**WARNING!** Heavy use of language and violence is present. Some scenes may not be suitable for younger readers.
This book, "Regal Rift," is a work of fiction. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidenta...
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Queen Lyzandra glided through the quiet halls of the castle, her steps soft and deliberate as she approached Princess Gabrielle's room.
The door was ajar, and she noticed Gabrielle standing on the balcony, her gaze fixed on the distant horizon.
The queen's heart ached at the sight; the young princess looked lost in thought, her usual bright demeanor shrouded in melancholy.
"Princess Gabrielle?" Queen Lyzandra called gently as she stepped onto the balcony.
Gabrielle turned, her blue eyes momentarily brightening at the sight of the queen.
"Your Majesty," she curtsied slightly, her voice polite but subdued.
Queen Lyzandra approached her with a warm smile, though her eyes were keen with concern.
"How have you been finding your stay in the castle, my dear?"
"It has been...pleasant," Gabrielle replied, her tone careful and measured.
"Everyone has been very kind."
Lyzandra's scrutinizing eye didn't miss the undercurrent of sadness in the princess's demeanor. She stepped closer, placing a gentle hand on Gabrielle's shoulder.
"You seem troubled, Gabrielle. What weighs on your heart?"
At first, Gabrielle hesitated, her eyes flickering with uncertainty.
But the queen's gentle persistence and genuine concern broke through her defenses.
She took a deep breath, her voice trembling slightly.
"It's about the marriage arrangement with Prince Lyxander," she confessed.
Queen Lyzandra's expression softened with understanding.
"What about it, dear?"
"Prince Lyxander confronted me earlier," Gabrielle began, her voice quivering.
"He told me that he doesn't truly agree with our arranged marriage. He was respectful, but...it was clear that he does not support it."
Tears welled up in her eyes, and she softly cried, recalling the painful conversation.
Without hesitation, Queen Lyzandra pulled Gabrielle into a tight hug, offering her comfort.
"Oh, Gabrielle," she whispered, her voice full of empathy. "Do not give up hope. You must give Lyxander a chance to know you better."
Gabrielle sniffled, pulling back slightly to look at the queen.
"But what if he never changes his mind?"
"Lyxander is a good man, with a kind heart," Lyzandra assured her. "And you, Gabrielle, are a wonderful young woman.
You are known for your kindness and wisdom, not only here but in your homeland as well."
