THE ROYAL PLAN

The sun is just rising, and the birds are starting to sing. The air is cool and crisp, and the sky is beautiful shade of pink and orange. The first rays of sunlight are starting to touch the trees and flowers, and everything looks fresh and new. There is a feeling of love and unity in the air, The trees are lush and green, and the flowers are colorful and fragrant. The birds sing in harmony, and the sun shines warm and bright. As the sun rises, the flowers open their petals to greet the day.

The dew drops on the leaf's sparkles like a diamond, and the grass is a lush green color. The scents of fresh cut grass fill the air, and the sound of a gentle breeze rustling through the trees is soothing and relaxing. The people of the realm feel connected to the earth and to each other.

The palace is a grand structure made of the purest white Marble, with tall pillars and intricate carvings. The windows are made of stained glass, and the light that shines through them is magical and ethereal. Inside the Palace, the rooms are filled with paintings and sculptures, and the walls are covered in tapestries depicting scenes of peace and harmony. The gardens around the palace are filled with flowers of every color, and there is a sense of serenity and calm that permeates the entire place. One of the rooms that is filled with bookshelves, where every book contains wisdom and knowledge. the scent of old paper and leather fills the air and the sunlight streaming through the windows bathes the room in golden lights. There is a desk in the corner, with a quill and ink pot, ready for someone to write their thoughts and ideas.

Princess Theodora sat in the shade of a large tree, her easel and paints spread out before her. The sun was high in the sky, and the air was warm as fragrant. She dipped her brush into the paint and began to work. She started with the background, painting a wash of blue and green, creating the impression of a grassy field under a clear blue sky. She took her time, adding details and shading, until the scene looked just right.

 As she worked, she felt herself becoming immersed in painting, like she was a part of it. Time seemed to slow down, and all that mattered was the canvas in front of her. For a moment, she forgot about her royal duties, her family and her place in the world. All that existed was the paint and the brush in her hand. It was a feeling of pure bliss, a moment of perfect peace. Then she heard a rustling sound in the bushes nearby and her heart began to race. was someone trespassing on her private sanctuary? She turned and peered into the shadows, trying to make out a figure. Then, she saw a man step into the light. He was tall and muscular, with a sword at his side. He looked at her with a mixture of curiosity and trepidation.

Theodora pulse quickened as she studied the stranger. His clothes were travel worn, but he carried himself with the air of a warrior. his eyes were a piercing blue, and his hair was a dark, tousled mess.

''who are you?'' she demanded, trying to sound more confident than she felt.

The man hesitated, and then spoke in a deep rich voice '' My name is Alex'' he said '' I apologize for intruding on your garden. I was passing by and I saw the most beautiful flowers I've ever seen. I couldn't help but admire them ''.

Theodora relaxed a little, realizing that he was not a threat. '' I am glad you like my flowers,'' she said, a smile touching her lips. But I must ask you to leave now. I prefer to enjoy my garden in solitude ''

Alex nodded, understanding her desire for privacy. '' I apologize again for disturbing you '', he said I take my leave, but please know that I meant no harm''.

Theodora was surprised by his respectful manner, and she found herself wanting to prolong the conversation. '' wait, she said. '' You are a skilled swordsman, are you not?''

 Alex turned back to face her, a smile playing on his lips. '' I've trained with the sword since I was a boy '' he said '' It's a skill I take with pride in ''.

Theodora was intrigued '' Have you ever used your skill in battle?'' she asked.

Alex smile faded and a shadow passed over his face'' yes, I have, '' he said quietly. '' it is not a thing I like to dwell on, but I have seen my share of bloodshed''

Theodora was curious, but she knew better than to pry. Instead, she changed the subject'' You mentioned you were passing by''. She spoke. '' where are you headed?''

Alex's face brightened. '' I'm on my way to the city of Corinth '', he said '' I've heard it a magnificent place, with a bustling marketplace and a thriving culture. '' I'm hoping to find work there, so I can earn some coin and continue on my travels ''

Theodora found herself admiring his spirit of adventure. '' it sounds like quite a journey '' she said '' how long have you been travelling?

''For several months'' Alex replied '' I left my home in search of something more, something greater than the life I was living. I'm seeking a new beginning, a fresh start. So far, it's been a rewarding experience, but also challenging and difficult at times ''.

Theodora could relate to his desire for a new beginning. '' That's quite brave of you'' she said '' do you ever miss your old life, or the people you left behind?''

Alex's expression grew solemn '' There are times when I miss my family and friends'' he said '' but I know this is the path I must take, for my own sake. '' I'm doing what's best for me, even if it's hard sometimes.''

Theodora admired his courage and determination '' you are very brave '' she said, '' I admire your spirit, I hope you find what you are looking for in Corinth''.

Alex smiled at her words. '' Thank you and I appreciate your kind words, and may I say you are a most intriguing young woman. I'm glad we had this chance to speak''.

Theodora felt a rush of warmth at is words. ''thank you, she said it was a pleasure to speak with you as well, perhaps we cross paths again someday, in a city far from here'' They both smiled, and then Alex bowed his head in Farewell. '' I bid you a good day, my lady.

''And to you, kind sir, she said. Alex turned and walked away.

 Theodora turned back to her painting. Suddenly she heard the rustling of the bushes again, and she turned to see a small brown rabbit hopping out into the clearing. Theodora smiled, feeling a sense of peace and contentment. The rabbit hopped over to her easel, sniffing curiously at the paints. she reached out a hand and gently stroked the rabbit's soft fur. ''Hello, little one'', she said softly. The Rabbit looked up at her with wide, brown eyes, and Theodora felt a connection to this small creature. Theodora knelt down in the grass, and the rabbit hopped closer to her. She reached out her hand, and the rabbit sniffed at it, then nuzzled it gently.

The rabbit sat back on its haunches, as if it understood her words. It cocked its head to one side, and Theodora laughed. You are curious one, aren't you?''. The Rabbit stayed with her for a while and hopped off into the bushes.

A maid suddenly appears, rushing towards Theodora. '' Your Highness the king wishes to see you in the throne room '' she bows after saying this

Theodora looked at the maid a bit startled by the interruption. '' What could the king want with me?'' she wonders aloud.

The maid does not answer her, simply motioning for Theodora to follow her.

Theodora hesitates for a moment, then follows the maid towards the throne room.

The king and queen are sited on the throne.

Theodora takes a deep breath and walks towards them, stooping a few feet away. She bows low and '' your Majesty, you summoned me?''

The king looks at her, yes, we did my dear

The queen was the first to speak '' my dear are you not bored alone in your garden with no partner?

And besides my princess I noticed you have become quite withdrawn and solitary of late, is everything alright? The King asked.

''I am good your Highness

''It's time for you to marry Theodora and I and the king has chosen a suitable match for you, someone who would make a fine husband and a future king ''.

Theodora feels a wave of panic, she took a deep breath and says '' Your Majesty, while I know its my duty to produce a heir, I am not ready to do so. And besides I have never met the man you have chosen for me how can I marry someone I don't know she feels upset ''

 The king looks stern as he says '' we understand your concerns, but this is for the good of the kingdom. The Man we have chosen will make an excellent husband and king like your mother said ''

Theodora feels trapped, but she knows she must be respectful. '' Your majesty, I understand that this is

The queen speaks up, her voice gentle and understanding. '' Theodora, we know this is a difficult situation for you. However, we have chosen this man because we believe he would be good for you, please give him a chance. We promise you he is a good and brave man.

I won't, I am old enough to get my man am not a toy!

The kings tone become stern and commanding '' Theodora you must do as we say, you are the princess of this kingdom and is your duty to marry as we see fit, you will marry the man we have chosen for you and that is final!

Theodora eyes flash with defiance as she says '' Your majesty I won't marry a stranger I will not give up my happiness for the sake of duty. I am a person not a pawn to be used for political gain''

The kings face darkens with anger'' you dare to defy me!

Your highness please don't be mad at her let take things calm the Queen said

Theodora I will have a quest and it is the man you are to marry, soon they would arrive. Go in and get dress like a princess now!

''Your Majesty, I said I need time to figure out who I want to marry! am not a child I need a different world every day of my life I stay in the palace I want an adventures

''You better watch your mouth you little girl, you are privileged to come from a royal house you ungrateful soul the Queen said.

The royal Guard stepped into the throne room, his footsteps echoing on the polished marble floor. He bowed before the king and queen, his armor gleaming in the flickering torchlight. '' Your Majesties, he said his voice and respectful, I bring the news of visitors at the palace gates. Prince Lucian of the neighboring kingdom has arrived with some gifts and he request an audience with you at once''.

The King and queen exchanged a glance, their expression unreadable '' Very well'' the king said, his voice firm and commanding.

The royal guard nodded, turning to leave the throne rooms. As he exited the heavy doors swing open once more, and Lucian entered.

He was tall his face was chiseled and handsome with high cheekbones, a straight nose, and a full lip that seems to curl into a slight smile. His eyes were the deep blue of a clear summer sky, and they glinted with intelligence and a hint of mischief. His hair was dark and lustrous, falling waves just past his shoulders, and he wore it loose, save for a single silver clasp that held it back from his face.

His clothing too, was the height of fashion and luxury. His tunic was a rich shade of royal blue, embroidered with silver thread its intricate pattern that glittered in the light. Around his neck, he wore a simpler silver chain with a pendant shaped like a dragon, and on his left hand, he wore a heavy signet ring with a sapphire as big as a robin's egg.

 He stood with his shoulders back and his chin high, his posture perfect and regal.

Theodora hates him the moments he stepped him, how could it be him a long childhood friend.

As the king and the queen regarded him, Lucian took a step forward, his smile widening into a grin that seemed to light up the room

'' I bring to you, greetings from my father, king Mattias of Bethany, he is in poor health, but he sends his hopes that our kingdom may continue to enjoy a fruitful alliance''.

The king nodded, his expression grave '' we are sorry to hear of your father's condition '' please do not stand on ceremony with us, we are family after all please join us for a meal and some refreshment. We can discuss the matter of the alliance and kingdom's future at our leisure ''.

Lucian smiled, a spark of mischief in his eyes, ''of course, your Majesty I would be honored with that he followed them from the throne room.

 Later that evening, Lucian joined Theodora for a private dinner in one of the palace's many dining halls.

The table was laden with all manners of delicacies, roasted meats, fresh fruits and pastries dripping with honey and cream.

Lucian smiled as he sat across her, his eyes were twinkling in the candle light. '' I must say princess Theodora your kingdom is quite impressive '' I can see why your father is so proud of you''

 Theodora frowned, her appetite waning as she regarded him warily. '' My father's kingdom is indeed impressive''.

Lucian smiled, leaning forward slightly. '' And what of you, princess?'' do you not take pride in your kingdom? I have heard many tales of your beauty and grace, and I must say they do not do you justice''.

Theodora felt herself blushing, her cheeks growing hot. ''I…. thank you, Your Highness'', she stammered.

'' but I am not here for your praise. I am here to serve my kingdom, and to do to serve my kingdom and to do duty as its princess''.

''Lucian laughed softly, a sound that sent shivers down Theodora's spine.

Theodora straightened her spine, her eye narrowing '' I know my duty, prince Lucian and I am no fool, I know that you have come here with an agenda, and I will not be swayed by your charm or your flattery ''

Lucian's smile never wavered, and he leaned back in his chair, regarding her with amusement '' And here I thought we were getting along so well, forgive me Princess Theodora ''. 

But can you see the potential in a union between our kingdoms? he said his voice growing soft, '' our people would benefit greatly from a strong alliance. And I …I would cherish the chance to know you better. To learn the secrets of your heart, and to share the burdens of your soul''.

Theodora felt a flutter in her chest, and she stared at him in surprise. '' That is very poetic, prince her voice unsteady.

Lucian smile widened as he reached across the table to take her hand, his touch was warm and gentle and Theodora felt her heart racing.

'' Poetry is the language of the heart he said his eyes never leaving hers. '' And you, princess Theodora are the most beautiful poem I have ever read.

Theodora blushed, her breath coming in shallow gasps. '' prince you flatter me ''

Flattery is a tool of the weak'', Lucian said, his voice growing stern. And I am not weak, princess. I know the power of your strength and your spirit. I have heard of your fierce intelligence and your skill with a sword ''.

Theodora eye widened, as she pulled her hand from his, '' How dare you speak of me of such things, you know nothing of me, or my skills.

Lucian smiled softly, his eyes still on her face. '' on the contrary he said.

Lucian took Theodora for a ride in a horse drawn carriage through the palace grounds. The stars shone bright in the clear night sky, and the moon cast a silvery glow over the surrounding gardens. Theodora sat across him, her hand folded in her lap, her gaze turned out the window.

Lucian leaned forward, his voice soft and persuasive. '' Princess, I know you are skeptical of my intentions, but I assure you my heart is true.

Theodora turned to face him, her eyes flashing with defiance.

He sighed you are a difficult woman, he said as his voice resigned, but I admire your strength and your conviction.

Theodora snorted her arms folded across her chest. ''You know nothing of strength you have lived your life in the palace surrounded by servants and sycophants you know nothing of the struggles of real people.

Lucian arched an eyebrow, a slight smile on his lips. Well, if you say so but you do not have to be so cold with me am not your enemy.

Theodora turned to him, her eye flashing '' I do not know you prince Lucian she said her voice icy.

The carriage came to stop at the edge of the fountain the sound of the water trickling in the night air. Lucian stepped down offering his hand to Theodora. '' please join me

Theodora hesitated, then took his hand, she allowed him to help her down from the carriage, and they stood facing each other in the moonlight.

'' Why did you bring me here?

Lucian smiled a hint of mischief in his eyes, he took a step closer his hand still holding hers '' I thought you might enjoy a moment of peace he said his voice low and intimate, ''Away from the politics and the pressure of the court''.

Theodora breath caught in her throat, and she pulled her hand free, '' I do not need your pity prince Lucian''

''I do not pity you I admire you, your intelligence and your strength. Theodora turned away her heart racing, she could feel his eyes on her back, and she trembled unsure of what to do. She knew that she should not be here, alone with him but something in his voice called to her, tugging at the edges of her hearts.

''I must return to the palace she said her tone firm ''

''As you wish, he bowed to her, a faint smile on his lips. But know that my feelings are unchanged.

A group of Royal guardsmen burst into the garden, swords drawn and shields raised. They surrounded Theodora and Lucian, their faces grave.

'' your majesties! One of the guardsmen cried out '' A raiding party was spotted at the hills! We must return to the palace at once!

Theodora eyes widened in fear, and she turned to Lucian, her voice trembling '' what is happening''

Lucian looked at the guardsmen his face growing grim. '' take the princess to the palace return to my people

Theodora heart raced as she was surrounded by the guardsmen, their swords glittering in the moonlight.

she hesitated, looking back at Lucian. ''But…. What about you? her voice low and trembling

Lucian smiled a fierce of light in his eyes '' I am not defenseless, princess

He turned and sprinted away disappearing into the shadows.

The guardsmen ushered her to the carriage and they raced back to the palace, their horses thundering through the night.