LOVE WITH COMMITMENTS

with rosewood and ash. To the people of the kingdom, the bell meant duty. Legacy. Honor. To Selene Aeris, it meant captivity. She stood in the Hall of Mirrors, her reflection multiplied across gleami

ness. This was not his place. Not truly. He was born to nothing and fought his way to everything. Love, he had decided long ago, was the realm of the privileged. His only bond had been shattered years ago in a Trial much like this one. He never spoke her name. Never would. And yet, here he was-assigned by Queen Liora herself to oversee Lady Selene's Binding. Not as a suitor. As a protector. "Protect her from what?" he'd asked at the assignment. The steward's response had been simple: "From herself, if need be." The Circle filled with nobles, each family in their ancient colors. The flames in the braziers flared as the Binding Rune glowed a faint blue, the language of the gods preparing to write new destiny. Kael watched as Selene entered the ring. --- Selene walked through the aisle carved by tradition, eyes unfocused. Every step she took toward the Circle felt like sinking deeper into cold water. Her heartbeat matched the rhythm of the Binding Rune's pulse, a thudding magic beneath the stone floor. She'd once dreamed of walking this path with love lighting her soul. But this? This was a trial of compliance. The priestess raised her hands. Her voice rang out like thunder. "Let the fire test the hearts. Let the flame speak truth. May fate tie what must be tied." Beside Selene stood Arion of House Veyr-a nobleman's son with raven-dark hair and a smirk that never quite reached his eyes. He bowed politely. She barely nodded. A crystal orb floated between them. Inside, a flickering flame began to rise. It danced and swirled as magic read the threads of both souls. "Compatibility: 82%." Murmurs rippled through the crowd. High enough to bind. Not ideal, but acceptable. Arion grinned. Selene closed her eyes. But the flame sputtered. A