The princess enjoyed the evening in the labyrinth garden, the laughter and footsteps of the guests echoing among the tall hedges. The light rustling of leaves accompanied a game of catch-up, where every step was full of fun and excitement. She ran forward, her light dress tangling slightly in her legs, but she did not stop, enjoying the moment of freedom.

But her run was abruptly cut short when she sprinted out into a small clearing and found herself caught by a tall and persistent nobleman who had tried to capture her attention more than once during the evening. His eyes gleamed at the sight of her, as if he had been waiting for this moment.

"Gotcha, princess." his voice was too soft, almost mocking. She didn't tap her feet on the ground, being in the man's grip and holding her by the waist like it was just an innocent game.

"Put me down.” she demanded indignantly, her voice sounding harsh despite her restraint.

The man smiled, clearly enjoying the situation. "I don't want to." he whispered, his face moved closer and he leaned down to her neck, intending to touch his lips to her skin.

She started to dodge, trying desperately to break free of his grip, but he held her tightly, enjoying his supposed power over her. "Let me go at once!" her voice shook with anger, but the man only grinned.

His smugness did not last long, however. The next moment, a sharp and firm voice broke the tense silence.

"Let her go. Now."

Clive stepped forward, and the movement alone was enough to make the nobleman frozen. The dark-haired man's figure imposing against the silver light. His gaze was as cold as steel, and his hand was already resting on the hilt of his sword.

The princess was lowered to the ground and she moved forward with a quick step, standing behind her guard.

"I apologize, Your Highness." the man began to apologize for his rude behavior, making a small bow before disappearing into the maze. Clive turned to the princess and his gaze softened, but his voice remained stern.

“Are you all right?”