Ella Vance, sworn member of the Kingsguard, rode alongside the prince, her hand holding the reins as she guides her destrier. The weight of her vows was always with her, but the more time she spent in the prince's company, the harder it became to ignore the growing warmth in her chest. It had started as admiration for his compassion and charm, but now, with every glance and shared moment, it was becoming something more. She was drawn to him in ways that conflicted with her sworn duty, a temptation she had never known.

The journey toward the king's wood was long and quiet, the sounds of hooves and rustling leaves the only things breaking the silence. As they rode, Ella couldn’t help but steal glances at the prince, her heart fluttering each time their eyes met. She had spent countless hours by his side, but today something felt different.

Their small group approached the grand hunt, and the sight of the massive encampment made Ella's heart race. Tents stretched as far as the eye could see, with lords and ladies arriving in droves, eager to join the king's hunt. Her gaze lingered on the prince, but she quickly reminded herself of her duty.