Chapter 5:Dangerous Proposal

The sun hung high over Aurelia's capital, Solmara, casting golden light over its grand marble structures. Inside the royal palace, Prince Cassius Aurelius sat in the war chamber, his fingers drumming against the armrest of his chair. His father's words echoed in his mind.

"You will take a wife."

He had spent years avoiding this moment, dismissing every noblewoman brought before him. None had interested him. None had challenged him.

Until now.

Until her.

The Plan

Cassius leaned forward, his sharp blue eyes focused as he addressed his most trusted advisor, Lord Magnus Varro.

"I want information on Khaliri," Cassius commanded. "Particularly on their princess, Amara al-Fadwa."

Lord Magnus arched a brow. "The Khaliri princess? What interest do you have in her, my prince?"

Cassius smirked, though it lacked amusement. "Let's just say she has… caught my attention."

Magnus hesitated. "You realize that Khaliri is not just another province to conquer. They are a proud kingdom, and their people would rather die than submit to Aurelia."

"I'm not looking to conquer them." Cassius leaned back, his gaze distant. "Not yet."

Magnus studied him carefully. "And what do you intend to do with this information?"

Cassius's smirk grew sharper.

"I intend to make Amara my queen."

A Kingdom Unaware

Back in Khaliri, Amara stood on the palace balcony, watching the desert wind dance over the golden sands. Below, merchants called out in the bustling market, their colorful stalls overflowing with spices, fabrics, and jewelry.

She should have been at peace.

Instead, her mind was restless.

Since their return from Aurelia, something inside her had shifted. She had faced many men of power before—kings, princes, warlords—but none had unsettled her the way Prince Cassius had.

His gaze had been intense, filled with something dangerous.

Something possessive.

"Amara."

She turned to see her eldest brother, Prince Khamir, approaching. He was always composed, always duty-bound. But today, there was tension in his posture.

"What is it?" she asked.

Khamir exhaled. "A messenger from Aurelia arrived this morning."

Her heart skipped. "And?"

He hesitated before meeting her eyes.

"Prince Cassius has requested an audience with our father."