"Your Grace," said Arianna, her eyes never leaving the ground, "I have finished the swords as per your request."
"Very good, Arianna," replied Queen Adalyn, examining the swords with a satisfied nod. "You truly are a master of your craft."
As the queen walked away, Arianna breathed a sigh of relief. Her heart had been racing the entire time she was in the queen's presence. She had heard stories about the queen's wrath towards anyone who dared to cross her, but Arianna's secret was too dangerous to keep bottled up any longer.
"Arianna," whispered Prince Tristan, walking up behind her. "I couldn't help but notice the way you were looking at me during the feast last night."
"Your highness, please," replied Arianna, trying to push down the rush of emotions she felt. "We cannot continue down this path. It is forbidden."
In the lands of Astoria, a great kingdom thrived under the wise and just reign of Queen Adalyn. But underneath the peaceful surface of the kingdom, there was a love story that defied all conventions. When a skilled blacksmith's apprentice, Arianna, met the youngest son of the queen, Prince Tristan, their attraction ignited a flame that was fierce, passionate, and utterly forbidden. Caught in the web of their desires, Arianna and Tristan must navigate their love in secret, risking everything for the chance to be together. This forbidden love story in the lands of Astoria is a tale of love, courage and sacrifice in the face of impossible odds.