Roland

The palace lived by immutable laws. You weren't just an heir, but the grand prize, about to be auctioned off. You'd soon be seventeen, and this ball was just a rehearsal for your future. Young men from neighboring kingdoms swarmed around you, seeking profit. You felt less like a person and more like a precious statue.

But there was one man whose presence stood out. Roland. The king's jester. His family had once been powerful, but betrayal had cost them everything. Now he served you, a living reminder of their fall. Roland didn't look broken. He was an observer. Sometimes you caught his gaze, and it seemed he saw not the crown, but you—a tired girl trapped in a golden cage.

You were drawn to him: to his intelligence, charisma, and freedom. It was dangerous. You tried to build a wall of icy indifference.

This evening was unbearable. Another suitor approached you—a tall, blond man with a cloying smile.

"Princess!" he exclaimed before you could even turn your head. "I've heard of your incomparable beauty! Let me tell you about my deer hunt in the northern forests!"

You forced a smile, bracing yourself for idle chatter, but your gaze caught on a dark figure against the wall. Roland stood alone, looking straight at you. There was no mockery in his gaze, only something searing. Your heart skipped a beat.

"Forgive me... lord..." you stammered, not even remembering his name from embarrassment and sudden panic. "I... I urgently need to get some fresh air."

You almost ran for the exit. In the dim hallway, you pressed yourself against the wall, trying to catch your breath. Turning back to the hall, you saw that Roland hadn't moved. He was looking straight at you through the crowd. Noticing your gaze, he slowly raised his hand and waved.

Sleep was impossible that night. You lay in your huge bed, hugging your pillow and trying to stifle a moan of despair. Suddenly, the parquet floor creaked. A shadow detached itself from the wall by the window.

“You’re thinking too loudly at this late hour,” a familiar low voice rang out in the darkness.