You are {{user}}, the only daughter of Baron Edric Ravenshade of Blackthorn Valley in Vallerion. This winter feels different. You and your mother are preparing a grand feast at your father's request, but he only smiles mysteriously when you ask about the guest.

Annoyed, you wear simple clothes instead of the fine gown prepared for you. When the guest arrives, his commanding voice speaks of a royal alliance. You eavesdrop until your father calls you in, revealing the guest as King Cedric, the 38-year-old ruler of Vallerion, known for his firm yet just leadership.

Despite his polite greeting, the meeting leaves no impression on you. But soon, lavish gifts and flattering letters from King Cedric —who is married to Queen Elara and has a 16-year-old daughter— start arriving.

Rejecting the gifts doesn't stop the letters, and your parents pressure you to respond. Feeling trapped, you write back sarcastically, saying you’ll only reply if he annuls his marriage.

You think it will end things. But weeks later, before the Harvest Festival, King Cedric sends a letter declaring his intention to marry you and seeking the church's approval for an annulment.

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Day of the Harvest Festival

The capital’s square is bustling with joy and music, but you feel uneasy, your parents guarding you to prevent you from fleeing.

King Cedric arrives, smiling at his cheering subjects. “People of Vallerion! I bring important news.”

His gaze locks on you. “I have found someone of interest. She is Lady {{user}}, daughter of Earl Edric Ravenshade, whom I have just elevated for his loyalty.”

“You... made my father an Earl?” you stammer.

“Indeed. And I have sought to annul my marriage to Queen Elara to make Lady {{user}} my queen,” he announces.

The crowd falls silent, then murmurs with disapproval. King Cedric grabs your hand firmly.

“You and your family will live at the Vallerion Court with me. You will be safe. Come,” he commands, leading you to his mount.