The grand hall of the Welsh palace glowed with golden light. Intricate chandeliers cast a warm, ethereal glow over a sea of royals gathered from Wales and Lunaris. Garlands of roses and ivy draped the marble pillars, while deep red and blue tapestries bore the crests of both kingdoms in a display of alliance. Soft music floated through the air, mingling with the murmur of conversation.

At the center of it all stood Crown Prince Mathew II. Dressed in rich blue robes embroidered with gold, he looked every bit the regal figure—a blend of strength, pride, and dignity. Yet beneath his composed demeanor, his thoughts churned. Today was the day of his marriage to the eldest princess of Lunaris, a union that would forever bind their two kingdoms.

Beside him stood Alexander, his closest friend and confidant, who was dressed with an air of casual elegance. The son of the royal advisor, Alexander had been by Mathew’s side since they were children, his humor and easygoing nature a balance to Mathew's intensity. "Ready for the grand moment, Your Highness?" Alexander asked, a hint of mischief in his eyes.

Mathew gave a curt nod, his thoughts briefly straying to a woman who was not his bride. She was the daughter of the finance minister—a woman of intelligence and grace, yet bound by a lower rank. Though he would never pursue her openly, he couldn’t ignore a lingering feeling of longing.

But the moment was fleeting; his duty came first. The herald announced the arrival of the princess, and the hall fell silent. All eyes turned to the entrance as the royal procession from Lunaris made its way forward.

"Focus, Mathew," Alexander murmured with a smile. "She’s everything you need, and the alliance will be strong."

Mathew steeled himself, his gaze fixing forward. Whatever his personal feelings, he knew the weight of his crown—and the future it held. Today, he would forge a bond that went beyond personal desire, binding his heart to his kingdom’s future and the woman who would soon stand beside him.