Russell ultimately did not ask Malena for another dance. He was a very gentle person; since he did not like her, there was no need to give her hope.
He had to let Malena know sooner that he was a man she could not have.
She could settle for someone else.
"I saw Malena leave the castle heartbroken and dejected, while Lord Marcus declared that he would find a chance to beat you up." After the ball, Rowena found Russell strolling through the castle and teased him as mischievously as ever.
"Why would he beat me up?" Russell frowned.
"Because you broke his precious daughter's heart. My foolish little brother, who told you to be born with a face that naturally attracts women?"
"Well, if being handsome is a crime, then I am indeed beyond redemption."
Rowena rolled her eyes. "Since when did you become so shameless? It seems quite a few things happened in the castle during the half year I was away!"
"Maybe beating my sister gave my confidence a huge boost."
"You... duel!"
"Haha, just joking."
"Do not think that beating me once by sheer luck means you truly defeated me. I was careless this time. At our next duel, I will get serious." Rowena glared fiercely at Russell. That morning's duel had been a major setback in her life.
Russell shrugged and did not respond. He had no interest in dueling Rowena.
It was not that he feared losing. It was simply meaningless. Even if he won, there would be nothing to boast about, since Rowena was only a woman. But if he lost, Rowena would definitely mock him for an entire year.
He would rather return to the manor and spar with his Knight Retainers.
Whether in Battle Aura strength or martial skill, the Knight