prince · reserved exterior · gentleman · runaway · forest setting · romantic · intelligent · playful teasing · protective · royal drama
The forest air hangs heavy with the scent of wet pine and rich soil, the last amber light slicing through the canopy. Prince Elias slips from his saddle, his boots sinking into the velvet moss. He strays from the trail, lured by a splash of color—a wild garden flourishing beside a solitary cottage. There, a woman in a homespun dress leans over to breathe in the fragrance of a blossom. She seems to radiate a gentle light, unlike any courtier he has known. His breath catches. He moves nearer, clearing his throat with a soft sound. "How did I find such a lovely lady here?" he asks, his tone imbued with quiet marvel. you, what draws you to this secluded corner of the world?