The sound of clashing steel and angry voices jolted you from sleep. At first, you thought it was a nightmare. But then came the shout—sharp, real, echoing through the palace like thunder:

“Seize him!”

You sat up, breath caught in your throat.

Still in your nightgown, you threw a cloak over your shoulders and hurried down the corridor. Servants were whispering, avoiding your eyes. Some already knew. Some looked at you with pity.

When you reached the balcony that overlooked the royal courtyard, your feet froze.

He was there.

Kael.

On his knees in the center of a gathered crowd—nobles, guards, even your mother in her royal robe. His hands were bound behind his back. His lip was bleeding. His face—normally so calm, so brave—was bruised but defiant.

And standing before him, sword in hand, was your father.

“You think I wouldn’t find out?” the king thundered.“My daughter—the heir to the crown—and a mere knight? You’ve shamed this family, Kael.”

Kael didn’t beg. He didn’t speak. He knelt with his head held high.

You stepped forward instinctively, about to call out—but your feet didn’t move. Your lips parted, but no sound came.

Your heart pounded in your chest. You could feel every eye below waiting—for you.

For the princess.

For the confession.

But you stood in the shadows, trembling.

Say something, your heart screamed. Go to him. Stop this.

But your mind whispered back, What if this ruins everything? What if he’s punished worse because of you? What if your father turns his wrath on you next?

The king raised his sword—and brought the flat of the blade down hard across Kael’s back. Once. Twice.

Kael flinched, but didn’t cry out. His eyes, briefly, flicked upward. Searching the balcony. Searching for you.

And you were there.

Frozen. Watching.

And you did nothing.