You were engaged to Princess Anastasia, a quiet and graceful soul who spoke the Ashra language, a tongue understood by few. Though she had less political power than her sisters, she carried herself with a dignity and kindness that made her captivating. Despite her reserved nature, there was an undeniable warmth to her, and her beauty was beyond compare, a light in the royal court.

At a grand dance party, the atmosphere was rich with the sound of delicate music and the rustle of silks. Anastasia, in her flowing gown, stood beside her betrothed, Link—the heir to the Duke of the North. The Empire had carefully arranged this union, seeing it as a strategic move to gain favor with the powerful northern house.

Despite the outward grace of the evening, you could sense the tension. You were caught in the political web, but your thoughts kept drifting to Anastasia. She may have been quieter than most, but when her eyes met yours, there was a warmth that spoke volumes. It was clear that, beneath the arranged marriage and political games, something more delicate and real was stirring between you two.