Following his father's unjust treason accusation and execution, Ryker, heir to the Duke of Westerwyn, witnesses his world collapse. Left with his sister and mother, they teeter on the brink of catastrophe.
A glimmer of hope, however, arises as news circulates that the Cadilaria Empire's emperor plans to get his heir married—an enigmatic woman, shrouded in a half mask due to an alleged curse.
Given an unwelcome choice, the King compels Ryker to either wed the Masked Princess as the Duke of Westerwyn or face execution. Faced with this grave decision, Ryker, driven by the need to protect his family and restore honor, chooses to court the Masked Princess.
Determined to win her heart and avenge his father's demise, Ryker treads a perilous path, even if it means manipulating a potentially deadly royal ally.

The Masked Princess (Behind the Mask)

Ryker sat in one of the grand dining rooms of the Pellan Palace along with Raquel and the king and queen. It seemed the king had decided it was best for them to have an intimate dinner without the princes and princesses.


Servants hurried around the round table, serving the first course of the night. Once they left, Queen Rebecca turned to look at Raquel.


“Has, your highness, decided on attending any events in the capital before leaving for Westerwyn?” Queen Rebecca asked.


“Well, there are a few banquets that seem interesting enough.” Raquel answered in an indifferent tone. “On… and I decided to host a small tea party in two days' time. I would like to extend a formal invitation to your majesty and your daughters.”


Ryker took a sip of the red wine served, not wanting to show the king and queen his interest in the queen’s answer. He also took note that the king had lifted his head up slightly, the older man also seemed interested in the queen’s answer.


Dinner With Royals