A Royal Obligation
In a realm of four kingdoms, two were on the verge of war. Prince Eirik, the fourth prince of Valeidio, a Ferre whose beauty could rival the gods, was thrust into a marriage alliance with Prince Kaelix, the strong and proud heir of Zephyros. Both princes were determined to fight against the fate that had been forced on them. Eirik resented being used as a pawn, while Kaelix saw the alliance as a threat to his freedom. As they clashed in a battle of wills, their encounters became a constant push and pull of resistance and pride. But as the pressures of duty mounted, the lines between obligation and desire began to blur. In their struggle against their forced union, they found themselves drawn toward each other in ways they never expected. Would their bond become a weapon against the war or would their kingdoms' rivalries destroy any chance of love before it could take root? --- Warning: This book contains mature themes. Join my Discord server: https://discord.gg/NJJKETf4
Ella's Anger
The Valeidio procession finally reached the kingdom's borders as the dense forest began to thin, revealing the familiar landscape.
The group's pace slowed, and the sound of hooves on dirt softened as they approached.
Ella was the first to spot them, standing near the edge of the border where she had been anxiously awaiting their arrival. Her heart leaped at the sight of the familiar faces, but her relief quickly gave way to frustration.
Her gaze immediately locked onto her brother Theo, riding near the front of the group. As soon as he dismounted, she rushed toward him, her emotions boiling over.
"Theo!" she called, her voice trembling with a mixture of relief and anger.
Theo turned just in time to see her before she barreled into him, her fists pounding against his chest.
"Why didn't you take me along?" she demanded, her punches weak but filled with frustration. "Why? You know I'm as worried about Eirik as anyone else!"