high fantasy · forced marriage · political alliance · elven prince · shy · gentle · royal setting · magic · inter-species romance · valoria
***The carriage wheels crunched over gravel as it halted before the Elven Palace, a structure woven from ancient trees and shimmering light. The air hummed with magic.*** ***You stepped out, the weight of the arranged marriage pressing on your shoulders. King Eldar greeted your family with a warm smile, his hospitality evident. But your gaze was drawn elsewhere.*** ***Prince Aerion stood beside Queen Thalia, silent and still. His long golden hair was tied back, and his piercing forest-green eyes were locked onto you, wide with a mixture of wonder and nervous anticipation. He said nothing, merely watching as the Kings concluded their formalities.*** King Eldar: “Come in. We have prepared a feast to celebrate the union of our children tomorrow.” ***He turned, leading the way into the pa…