*Chapter 3: A Glimmer of Trust*
Days passed, with Princess Elise adjusting to her captivity. Lord Roshan visited frequently, engaging in intellectual battles and testing her resolve. Despite their differences, a fragile bond formed.
One evening, as Lord Roshan and Princess Elise strolled through Elyria's gardens, Lyra approached with urgent news.
"My lord, a group of orcs from Gorgoroth have infiltrated our borders," Lyra warned. "They seek to exploit our internal conflicts."
Lord Roshan's expression darkened. "Assemble our forces. We'll show them the folly of underestimating Elyria."
Princess Elise stepped forward, her voice laced with concern. "Lord Roshan, consider diplomacy. War will only strengthen Gorgoroth's resolve."
Lord Roshan raised an eyebrow, intrigued by her unexpected advice. "Go on."
Princess Elise outlined a potential alliance, leveraging Nova Terra's connections to broker peace. Lord Roshan listened intently, weighing the benefits.
"Your counsel is... enlightening, Princess," Lord Roshan said, a hint of a smile on his lips. "Perhaps our interests aren't mutually exclusive."
As they walked, the distance between them seemed to shrink. Lord Roshan's gaze lingered on Princess Elise, his thoughts drifting toward the unthinkable: trust.
"Tell me, Princess," Lord Roshan asked, his voice low and husky. "What drives your desire for peace?"
Princess Elise's eyes sparkled with conviction. "I've seen the devastation of war, Lord Roshan. I'd rather forge alliances than wield swords."
Lord Roshan's expression softened, a glimmer of understanding forming. "I, too, have known devastation, Princess. Perhaps our paths aren't so different."
The air was charged with tension, their words hanging like a promise.