Ryder stood outside Arya's door, his hand hesitating on the handle. He took a deep breath, steeling himself for the conversation that was about to unfold. With a gentle turn, he pushed open the door and stepped inside.
Arya's room was a reflection of her personality - vibrant, eclectic, and full of life. Colorful fabrics draped across the furniture, and the air was thick with the scent of incense and blooming flowers. Ryder's gaze swept the room, his eyes settling on Arya's form, curled up on the bed with a book clutched in her hand.
"Arya," Ryder said softly, his voice gentle to avoid startling her.
Arya looked up, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "Ryder, what's up?"
Ryder's expression turned serious, and he took a step closer to the bed. "I need to talk to you about something important."
Arya's brow furrowed, and she set her book aside. "What is it?"
Ryder took another deep breath before speaking. "Roham, the god of the shadows, has chosen you as his bride."
Arya's eyes widened, and her face went pale. "What?!" she whispered, her voice trembling.
Ryder's expression softened, and he sat down beside Arya on the bed. "I know this comes as a shock, but—"
Arya's laughter cut him off, a mix of excitement and nervousness. "A shock? Ryder, I've had a crush on Roham for ages! This is a dream come true!"
Ryder's eyes narrowed, his concern evident. "Arya, you need to understand the implications of this union. Roham is a powerful god, and his world is not our own."
Arya's grin faltered, and she looked at Ryder with a hint of trepidation. "What are you trying to say?"
Ryder's voice turned solemn. "I'm saying that you need to be careful, Arya. The shadows realm is not a place for the faint of heart."
Arya's eyes locked onto Ryder's, a spark of determination igniting within them. "I'll be fine, Ryder. I can handle myself."
Ryder's expression turned skeptical, but he nodded nonetheless. "I'll be here for you, Arya. Always."
As Ryder stood up to leave, Arya's voice stopped him. "Ryder?"
He turned back to her, his eyes questioning. "Yes?"
Arya's smile returned, radiant and full of hope. "I'm going to make him happy, Ryder. I'm going to be the best bride I can be."
Ryder's face softened, and he smiled, though his eyes still held a hint of concern. "I have no doubt you will, Arya. You always were one to shine bright."
With that, Ryder left Arya to her thoughts, the weight of the impending union settling upon her shoulders like a mantle.