The Wedding of Edith and Rap

there was still some restraint in the air at this special banquet. Some of the elderly folks still held awe for the lord, not daring to engage in direct conversation with Raphael; while some rebellious young men still harboured a certain wary hostility towards Raphael due to his status.

However, much of this hostility dissipated when Charlene appeared. Seeing this young and fragile Countess sitting in her wheelchair, personally attending to the guests without any airs, and wearing a humble and serene smile that they had only seen on the statue of Virgin Mary, the peasants were all visibly moved.

As the feast was in full swing, Raphael suddenly stood up from his seat. He appeared somewhat sheepish and awkward, yet unable to conceal his pride. With a resounding voice, he announced a piece of news to everyone present: "Edith Travis is already married to me."

If there had been any lingering doubts or animosity among the people before, they vanished completely at that moment. The commoners firmly believed that since the young count had married the daughter of a good peasant, he was setting an example by adhering to the new ideals of equality.

With joyous hearts, the people raised their wine glasses and wholeheartedly wished the newlyweds health and happiness.

After reveling in the wild game and fine wine, the guests gradually made their way into the grand hall of the castle. Men and women danced in pairs, stepping to the lively and rustic tunes, swaying their bodies with ecstatic delight, causing the entire majestic hall''s floor to tremble and resound.

Raphael fervently played the violin, joining the ranks of the Gypsy musicians specially hired for the celebration. With exaggerated movements, he skillfully played exhilarating melodies, his eyes filled with excitement as he gazed at his beloved spinning and leaping in the centre of the ballroom.

"I can''t bear this heat any longer!" Edith exclaimed when she took a