Unveiled

The Kingdom of Auridon was known for its wealth, power, and deep-rooted traditions. To its people, the royal family was more than just a governing body; they were symbols of legacy and strength, the unshakable pillars of their land. So when Prince Alistair, the heir to the throne, announced his engagement to a commoner, the nation's nobles and common folk alike were left in shock. No one felt the impact more than the young woman chosen to become his bride.

It was nothing but a political marriage to create a bond between nobles and commoners.

Aurora, a young and beautiful lady the daughter of a village blacksmith, had never imagined stepping foot into a palace, let alone marrying the kingdom's future king. She was known for her resilience and generosity, her hands calloused from years of helping her father in his work, and her heart unwavering in its loyalty to those she loved. Yet here she was, standing in a golden carriage on her way to meet her future husband.

As the carriage rolled through the palace gates, aurora's heart raced. The opulence of Auridon royal residence was overwhelming. Everywhere she looked, she saw marble statues, towering columns, and finely dressed nobles who watched her with a mixture of curiosity and skepticism. Her modest dress and simple demeanor stood out starkly among the luxurious surroundings. She kept her gaze steady, even as whispers filled the air.

Prince Alistair followed by the head maid and some servants stood at the entrance of the palace to welcome aurora.

When aurora finally met Prince Alistair, she wasn't sure what to expect. She had heard tales of his bravery in battle and his stoic nature. Standing before him, she felt her confidence falter. He was tall and handsome, with beautiful hazel eyes and long curly hair, his bearing noble and every bit the ruler he was born to be. His expression, however, was unreadable, and somewhat distant she wondered what he truly thought of her.

"Lady aurora," he said, his voice steady and calm. "Thank you for agreeing to this arrangement. I understand it must be... difficult."

She inclined her head, keeping her voice as composed as she could. "Your Highness, I am honored. I will do my best to serve the kingdom."

A flicker of something-perhaps surprise or curiosity-passed over Alistair's face, but it was gone as quickly as it had appeared. "Our engagement will strengthen the kingdom's bond with its people. That is my priority," he replied, though his words seemed to hold a faint bitterness.

Aurora nodded, though she felt a pang in her chest. This was a political arrangement, nothing more. Alistair's duty came before personal desires, and it was clear he was bound by the weight of the crown. She silently resolved to approach their marriage with the same sense of duty, even if her heart yearned for something warmer.

Aurora was shown to the court room which held the king and queen of auridon sitted gracefully upon their thrones, she bowed and curtsied "your majesties", it is an honor to meet you.

Queen Gwen smiled warmly at aurora and motioned for her to come forward. "Isn't she beautiful" queen Gwen asked looking at the king, "yes she is, i think she would make a perfect match for prince Alistair" the king replied.

You most be very tired from your trip, the head maid will show you to your chamber so you can rest, " thank you your majesty", aurora replied, and curtsied before leaving the court room.

Days passed in a whirlwind of preparation. Royal life was far from what aurora expected, her life transformed overnight, and her every movement was scrutinized by royal advisors and etiquette instructors. Her posture, her walk, even her speech were critiqued, corrected, and reshaped to fit the role she was expected to fill. The more she tried, the more she felt the stares of the nobles-some with open disdain, others with veiled indifference.

"Lady aurora, a princess must walk with grace," one of the tutors chided, her voice sharp. "Again. And remember, no hesitation."

Aurora swallowed her frustration and repeated the step, her eyes fixed on the grand hall's polished marble floor. Life grew more complicated as the royal wedding approached She wondered if she would ever master the rules of court, or if she would always feel like an outsider in a place she was meant to call home