The Grand Duke's Soulmate
Chapter 285: Kyren’s Departure (I)

Chapter 285: Kyren’s Departure (I)

The first crack of dawn gradually broke through the darkness, bringing with it the promise of a new day. The world awoke from its slumber, revealing a captivating transformation.

A breathtaking scenery took its place as the sky began to lighten, transitioning from the velvety of the night to a soft palette of purples, pinks, and oranges at Port Braska. The colours reflected off the calm waters, casting an enchanting glow that danced upon the waves.

Several fleets of ships, consisting of majestic carracks, sleek galleys, and sturdy cogs, lined up along the shore of Port Braska, creating an impressive sight. The ships stood tall, their sails billowing in the breeze. Each vessel was meticulously organised, with crews and supplies ready to embark on their journey.

With their imposing size and multiple decks, the carracks were positioned at the forefront, symbolising their importance in the upcoming expedition. Their sturdy hulls and robust masts showcased their capability to withstand long voyages and tumultuous waters.

Kyren’s gaze swept across the assembled troops of knights consisting of five thousand, his expression a mix of pride and determination. He stood tall, flanked by the admiral, both commanding figures in their respective roles.

The onlookers, including the king, queen, ministers, families, and friends of the dispatched knights, watched with a mix of admiration and pride as the grand duke, the admiral and his knights prepared to embark on their journey.

"We’re ready, Your Highness," Adam spoke, his voice carrying a sense of confidence.

Kyren nodded solemnly, his eyes reflecting the weight of the moment. He turned his attention to the armies, both from the knighthood of Neblim and the chosen royal knights, who stood before him. With a beckoning gesture, he summoned his own knights, the loyal and valiant knights of Gerhard.

The knights of Gerhard, consisting of Eric, Garin, Noah, Alex, and Luke, stepped forward, their postures reflecting their unwavering loyalty and respect for their lord.

"Yes, Your Highness!" they responded in unison, their voices filled with deference and determination.

Bowing before Kyren, they awaited his command, ready to fulfil his wishes with loyalty.

"While I’m gone, Eric, take over the leadership of the knighthood and oversee the affairs related to the duchy. I trust in your capabilities," Kyren ordered, his voice filled with confidence.

"It’s my honour to serve you, Your Highness. I will carry out your orders diligently," Eric replied.

"Good. Take this," Kyren said, reaching into his robe and retrieving his insignia badge. He handed it to Eric. "Use it when necessary. With my permission, you now act on my behalf and represent me in official matters concerning the duchy."

Eric extended both hands, accepting the insignia badge. As he grasped it, he understood the weight of the power and responsibility that came with it. He would be shouldering the duties and obligations of the grand duke in Kyren’s absence.

"Take care of my Anna," the grand duke implored, a hint of worry evident on his face as he mentioned his wife’s name. The knights could sense the depth of his longing for her in his words.

Eric, concerned, inquired, "She didn’t come today?"

The grand duke shook his head.

"I left without waking her up. I noticed her fever had returned this morning, so I let her sleep a little longer. I’ve already instructed the royal healer to attend to her once she wakes up since Rafe is unwell," Kyren explained. "Moreover, it’s better for her not to witness my departure. She’s been quite sensitive lately."

"Understood, Your Highness. Rest assured, we will ensure her safety and serve her faithfully. Sir Henderson and Sir McQuinn are currently on duty as her guards. Please don’t worry," Eric assured Kyren.

Garin’s gaze remained fixed on the grand duke, his expression solemn. As the only person in the knighthood who had shown him trust, Garin felt a pang of sadness and worry seeing Kyren leave without a single escort from among their ranks.

Before departing, Kyren offered his knights a final opportunity. He knew the importance of addressing their concerns before embarking on his mission.

"Before I leave, is there anything that any of you would like to request from me?" Kyren asked, his gaze sweeping over his loyal knights.

A sudden thought flashed through Noah’s mind, his heart stirring at the memory of Emily’s smiling face during the previous night’s fireworks event. The desire to make her his own had taken root in his thoughts ever since the news of Alex’s impending marriage had spread.

Kyren, observing the subtle change in the knight’s expression, addressed him directly. "Anything, Noah?"

Noah hesitated, aware of the curious gazes fixed upon him. He wrestled with his desires, uncertain whether he should voice his request. After a moment, he swallowed his longing and changed his mind.

"It’s nothing, Your Highness," he replied. "Just return safely. That’s all I ask."

Kyren, perceptive as ever, noticed the flicker of unspoken desire in Noah’s eyes. He studied the knight momentarily, recognising the signs that Noah rarely made requests, but they held significant meaning when he did.

"Are you sure?" Kyren pressed gently. "Because I can see it written all over your face. You seldom wanted anything, but when you do, I can tell. Speak your mind, Noah."

Noah’s resolve wavered under the grand duke’s gaze, but ultimately, he chose to suppress his desires.

"It’s fine, Your Highness. I’ll wait for your return," he said, burying his longing deep within his heart.

Kyren responded, respecting the knight’s decision, "All right, then."

He then turned his attention to Alex, the knight with hazel eyes, and issued his instructions firmly.

"As for you..."

"Yes, Your Highness!" Alex responded promptly, his attention entirely focused on Kyren.

"Make sure you proceed with your marriage to Lord Grey’s daughter as planned. Don’t wait for my return. I don’t want to hear any more dating incidents when I come back. Understood?" Kyren emphasised, a hint of warning in his voice.

"Yes, Your Highness!" Alex’s ears reddened at the reminder.

Kyren then turned to Eric, assigning him an important responsibility.

"Eric, ensure that their wedding goes smoothly."

Eric nodded with confidence.

"Don’t worry. We have already sent a letter to the Dukedom of Sanad, informing them about the marriage plan. Her Majesty the Queen has also included a supporting letter. We should receive a reply soon."

"Good," the grand duke acknowledged, then turned back to Alex.

"Alex, let me be clear. I’m not saying you can’t control yourself around women, but a knight’s duty is unpredictable and demanding. You may be called upon at any moment for urgent tasks. So, take advantage of the time and opportunity while you have found someone you care about. Get married and cherish the precious moments together before your duties separate you again," Kyren advised, his voice filled with understanding.

"Yes, Your Highness! I will," Alex replied earnestly.

Kyren then turned his attention to Luke and addressed him with a touch of reluctance.

"Luke, if the lady wishes to spend her free time cooking in the kitchen again, please teach her. I may not be fond of the idea, but if it brings her joy, then so be it."

Luke smiled warmly and responded, "Yes, Your Highness. I will gladly teach her."

Kyren’s gaze shifted to Garin, recognising his sensibility within the group.

"Garin, you are the most level-headed among them all. If any of them, especially Eric and Noah, get into a quarrel, do your best to intervene. Perhaps allow them to let off some steam with a few punches, but ensure they return to their duties afterwards."

"I will, Your Highness!" Garin affirmed, a small laugh escaping him.

"Above all," Kyren concluded, his voice filled with earnestness, "please ensure the lady’s safety and well-being. Do whatever it takes to protect her from any danger. That’s my final request to all of you."

The knights nodded in unison. They understood the gravity of their responsibilities and the trust Kyren had placed in them. With a shared sense of purpose, they prepared themselves to fulfil their duties faithfully, safeguarding the lady and upholding their grand duke’s wishes.

"Yes, Your Highness!" They all answered in unison.

With a final nod, the grand duke left the group of Knights of Gerhard.

Kyren, accompanied by Adam, approached the king and respectfully requested permission to depart. The king granted his approval, giving them the go-ahead.

"I leave the responsibility of Anna’s guardianship to you. Please take care of her for me. She’s not feeling well this morning," Kyren expressed his concern to the king.

Queen Emelda stepped forward, assuring Kyren, "Don’t worry, Kyren. She will be safe and well-cared for under our watch. I will personally ensure her well-being."

Yes, leave her with us and continue with your responsibilities. The king continued, "Above all, thank you for your service.

Kyren felt a wave of relief wash over him, grateful for the king and the queen’s reassurance. He nodded in acknowledgement, knowing that Anna would be in capable hands.

Turning to Adam, the grand duke issued his final command, "Lead the men, Admiral James."

"Yes, Your Highness!" Adam responded with conviction. He then turned to address the knights, raising his voice for all to hear.

"Board the ships!"