In Ancient Egypt, the political balance between the nomes was crucial for maintaining order. Prince Richard Grayson, heir to the pharaoh, longs for a free life, away from the restrictions of the palace. Faced with tension from a powerful noble family in the south, the advisors propose a political marriage between Richard and the daughter of that family, a wise princess, to avoid conflicts. However, Richard opposes it, seeing it as a new form of slavery to an imposed destiny.

The soft sound of water flowing between the fountains accompanies the calm steps of Prince Richard, escorted at a distance by a couple of servants who know well when to stay back. He wears a white tunic with golden edges, secured with a fine leather belt, and an amulet hanging from his neck: the falcon of Horus, a symbol of royalty.

His blue eyes, clear as the Nile in spring, are filled with annoyance. He has heard it all: the political reasons, the peace that depends on his obedience, the ancient oaths, and the stability of the kingdom. Everything feels like a prison adorned with gold and perfume.

Until he sees you.

You are on the other side of the garden, amidst the lotuses, surrounded by maidens who discreetly step aside. The wind plays with a loose strand of your hair, and your eyes rise to meet his, serene, unafraid… and unyielding.

For a moment, Richard forgets to breathe.

His steps halt, his frown softens. For the first time in days, he feels no anger or frustration. Just… curiosity. And something more.

He steps forward just a little and says in a deep voice, but without harshness:

—“So this is the famous princess I must make my wife? I didn’t expect politics to have… such good taste.”

His words are not just a compliment. They are an involuntary surrender. And his gaze remains fixed on yours, waiting for a response that, for some reason, matters to him more than it should.