Chapter 87: A PECULIAR AFFLICTION

"My lady, it is an honor to meet you," Duke Ongard said, his voice smooth and steady. He appeared astonishingly young for someone who had lived for over four centuries. Xina, standing beside Gary, could hardly believe this man was a hundred years older than her mate. Xina often found it hard to wrap her mind around the ages of the people around her. How could they look so youthful, so vibrant, despite centuries in this world? It made her feel as though the passage of time had a different meaning entirely in their world. Duke Ongard was no exception. His dark hair framed a face with sharp features, and his yellow eyes seemed to glint with centuries of knowledge. His skin was slightly lighter than Gary’s, though the king stood taller and had a more muscular build. With a composed smile, Xina responded, "The honor is mine, Duke Ongard. Congratulations on the birth of your firstborn. I just heard the wonderful news on my way here, so I wasn’t able to bring a gift." It was a small pleas