The morning light filtered through the sheer curtains like the soft caress of a hand, golden and warm. I stirred beneath the silk sheets, their weight unfamiliar, as was the body's heat beside me. My muscles ached in ways I hadn't known before—tender reminders of the night we had shared, of the choices we had made. There was a dull, lingering soreness between my thighs, a physical echo of our union that grounded me in the reality of what had passed. My skin was sensitive, aware of every shift in the sheets, every inch of the bare skin pressed lightly against mine.I blinked against the light, turning my head slowly to find Kael lying beside me, his face partially in shadow. He was already awake, eyes open, staring at the ceiling with a quiet stillness that seemed to hold the room in suspension. There was no tension in his form, no immediate distance, but something unreadable lingered in the tight line of his jaw. For a moment, I watched him, my breath shallow, unsure if speaking would break whatever fragile peace had settled between us. The night's events returned in a wave—heat and breath, trust and surrender. I remembered his touch and how he had moved with such control and care. He had paused, waited, listened to my every breath, every unspoken word. And I remembered his promise: no lies, not between us.The silence stretched, comfortable yet brittle, as if neither of us knew how to cross the space daylight had unveiled. The night had hidden us, wrapped us in shadow and heat. Morning laid everything bare. I shifted slightly and pulled the sheet around me as I felt a chill where his warmth used to be; my mind filled with confusion and determination." You're up," I whispered with a throaty voice, still holding traces of sleep and nostalgia. Kael rose to gaze at me; his black eyes caught mine in a searing look tempered by a glimmer of introspection." And so are you." "I nodded quietly, my thoughts flavored with a dash of confusion as I pondered the significance of this morning." We had accomplished our task. The marriage was arranged in truth and blood. But beyond that, what were we? Strangers, friends, something else? I searched his face for answers and found none—only the same questions I carried in my heart. I didn't know. But I would find out. Before I could speak again, a sharp knock echoed against the chamber door. I stiffened, instinctively clutching the sheets to my chest. Kael's gaze shifted to the door, his face hardening."Enter," he called, his voice calm but clipped. Two older women stepped inside, their eyes carefully averted from the bed attendants. I realized that their plain garments were marked with the royal crest. One carried a linen cloth, the other a shallow silver basin. My stomach twisted with understanding. Verification. It was the law. Proof of consummation—visible, undeniable—was required for the marriage to be recognized. My face burned, but I didn't move, didn't speak. This, too, was part of the cost.Kael rose from the bed, wrapping a robe around his waist as he moved unhurriedly. He gestured to the attendants, his tone cold. "Do what you came for. Then leave us." The woman approached, efficient and silent. I lay still, my heart pounding, a mixture of shame and anger tightening my throat. I felt exposed, a piece of property being appraised. One lifted the bloodstained sheet from beneath me, folding it with practiced hands and placing it into the basin. No words were spoken, only nods of acknowledgment, and then they turned, retreating as quietly as they had come. The door closed behind them, and silence returned, thicker now, heavier. I stared at the ceiling, breathing slowly, willing myself not to cry. Kael's voice broke the quiet. "I'm sorry you had to endure that." I looked at him, surprised, and found no mockery in his eyes. Only truth. And perhaps, the faintest flicker of regret.He crossed the room, retrieving his discarded clothes with the same efficiency he had shown the night before. Still, it was now layered with something else—a tension that hadn't been in the darkness. As he dressed, I watched him, trying to decipher the weight behind his silence. "Will they... tell everyone?" I asked, my voice quieter than I intended. Kael shook his head. "No. Only the council and a few key court members will receive official confirmation. It's ceremonial, not meant for gossip. But word will spread regardless. It always does."I nodded, sinking back against the pillows, the morning chill creeping beneath my skin despite the sheets. A part of me wanted to retreat, to disappear from this room and reality—but that wasn't an option. I had made my choice. Kael stepped closer, now fully clothed, his expression unreadable again. "We leave for the capital within the hour. A guard will be posted outside the door to escort you when you're ready." I swallowed the knot rising in my throat. "What will happen there?""They'll welcome us publicly," he replied. "With fanfare, as if this were a celebration rather than a war-forged alliance. Then they'll test you—politely, of course. Every glance, every word will be a measure of your worth, your loyalty. They'll want to know if you're strong enough to stand beside me—or if they can break you." His gaze locked on mine, unflinching. "Don't let them." I held his stare, my heart thudding. "I won't."I dressed in a gown of deep forest green, cinched at the waist with intricate silver embroidery that caught the light like frost. We left the chamber in silence, tension lingering between us like the last embers of a fire, faint but capable of flaring. Outside, the morning air was crisp, the sun a pale disc behind a veil of thin clouds. I shifted slightly. I pulled the sheet up closer around me, feeling a shiver as his warmth disappeared from my side; my mind felt a mix of doubt and determination swirling within me."I nodded in assent but could not find words to speak whole; I did not know what this morning meant for all of us." Three guards stood at attention in the courtyard, their postures stiff and formal, their eyes carefully not meeting Kael's. A black and shining carriage was quietly waiting with an ominous presence, its dark surface glinting under the sun. The emblem of the Kaels family—a silver raven tightly holding onto a crimson dagger—was elegantly carved into its door. The horses nearby seemed restless. Agitated as they pawed at the cobblestones while letting out steamy breaths into the cold air. The inside of the carriage felt cozy and luxurious with its velvet and dark wood decor. A difference from the austere atmosphere outside. It wasn't designed for comfort. To make a statement. A symbol of authority that would take us not only to the capital but also under intense scrutiny. A group of guards stood in the courtyard with postures, but none dared to look directly at Kael.Close by was a carriage ready for departure. It is elegant and formidable, with its shiny exterior reflecting the sunlight. The emblem of Kael's family—depicting a silver raven holding a dagger—was carved onto the door of their residence. The horses nearby appeared agitated. Exhaled visible puffs of breath as they restlessly stamped on the cobblestones. Inside, the carriage was luxuriously adorned with velvet and dark wood furnishings that starkly contrasted with the formal chilliness outside. Although not designed for comfort, to make a statement, the carriage served as a symbol of authority, intended to transport us to our destination in the capital and into intense scrutiny.He quickly exited the carriage, holding his sword tightly, and joined the soldiers around us to defend. I anxiously watched through the window as Kael battled like a storm, sword flashing with purpose. I held my breath, following Kael's swordsmanship. But the Ashkar troops showed aggression and resolve in their advance. It was not an assault. It was more like a defiant declaration of intent to all who saw it.The journey along the forest road had been tranquil, allowing me to drift into reflection as our carriage steadily approached the capital city. The only thing we could hear was the sound of horse hoofs and the soft rustling of leaves moved by a gentle breeze, filling the room with a sense of calmness and tranquility. Kael was seated in front of me in a state of vigilance; his eyes were fixed on the woods outside the window as he scanned them intently for any movement or change in the surroundings. Suddenly and unexpectedly, though, everything in that moment shifted and took on a different tone entirely. The carriage stopped, and I almost fell off my seat in surprise. I saw Kael swiftly grab his sword with a look in his eyes. The air outside seemed heavy, and stillness surrounded us like a shroud." What's happening?" I murmured nervously as fear tightened its grip around my chest. Kael motioned for me to hush. Just so you know- I obediently complied. My heart pounded in my chest as I strained to catch any sounds. A faint rustling noise—an urgent sound of approaching footsteps. Human. Closing in swiftly.The sudden outburst of voices was harsh and authoritative at once. The clash of steel followed immediately after. Through the carriage window, armored figures burst from the dense tree line, weapons drawn. Their armor was black, trimmed with crimson, bearing the distinct sigil of Ashkar—a roaring flame crowned by crossed swords. My stomach twisted sharply at the realization. "Ashkar," Kael growled, voice hardening into controlled fury. "Stay here, Vireya."He erupted from the carriage, sword held high, quickly tumbling into his men who had moved to the defense lines encircling us. Glancing out into the window with a mix of fear and anticipation. From my position watching the war below me, Kael's agility and unwavering concentration were revealed as they struck back with similar determination and ferocity on the battlefield, testing their bravery and resilience through bold attacks instead of tactical maneuvers. When faced with an opponent rushing towards me in chaos, my heart pounded as I grabbed a concealed dagger beneath my seat to protect myself. I felt my hands trembling as the assailant forcefully yanked open the door. I instinctively lunged at him with the dagger in a moment of desperation. The blade grazed against his shoulder armor, and the sudden impact threw him off balance as he staggered backward with an exclamation."We need to stay united," he insisted with frustration as he protected himself before me. Together, we kept an eye on our adversaries as they withdrew into the forest depths following the confrontation with the Ashkar warriors. The aftermath felt somber as a descent on the battlefield, interrupted only by distant echoes of previous conflicts and remnants of violence as stark reminders of the recent encounter. Amid the chaos and destruction that surrounded us was Kael. Standing still like a statue, deep in thought about everything happening before our eyes. He seemed to struggle to breathe as his clenched fists and the turmoil on his face spoke volumes about his emotions." Why do you think Ashkar decided to confront us openly?" I softly murmured while gripping my dagger tightly for comfort. At that moment, when Kael turned to me with fiery eyes filled with emotion and adrenaline-fueled passion, his response lingered in the air like an unsaid truth waiting to be unveiled. "They are not concealing their motives. They view it as more than an assassination attempt—it's a clear declaration of war." Ashkar thrives in chaos, Vireya. Your marriage disrupted their plans. Stability threatens their ambitions, and now they've openly challenged us."We returned to the damaged carriage in tense silence. As we resumed our journey, Kael spoke again, softer but no less resolute. "Be ready," he said. "The instant we arrive at the city center is when widespread awareness will spread like wildfire across all realms." I accepted the reality with a heavy heart as it sank deep within me. Ashkar decided to set limits and define boundaries to address conflicts head-on with certainty and clarity as the city came into view on the horizon after waking from its slumber. Sunlight streamed over the stone walls with brightness as towering spires extended towards the heavens in resolve and purpose. Beyond the gates was a prospering city full of life and watchful eyes. As we approached closer to the center of the town, our band, weary but resolute, could not help but detect the stares of the citizens on the weathered cobblestone streets. Whispering followed in our wake like a breeze of interest and curiosity. No doubt, news of our arrival and the recent troubles on the road will spread swiftly across the land. Within the confines of the carriage, I sat with folded hands, and a sensation of excitement throbbed in my heart. The wrinkles and dust stains on my dress from previous battles did not stop me from maintaining a graceful and strong regal posture that projected dignity for the journey. Kael remained silent across from me; his jaw clenched as he looked at me with an expression that seemed more contemplative than driven by anger. He was preparing for the court, questions, and pressure. For me. The carriage slowed as we passed beneath the city gates, the clang of metal and shouts of greeting muffled by the velvet-lined walls. I inhaled deeply, steadying myself.Whatever came next, there would be no turning back. The gates of the royal palace loomed ahead, tall and imposing, wrought iron twisted into sharp points and adorned with banners of Drevak—a silver raven clutching a crimson dagger. Beyond them, the courtyard swelled with courtiers, nobles, and soldiers, all gathered for the formal arrival of the Crown Prince and his new bride. Word of the ambush had traveled fast; tension crackled like a coming storm.The carriage doors opened, and Kael stepped out first, blood still staining his cloak. He extended a hand to me, and I took it, stepping down onto the polished stone with my head high and spine straight. Eyes swept over me from every direction, judging, weighing, and searching for cracks in my projected image. My dress, though travel-worn, still gleamed with silver embroidery in the sunlight, and I met their stares with calm defiance.A herald stepped forward, his voice echoing across the courtyard. "Look at Crown Prince Kael Drevak and his bride, Princess Nyra Velthrone from House Velthrone." Kael grimaced slightly as anger simmered beneath the surface of his expression. He swiftly raised his hand to silence the herald before he could continue speaking. The courtyard fell into silence as everyone awaited Kaels' following words. With a decisive tone like a sharp blade against stone, Kael declared with unwavering authority, "You're incorrect." This person is Crown Princess Vireya Drevak, who happens to be my wife and will eventually become the queen of our kingdom. Her name changed the moment she married me, as is our law, and it would be wise to remember it."Silence fell, heavy and absolute. I felt the weight of every gaze shift and sharpen. Whispers broke out immediately, confusion and speculation rippling through the crowd. The name struck like lightning, and I saw the ripple of realization on faces around me—they had expected Nyra. Kael's declaration echoed in my chest, fierce and final. When I spoke my vows and became Crown Princess Vireya Drevak, I was in a different world than before. It was a defining moment for me personally and for others around me too, including Kael, who saw the authenticity of my role in this realm openly acknowledged by him with acceptance and understanding that carried the weight of both fear and liberation within me as I took his extended arm without any second thoughts. I accepted his gesture. I advanced alongside him as we walked through the separated crowd toward the palace entrance. Every step was deliberate, every breath measured. They would not see fear. Inside, the grand hall was ablaze with light, golden chandeliers casting warmth over stone and silk. Nobles lined the room's edges, bowing as we passed, though their eyes held questions—and doubt. At the far end of the hall, the High Council awaited six men and women who ruled beside the crown. One among them, a sharp-eyed noble with graying hair and a silver-trimmed cloak, stepped forward."Your Highness," he said to Kael, voice smooth but edged, "we welcome you and... your bride. Though, forgive our surprise. We were led to believe Princess Nyra would be joining us."Kael's expression was steel. "Circumstances changed. Princess Vireya has fulfilled the alliance in her sister's stead. She is now the Crown Princess of this realm. That is all you need to know." The noble's gaze flicked to me, assessing. "Of course. Crown Princess Vireya." He bowed stiffly. "Let us hope your strength matches your sister's reputation." I smiled, calm and composed, my voice ringing with conviction. "Let us hope it eclipses it. I did not come here to imitate my sister—I came to surpass every expectation you hold."The noble blinked, momentarily thrown off-balance by my boldness—a hush rippled through the hall, the weight of my words settling among the gathered court. Kael's lips twitched in the faintest shadow of a smile, a glint of approval in his eyes that vanished almost as quickly as it came—a fleeting acknowledgment of the strength I had just displayed and, perhaps, a glimpse of the ally he was beginning to see in me. The court would not forget that moment—nor would they easily underestimate me again.From the corner of my eye, I saw a messenger enter the hall, moving quickly toward Kael. He leaned in, whispering low. Kael's face darkened, his hand flexing at his side. He regarded me, voice low but urgent. "Varyndor has sent an envoy. They request an audience—today." My blood ran cold, but I nodded. "Then let them in."Kael stood before the High Council again, his voice booming to command attention. "Prepare the receiving chamber. The Varyndor envoy shall be heard before the court." Gasps and whispers spread like flames, rippling through the chamber like a cold blast of wind. The name Varyndor carried weight, not just as a foreign kingdom, but as a force with unpredictable motives. To the court, I was Vireya—the unexpected bride, not the one promised in the treaty. Whispers still echoed with confusion, with questions left unanswered. Still, I stood in this hall not as Nyra's shadow but as myself—the one who had taken her place and now bore the weight of the alliance on my shoulders. They had no cause to suspect otherwise, no hint of the reality concealed behind the carefully constructed façade. The abrupt and unexplained appearance of a representative is disturbed by its unpredictability. Now, doubt hung in the air with a representative showing up unannounced. Had something gone wrong, perchance? Was the envoy a display of benevolence or perhaps something foreboding? Eyes flicked to Kael, then to me, confusion stirring beneath the surface of their polished façades. The air thickened with tension, the nobles grasping for answers, for reassurance—anything to anchor them as unease swept through the hall.The noble who had questioned me earlier stepped forward again, his brow furrowed. "Your Highness, surely such a meeting requires preparation. To receive an envoy from a kingdom with a complicated history—" Kael cut him off with a cold glance. "There is no time for delay. They come now, and we will hear what they say." He looked at me again, his eyes searching mine for any sign of fear. I met his gaze evenly, lifting my chin."Let them see me," I said, steady and unwavering. "Let them see us." Kael nodded, then turned on his heel, the train of his cloak sweeping behind him as he led the way to the receiving chamber. I followed each step firmly, each breath a silent promise: I would not falter. Whatever Varyndor was planning, they would find me ready. And the court—the entire kingdom—would discover that I was no specter. I was Crown Princess Vireya Drevak. And I would not be deterred.The large doors to the reception chamber were flung wide open, guards standing on either side in rigid attention. The room was huge, with its high, domed ceilings and stone walls draped in rich tapestries bearing Drevak's crest. At its center, a raised dais with two thrones loomed beneath a stained-glass window, the colored light falling across the polished marble floor like fractured jewels.Kael strode to his throne but did not sit. He remained standing, every inch the warrior prince, his presence commanding silence. I placed myself beside him, hands clasped, spine straight, heart pounding. The heavy doors closed with a reverberating thud. "Announce the envoy," Kael ordered. A herald stepped forward, voice steady but tense. "Crown Prince Thalen Varyndor of Varyndor." A chill swept the chamber. My breath caught.Thalen.He entered with measured grace, flanked by guards cloaked in crimson and black. His presence was magnetic, eyes scanning the room with astonishing precision before settling on Kael—and then on me. Recognition flared in his eyes, quickly masked by a courtly smile. He bowed low, posture respectful, but I could feel the tension behind the gesture like the taut string of a bow. "Your Highness," Thalen said smoothly, "I bring greetings from Varyndor—and a request for an audience on a matter of some urgency." Kael's gaze was ice. "Then speak, Crown Prince of Varyndor. The court listens." Thalen straightened, his eyes locking onto mine once more. The court waited, silent and breathless, unaware of the storm about to break.
