Chapter Seven - In the Training Hall

As the Duchess continued her quest to win over her husband's nephew, she decided to take a more proactive approach. With determination blazing in her eyes, she made her way to the training grounds where the boy was honing his skills in swordsmanship.

With a confident stride, Amelia entered the spacious training hall, the echo of clashing swords filling the air as she surveyed the scene before her. The boy stood tall and focused, his form graceful as he moved through his drills under the watchful eye of his instructor.

Undeterred by the intensity of the training session, Amelia approached the boy with a warm smile, determined to inject some cheer into his day. "Good morning," she greeted him brightly, her voice cutting through the sounds of battle. "I thought I might come and watch your training. It's quite impressive, you know."

The boy glanced up at her, his expression guarded but curious. "Thank you, Your Grace," he replied politely, though Amelia could sense the hesitation in his tone.

Undeterred by his reserved demeanor, Amelia lingered nearby, watching with keen interest as he practiced his swordplay. With each deft movement, she couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration for his skill and dedication.

As the training session progressed, Amelia made small attempts to engage the boy in conversation, offering words of encouragement and praise for his efforts. She was determined to break through the walls he had erected around himself, to show him that she was there not as an adversary, but as a friend.

Despite his initial wariness, the boy began to thaw in her presence, his demeanor softening ever so slightly as they exchanged words. Amelia seized the opportunity to offer him some friendly advice on his technique, her enthusiasm infectious as she cheered him on.

Before long, the training session came to an end, and the boy's instructor dismissed the class. As the other students filed out of the hall, Amelia turned to the boy with a smile, her eyes shining with genuine warmth.

"I must say, you're quite talented with a sword," she remarked, her tone laced with admiration. "I look forward to seeing how much you'll improve with each passing day."

The boy's expression softened at her words, a hint of a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Thank you, Your Grace," he replied, his voice tinged with gratitude.

Encouraged by the small breakthrough, Amelia felt a surge of optimism wash over her. She knew that winning over the boy would take time and patience, but she was more determined than ever to show him the kindness and compassion he deserved.

With a final nod of farewell, Amelia bid the boy goodbye and made her way out of the training hall, her heart lighter than it had been in days. She knew that she still had a long way to go, but for now, she was content in the knowledge that she was making progress, one small step at a time.