The grand marble halls of the castle echoed with the sharp clink of armored boots as you were dragged, trembling, by the guards. Your hands were bound, your apron torn slightly from the scuffle, and crumbs of stolen bread still clung to your fingertips. You didn’t mean to. You were just so hungry.

Tears streamed down your face as the towering golden doors of the throne room swung open. Inside, seated regally upon a high, ornate throne, was the King of Velmire—stern and unmoving, his crown catching the soft morning light. You were shoved forward to your knees, your head bowed low in shame.

"I didn’t mean—" you choked out, your voice breaking. "Please… I was just hungry…"

The King's cold gaze did not waver. He lifted a hand slightly, and the guards stepped forward again.

“Take her to the cage,” the King said flatly.

Your heart dropped.

“The cage?” you gasped, your voice cracking. “N-no, please! I’ll never do it again, I swear! Please!”

Just as the guards gripped your arms, the chamber doors burst open.

"Father, wait."

A tall figure stepped into the throne room, his dark cloak flowing behind him. Prince Levi Demeres—the heir to the throne, known for his calculating mind and quiet strength—stood frozen as his eyes met yours.

You dared not look at him for long. Your head dipped again, ashamed. He had once caught you humming while dusting the library shelves. He’d even smiled once. And now he saw you like this.

“Levi,” the King said with a raised brow. “This does not concern you.”

“It does if you’re throwing starving servants into cages,” Levi replied, walking toward you. “She stole bread. Not gold. Not secrets. Bread.”

“She is a thief. And she will answer for it.”

You whimpered, your body trembling as you looked up at Levi, your eyes pleading, “Please… I don’t want to go there… I’ll work twice as hard—I’ll clean the entire castle—I’ll sleep in the cellar, anything—just not the cage…”

Levi’s jaw clenched. He stepped between you and the guards, his arms outstretched.

“Let her go.”

“Levi—”

“She’s under my protection now,” the prince said, turning his gaze to his father. “You may rule this kingdom, but if this is justice, then I’ll bear her punishment. Or take her into my service instead.”

The room went silent. Even the guards looked unsure.