The sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm golden hue over the sprawling kingdom of Eldoria. Prince Aleron stood at the edge of the balcony in the castle’s west wing, his gaze sweeping across the lush gardens that surrounded the royal estate. Flowers bloomed vibrantly, but the prince felt none of their beauty could brighten the weight of the impending union that loomed over him like a dark cloud.
It was an unseasonably warm afternoon, yet he felt a chill run down his spine as he thought of Lucian, the omega who would soon become his bride. He had heard stories of the spirited young man—sharp-witted, fiercely independent, and known for his defiance against the constraints of noble life. The idea of marrying someone who was not only unyielding but openly scornful of the very notion of their union was both frustrating and… strangely exhilarating.
“Your Highness,” a voice broke through his thoughts. Aleron turned to see his advisor, Lord Eldric, approaching with a stack of parchments in hand. “The preparations for the betrothal ceremony are nearly complete. It is imperative that you present yourself at the banquet tonight.”
“Do we have to?” Aleron asked, crossing his arms defiantly. “I would rather face a battalion of rebels than sit through an evening of forced pleasantries with my future wife.”
Lord Eldric raised an eyebrow, concern etched on his face. “You must understand, Aleron. This marriage is crucial for maintaining peace with House Vallen. Lucian may be difficult, but he is an omega. His presence will strengthen your claim to the throne.”
“His presence?” Aleron scoffed. “You mean his presence as a reluctant pawn in this royal game? The omega is more likely to throw a fit than stand by my side.”
Lord Eldric sighed, running a hand through his thinning hair. “You cannot afford to underestimate him. His spirit may be what you need to unite your kingdom—if you let him.”
As if summoned by the conversation, the doors to the balcony swung open, revealing Lucian. The omega strode in with an air of defiance, his sharp blue eyes glaring at Aleron as if he were an unsightly insect. He wore a simple yet elegant outfit that contrasted sharply with the ornate finery of the prince’s royal attire.
“Ah, the dashing prince in his element,” Lucian said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. “I see the royal wardrobe hasn’t changed in a hundred years. How charming.”
Aleron’s jaw clenched. “And I see you’ve mastered the art of rudeness. Is that a skill taught at the House of Vallen, or is it merely a natural talent?”
Lucian stepped closer, a challenging spark in his gaze. “I’m simply refusing to play along with this farce, Your Highness. I didn’t ask for this marriage, and I certainly didn’t ask for you.”
“Neither did I,” Aleron shot back, frustration boiling beneath the surface. “But you’ll find I have no intention of letting you ruin my life without a fight.”
Lucian smirked, the tension in the air crackling like electricity. “You think you can tame me? Good luck with that. I won’t be a trophy on your arm or a pawn in your game.”
“Perhaps you could consider being a partner instead,” Aleron said, his tone shifting slightly, curiosity piquing beneath his irritation.
“A partner?” Lucian raised an eyebrow, skepticism lacing his words. “In what world does an omega partner with a prince?”
“In a world where we both have something to gain,” Aleron replied, meeting Lucian’s gaze with determination. “You may despise the arrangement, but we are bound by this union, whether you like it or not.”
Lucian’s expression softened for just a moment before the defiance returned. “Then let the games begin, Your Highness. I may not be the omega you wanted, but I promise you—this is not going to be easy.”
With that, he turned on his heel and strode out, leaving Aleron with a mixture of frustration and intrigue. The prince leaned against the balcony rail, a reluctant smile creeping onto his face. He had expected an easy surrender, but it seemed he was in for a challenge.
In the game of royalty, every union held secrets, and every conflict carried the potential for something more. As the sun dipped below the horizon, Aleron felt a spark of hope amidst the tension a feeling that maybe, just maybe, this omega could be the wild card he never knew he needed.
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