A Brawl

On the second day of the retreat, all the noble men invited as guests arrived at Kew Palace. It was deliberately arranged by the Queen's party that the ladies of the ton should arrive a day early, so to have a private ladies' soiree on the first evening.

The esteemed Bridgerton sons arrived together by their carriage with the exception of the Viscount, Anthony Bridgerton, as he remained to stay at the Bridgerton House, to help her new viscountess in taking care of his younger siblings who were too young to attend the royal gathering. Colin and Benedict went straight ahead to greet Violet and Eloise who were just outside the foyer waiting on them. The two men were quick to give their mother a kiss on her cheek as they greet her for their arrival.

"Hello, mother. Your beauty and radiance sure are blinding." Benedict says towards the Bridgerton matriarch which irks his sister to annoyance.

"Ugh. Must you show our mother how terrible a flirt you are?" Eloise rolls her eyes at the sight of her two older brothers.

"Good morning to you too, dear sister." Benedict just playfully responds.

Most of the days, the Bridgerton sons' arrival hoards the attention of the ladies in any event they attend to, however at that bright morning in the royal residence of Kew palace, the tides of fame seem to switch to another individual being.

A luxurious carriage stops at the carriageway of the royal estate. As Duke Thomas Debling stepped down from the carriage, the grandeur of his presence immediately captivated the attention of all who beheld him. Dressed impeccably in the finest regal attire, he exuded an air of aristocratic elegance and refinement that commanded respect and admiration worthy of his title. Even while known only as the Earl of Beverley, he had already taken the nobility's attention as a handsome, well-mannered and charming gentleman. But as the ton knows of his true lineage, they could never deny the charisma, the confidence and the masculinity Debling exudes that are worthy from that of a relative of the reigning king.

His coat of arms, proudly displayed upon his carriage and emblazoned upon his attire, depicted the duchy's flag surrounded by a majestic lion and a resolute took, both sporting the flags of their allegiance. It was a symbol of his noble lineage and unwavering loyalty to crown and country.

Thomas made his way towards the direction for the inner palace, his every movement displayed his manly confidence and grace, drawing the eyes of not just all the ladies present, but the envious looks of the other bachelors as well. His noble form was a testament to his status as one of the most esteemed and eligible bachelors of the ton, a man of wealth, power and influence, which makes him an explosive threat against other men looking to snag a match this season.

With a polite nod and a charming smile, Duke Debling acknowledged the admiring glances of the ladies, his gaze lingering briefly on each one as he made his way through the crowd until he spotted the person of his destination – Miss Penelope Featherington who, at that time was accompanied by Lady Agatha Danbury.

He approached the two with measured steps, giving a respectful nod to Lady Danbury and a warm smile for Penelope, the noble lady he was courting with.

"Good day, Lady Danbury, Miss Featherington." Thomas greets the two with a courteous bow. His voice was smooth and composed, almost music to the ladies' ears. "It is a pleasure to see you both in such fine spirits."

Lady Danbury, serving as an aide for the Queen's hospitality, return Duke Debling's greeting with a gracious smile. "Good day, your Grace. We are delighted to see you join the ton here at Kew Palace." Agatha acknowledges the man's station with her tone warm and welcoming.

Penelope, on the side offers Thomas a polite curtsy with her eyes brightening at the site of her suitor. "Good day, your Grace. It is a pleasure to see you again." She says with her soft voice filled with genuine warmth.

Duke Debling extends his right arm, politely asking for the redhead's hand which Penelope graciously offers. He softly plants a kiss on her knuckles as he returns the greetings with a charming smile. "The pleasure is entirely mine, Lady Danbury, Miss Featherington. I trust you both are enjoying the festivities of the day?" He replies. Though there was a mutual agreement between him and Penelope to address each other casually, Thomas maintains proper decorum and etiquette when there are others in their presence.

Agatha just nods in agreement as she replies to the dashing duke. "Indeed, your Grace. This royal retreat promises to be quite a splendid affair."

"Yes, it is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Kew Palace and the company of esteemed guests such as yourself, your Grace." Penelope chimes in.

Duke Debling's smile widens at Penelope's words, a flicker of something more in his eyes as he looks at her. "I could not agree more, Miss Featherington. I am truly honored to be in such esteemed company." The three of them fall into easy conversation, their words flowing effortlessly as they enjoy each other's presence which had gained whispers and murmurs among those who can see them close and afar.

Benedict Bridgerton, ever the witty elder brother, leans into Colin with a playful smirk as he catches the latter's gaze fixed on the direction of Duke Debling and their good friend Penelope Featherington.

"Colin, my dear brother. If your stare were venomous, I dare say the duke would have long been reduced to a puddle on the floor."

Colin rolls his eyes at Benedict's jest, but there is a hint of sheepishness in his expression as he glances away. "Oh, do hush, Benedict. I was merely.. observing." He retorts.

Eloise, their spirited younger sister could not resist joining in on their banter. With a mischievous glint in her eyes, she teases Colin mercilessly. "Observing, you say?" Her tone was playful yet pointed. "More like pining, if I recall correctly. Or have you forgotten your past antics towards poor Pen last season?"

Colin's cheeks flush slightly at his siblings' teasing. He shifts uncomfortably under Eloise's gaze. "I hardly think my actions last season are relevant to the present." He protests weakly, though there is a guilty edge to his tone.

Benedict chuckles at his younger brother's discomfort, though there is a warmth in his expression as he looks at Colin. "Come now, Colin." He says as he claps a hand on his brother's shoulder. "We all make mistakes. What matters is how we make it right and move forward from them."

Eloise nods in agreement, her expression softening into one of affection. Though she greatly despises her brother's words towards her best friend, Eloise still hopes for them to reconcile. She wanted to have no more reason for Penelope to avoid coming in to their house and spend time with her. "Indeed. And who knows? Perhaps this season will present an opportunity for you to make amends with Penelope."

Colin's gaze flickers back towards where Duke Debling and Penelope stand, a thoughtful expression crossing his features. "Perhaps." He murmurs.

That afternoon, the prominent members of the ton were scattered around the garden for a gathering party. Whilst the women were occupied by tea and biscuits, the men were on the other side conversing about business, politics and topics exclusive for their gender.

Lord Fife, one of the famous rakes in high society, leans casually against the refreshment table, a smirk playing at the corners of his lips as he engaged in conversation with Colin Bridgerton and the other men gathered around.

"So, Bridgerton," Fife began, his tone dripping with amusement. "I could not help but notice your sudden interest in Miss Featherington. Quite a change from your previous sentiments, wouldn't you say?" Fife comments as he had observed how the third Bridgerton had been taking a glance towards the young Featherington's direction from time to time.

Colin's jaw tightened at Fife's words, his discomfort was evident as he shifted uneasily on his feet. "I fail to see how my past statements are relevant to the present, Fife." He replied tersely, his gaze flickering towards Penelope across the garden.

Fife chuckled, ignoring Colin's obvious discomfort as he continued with his crude remarks. "Ah, but my dear Bridgerton. It seems Miss Featherington has undergone quite the transformation. Her new wardrobe certainly does wonders for her figure, wouldn't you agree? To think that she had hidden such a desirable bosom under those disgusting yellow dresses." Fife remarked with his tone laden with innuendo.

The other men chuckled at Fife's comment, their laughter mingling with the clinking of champagne glasses. Colin's fists clenched at his sides, his frustration mounting with every passing moment.

"And let's not forget her recent conquest." Fife added with a smirk, gesturing towards Duke Debling who stood nearby. "Seems our dear Miss Featherington has quite the talent for capturing the attention of dukes."

Before Fife could utter another word, the atmosphere was shattered by the sudden appearance of Thomas Debling, who came rushing towards their group with a look of fury in his eyes. Without a moment's hesitation, Duke Debling delivered a powerful punch to Fife's face, sending him crashing to the ground. "You, you apologize to Miss Featherington this instant!"

The garden erupted into chaos as Fife retaliated, launching himself at Duke Debling and igniting a brawl that quickly drew the attention of everyone present. The sound of raised voices and shuffling footsteps filled the air, punctuated by the occasional clash of fists and grunts of exertion.

Amidst the commotion, the ladies who were at the other side enjoying their tea, turned towards the disturbance with wide eyes and gasps of surprise. One of the groups who were quick to see the scene was led by Lady Danbury, Violet and her daughter Eloise Bridgerton, and Penelope Featherington. Their attention torn from their previous conversation, they watched in shock as the brawl unfolded before them, their expressions a mixture of concern and disbelief.

Benedict Bridgerton, ever the voice of reason, arrived at the scene after his mother and sister, and quickly moved to intervene, attempting to pull Duke Debling and Lord Fife apart before the situation could escalate further. His efforts were met with resistance as the two men continued to exchange blows, their tempers flaring with each passing moment.

Amidst the chaos, Penelope watched in stunned silence, her heart pounding with a mixture of fear and concern for Duke Debling's safety. Beside her, Lady Danbury and Violet Bridgerton exchanged worried glances, their expressions reflecting the gravity of the situation unfolding before them.

Lady Danbury, with her strong voice echoing at the open space of the garden, took a step forward and thumped her cane, her sharp gaze cutting through the developing chaos. "Enough!" She commanded, her voice ringing out with authority. "This behavior is unacceptable. Cease this madness at once!"

As her words echoed across the garden, the fighting gradually came to a halt, Duke Debling and Lord Fife casting wary glances at one another as they began to pull their punches away. The tension in the air was palpable as the group of ladies exchanged concerned looks, their thoughts racing with the events that had just transpired.

Duke Debling's eyes blazed with fury as he stood over Lord Fife, who lay sprawled on the ground after receiving a forceful blow. His voice, low and menacing cut through the chaos of the brawl as he addressed Fife directly.

"You dare besmirch the honor and reputation of Miss Featherington with your vile words?" Thomas Debling's tone was cold and unforgiving, his anger palpable in every word. "You will apologize to her this instant, or I swear by my title as Earl and Duke of Northumberland, I will see to it that you rue the day you ever uttered her name in such a disrespectful manner."

Lord Fife scrambled to his feet, his face pale with fear as he faced the wrath of the enraged duke. He felt the seriousness of Thomas' anger, and Fife knew better that if he so much wants to live, he would have to heed the duke's words. Lest his head will be served on a silver platter to the Queen. "I-I apologize, your Grace." He stammered, his voice trembling with fear. "It was in poor taste, I assure you. I meant no offense. I will be sure to apologize to Miss Featherington."

Duke Debling's gaze bore into Fife's, his expression unrelenting as he issued his final warning. "See that it never happens again, or I will not hesitate to use my power and influence to ensure that you suffer the consequences of your actions."

With that, Debling turned on his heel and strode away, his anger simmering beneath the surface. As he passed by Penelope Featherington, he caught sight of her shocked and bewildered expression, and a pang of shame shot through his heart. He had not wanted her to witness such a scene, to see him lose control in such a manner. Shame washed over him at the sight of Penelope, for her innocence and dignity underserving of such vulgar treatment.

Without a word, Duke Debling swiftly departed from the garden, his heart heavy with remorse for the spectacle he had caused. As he disappeared from view, murmurs and whispers erupted among the onlookers, their discussion filled with speculation about the unexpected confrontation between the two gentlemen.

Meanwhile, Penelope Featherington stood frozen in disbelief, her thoughts swirling with confusion and dismay. She couldn't understand what had just transpired, but one thing was clear: Duke Debling's actions had left an indelible mark on her heart, igniting a newfound respect and admiration, deepening more of her feelings for the nobleman who had defended her honor with such fierce determination.