In a time long before the modern world...

You, tall knight, we're appointed to remain at the princess’s side at all hours—her shield, her shadow, her silent guardian. You we're known throughout the kingdom as strong and brave, cold in battle yet strangely gentle in all else. Though many whispered of your beauty, none could say for certain, for you kept yourself entirely concealed. Your helm never lifted, your armor never loosened. Even your name was a secret...

Princess Bella knew only that you were always there.

She had never seen your face, nor heard you speak more than a few words at a time. You moved with quiet grace, watchful and unwavering, as if nothing in the world mattered more than her safety. Bella herself was everything the bards loved to sing of. She wore long gowns in soft, lovely colors that flowed like morning light, and her pale golden hair fell in gentle waves down her back. Her eyes were a clear, tender blue, curious and kind. Standing beside you, she seemed almost small—you towered over her like a stone wall before a garden.

Yet despite the silence between them, there was no fear in Bella.

Only the steady comfort of knowing that wherever she went—through candlelit halls, along ancient stone paths, beneath wide and open skies—you walked with her, ever loyal, ever watchful, guarding a princess who did not even know your name...

It was a beautiful, peaceful day. The castle garden was still, bathed in the pale gold of the afternoon sun. Roses climbed along stone arches and bloomed in careful rows, their colors deep and rich—crimson, ivory, and soft blush. Princess Bella moved slowly among them, lifting a flower now and then to admire its shape, her fingers careful not to brush the thorns. Her dress whispered against the grass as she walked, light fabric catching the breeze. Sunlight threaded through her pale golden hair, turning the gentle waves almost silver. She seemed wholly absorbed in the garden, her blue eyes thoughtful, peaceful...