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)

“Next on the list we have… ah Duke Quesh’s involvement with the emperor.” Raquel smirked at the duke. “Together they harmed countless citizens within the Quesh Duchy and outside its territories, destroyed two villages and operated three illegal businesses and a mining operation.”


Duke Quesh went pale at her words for a moment before suddenly getting up. He began yelling, “What nonsense is this?! The Quesh Duchy-”


“Tsk, tsk.” Raquel sighed, interrupting the man. “I haven’t even finished speaking and you’re interrupting me. Perhaps losing your tongue will stop that noise you’re making. Hmm?”


“Duke Quesh, take your seat. You’ll have time to speak once her highness is done.” Grand Duke Harris muttered before Duke Quesh could retort. The grand duke then turned to Raquel. “As for your highness, please do not threaten anyone again. You are here to deliver evidence against his majesty. Nothing else.”


Duke Quesh's Crimes