Eros inclined his head, the expression on his face unreadable to all but Ahce. "Understood. The safety of the Qin heir, and the continuation of the Qin-Yin alliance, will be my priority."
Ahce felt the tension coiling in her stomach.
"Alliance," she whispered, the word feeling heavier than the weight of her saber on Planet Rhino.
The ceremony itself was simple, yet deeply symbolic. Both families presented their respective artifacts, Ahce's contract bracelet, emblematic of the Qin Clan's authority, and Eros' insignia of Marshal, representing the Yin Clan's martial legacy.
Their grandfather recited the oath, speaking of duty, protection, and unity between the two houses. When it came time for them to acknowledge one another personally, Ahce hesitated. She met Eros' eyes, noticing a flicker of curiosity, maybe even uncertainty, beneath his composed exterior.
