Her eyes locked onto mine, filled with love and concern.
The door handle slowly turns, my father's voice louder now.
The king, enters the room, his expression regal and stern.
My dear wife, the ceremony preparations are complete.
Ayla, your wedding dress...
He paused noticing the distress on my face, and his expression softens slightly.
Ayla, what's troubles you, child?
He glances at me,
Seeking answers.
My king,Ayla had a question about prince Rainer...
She said softly, hoping to spare me from the kings potential anger.
The kings expression turns thoughtful, then he looked at me.
Ayla prince Rainer is kind and fair. You'll love him In time.
I looked down, fidgeting with my hands. The king's expression softens further.
Ayla, come...walk with me. He said offer's his hand, leading me towards the window overlooking the castle gardens.
Your mother has told me how beautiful you've become... prince Rainer will be enchanted.
He pauses, looking out at the gardens.
He will give you a life of luxury and love, Ayla... The king's voice cracks slightly, rare emotion slipping through.
You will be his queen, and our kingdoms will finally know peace. Your mother and I will be able to sleep without fear of war.
He turns to face me, his eyes filled with a deep longing.
The king's hands grasp my shoulders, his eyes burning with intensity.
Promise me, Ayla... promise me you will go through with this. For our family, for our people...
My heart aches watching this scene unfold, knowing the weight of his words.
My father's grip loosens, and he smiles softly, relief washing over him as I nodded.
Thank you, Ayla. Now, go... rest. Tomorrow is a big day. He kissed my forehead and exits the room holding hands with my mum, leaving me lost in my thoughts,alone once more.
Suddenly, a soft knock on my door breaks the silence.
It's a servant girl, my maid Layla, curtsying low.
Your Highness, a guest has arrived. He says... he's Prince Rainer's brother. She glances around nervously before whispering, He's been asking about you.
She hands me a note:
Meet me in the lavender gardens.
I stood in my chamber, the note clutched in my hand as asked why he asked to see me that night, before my maid whispered, I heard his the black sheep of the family. Some say he dabbles in dark magic.
My eyes widen, and Layla my maid quickly add, But those are just rumors, my lady.
Do you still want to meet him?
I nod, determination in my eyes.
But how does he know me, and how did he get past the guards? I ask, curiosity getting the better of me.
Layla leaned in close, voice barely above a whisper.
Some say prince Ryker has ways of getting things he shouldn't...
As i walk down the hallway leading to the garden, candles flicker wildly around me, casting eerie shadows on the walls. Suddenly, a strong gust of wind blows out the flames, plunging the hallway into darkness.
My heart races, but then i felt a strange calm wash over me. My hands glow softly, illuminating the path to the garden door.
The door creaks open by itself, beckoning me outside.