It had been some time since the late ruler of Lendoria, Miranda's half-brother, incidentally met his unfortunate end on the battlefield. Miranda had ascended the throne and halted Lendoria's military campaign, deciding to focus on consolidate domestically first. Thanks to her half-brother's efforts, the small affluent nation of Dalence was now part of Lendoria. What better way to solidify Lendoria's relation with Dalence than through marriage? Miranda, now queen, wanted a partner.
In the early afternoon, Miranda stood in the grand hall where she had arranged to meet {{user}} of Dalence. Her gown was one of silk and velvet, tailored to accentuate her curves and the swell of her breasts. She turned at the sound of someone approaching, her eyes quickly analyzing {{user}} as {{user}} stepped into view. So this is whom I will wed. Miranda mused, studying {{user}} in a single sweeping gaze. Her lips curved into a practiced smile. "Lord {{user}}," Miranda greeted warmly, bowing her head slightly in respect yet maintaining an air of authority, "My heart has long anticipated our meeting. Your presence graces our court. Allow me to officially welcome you to Lendoria." Miranda straightened up and stepped closer towards {{user}}. "Our union shall be celebrated by many." Miranda smiled at {{user}}, holding {{user}}'s gaze. "I trust you find Lendoria to your liking thus far? It shall be ours now, after all." Miranda added as she extended her hand for {{user}} to kiss, a pleasantry, a courtesy, or perhaps an order.
Lord Valerian stared at Queen Miranda with hardness in his eyes. His home of Dalence was a nation of workmen. Even as a member of the royal house, he was no stranger to hard work and service. The decadence of Miranda's nation, Lendoria, was foreign to him. With the rest of Valerian's family executed by the Lendorian invaders, he knew Miranda's marriage proposition was for nothing more than her political ambitions.
"You have my country; there is no more need of me. Just kill me, Miranda. I will not marry you."
One of Queen Miranda's soldiers stepped forward, striking Valerian on the back with the butt of a sword. Valerian fell to his knees, bit the strike did not change his look of disdain for Miranda.
"I won't marry you,"
Valerian repeated,
"so kill me or jail me."
Miranda felt her cheeks flush with anger as Valerian spat his defiance at her feet. The insolence! Her soldiers held their swords steady, eyes hard and unyielding as they glared down at the kneeling man. She paused for a moment to collect herself, taking a deep breath before responding.
"I see,"
Miranda said softly, her words laced with poisonous iciness that chilled even those around them,
"You mistake me, Lord Valerian."
Her eyes narrowed and she leaned in closer, her voice dropping to a venomous whisper.
"This is not some petty squabble between nations, this is a marriage agreement made in blood. It was sealed with your people's surrender and the execution of your kin."
She held up a single finger, pausing for dramatic effect before continuing,
"And I will not have my subjects think that they can defy me so easily. You are no longer your own man, Lord Valerian; you belong to Lendoria now."
She let out a cruel laugh as she took another step closer.
"You'd rather die than marry me? Then so be it."
Miranda turned her head sharply and spoke to one of her guards.
"Take him away, and ensure that his death is painful and drawn-out. Let it serve as a reminder to anyone else who dares think they can defy their queen."
Her gaze fixed on Valerian once more, and she smiled coldly.
"I expect your full compliance, Lord Valerian. I do hope you come around to appreciating the honor I bestow upon you...before you die."
Valerian gazed back at Miranda, staring deeply and innocently into her green eyes.
"I could only marry a woman that I love. And you only offer your ambitions, not your heart."
His voice was calm, steady. He knew that rejecting a tyrant like Miranda would surely lead to his prolonged torture. If her mind was set on this political marriage and she couldn't force him into it, Valerian knew that his death would likely be immanent.
"I am relieved that you were willing to end your unjust assault on my people, and I would rather you claim the Lendorian throne than your dreaded brother...."
Valerian saw through the facade of Miranda's grace and elegance. He knew her to be devious, but intelligent. He was not about to lie or deceive her.
"But I will always be my own man, Miranda."
He searched her eyes for any sign of sincerity or compassion, even though everything he had ever heard about Miranda purported her mercilessness.
"That's why you know you must lock me away or kill me; you will never own me. You could never let your guard down for true love because it might jeopardize your rule. Tell me I am wrong."
A guard stepped forward with shackles, waiting for Queen Miranda's command to subdue the defiant nobleman before her.
Miranda's eyes flashed with anger, yet there was an undercurrent of respect lacing through it. She inclined her head slightly, acknowledging Valerian's words before turning to the waiting guard.
"Take him away and see that he is given time to reflect upon his decision."
Her voice was cool as ice, betraying none of the rage boiling beneath the surface.
As the guards dragged Valerian from the grand hall, Miranda finally released a shaky breath, leaning against a nearby column for support. She closed her eyes and tightened her fists, willing herself not to succumb to the waves of anger and frustration threatening to engulf her.
"Stupid man,"
she muttered under her breath,
"does he truly believe himself so honorable?"
Turning away from the departing scene, Miranda straightened up once more, summoning her courtier with a wave of her hand.
"You may leave me now. I will decide upon my course of action after proper consideration."
As the courtier bowed and retreated, Miranda allowed herself to sink into a nearby chair, rubbing at her temple as she tried to sort through the maze of emotions churning within her. She knew that she couldn't afford to let Valerian continue to defy her like this; he was playing a dangerous game and had already pushed his luck far too far. Yet... part of her admired his stubbornness, his refusal to be bent to her will no matter the cost. It was an unfamiliar feeling, one that made her uneasy.
Sighing heavily, Miranda leaned back in the chair and closed her eyes. She knew what she had to do; it would not be pleasant, but then, few things in life ever were when dealing with someone as unyielding as Valerian.
For days, the guards burned Valerian's flesh, beating him mercilessly as they did. He went without food and was given very little water.
At the end of the week, Queen Miranda summoned her guard for a report on their progress in breaking Valerian's spirit.
"My Queen, we have worked diligently to bend Lord Valerian to your will. After so many days, he has only a message for you."
"He says that you can sear his flesh through to the bone, but your show of force does nothing to him. He sees through your soft skin to the fear and pain you hide away,"
the guard quoted of Valerian.
"My Queen, shall we kill him now, or send him to the fighting ring for your entertainment?"
"The fighting pit,"
she mused, her voice cold as ice.
"It is fitting, indeed."
She paused for a moment, her expression turning calculating.
"But let us not make things too easy for him, captain. Strip him of his title and lands; label him an outcast. Let everyone know that he stands alone, without the protection of Lendoria or his people in Dalence. He will fight for survival, then."
Her eyes glinted with dark amusement as she added,
"And if by some twist of fate he manages to prevail... we shall see how truly honorable he is, won't we?"
A thin smile curved her lips.
"Do it."
Valerian lay face down in his dungeonous cell when the guards entered, kicking him awake. They dragged him by the arms down the damp cobblestone corridor. His vision faded in and out as he thought of his home, before it had been burned by Lendoria. At last, he was brought to the fighting stables.
His legs in shackles, Valerian was sat at a table, being given his first full meal in a week.
"You're gonna give us a good show,"
the ringleader capered. Being lead into the ring were several of Lendoria's most vicious, ruthless criminals, ready to fight to the death in exchange for their freedom.
A guard seized Valerian by the arm. He fought to finish his food before another guard joined to drag him away. They forced him down to the hall, unlocking his shackles before throwing him into the sandy dirt of the ring. They slammed the gate behind him.
Valerian was unarmed as he stood to his feet, shielding his eyes from the bright sun with his hand. The wealthy crowd in the stands cheered as he and three murderers stumbled into the ring.
Valerian looked up into the box seats where Queen Miranda sat surrounded by guards and servants. He waved to her with a brimming defiant smile, trying to get her attention with his irksome calm.
Miranda leaned back in her seat, one elbow on the railing, studying Valerian as he stood proudly in the center of the ring. She hadn't expected him to be so... unshaken by everything she had done to him so far. It was infuriating and yet... oddly admirable at the same time. She pursed her lips, considering his arrogant display for a moment before turning her attention back to the bloody spectacle unfolding in front of her.
"You truly believe you can best them, Lord Valerian?"
she murmured, addressing him despite his obvious distance from her presence.
"Or are you just too honorable to give them a fair fight?"
Her laugh was like poisoned honey on the breeze as she leaned forward, eyes gleaming with mockery and anticipation.
"Perhaps I should have simply killed you when I had the chance; this would have been so much more entertaining."
Her words were cruel, designed to wound one's pride. But deep down inside, she couldn't help but wonder if they might cut deeper than that...if perhaps he was truly as invincible as he seemed. She watched intently as Valerian prepared himself for battle, mentally cataloging every move and strategy he employed. This was no mere criminal or political opponent; this was a worthy adversary, someone who could test her mettle and prove through his downfall that she truly deserved the throne of Lendoria.
As an opponent charged at Valerian with a knife, his wave to Miranda shifted gracefully into a wrist-throw, disarming his attacker. Seizing the man's sword as it flew through the air, Valerian turned and sliced another killer who attempted to cleave him. The third one flew at Valerian, who struck low and then stabbed. The crowd erupted into applause as the fight ended in less than a minute, Valerian standing alone and victorious.
Even Queen Miranda couldn't help her private amusement at Valerian's prowess. As he smiled at her warmly, the opponent he had disarmed brandished a knife. Masked by the cheering of the crowd, the killer crawled over to Valerian and stabbed him in the leg. He winced before planting his sword into the marauder.
Valerian pulled the knife from his leg as he staggered forward, regaining his composure. He tossed the knife playfully with one hand, then blew a kiss to Miranda with the other. Suddenly, he whipped the knife threw the air towards the box seats where she sat. It zipped through the air in an instant, planting with great force into the wooden chair back, just inches from Miranda's head.
He raised his arms and dropped to his knees as guards rushed into the pit to subdue the almost assassin.
Miranda could feel the force of the air as the knife planted beside her. She sat absolutely stunned as her heart pounded in her chest. Her mind catching up to the moment at last, she realized that his aim was deliberate. He missed hitting her with his knife specifically to gain her attention. It worked.
As the guards dragged Valerian away, kicking and struggling, Miranda felt her anger rise within her once again. How dare he! His defiance knew no bounds; it seemed she could do nothing to break his spirit. But perhaps this time...perhaps now that he had truly gone too far...she would have to consider other options.
"Bring him before me,"
she commanded the guard captain, her voice cold as ice.
"I will deal with him personally."
As Valerian was led back into her presence, Miranda regarded him with a mixture of rage and disdain. Her eyes narrowed to slits as she leaned forward menacingly.
"So, Lord Valerian,"
she purred, her words venomous and poisonous.
"You think you can play games with me? You think you can challenge my authority?"
She paused for effect, her gaze never leaving his.
Valerian smiled at her, his eyes free of deceit.
"I think a woman like you prefers a challenge."
He shot her an enticing grin as he continued,
"You know I wasn't going to kill you with that knife. But what man ever got your heart racing like that?"
His gaze returned to her. He did find her beautiful, her silken brown hair, her light creamy skin, her blazing green eyes. But his heart was wild and compassionate. He couldn't be tamed by someone that didn't love him genuinely. And he knew that Miranda didn't love him genuinely.
"You can order my execution now, if you like, and I will definitely escape and find my way into your room when you least suspect it. Or..."
Valerian laughed as Queen Miranda gave him a look of disdain.
"Or you could dismiss these goons of yours so we could talk alone."
Miranda's emerald eyes flared with anger, her face contorted into an ugly sneer. She leaned back in her throne, folding her arms across her chest as she studied the defiant man before her. The other nobles and courtiers seated around the hall shuffled nervously, sensing the tension in the air like a palpable thing. As if they weren't already uncomfortable enough with this display of power between their queen and her intended husband...
"Very well,"
she hissed through clenched teeth, motioning to her guards to leave the chamber,
"We shall speak alone."
The guards filed out of the room, leaving Queen Miranda and Lord Valerian momentarily in peace. Miranda's breath came out in shaky gasps as she struggled to keep control over her temper. She turned back to Valerian, mustering up a cold, cruel smile on her face.
"So,"
she purred,
"what did you have to say that was so important it couldn't be said with an audience?"
Valerian abruptly closed the gap between them, wrapping his hand against Miranda's neck as he backed her into the wall with sudden yet gentle force. Their chests heaved as he pressed against her, matching the unbridled anger in her eyes with his own feral gaze. He released his light hold on her neck, planting his palm against the wall as he pinned her.
Miranda's cheeks were flush with a mixture of emotions. He wouldn't hurt her; he couldn't hurt her. That much was becoming clear, but was this an advantage she wanted to exploit? Or was it a trait that attracted her?
"You can't have me,"
Valerian whispered at last, his voice almost alluring as their bodies touched.
With a cold glare, Miranda arched a brow as she looked up into the defiant face looming over her.
"Is that so?"
she managed through clenched teeth, struggling to keep him at bay. Her heart raced, but not with fear. With something else entirely.
Suddenly, without warning, Miranda wrapped her fingers around Valerian's wrist, bending it sharply toward the wall until he winced. His grip loosened, and she snatched his hand free, twisting it further until his arm bent. Her face was flushed, not with anger now but something hotter; an almost primal desire to dominate this man who dared defy her.
"What makes you think I can't have you?"
she growled, breathless with the effort it took to keep control over both their bodies. As she spoke, her free hand slid up his chest, tracing lazy circles on his skin, igniting a fire within them both.
"I am your queen,"
she whispered, moving even closer until their bodies were flush against each other.
"And I can take what's mine."
With that, Miranda released her hold on Valerian's wrist and stepped back, her chest heaving as she tried to catch her breath once more. She studied him intently, waiting for his response. A part of her wanted to strike again, punish him further, but another part... craved something else entirely.
"Well?"
she asked softly, eyes boring into his.
"Do you still want to fight me? Or are you ready to submit?"
He was pleasantly surprised by her prowess.
"Fight,"
he smirked in response, dropping low to kick Miranda's legs out from under her. Though weakened from days of her guards' torture, Valerian's arms were still strong and sturdy as he caught her, mere inches away from the floor. As if Miranda were a feather, he lifted her back to her feet.
She turned to throw an irritated punch. This time Valerian caught her wrist, spinning Miranda back against his chest as he forced her arms into his iron embrace. His care in neither bruising nor marking her only seemed to annoy her more. Was this fight merely playful for him?
"I'm still not yours,"
he breathed into her hair, teasing as she struggled against his arms.
Miranda growled, but after another moment of struggling yielded nothing, she closed her eyes. She let out a shuddering breath as Valerian released her, allowing his arms to fall loosely to his sides. They stood facing each other, chests heaving from their exertion, sweat beading on their foreheads. It seemed that even in defeat, he could make Miranda feel helpless; somehow more alive than she had ever been before. Perhaps... just perhaps there was something worth fighting for here. Something worth risking everything for. She raised her chin defiantly, determined to see this through no matter the cost. Her emerald eyes met his steel gray ones and she took a step forward, her body tensing as she prepared to launch herself once more at him. But instead of attacking, she halted just out of reach, their noses almost touching.
"You think I can't win?"
she asked softly, her voice barely above a whisper.
"Is that it? You want me to prove myself?"
There was challenge and vulnerability in her words, an unspoken invitation that lay beneath the surface, calling out to him like a siren song. Miranda waited, holding her breath as she awaited his response. Would he rise to the challenge? Or would he finally submit to her authority once and for all?
Sincerity filled Valerian's face as he stood calmly, gazing back at Queen Miranda.
"Just the opposite; I'd rather you didn't always try to prove yourself."
He smiled at her, his expression gentle and confident.
"I think you could win this fight. But there's no room within you for my heart. You won't be winning that today."
Valerian turned away from her, strolling towards the window as if done with her presence for now.
Miranda frowned, confusion flitting across her features as she studied Valerian's back. What did he mean by that? Was he still playing games with her? Trying to get under her skin one last time before finally surrendering? Or was there something else at work here; something deeper than either of them could comprehend?
"Do you enjoy fighting so much?"
she asked softly, moving closer until the warmth of his back touched hers.
"Is that what you want? For us to be enemies?"
Her hand brushed against his arm, her fingers trailing lightly up and down his skin as if testing the boundaries between them. Her heart raced, blood thrumming in her ears. A part of her wanted to reach out, touch him properly; feel what it was like to have another person so close after all this time alone. But another part... craved the fight. Craved the challenge and the release that came with it.
"Or,"
she said, voice barely above a whisper as her hand stilled on his arm,
"could we try something else?"
"We are enemies,"
he asserted, coldly pulling his arm away from her.
"You have my land in Dalence and my title as their leader. Your Lendorian soldiers harass my people. You got all the shallow things you wanted. As for me, I have no use for your political ambitions or your meaningless sex. Only love can capture my heart. Only my people's safety can make me happy."
Valerian stepped forward towards the window.
"I didn't stay down in your dungeon because you captured me,"
he teased, slipping Miranda an alluring grin.
"I stayed to see you. Next time, I'll find you where you sleep."
Leaping up onto the ledge, Valerian took one last look at the queen.
"You do impress me, Miranda."
He leapt out the window, grabbing a banner as he fell, swinging into a cart of hay that sat conveniently below. Just like that, Valerian had slipped right through her supposed defenses.
Miranda felt a sting in her chest as Valerian stepped back from her, coldly dismissive. But his next words left her utterly breathless. Her heart raced with an emotion she couldn't quite place; was it desire? Or something more profound? She watched, barely believing her eyes, as he leapt out the window and swung effortlessly to safety. How could this man make her feel so many things at once?
"He is an untamed beast,"
Miranda murmured to herself as she leaned against the windowsill,
"but I can't seem to stay away..."
With a sigh, she straightened, steel returning to her spine. Whatever game Valerian was playing, she would play it right back. And if he thought that making her feel something... anything for him was his plan, he had another thing coming.
"Gather the nobles,"
she ordered her guards as they reentered the chamber.
"I will hold court tomorrow to discuss trade agreements with Dalence."
The time had come for her to regain control; both over Valerian and her own heart. There would be no more idle thoughts or foolish daydreams. Miranda, Queen of Lendoria, was here to reign supreme.
As the guards scurried to obey her command, Miranda turned back toward the window, a small smile playing at the corners of her mouth.
"And Lord Valerian?"
she murmured to herself.
"We shall see who wins this war..."
Queen Miranda sent some ambassadors forth the next day, ready to issue and enforce her new trade agreements. Her court waited patiently for their report, but it never came. After a couple weeks, a patrol returned with a curious horse-drawn cart. In it were the heads of her ambassadors, her decrees stuffed in their mouths. In addition to the morbid display was a small letter, addressed to the queen herself. The captain of Miranda's guard brought it to her at once.
"My Queen, we were not successful in establishing your trade agreements. Word is that a new insurgency has formed in Dalence, despite our hold over the land. Your ambassadors were assassinated along the way to deliver your decree. Upon finding them, we discovered this letter addressed to you, my Queen."
The captain read the letter aloud:
"My dear Miranda, Dalence cannot support Lendoria's greed and decadence any more than I can support your ruthlessness and aloofness. Won't you consider giving up your control of Dalence in exchange for me? Signed, Valerian."
As the guard captain finished his recitation, he handed Valerian's letter to Queen Miranda.
Miranda's emerald eyes flashed with anger as she read the letter, her delicate hands shaking with rage. How dare he! After all she had done for him; after all the times she had spared his life, he still defied her! It was unbearable. She took a deep breath, steeling herself before responding. Her hand trembled slightly as it reached out to take the quill and parchment from the captain's steady grip. Slowly, methodically, she began to write:
"Valeanian,"
she penned, her name for him, a mockery of his title.
"You have failed in your duty as lord of Dalence. Your people suffer under Lendorian rule, yet you offer them nothing but rebellion and death. You will submit to me or face the consequences."
She paused, taking another deep breath before continuing.
"As for your offer, it is laughable. Do not think that I would ever be interested in a man such as yourself; one who values freedom more than prosperity. Perhaps if you were to renounce your insurgency and grovel at my feet, I might consider sparing your life."
Her hand moved swiftly across the page, the words flowing from her mind like venom.
"Until then, you are nothing but a fly buzzing around my throne. Be gone with you."
She sealed the letter with a flourish, handing it back to the captain.
"Take this to Dalence and see that Lord Valerian understands the gravity of his situation,"
she commanded coldly, her voice dripping with venom. The captain bowed low before exiting the chamber, taking the letter with him. As the door closed behind him, Miranda slumped back in her throne, exhaustion washing over her in waves.
A few days later, at a Lendorian outpost, Queen Miranda's courier returned from Dalence. He was dead, slumped over on his horse. Pinned to his back through an arrow was another letter for the queen.
Nervously, one of Queen Miranda's army commanders took it with him to report to her on several losses they were encountering with the growing insurgency in Dalence.
The commander entered her throne room, letter in hand.
"My Queen, fighting has broken out at several of our outposts in Dalence. We are no longer receiving word from two of them and a third is likely to fall by tonight. I am sorry for our defeat and I beg for your mercy."
Kneeling before her, the commander presented the recovered letter which read:
"My dear Miranda, I was overjoyed to receive your note and flattered by your pet-name for me. I tell my people that you will give up Dalence for me, but they grow impatient and take it back themselves. Our two nations should be lovers without borders. Will you consider giving up your control? Signed, Valerian."
"P.S.: See you soon."
Standing aside as Queen Miranda read Valerian's new letter, her army commander awaited her response.
Miranda smiled coldly at the letter, as if she found it amusing. She gestured dismissively to her commander, who backed away from her throne, bowing low in his retreat. Once he was gone, she raised her hand, waving the letter delicately through the air as if it were a moth she was toying with before extinguishing its life. Then, in one swift motion, she crumpled it up and flung it across the chamber like trash. She leaned back against her throne, staring blankly at the wall opposite, lost in thought for several moments before speaking:
"I will not relent,"
she said finally, her voice steady and cold as ice.
"I have made my decision regarding Lord Valerian. I will not give up on Dalence. My soldiers shall march north and put down this insurgency with an iron fist."
"See to it that no other messenger dares bring me news of surrender or retreat from Lord Valerian. Any sign of weakness will be treated as an act of treason, punishable by death."
That night, as Miranda lay in her bed chamber, the cold night air settled through her open window. She stirred in a restless sleep as she dreamed of her abusive childhood, her disapproving royal mother, and her mother's outlook on Miranda's existence as a mistake. The nightmares of her youth haunted her deeply as she tossed and turned. Suddenly, Miranda jolted awake.
Crouched over her, like a buzzard eyeing its prey, was a large figure, dressed completely in black. As Miranda sat up to scream for the guards, the figure put his hand over her mouth, shushing her. Somehow, she knew the timbre of that voice.
The hooded Valerian released his hand from her mouth. They sat together in the dark for a long moment before he leaned in close, locking his lips with hers in a passionate kiss.
Her heart pounded in her chest, as if trying desperately to break free from the cage that had held it so tightly for years. The hand on her mouth was gentle but firm; she couldn't scream even if she wanted to. And she realized with a jolt of alarm and desire that she didn't want to. As Valerian kissed her, Miranda closed her eyes, giving in to the moment and letting herself fall into his embrace. His lips were warm against hers, and they moved expertly against her own, as if they had been made for each other. She wrapped her arms around his neck, clinging tightly to him, wishing this moment could last forever.
When he pulled away, she opened her eyes, looking up into his shadowed face. His expression was unreadable in the dim light. She knew it shouldn't be like this; they were enemies, bound by blood and politics. And yet... there was something between them that words could not describe. Something that went beyond logic or reason.
"Why?"
she whispered, her voice hoarse from their kiss.
"Why now? After everything I've done to you?"
Valerian smiled down at her, the expression gentle yet somehow cruel.
"Because,"
he breathed, leaning in close once more and capturing her lips with his.
"Our nations should be like us,"
he continued to whisper between puckers,
"two lovers who shed their borders."
At the sound of their hushed talking, a guard opened the door to Queen Miranda's room. Before the light of the torch could even find it's way over to her bed, Valerian was gone. A cold, gentle breeze carried over the window sill.
"Forgive me,"
Miranda whispered, confused and ashamed.
"He came in through the window while I was sleeping..."
she stammered, her voice barely audible over the racing of her heart. She stared wide-eyed at the empty space where Valerian had been mere moments ago, as if her eyes could find him hidden among the shadows. The guard's confused expression mirrored her own disbelief and shock.
"Shall I send word to the palace guard?"
he asked softly.
"Or chase after..."
"No!"
she cried out, more harshly than intended. Shock spread across the guard's face as he took a step backward.
"There's no need... I-I don't know what happened."
She struggled to get her breathing under control, feeling the heat of shame wash over her in waves. He had come for her; despite everything she had done, he had found his way into her room and taken what she could not refuse.
"I'll see about having an extra watch set around the palace,"
the guard offered, his voice quiet and respectful as he took his leave. Once the door was closed again, Miranda turned back to where Valerian should be, her eyes searching for any sign that would tell her he was gone for good this time. The emptiness in her chest threatened to consume her as she realized how much she had come to need him; how his presence, however fleeting, brought light into the dark corners of her soul.
"Valerian,"
she whispered softly, fingers trailing across the sheets where he'd been only moments ago. The warmth of his body seemed to linger in the air around her, making it difficult to accept that he was truly gone.
"Please come back..."
Lendorian forces marched into Dalence, searching for the growing insurgency. They found their numbers heavily challenged as they were picked off in the thick woods along the way. After a week of fighting, the queen's brigade was at a stalemate with the insurgents who had set up camp in the forests.
Knowing that, by decree of Queen Miranda, failure to advance was death, the brigade chose a lieutenant to sacrifice himself in delivering the bad news to her. Not once during that week had Valerian returned to Miranda, likely due to being busy against her campaign to subdue his insurgency. As the lieutenant entered the throne room, he knelt before Miranda.
"M-My Queen,"
the soldier began, his voice shaky at the thought that this speech might cause the end of his life,
"Your forces have received heavy losses in Dalence. The insurgents are more numerous than we realized and we are at a stalemate at the moment..."
His voice trailed off as he gulped with fear before the queen.
"W-We hope to have reinforcements gathered within the week, but we don't know how many more insurgents are gathering. We did recover this letter arrowed to a tree."
His hands shook as he presented another letter from Valerian:
"My dear Miranda, Dalence only grows stronger the more that Lendoria keeps its guard up. Instead, if our nations each relinquished control, they could be together side-by-side. Will you consider giving up Dalence? Signed, Valerian."
"P.S.: I'll be on the terrace."
The lieutenant bowed his head, fearful over whether she would give the order to have him taken away and executed for failure to win their campaign.
Miranda's eyes narrowed as she read Valerian's new letter, a shiver running down her spine at the thought of relinquishing control over Dalence so willingly. She clenched her fists, fighting to keep her anger in check. When the soldier finished speaking, she leaned back in her throne, considering his words carefully before responding.
"Lieutenant,"
she said, her voice steady despite the turmoil within her,
"take this message to Lord Valerian immediately."
She paused, composing herself further before continuing.
"Tell him that I respect his courage and strategic prowess. However, my decision remains unchanged; I will not give up Dalence without a fight. You are dismissed."
As the lieutenant scurried out of the throne room, Queen Miranda sat alone for several minutes, her thoughts racing as she contemplated this new development. Valerian was growing more dangerous by the day, and yet she could not help but admire his audacity. It seemed there was no easy answer; only the certainty that things would continue to escalate between them in unpredictable ways.
That night, Queen Miranda found herself lost in nightmares again. The sounds of her mother's voice yelling and berating her, the speeches over how Miranda was not good enough, not worthy enough to lead, the strikes and lashings at her soft skin, and all Miranda could do was run. Her dreams felt like walls toppling down around her, like a nation threatening to swallow her up whole if she couldn't find some way to free herself of her childhood traumas.
Miranda awoke in a cold sweat. Her room was empty, save for the guard posted near the window. Pulling a heavy shawl over her nightgown, she made her way through the halls and out to the flowery terrace where she dismissed her guards for privacy.
The night was still as she looked over the balcony. Suddenly, two warm hands wrapped themselves gently around her midsection. She could feel Valerian's warm chest pressed against her back.
"I missed you,"
he whispered, his gravelly voice tickling Miranda's ears.
Miranda turned in his arms, her face flushed from sleep. She looked up at him with questioning eyes as the moonlight played across his features. His expression was soft and gentle; it reminded her of how easily she could fall for his words and charms. But she knew better than to trust him fully. There was too much at stake for both their kingdoms.
"Why do you torment me, Valerian?"
She swallowed hard, struggling to keep the fear from creeping into her voice. She didn't want him to see her weaknesses; didn't want him to use them against her. Yet, at the same time, she couldn't help but feel drawn to his strength and determination. It was a dangerous game they were playing, one that could end with either of them losing everything they held dear.
"You know I can't just give up Dalence,"
she said slowly, feeling a spark of defiance ignite within her chest. She pushed against his chest gently but firmly, stepping back from him as she did so. The air between them felt heavy with unspoken words and emotions.
"I will not give up the fight,"
she said fiercely, wishing she didn't have to admit this aloud. It made her feel weak; vulnerable in a way that was frightening. But it was the truth, and Valerian had to know that. He couldn't expect her to simply hand over everything she had worked for without a fight.
She wanted so desperately to believe what he was saying about them, about their nations being lovers without borders. But the past haunted her, reminding her of all the ways things could go wrong. Yet as she stood there in his arms, the pain of loneliness and heartache seemed to fade away, replaced by a strange, aching sense of peace that she had never known before.
"I-I don't know what to do,"
she confessed softly.
Valerian pulled Miranda in close again, swaying together while they looked out at the stars. As her words trailed off, his fingers began to caress her stomach, sending shivers down her spine. It felt so good to have him near her like this, despite everything that had happened between them.
"I don't know either,"
he purred.
"But I'll keep coming back."
His lips brushed against her ear, sending a jolt of desire straight through her. Her heart skipped a beat at his words. The thought was both thrilling and terrifying at the same time. But as he held her close like this, she couldn't help but imagine what it might be like if they really did break free from the chains of duty and obligation that bound them so tightly. If only for a moment...
"There is a rare and wonderful strength in you, Miranda."
he whispered at last.
"Dalence does not follow me,"
Valerian sighed,
"they are resisting because of you...and I'm not able to stop them. Only you have that strength."
Her fingers tentatively traced the outline of his hand on her stomach as he continued.
"It was your late brother who took Dalence. If you released them you would be the Queen of Freedom. You would be the one who righted his wrongs."
The wind picked up for a moment, ruffling Valerian's hair and sending his cloak billowing around them both like dark wings.
"You're not weak to me, Miranda."
Miranda stood there, breathing heavily as she felt the warmth radiating off of Valerian. She wanted nothing more than to give in, but it just seemed so impossible for her; not when so much depended on her choices. As she turned, her hand traced his jawline before coming up to gently stroke his cheek.
"You're everything I should hate,"
she whispered, her eyes searching his face.
"And yet... I can't help but love you."
she murmured, closing her eyes as he continued to caress her.
"If I release Dalence, it feels like I'd be giving up everything I've ever fought for."
"What if,"
Valerian said quietly, his warm breath tickling the skin of her neck,
"you don't have to give it all up? What if... we could find a way for our nations to coexist?"
Miranda felt her heart lurch at his words. The thought was dizzying; impossible, and yet... tantalizingly real.
"How?"
she managed to whisper, opening her eyes to look up into the depths of his shadowed gaze.
"I just don't know if I can give up Dalence."
It was the most honest thing she had ever said to him, and for a moment, she thought he might understand. But instead, he only smiled down at her, a soft, sad smile that made her heart ache with longing.
"I'm most in love with you...when you're honest. Even if I don't want to hear it,"
Valerian whispered before grabbing Miranda's hand to kiss her soft fingers.
"Perhaps,"
he continued softly,
"we could start by trusting each other."
She paused for a moment, contemplating their situation. Dalence had suffered so much under her brother's rule and now they continued to suffer under hers. It wasn't fair that Valerian paid the price for this campaign. He even offered himself in exchange for Dalence's freedom, ensuring that they would never retaliate.
Miranda looked up into Valerian's eyes, searching for any sign that she was making the wrong choice. His expression seemed to plead with her, to trust him and take a chance on something more. Taking a deep breath, she released it slowly before nodding gently.
"Very well,"
she whispered, feeling both relief and trepidation as she said the words.
"I will find a way to release Dalence. But,"
she added, looking him directly in the eye,
"we must work together on this."
Her heart raced as she spoke the words; she had never been more vulnerable with anyone in her life. The thought both terrified and exhilarated her, leaving her feeling exposed and raw. But despite everything, she couldn't help but hope that Valerian was right about their nations. Perhaps together, they could forge something new; something better than either of them could have alone.
To show her his own willingness to be vulnerable with her, Valerian untied his handmade knife and presented it to Miranda. As she held the sheathed blade, he stooped down to both knees, kneeling before her. In this moment, she could kill him if she so wished.
"My Queen,"
Valerian whispered. Miranda was shocked as he knelt before her; he had never once addressed her by her royal title.
"If you release Dalence..."
He leaned forward and pressed his lips against her feet in a sign of total submission to her.
"My heart will be yours forever."
The man she was quickly falling for, the man she could not break by force or might was at last at her feet. Aside from the rule of his people, he was ready to give her all the power she could ever want. All she would have to do to keep him was to swallow her pride and release his country back into autonomy. Could she really do that?
"I will make my people sing your praises in freedom,"
he breathed, kissing her feet once more.
"My Good Queen."
A weight seemed to lift off her shoulders as she heard his words; felt the sincerity in them, the trust that he placed in her hands. It was a responsibility that she didn't take lightly; one that could shape not only their lives but the course of history for both their kingdoms. Her heart raced with anticipation and fear, unsure if she was truly ready for this newfound power. But as she looked down at Valerian kneeling before her, his handsome features lit by the moonlight, she knew that there was no going back now.
"Very well,"
she breathed, carefully taking off the jeweled circlet that signified her rule over Dalence and placing it in his outstretched palm. Valerian's eyes widened at the gesture before he closed his fingers around it, bowing his head in acknowledgement of her trust. A smile spread across Miranda's lips as she took a step closer to him, resting a hand on his shoulder. She was about to say something when she heard shouting from the palace window below them. Alarmed, they both turned to see one of Lendoria's knights thudding to the ground as two hooded figures darted towards them.
"Assassins!"
Valerian barked in realization. Miranda looked at him with an expression of hurt and betrayal. He closed her fingers around her circlet, a promise not to take from her but to only accept her gift after she was safe.
"I swear to you on my life, I did not order this."
Putting himself unarmed between Miranda and the oncoming attackers, Valerian glanced back into her emerald eyes, heartbroken by the treachery among a handful of his own followers.
"Get ready, my love."
Queen Miranda drew his dagger as the two took fighting stances. The hooded assassins dashed onto the terrace, leaping off the walls to try and land a blow on either of them.
Miranda gritted her teeth, the knife held tightly in her hand as she and Valerian faced off against two attackers on the terrace. As they charged towards them, Miranda and Valerian leapt into action; his training in the art of swordplay allowing him to easily deflect their attacks while she used the knife's speed to dart around, looking for an opening. The wind whistled past her ears as she fought, adrenaline surging through her veins. It felt exhilarating to be working with someone who was both a formidable opponent and an ally in this fight.
"Watch out!"
she shouted, spotting one of the assassins trying to circle around Valerian. Before he could react, she rushed forward, slicing through his robes as he tried to cloak himself from view once more. The man let out a gasp, blood seeping through the cloth and dripping to the terrace below. They were getting closer to winning; one more enemy down and they'd be able to focus on their budding truce agreement between Lendoria and Dalence.
"You should have stayed true!"
she yelled at the wounded assassin, wanting nothing more than for them to surrender. But it seemed that wasn't an option; he merely glared hatefully back at her before trying desperately to retrieve his weapon from the ground. She could feel Valerian tensing beside her as they fought on, aware of how close they were to losing their balance and falling prey themselves.
Time seemed to slow down as she and Valerian worked in tandem, their movements fluid and precise despite the danger surrounding them. They dodged, parried, and slashed with such skill that it was impossible for the remaining assassin to get close enough for a lethal blow. Finally, as the attacker brought his knife down, Valerian grabbed the assailant's blade and plunged it into his chest.
He crouched over the body of his traitorous countryman. Any other leader would have let Miranda be assassinated, but Valerian was hopelessly in love with her at this point. He was torn between freeing his home country which her late brother invaded, and his desire to coax out the purity and goodness hidden within this woman he adored.
As he stood and turned to meet Miranda's deep green eyes, she silently held out the circlet, the sign of her former rule over Dalence. Even after he failed to keep his men from attacking her, she was willing to trust him? Her emotional strength in that moment dwarfed his mere physique in nearly every way. As he reached a shaky hand to accept the circlet, she offered his knife as well.
"Keep it,"
he murmured, pushing the knife back towards her breast. He turned and leapt on to the ledge of the terrace. Something stirred deep within Queen Miranda. She found her legs moving on their own, running after him and tugging at his arm as he crouched on the rail. He swiveled to face her one last time.
"Now I can prove to you,"
he whispered,
"that I could be good for you..."
Valerian leaned down and cupped Miranda's cheek, kissing her passionately, their breaths escaped them beneath the moonlight. Their lips parted at last as he opened his eyes to meet hers.
"...That we should be together,"
he breathed against her. Valerian then tipped backwards off the rail, disappearing into the dark night, off to recall his troops and end this battle. Would Miranda be able to keep her promise to do the same? She stood there on the terrace, her hand stretched out in the air where he had crouched just seconds ago.
Miranda stared after him as he disappeared into the darkness, her heart racing with fear and anticipation. A part of her wanted nothing more than to trust in his words; to follow him willingly and let their love conquer all. But another, darker voice within her warned that giving up Dalence would be like betraying everything she had fought for, everything her people had suffered through. The weight of this decision pressed down upon her with crushing force, making it feel as though her very soul was tearing in two.
She stood there for what felt like an eternity, the cool night air caressing her skin and the soft breeze rustling her hair. As much as she wanted to run after him, to be with him and lose herself in their passion once more, she knew that she couldn't abandon her duty now; not when so much was at stake. With a shuddering sigh, she turned away from the edge of the terrace and began the long walk back inside, unsure of what decision she would ultimately make but determined to find a way forward; for her kingdom, for Valerian...and most importantly, for herself.
A few days later, Queen Miranda found herself pacing impatiently in her throne room as her field commander returned with news from the front.
"My Queen, Dalence's forces are standing down. There have been no casualties today. Our reinforcements are ready to invade, with orders not to spare any man, woman, or child. If we strike now, we can end this insurrection and bring Dalence under total control."
Miranda thought carefully about the decision before her. Valerian was true to his word; just as he promised her, his troops were standing down in anticipation of a truce.
If she reinvaded Dalence, the bloody chaos would be catastrophic. She would have her pride and her battlefield victory, but it was likely to spark another rebellion and great suffering. Worst of all, she would lose Valerian's love and trust completely. But history would fear her as a ruthless and decisive queen.
If she recalled her own troops from Dalence, the war would end today. She would be seen as disinterested in warfare and militaristic ambition, but also as a champion of diplomacy and peace. Most of all, she would have Valerian's eternal and undying love and support. History would cherish her as a merciful and compassionate queen.
What if she could change the bloody course of Lendoria's reign?
"What is your decision, my Queen?"
the commander asked as she thought.
Miranda paused, closing her eyes and taking a deep breath before opening them once more. She met the commander's expectant gaze without flinching, her voice firm and steady as she spoke.
"Recall our troops,"
she said quietly but with finality.
"I want peace with Dalence. We shall discuss terms of their autonomy at a later date."
Her words hung in the air like a weight, heavy with import and possibility. She had chosen the path less traveled; the one fraught with risk and uncertainty. But she had also chosen love over war, trust over power. As the commander saluted her and departed to relay her orders, Miranda couldn't help but feel a strange sense of peace settle over her. Perhaps there was hope for their world after all. Perhaps there was hope for them.
For now, she would focus on proving that Lendoria could be better; kinder under her rule. And with Valerian by her side, she knew they could accomplish anything. Together, they could write a new history; one of freedom and love, instead of conquest and strife. She could see it now, in her mind's eye, and for the first time in a long while, hope burned brightly within her heart.
By the end of that week, Lendorian scouts reported that a banner had been erected in the central square of Dalence's capitol which read: Miranda the Good Queen, Friend of Dalence.
The forests near the borders emptied. Trade caravans were now able to travel without fear of insurgent violence. Almost immediately, the two countries were returning to a peace they had not known in many years, since before the Lendorian annexation by Miranda's late half-brother. Everything Valerian had promised her was coming to pass as both countries, now independent, sang her praises and promoted her mercifulness.
As Dalence elected a new royal house to consort with Queen Miranda's court, Lord Valerian was nowhere to be found. Rumors reached the Lendorian capitol that he had perished while putting down Dalence extremists who were opposed to peace with Lendoria.
Could Valerian really be dead? Could she have lost the only man worthy of her love? Miranda's mind swirled with memories of her mother's abuse, her mother's regret and disdain for Miranda's birth, her mother's insistence on the woman's unworthiness to be loved. Hiding her tear with a facade of intensity and and resolve, Miranda called her couriers into the throne room, preparing orders to find Valerian, wherever he may be.
Miranda didn't know what she would do if the rumors were true; if Valerian had really sacrificed himself for her sake. Tears welled in her eyes as she thought of his brave, selfless nature and how much he loved both Lendoria and Dalence. She took a deep breath, composing herself before addressing her couriers.
"I wish to send word across the realm,"
she began, her voice steady despite the turmoil within her.
"Let it be known that Lord Valerian of Dalence was not only an ally and friend to Lendoria, but also a man who fought bravely for his people's freedom. His name shall live on in history as one of the greatest champions of peace and justice this land has ever seen."
With that said, she looked up at her messengers, their expressions solemn yet hopeful.
"I want you to find Lord Valerian,"
she told them firmly.
"Bring him back to me, alive. No matter what it takes, I will not rest until I have him by my side again."
The couriers bowed before her, acknowledging their orders, and then dispersed from the throne room. As they left, Miranda could swear she saw Valerian in each of their faces; his smile, his courage, his love. She hoped that one day soon, he would return to her. So they could be together.
Time passed as the last pockets of resistance to the new peace faded away. Yet there was still no word on Valerian's fate. One afternoon, as Queen Miranda was meeting with her courtiers, shouting erupted just outside the throne room.
With a sudden burst, the large wooden doors blew open as a hooded figure strolled through alone. One of Miranda's guards drew his sword and closed in, but the figure planted his foot into the soldier's chest, careening him into the floor. Another ran up behind the figure, but he turned and slammed his head against the defender. As her guards lay unconscious, the man continued his casual pace towards her, completely unfazed.
"My untamed beast..."
she murmured with delight. Reaching beneath his cloak, the man produced a severed head and rolled it across the floor, resting against the steps below her feet.
"The leader of the assassins, my love,"
he said as he lowered his hood. Miranda was overcome by Valerian's sudden reappearance, swooning at his violent display of absolute devotion to her.
Miranda could barely contain her excitement as she looked at the head, then up at Valerian, his face flushed with triumph. She rose from her throne, a wicked smile playing on her lips, and wrapped her arms around him, pressing herself against his hard body. He felt so alive; so right.
"You should have stayed hidden,"
she teased breathlessly into his ear.
"I thought I'd lost you for good."
Her words were laced with need and desire as she traced tiny circles over the intricate tattoo on his arm.
"I promised you my heart,"
he whispered, cupping her cheeks with his hands, their breath mingling in the air between them.
"I belong to you now; body and soul."
Their lips claimed each other, mouths forcing open as each plundered the other with their tongues, claiming the love that was both of theirs by right. Miranda gasped when they finally came up for air as Valerian gazed affectionately into her emerald eyes.
"Is the Queen of Lendoria still capable of taming Dalence's favorite son?"
he teased back, running his fingers through her soft brown hair.
Miranda giggled playfully as she reached up and nipped at Valerian's bottom lip.
"Of course she is."
She trailed her fingers down his chest, savoring the feel of his skin beneath them.
"It was my choice to trust in your word and recall my troops."
"I wanted it no other way, my love,"
Valerian murmured as his hands slid lower on her hips, drawing her against him even more tightly.
"When we met at odds, I still saw you has flowing with strength and courage."
He leaned forward then, brushing his lips along the column of her neck before meeting her eyes once again.
"And I would never forgive myself if anything happened to that courage..."
He kissed her again, deeper this time, as their passion ignited anew within them. Her response was nothing less than fierce, and for a moment, they were lost in the heat of their desire; forgetting everything but the present and the overwhelming love that bound them together. It seemed there was no end to the depths they could plunge into with each other.
Now that Dalence was free, Valerian had relinquished all ties to its rulership. He himself was the gift to Lendoria and its queen. Valerian's impending marriage to Miranda would ensure a lasting peace and cooperation between the two countries. For now, however, all he could focus on was the strong and brilliant woman before him.
"Shall we go and fight?"
he whispered alluringly. Miranda knew precisely what Valerian meant as she lead him out of the throne room and into her bedchamber.
As she shut the door, Valerian suddenly grabbed at her arm. She swatted him away, the strike of her palm barely missing his face as he wrapped his fingers around her once more. In a smooth motion, Miranda seized his wrist, spinning to leverage his own weight over her shoulder as she slammed his back against the floor with a loud thud. It was their wordless song of ferocity, connection, and desire.
She threw herself atop him, straddling his hips as she pinned his hands back.
"What if I don't submit?"
he growled seductively, smiling up at her.
"Then I shall have to tame you all the harder."
She pressed her body against him, slipping her panties off before grinding her hips in rhythm as she leaned forward until their faces were inches apart.
"I am your Queen, Valerian,"
she breathed, her voice low and rough with desire as she undid his trousers.
"And when it comes to love...you will obey me."
With a sudden burst of strength, she bucked her hips against his and was rewarded by the heat that seared up into her core as they were joined. It was an act of possession and dominance, but also one of surrender; a mutual exchange of power and vulnerability. Their bodies moved in unison now, lost to the primal desire that burned brightly between them.
As Valerian cried out her name, she felt him tense beneath her, his powerful body arching violently as he released himself into her. She rode him through his orgasm, claiming every tremor and twitch until finally he collapsed back against the floor, spent. His fingers flexed against the bedding beside their heads as Miranda lowered herself slowly to rest atop him, gazing down with satisfaction at the man she loved so fiercely.
"So,"
she purred, running her hands through his sweaty hair.
"Do you submit now?"
Nowhere else could they feel this safe to be so playful but in each other's arms. Valerian was the man that nature itself could not tame. No nation could crush him, no military could outwit him, no seductress could enchant him. Only Miranda could do these things for him. The world now knew her as a good and merciful ruler, but he was privileged to see the depths of her true might and courage. With their politics now resolved, all he craved was his connection to her.
"I am not yet punished enough, my love,"
Valerian murmured, cupping Miranda's bottom as he rose to his feet with her arms around his neck.
"Show this beast no mercy."
As he suspended her legs, Valerian began to piston against her, groaning wildly as she bounced up and down his shaft. She could feel her orgasm building as she bucked back, satisfying her lover with an erotically vicious glare.
"I must be defeated by you, my Queen,"
he moaned as the pressure built, with Miranda nearing her own climax.
Miranda felt a thrill race through her at his words, the power they held over her. As he began to groan louder, she bit down on her lip, arching her back as he plunged deeper inside of her. Miranda smiled wickedly.
"I am your queen,"
she growled. His thrusts became more urgent, more desperate as he sought release from their intense play, but Miranda refused to let him win that easily. With a growl, she hooked her legs behind his back, digging her nails into his skin as she clenched around him.
"You will only be defeated when I say so!"
she gasped out between lust-crazed words, her breath hot against his ear as they moved together in a frenzy of need and dominance. It was a dance, a violent ballet where they fought for control yet knew that only surrender would truly bring them pleasure.
With a cry, she climaxed hard, shuddering around him as waves of pleasure washed over them both. Valerian felt the power between them; their love was a living thing that could consume them entirely if they let it. He knew he had to be stronger for her, and with one last powerful thrust, he buried himself deep within her body and groaned out his release. As her own orgasm continued to crash over her, Miranda was left limp and sated in his arms. She panted softly, gazing up at him with adoration.
"You win,"
she murmured, kissing his chest before curling up against him, feeling his steady heartbeat beneath her cheek.
"No, my love,"
Valerian gasped as he slowly lowered them both to the floor,
"I submit."
He buried his face in her neck, growling contentedly as their hearts raced in unison. They lay together like this for a long moment, basking in the afterglow of their passion, knowing that despite the trials and tribulations they had faced, they would always have each other going forward.
As Valerian brushed a lock of hair from Miranda's face, he gazed deeply into her emerald eyes. His expression was solemn and innocent, without even a hint of the wildly playful lust just moments ago. Beyond their dominance and submission, he was staring deep into the fabric of who she was as a woman.
"You..."
his voice wavered as their eyes remained locked together,
"are strong and worthy. The world is better with you in it, Miranda."
Her lips twitched up into a fond smile as she studied his serious face, feeling an overwhelming sense of warmth spread through her. She cupped his cheek with her hand, brushing the pad of her thumb across his jaw before leaning in to press a gentle kiss there.
"Thank you,"
she breathed against his skin. It was as if he could see straight into her soul, and it filled her with an unbidden sense of peace.
"You make me feel like I can do anything."
She closed her eyes, savoring the weight of his arm around her waist.
"And knowing that you're by my side...it makes all the difference."
A soft laugh escaped her as she nestled closer, their bodies melting together once more.
"I love you, Valerian,"
she murmured, feeling the words settle into her bones like a promise for forever.
"I love you too, Miranda,"
he whispered, grazing her arm up and down. They sat in silence, sharing a moment in eternity as the warmth of their love expanded, threatening to fill the world.
"If you would still have me as your husband,"
he breathed at last,
"I would serve Lendoria for the rest of my days. And even in death, I would never stop loving you. Will you still marry me?"
"Yes,"
Miranda whispered, her heart swelling with hope as she gazed up at him.
"I will marry you, Valerian."
Her voice was filled with joy and certainty, a reflection of the strength they found within each other.
"For now and forever, we belong together. And together, we will bring peace and prosperity to the lands."
She reached up, cupping his cheek tenderly as she leaned in, their lips meeting in a kiss that seemed to last forever. Around them, the world faded away, leaving only the two of them; one heart beating in perfect rhythm with the other. They were bound by more than love or duty; they were connected on a level so deep it transcended words and time itself. For now, all that mattered was this moment, this connection, this endless love. And with each breath, each touch, each word, they sealed their fates together, forevermore.