Audition Before the Duchess

In the heart of the garden, vibrant flowers of every hue bloomed abundantly, creating a kaleidoscope of colors that danced in the sunlight. The fragrance of roses, lilies, and jasmine perfumed the air, inviting visitors to lose themselves in the beauty of nature. Nestled amidst the blossoms was a glass chamber, like a jewel in the midst of a treasure trove, where families and friends gathered to enjoy tea and coffee. The glass enclosure was adorned with the finest wood, expertly crafted, allowed the natural light to filter through, illuminating the space with a warm and inviting glow. The garden was called 'Blossom Retreat' given by previous Duke.

Dowager duchess Maria Louis, was seated in the garden, surrounded by other noble ladies, enjoying their tea party.

Meanwhile Juli arrived in the garden, escorted by the Maria's maid.

"Greetings to the Dowager duchess," Juli greeted, her head slightly inclined in a respectful nod.

The moment of her arrival, silence filled the atmosphere as everyone turned their attention to Juli's unexpected entrance.

Maria examined Juli's face with keen attention, scanning her outfit before gesturing for her to come closer.

Juli complied, her gaze was locked on the ground, her nerves was clearly evident as she pondered the purpose behind Maria's summons. A slight tremble ran through her.

Maria always had maintained a keen scrutiny, harboring a quiet concern that one day Juli might become entangled with a nobel man, potentially leading to scandal. Now that she has grown, her beauty spoke a volume.

She wasted no time and explained Juli why she was summon seeing her being nervous.

"Maidens from my palace have spoken of your expertise in medicinal plants. It appears you've played the role of a healer, soothing their headaches, fevers, and even banishing the flu with your natural remedies."

"I've also heard you have aspirations to become a naturopathic doctor."

"Yes, Your Grace. I wish to further my knowledge and help more people."

Juli absorbed Maria further explanation of her mother-in-law's health challenges. The matriarch faced a multitude of ailments, and her adverse reactions to conventional medicine had become a source of worry.

While Maria spoke in a refined tone, her words carried a sense of authority, she was offering Juli the opportunity to comply with her directive of her own volition.

"I was anticipating that your knowledge of herbal plants could provide a potential remedy. Would you be willing to personally prepare the necessary medicines and oversee my mother-in-law's treatment until she recovers? I will arrange for an assistant to support you."

Juli thought for a moment, It was her first time, she felt a sense of acceptance and appreciation by a nobel and she did not want to miss the opportunity to show her skill. This was the best opportunity Juli could ever hope for to gain recognition from the duchess herself.

"I would be honored to assist in any way I can, Your Grace."

In that moment, it was decided that Juli would take care of Duke's grandmother health until she recovers.

As she departed, whispers rippled through the gathering of noble ladies, their eyes following Juli with a mixture of curiosity and admiration. Some exchanged knowing glances, their expressions hinting at the tantalizing rumors that swirled around her. Others leaned in closer, eager to discuss her blossoming beauty and the intrigue that surrounded her presence at the Duchess's gathering.

One of the noble lady spoke, "Have any of you heard about Keylup Witlock?"

The mention of Keylup Witlock piqued everyone's interest.

"Your son's engagement is already arranged with Rose Witlock, isn't it, Lady Maria?"


Maria, nodded and replied, "Yes, Witlock family will be our future in-laws. But why do you ask about Keylup Witlock?"


Lady Amelia leaned in and lowered her voice, "There are rumors circulating about Keylup and an alleged affair with Juli."

Maria's fingers tightened around her fan as she anxiously questioned, "Lady Amelia, are you certain about this rumour?"

"This is the gossip my daughter brought home from school. She's in the same school as miss. Juli Hahn."

Maria's anxiety surged as she contemplated the implications of this rumor. Her concern regarding Juli was taking into reality.

Keylup Witlock, being involved in an affair with the daughter of a mere forest guard was a worrisome prospect.

The Witlock family, soon to be linked with the esteemed Louis family through Duke’s engagement, carried a reputation that had to be maintained impeccably, especially in the eyes of the imperial family.

In Maria's mind, the notion of such an affair was simply unacceptable and posed a grave threat to her family's reputation.

In an attempt to quell the spreading rumors, Maria responded, "I am quite certain it's nothing more than baseless gossip. We shouldn't dignify such nonsense with our attention."


In the following weeks, Juli provided guidance on the preparation and usage of the herbal remedies with the help of assistance Rina which was provided by Maria.

The Duke's grandmother, Josephine, a woman of initial skepticism, couldn't bring herself to turn away Juli's offered treatment. Trusting someone, who is has no degree in the field was hard to trust. Due to lingering health issues, despite her reservations, left her with no alternative. Yet, as the weeks unfolded, a surprising transformation began to take hold.

Despite initial doubts, the grandmother's health began to improve noticeably. Juli's treatments, once met with skepticism, were now quietly acknowledged as vitality returned, and strength returned to her aging body.

Juli and Maria expressed their gratitude to Juli for her help and compensated her for her services. But that was not all. With a calculated plan in mind, Maria offered Juli a deal,

She offered Juli to continue to take care of Duke's grandmother's health. To assist hrt in this endeavor, she gave access to the winter garden near the east wing. which was currently unused, and gave her permission to cultivate all the medicinal plants she needed to support duke's family's health. She was also allowed to help others using these plants.

"I believe this will be a valuable opportunity for you," suggested Maria.

Unaware of Maria's underlying intentions, Juli immediately accepted the offer with gratitude, her expression adorned with a warm smile.

A glint of excitement illuminated in Juli's eyes. The Duchess had bestowed upon her a splendid opportunity to continue aiding others, even during the winter months. The availability of a winter garden meant she could cultivate medicinal plants without the constraints of the cold, ensuring she could offer assistance and healing to those in need throughout the entire year.

Juli returned home and shared the Dowager duchess proposal with her father and Mr. Hahn, was delighted to learn about the opportunity Juli received.

Three years elapsed in no time.

Adrian finally arrived at the Wismar palace upon completing his graduation. The palace buzzed with activity in anticipation of the Duke's return, with servants diligently organizing and adorning the palace to welcome him."

He was scheduled to stay at the palace for three months before heading to commence his military training for a year.

Juli's winter garden flourished with a vibrant array of plants, flowers, and herbs in full bloom.

As soon he arrived, he found himself immersed in the affairs of the state, engrossed in reviewing documents and attending calls from his office room. After a few hours, he decided to take a break. Sauntering over to the window with a cigarette in hand, he stood there.

In the distance, his attention was drawn to a woman with golden hair, her figure catching the periphery of his thoughts amidst his array of duties.

The instant his eyes fell upon the golden hair, Adrian immediately recognized her. The Duke's palace, situated in the east wing, allowed a clear view of the winter garden directly in front of his room through the expansive windows and door.

Adrian placed the cigarette in his mouth, igniting it with practiced ease, all the while keeping his gaze steadfast on Juli. With a puff of smoke, he tilted his head, his eyes was captivated by her presence.


Adrian couldn't tear his eyes away from Juli's. Her golden, straight hair flowed like a cascade of sunlight, perfectly framing her delicate face. Her emerald green eyes shimmered with an inner light, and her radiant smile graced her lips, lighting up the garden. Her slim neck lends an air of elegance to her every gesture. Her lithe, almost ethereal figure moved with the grace of a dancer, and her aura was as innocent and pure as a spring morning.


Adrian's face took on a stern expression, his eyes filled with a complex mixture of emotions, including a lingering animosity. In a low, resentful tone, he muttered, "Did you miss me, Juli?"










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Chapter end