Turtles_

In a land torn by politics and prejudice, a marriage alliance is forged between the Crown Prince of a dominant empire and a cheerful noblewoman from a small, oppressed nation. What begins as a cold, distant marriage slowly burns into a powerful love that may reshape the kingdom itself.

“He ruled with fear. She loved without limits. Together, they’ll ignite an empire.”

Chains of Crimson & Gold

Crimson Gallery, Four Days Later

Court resumed, but everything had changed.

The exile of three nobles in a single morning had shaken the court to its bones. Whispers had grown sharper, eyes warier, and greetings more polished than ever. Now, every bow to the Crown Princess was deeper. Every compliment, sweeter. The same lips that once sneered at her foreign name now dripped honey.

Elira sat at Kaelion's side once more. This time, not a single voice objected.

There were more traps in kindness than in cruelty.

"Lady Elira," cooed a noblewoman named Marquess Saelinne, her fan fluttering like a butterfly. "The color of your gown today is absolutely divine. You wear our Dravendor silks like a second skin."

"I'm honored," Elira replied with a warm smile, adjusting the embroidered sleeve. "Though Velanthian threads are softer—perhaps it's because we don't soak them in blood first."

Saelinne's smile twitched. "Charming. And your tongue—so delightfully silver."

Kaelion, who was reviewing war documents beside her, gave the briefest smirk. He didn't interfere. Not anymore. He was watching her dance in the pit he once ruled alone.

A different noble, Baron Therel, approached next with a diplomatic smile. "Your Highness, may I request your opinion on the border trade tariffs? I hear Velanthia managed resource agreements through mutual artisan exchanges."

"That's true," Elira said smoothly. "Because in Velanthia, we treat merchants like arteries of the kingdom, not leeches."

Therel flushed and nodded. "Very insightful."

Kaelion's voice cut in, low but firm. "She will speak at the next trade council meeting. See that she has full access to prior records."

That was trust. Not just protection. Recognition.

Kaelion didn't look at her. But his voice softened slightly. "You're right. You're not furniture."

Later That Afternoon, Princess's Chambers

Lysa brushed Elira's hair out, pinning it up in a loose coil. "You've got them guessing now."

"I'd prefer respect over curiosity," Elira murmured.

Chapter 15: Blades Behind Smiles