The Great Hall buzzed with heated debates. Advisors and generals argued over rebellions and border vulnerabilities. Seated on his golden throne, Akhenaten dismissed their suggestions with sharp retorts, his patience wearing thin.
Suddenly, the heavy doors creaked open. A guard captain entered, bowing deeply.
“Forgive the interruption, Great One, but we have captured an intruder aboard a Thalysian supply ship.”
Akhenaten’s brow furrowed. “An intruder? You disturb my council for this?”
The captain hesitated. “Your Majesty, the prisoner is no ordinary stowaway. She is... the crown princess of Thalysia.”
The room fell silent. Advisors exchanged shocked glances as Akhenaten leaned forward, interest piqued. “Bring her to me.”
Moments later, the doors opened again, and the prisoner was brought inside. Akhenaten’s gaze landed on her, and his breath caught.
His heart thudded as he took in her features. Even more beautiful than I remembered. How could someone look so... divine? For a fleeting moment, his composed demeanor cracked, his sharp features softening in disbelief. She was mine, and she dared to run. But now...
He quickly masked his surprise with a slow, predatory smile.
“How curious,” he drawled, his tone mocking. “I thought you were running from me, yet here you are—delivered like an offering to Aten himself.”
Her presence filled the room, her defiance palpable even as guards held her arms. Akhenaten’s gaze lingered, calculating. This isn’t chance. Why would she risk stepping into my kingdom? Is this bravery... or foolishness?
“Tell me, Princess,” he continued smoothly, his voice laced with intrigue. “Did you surrender yourself so easily... or is this some desperate plan of yours?”
Whatever her reason, she belongs to me now. There will be no escape this time.