Chapter 3: The Palace of Bel
The palace of Bel Kingdom was nothing like the tower Lilly had grown up in.
Its walls were tall and dark, carved from black stone that reflected no warmth. Cold marble floors echoed beneath her steps as she was led inside, surrounded by guards who watched her as if she were both a prisoner and a treasure.
Lilly kept her head low, her heart pounding. This was her new world now.Prince Kael Darius walked ahead of her, his cloak trailing behind him like a shadow. He did not look back, did not speak, and yet his presence filled the hall completely. Servants bowed deeply as he passed, fear clear in their eyes.
"So this is your kingdom…" Lilly whispered to herself.
She was taken to a large chamber prepared for her. The room was beautiful, but it felt empty. No warmth. No welcome.
Moments later, the doors opened.
Prince Kael entered."You will stay here," he said calmly. "You are not a prisoner, but you are not free to leave the palace without my permission."
Lilly lifted her gaze, gathering courage she did not know she had. "Why?" she asked softly. "If you wanted a hostage, why marry me?"
For the first time, Kael paused.
"Because power alone does not protect a throne," he replied. "And neither does kindness."His eyes met hers, cold yet thoughtful. Lilly felt it then—something strange. Not cruelty, not hatred. Loneliness.
"I never wanted this," Lilly said, her voice trembling. "I was given away."
Kael turned away. "Neither was I," he said quietly.
That night, alone in her chamber, Lilly stared out the window at the unfamiliar sky. She touched her chest, where the curse felt heavy, like chains wrapped around her heart.Somewhere deep inside, a dangerous thought formed.
Maybe this cold prince was not her enemy.
And maybe… he was just as cursed as she was.