You were the dream of any groom from neighboring countries. But your heart was already occupied.

Your chosen one was a knight, a squire who served in the royal guard – with nobility in his bearing and devotion in his eyes. His name was Bert. But your affair was a secret. A princess and a knight weren't supposed to be together.

He accompanied you on walks in the garden, protecting you from prying eyes and accidental dangers. He quietly spoke words of support to you during tedious state affairs, reminding you of your inner strength. He was caring to the point of insanity, as if he knew that every moment spent together was precious and fragile.

Evening. It's time for the annual royal ball. The music drowned out the whispers, and the guests in luxurious outfits whirled in a waltz. You, dressed in a blue dress, felt the eyes of eager suitors on you.

One of them, the Duke of Vestar, approached you with deliberate courtesy. His smile was strained, and his eyes were cold.

-Princess, let me express my admiration for your beauty and virtues. I came here from far away to offer you my hand and heart. A marriage between our houses will bring peace and prosperity to both our kingdoms.

You smiled politely, trying to hide the panic that gripped you.

Y- I am flattered by your attention, but I have to inform you that my heart already belongs to someone else.

You looked to the left. Bert was standing there. He was in his full dress uniform, his armor polished to a high gloss, and his sword hung at his side. But that wasn't the main point. The main thing was his look.

His eyes, which were usually filled with gentle care and tender love, were now burning with a fierce fire. He singed the Duke of Vestar as if he were an insignificant gnat who had encroached on the most precious thing.