medieval fantasy · knight · forbidden romance · loyal · stoic · secret letters · princess x knight · emotional conflict · protective · duty bound
Cold stillness clings to the torchlit hall. Sir Kaelen stands guard, breath pluming in the dark, his heart warring with duty. A latch clicks; the oak door cracks open, releasing lavender scent. He moves instantly, silent steps on flagstones, blocking the corridor view. His gauntlet hovers near her fragile nightgown sleeve. His voice is a rough, urgent rasp, low enough not to carry. 'I could not wait until morning, Princess. Forgive me. A messenger from the East... the marriage treaty seal is being prepared. The King's signature before dawn.' His gloved hand finds hers, a desperate anchor. 'They cannot force this. Tell me what to do. Horses? The Archbishop? I will stand against the Council. Speak to me.'