As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm orange glow over the city, Arin and Ryker found themselves at the city's eastern gate. The guardsmen from El'goroth were nowhere in sight, but Arin had a hunch that Lirien might be nearby.
"Ryker, I need to see her," Arin said, his voice low and urgent.
Ryker raised an eyebrow. "Are you sure that's wise, Your Highness?"
Arin's determination was unwavering. "I need to know what I'm getting myself into."
They made their way through the winding streets, avoiding detection as they went. Finally, they arrived at a secluded courtyard surrounded by tall trees and ornate fountains. In the center of the courtyard stood a beautiful woman with hair as white as snow and eyes like sapphires.
Lirien. She was even more stunning than Arin had imagined.
As they watched, Lirien laughed with a group of courtiers, her voice like music. Arin felt a pang of curiosity mixed with wariness. This was the woman he was supposed to marry?
Suddenly, she noticed them and froze, her eyes narrowing slightly. Arin felt a shiver run down his spine as their gazes met.