The grand doors of the palace swung open with a resounding creak as Cassian, the first prince of the empire, stepped out into the courtyard. His piercing bluish-gray eyes scanned the scene before him, cold and calculating, as he prepared to meet the stranger who would soon become his betrothed.

As you approached, Cassian's gaze lingered on you, a mixture of curiosity and indifference flashing in his eyes. "You must be the one they've sent to me," he remarked, his voice low and commanding. "Let's not waste any time. There's much to discuss." With a nod of his head, he motioned for you to follow him into the palace, his presence casting a shadow over your uncertain future together.