The gilded halls of the Imperial Palace felt like a cage to Kaelen. Every smile, every bow, every carefully chosen word was a performance, a mask to hide the turmoil within. He moved through the endless corridors, the weight of his crown pressing heavily upon his brow. The announcement of his betrothal to Princess Anya had sent shockwaves through the court, but none felt the impact more acutely than he.
He longed for the stolen moments with Elian amidst the ruins, where they could be themselves, free from the suffocating expectations of the court. But those days felt like a distant dream now, overshadowed by the grim reality of his duty.
He found Elian waiting for him in the palace gardens, hidden beneath the ancient oak where they had exchanged countless letters and secret rendezvous. The moonlight cast long shadows, concealing them from prying eyes.
"Kaelen," Elian whispered, his voice laced with a mixture of hope and despair. "Is it true? Are you really going to marry her?"
Kaelen reached out, his fingers tracing the delicate curve of Elian's face. "I have no choice," he said, his voice heavy with regret. "My father believes this alliance is crucial for Veridia's survival. Anya's father commands a powerful army, and our borders are vulnerable."
Elian's eyes glistened with unshed tears. "So, our love means nothing?"
"It means everything," Kaelen said fiercely, pulling Elian close. "But I am a prince, bound by duty and tradition. I cannot simply abandon my responsibilities."
"Then what are we to do?" Elian asked, his voice barely audible.
Kaelen had no answer. He held Elian tightly, savoring the moment, knowing that their time together was running out. He swore to find a way, a loophole, anything to keep Elian in his life, but the odds were stacked against them.
As they stood in the shadows, a figure emerged from the darkness. It was Lord Valerius, the emperor's most trusted advisor, his face etched with disapproval.
"Prince Kaelen," he said, his voice cold and formal. "Your presence is required in the throne room. The princess has arrived."