Everything for the throne

The Engagement

When the beam of light touched Alice's face, she quickly got up, as if eager to escape from a nightmare. Her hands trembled incessantly, and she muttered...

Alice: I failed as a daughter... I failed to protect my people... but now, seeing them still living their lives, I feel relieved... Even if I cannot shield them, let me at least not cause them any harm.

The days passed, and the day of Princess Alice's 19th birthday was near. A feeling of uneasiness kept hitting Alice.

At last, the day arrived. The nobles and emperors from the other three kingdoms were invited. It was a grand feast, and the hall resounded with conversation, laughter, and, naturally, a bit of gossip.

Alice entered the room, her arm linked with the Emperor's. She was a graceful lady who wore a long, bright red gown- dark like blood, with exquisite white and black stone works that sparkled as she walked elegantly into the hall.

Her long, black hair, cascading to the length of her tailbone, appeared soft and delicate, adorned only by a golden hairpin. The Emperor accompanying her went unnoticed, overshadowed by her unmatched beauty that captivated all attention.

As they stood on the platform, Alice looked at her brothers, who stood alongside the Queen, who smiled at her brightly with love.

On the other side stood Lady Zora, looking as if she would kill the Princess anytime. On her side stood Catherina with no emotions, clearly dragged to the hall.
However, Carlos was nowhere to be found in the row. As Alice searched for his face, her gaze stopped at a corner where both Carlos and Max were chatting.

Everything was going smoothly until the doors opened once more. The familiar man, frequently appearing in her nostalgic dreams, entered with his characteristic pride and confidence, as usual.

Alice gasped at the presence of such a strong aura. No wonder it was Crown Prince Christian of the Southern Kingdom.

He possessed blonde hair reminiscent of a hazel flower, paired with dazzling blue eyes and a well-defined physique subtly visible beneath his attire. Even if she lost herself, she could never forget that face.
"Emperor Alexandr"

Alice stood frozen in place, unaware of Prince Christian standing directly before her. He knelt down, took Alice's hand, and planted a kiss on it as he greeted her.

Christian: The Crown Prince from the Southern Kingdom offers his greetings to the lovely Princess Alice from the Northern Kingdom.

Alice, who had regained her composure, noticed the man kneeling before her. She delicately withdrew her hand, bowed, and lifted her gown slightly.

Alice: It is my honor to meet His Highness.

As people around started admiring the Royalties on the platform, Emperor Justus spoke, making everyone zip their mouths

Emperor Justus: On this auspicious occasion of Princess Alice's 19th birthday, I am pleased to announce the engagement of Princess Alice of the Northern Kingdom to Crown Prince Christian of the Southern Kingdom. May your blessings be bestowed upon these two children.

The news of the amicable relationship between the Northern and Southern kingdoms made the announcement expected.