1 Chapter 1: The Fateful Meeting

King Aric rode out from the palace of Evaria, the city bustling with excited citizens before him. This was the day of the annual jousting tournament, the event that brought together the knights of the realm in fierce competition.

As he rode, the King was the picture of a gracious and benevolent ruler, his smile and waves to the people lifting their spirits.

King Aric was a powerful ruler, feared by many and admired by all. He was a man of impressive stature, standing well over six feet tall with broad shoulders and a chiseled physique. His bronze skin glistened in the sun, and his piercing blue eyes could penetrate the soul of anyone who dared to look into them.

As he reached the tournament grounds, Aric dismounted from his horse, his royal retinue accompanying him. Amidst cheers from the crowd, he strode towards the stands, where the nobles of the realm were seated. He greeted them all warmly, taking his place at the centre of the dais.

Soon, the tournament began, and knights, one by one, charged forward with lances at the ready. Aric watched them all with keen interest.

His gaze remained unwavering until a young woman, amidst the bustling crowd, captured his attention. Amidst the lively tournament, she stood. Alia was a serving maid at the palace, and despite her lowly duties, Aric had always found her to be stunning. She was a beautiful young woman, with dark hair that cascaded down her back and emerald green eyes that sparkled like precious jewels. Her skin was smooth and velvety, with a slight blush on her cheeks that made her look even more alluring.

As his eyes remained fixed on her, a subtle smile curved his lips. It was evident that she wasn't finding the tournament enjoyable, given the expression etched on her face. The strain of it all seemed too much for her, pushing her to the point of leaving the tournament grounds.

Inexplicably, Aric felt compelled to rise from his seat. Ignoring his knights' confused glances, he assured them he would return shortly.

Descending from the dais, he trailed after Alia, the woman who had caught his attention in such an irresistible manner. It was as though she had woven a spell around him.

Stepping away from the arena, into the area housing the knights' tents and their horses, Aric kept his focus on Alia. Yet, amidst the tents and horses, he lost sight of her.

The area, deserted in contrast to the bustling tourney, left him questioning his own actions. He considered returning to his royal duties.

However, an unexpected voice emanated from one of the tents, a voice in distress—Alia's voice. Without second thought, he burst into the tent, his presence a commanding force that startled both Alia and her aggressor. The man, his intentions clear, appeared taken aback.

"Enough!" Aric's voice boomed, a mix of authority and indignation, leaving both Alia and her assailant stunned. The latter, utterly surprised, managed only to stammer, "Your Highness?" as his gaze turned toward the entrance.

"How dare you attempt to exploit this woman?" Aric's fury radiated through his demeanor. The heat of his anger made it clear that he wouldn't tolerate such behavior. Alia's attacker dropped to his knees, his plea for forgiveness an attempt to appease the king's wrath.

"Please forgive me, your Highness," he begged.

Ignoring him, Aric shifted his focus to Alia. Huddled against the cold tent wall, her clothes slightly torn, she bore signs of the struggle she had endured. Rage coursed through Aric's veins at the thought of what might have occurred if he hadn't intervened.

Slowly, he approached Alia, who recoiled slightly as he drew near. "Are you unharmed?" he inquired, his voice laced with genuine concern.

"Forgive me, Sire," she whispered, her voice barely audible.

"There's no need for apologies," Aric assured her. Gently removing his jacket, he handed it to Alia, offering her a means to cover herself. She hesitated, her wariness evident, but the kindness in his eyes broke through her caution, and she found herself captivated by his magnetic gaze.

"We'll ensure justice is served. This man will be publicly chastised, a lesson for all," Aric declared, his attention shifting back to the man, now whimpering on the ground.

"Thank you, your Highness," Alia expressed with gratitude.

"It's my duty," Aric replied, his tone unwavering.

From that fateful encounter, the destinies of Aric and Alia became irrevocably intertwined.