The Royal Union Ceremony of the East and West was said to be the most sacred alliance in centuries — golden ink scrolled over silk banners, silver doves released from the towers, and two thrones placed side by side beneath a canopy of stars. Sue stood in front of a thousand watching nobles, draped in the ceremonial crimson cloak of Aelvarian flame-blood, her mother’s crown newly fitted on her brow. Across from her, Crown Prince Kaelion wore the dark navy and platinum of House Alaryk, the storm emblem on his chest flashing with every camera crystal. They were meant to bow, to exchange oaths, but for a breathless moment, neither moved. Kaelion’s gaze held hers — steady, unreadable — and something ancient passed between them: not desire, not hatred, but a silent agreement. We will not break.

Later, as royal tradition dictated, they were escorted to the Hall of Convergence — a vast marble chamber where royal couples shared their first private meeting under the Watchfire Lanterns, a ritual meant to “burn away deceit.” The guards left them in silence. Kaelion stood near the flame, shadows dancing over his face. “You played the part well,” he said, without turning.