THE next remaining days, the duchy is busy preparing for their wedding and coronation in the temple. Likewise, Rachel is busy reviewing the candidates for her ladies in waiting and Anne helps her a lot on this matter.

A day before the nuptials, the duchy of Astrid announces Rachel Lily Monchy as the duchess of Astrid.

A formal announcement was made to inform the nobility and common public to pay their respects to the new member of the northern royal family.

The newspapers headlines are on full throttle of their new subject of interest and the paparazzis are getting crazy about this new development.

'FIRST CONFESSION. The Duchess of Astrid is revealed! Lady Rachel Lily Monchy. Her journey to the Astrid Royalty'.

'The duchess of Astrid, her majesty Rachel Lily Monchy Astrid. A fascinating love story not to be missed!

'Her majesty, the duchess Rachel Lily Astrid. How does she capture the heart of his Majesty? Stay tuned for the full story'.

'Exclusive look of the wedding of the century. Her Majesties the duke and duchess of Astrid. Stay tuned for the exclusive story'.

The news is bombarded and paparazzis all over the place to catch the glimpse of their new duchess, the mother of the northern empire.

It was a surprise news for everyone that the topics can be heard both in private and public places, the subject of their affinity is the new duchess. Salons are fully occupied for the gossip of the noble families.

The kingdom is overturned by a shocking news that most of them can't grasp the reality. A juicy tale is being discussed from all over the place.

"The duchess of Astrid, wasn't she the former crown princess of the south? Ho Ho Ho".

"What will the crown prince of the south have to say? The duchess of Astrid found a stronger ally!".

"What about the crown princess of the south? How will she accept that the duchess of Astrid wields greater power than her?

"She is backed by the temple. How did she amass powerful allies in a short span of time? His majesty must have been enchanted by her beauty".

'Giggles, giggles, giggles' The sound of hand fans flapping can be heard everywhere.

The nobility can't get enough to share their sentiments and gossip. It was a lively gathering full of champagne and entertainment news.

It's been a long time since the north has been so alive. They are looking forward to this new development and will make their days busy, buzzing with activity.

Author's note: Popcorn time ;)