days leading up to Elara's wedding were a whirlwind of activity, the castle bustling with preparations for the grand event. Eldoria Castle, with its towering spires and intricate stonework, transformed into a vibrant tapestry of colours and sounds. Banners adorned with the sigils of both kingdoms fluttered in the breeze, while servants scurried about, carrying armfuls of flowers and decorations. The air was thick with the scent of jasmine and roses, mingling with the excitement that buzzed through the halls.Elara stood in her chamber, staring at her reflection in the ornate mirror. Her mother, Lady Isolde, flitted around her, adjusting the fabric of Elara's wedding gown—a breathtaking creation of silk and lace that shimmered like starlight. "You will be the most beautiful bride, my dear," Isolde cooed, her eyes gleaming with pride. But Elara felt a knot tighten in her stomach. The gown was exquisite, yet it felt more like a cage than a celebration of love.As she turned to face her mother, Elara's thoughts drifted to the magical traditions that would bind their families together. The wedding ceremony would incorporate ancient rituals designed to symbolize unity and strength. One such tradition involved weaving flowers into the bride's hair—a practice said to bless the union with fertility and joy. Elara had always found beauty in these customs, yet now they felt suffocating as if they were merely reinforcing her entrapment."Have you thought about the vows?" Isolde asked, interrupting Elara's thoughts. "It's important to express your commitment before both families and the kingdom."Elara nodded absently but felt a pang of dread at the thought of pledging herself to Kaelan in front of so many eyes. Would her words hold any meaning when her heart felt so conflicted?Just then, Mira, Elara's childhood friend, burst into the room, her presence like a whirlwind of energy. "Elara! You look stunning!" she exclaimed, clapping her hands together in delight. Mira wore a bright smile that seemed almost too enthusiastic for the occasion."Thank you," Elara replied cautiously, sensing an undercurrent of something else in Mira's exuberance."I can't believe you're getting married! This is going to be the most magnificent wedding Eldoria has ever seen!" Mira gushed as she began rummaging through a box filled with flowers meant for Elara's hair.Elara forced a smile but couldn't shake off a feeling of unease. Mira had always been supportive, yet today there was an edge to her excitement that felt unsettling. As Mira expertly wove blossoms into Elara's hair, she leaned in closer and whispered conspiratorially, "You know, I've heard rumours about Lord Kaelan—some say he's not as noble as he appears."What do you mean?" Elara asked, her heart racing at the implication.Mira straightened up and shrugged nonchalantly. "Just whispers among the nobles about his family's past dealings—dark magic and questionable alliances." Her eyes sparkled with intrigue but also something darker.Elara felt a chill run down her spine. She had heard tales of dark magic from Drakoria but had dismissed them as mere gossip. Yet now, hearing it from Mira made her uneasy. Was this jealousy manifesting as a concern?"Kaelan has been nothing but kind to me," Elara replied defensively, though doubt crept into her mind.Mira waved her hand dismissively. "Of course! But you must be cautious; not everyone who smiles at you has your best interests at heart."As Mira continued to fuss over Elara's hair, she couldn't help but notice how her friend's enthusiasm masked something deeper—an undercurrent of jealousy that made Elara uneasy. They had shared countless memories growing up together, yet this moment felt different; it was laced with unspoken tension.Later that evening, as preparations continued in full swing throughout the castle, Elara sought refuge in the garden where she had first spoken with Kaelan. The moon cast a silvery glow over the flowers, illuminating their delicate petals like tiny lanterns against the night sky.As she wandered through the garden's winding paths, lost in thought about Mira's words and her feelings regarding Kaelan, she heard footsteps behind her. Turning around, she found Kaelan standing there, his expression serious yet warm."Lady Elara," he greeted softly. "I was hoping to find you alone." Lord Kaelan," she replied with a mixture of surprise and relief. "I could use some company."Kaelan stepped closer, his gaze searching hers as if trying to gauge her thoughts. "I wanted to talk about our upcoming union," he began cautiously. "There are many traditions we must honour—" Yes," Elara interjected before he could continue. "But what if those traditions feel more like chains than blessings?"Kaelan raised an eyebrow at her boldness but nodded slowly in understanding. "I share your concerns," he admitted quietly. "This marriage is meant to unite our kingdoms—but what if it also binds us?"At that moment beneath the stars, Elara felt an undeniable connection grow between them—a shared understanding that transcended their roles as mere political pawns.As they spoke late into the night about their hopes and fears for their future together amidst wedding preparations filled with magic and tradition, one thing became clear: while they were bound by duty and expectation, their hearts yearned for something more—something genuine amidst the looming shadows of betrayal.