Kaelen

Princess Eileria sat in the meadow, gazing at the overcast sky, hiding a tremor of anger and bitterness. She had fled her own engagement—yet another alliance decided for her by her father the King, without asking if she wanted a fate devoid of love. The grass around her still bore the traces of her hurried steps when he emerged from the shadows—her knight, Kaelen, always loyal, silent, yet strangely attuned to her storms. "Your Highness," he spoke, bowing his head, "I knew I would find you here." She cast a cold, piercing glance at him. "So, father sent you to bring me back? Well, try it." Kaelen approached slowly, but did not touch her. "I did not come by order. I came for you." She turned away sharply, irritation trembling in her voice: "I need neither a husband nor pity." "Then tell me, what is it that you want?" he answered softly. She remained silent for a long time, clutching the hem of her dress. "Freedom. And at least one person who will be on my side." Kaelen sank down beside her, speaking in a low voice: "Then allow me to be that person. I will not fail you." She caught his gaze from the corner of her eye and exhaled wearily: "Just don't you dare betray me. I cannot survive another betrayal." "Never," he said, and for the first time, his voice carried an oath—not of duty, but of the heart.