At the village head's house, a stunning modern structure that stood out among the village's traditional homes, Mr. and Mrs. Stevenson were engaged in a heated conversation within the confines of their bedroom.
"I don't like that village girl one bit," Mrs. Stevenson said, annoyance etched on her face. "She's poor and uneducated; she'll be the downfall of our son."
Mrs. Stevenson couldn't fathom what her son saw in Zilayefa. She was a cheap, unsophisticated girl, and her son was still in the midst of his studies. Why was he rushing into marriage?
Mr. Stevenson, however, had a more pragmatic view. He wasn't thrilled about his son marrying into a poor family, but he was aware of the vast, fertile lands owned by Zilayefa's family. Those lands, though laid waste by fire, still held immense potential.
"I'm sure he loves her, and that's why he wants to marry her," Mr. Stevenson said, attempting to placate his wife. "You've always wanted to leave this village, haven't you?"
Mrs. Stevenson nodded eagerly.
"That girl's family owns the largest, most fruitful lands in the valley," Mr. Stevenson continued. "I'll ask her mother to give us those lands as her dowry. That way, we can utilize the lands, generate more income, and eventually move to Ralston."
Mrs. Stevenson's expression softened as her husband's plan took shape.
"But you're the village head of Ama," she pointed out. "How can you leave?"
Mr. Stevenson chuckled mischievously.
"I'll acquire a mansion in Ralston, befitting your status," he said. "We'll get a luxurious carriage, and I can return to the village once a month to oversee affairs. I can appoint a deputy village head to handle matters in my absence."
Mrs. Stevenson's concerns dissipated as her husband's vision for their future took hold.
The couple made their way to the living hall, where Zilayefa awaited their arrival. She had brought a basket of fruits and the bread her brothers had given her. After a warm welcome, she was escorted to the dining hall by a servant.
As she sat down, Mrs. Stevenson greeted her politely. "You're welcome, dear child."
Zilayefa replied, "Thank you, Mr. and Mrs. Stevenson."
As they sat down to eat, Zilayefa couldn't help but look around for Prince Stevenson Jnr. Mrs. Stevenson noticed her gaze and said, "Calm down, child. Your lover will be down shortly. He just returned from the CMA Academy."
Zilayefa's face flushed as she was caught searching for Prince Stevenson Jnr. She smiled shyly, and soon, Prince Stevenson Jnr joined them, greeting his parents with a kiss and a bow before sitting beside Zilayefa. He placed a gentle kiss on her cheek, causing her to blush.
As they dined, Zilayefa struggled with the unfamiliar table manners, but Prince Stevenson Jnr guided her through the meal, earning a disapproving glance from his mother.
After lunch, the family retired to the garden for tea and conversation. Mr. and Mrs. Stevenson began questioning Zilayefa, their inquiries tinged with disdain and skepticism. Zilayefa answered their questions politely, despite feeling belittled.
Prince Stevenson Jnr seemed displeased with his mother's behavior, but he remained silent, allowing Zilayefa to defend herself.
As the evening drew to a close, Prince Stevenson Jnr escorted Zilayefa home, her brothers absent. He offered to stay with her until they returned, but Zilayefa declined, citing the impropriety of them being alone together before marriage.
Prince Stevenson Jnr accepted her decision, taking her into his arms for a longing hug. He placed a gentle kiss on her cheek before departing.
Zilayefa's brothers returned late that night, bearing news from a maid at the Duke's castle: their mother was being held captive by the Duke. Zilayefa and her brothers resolved to rescue their mother the following day.
As they retired to bed, Zilayefa's mind whirled with worry for her mother and the ominous dream she had experienced earlier. Sleep eluded her, and she lay awake, her thoughts consumed by the challenges ahead.