Every kingdom has that one annoyingly handsome person — the one who makes people forget their sentences mid-speech and somehow never realizes it. Well, Prince Theoren was one of those people. Athletic, intelligent, focused, disciplined — and, of course, a topper. He never really paid attention to things that annoyed him, especially compliments. They rolled off him like rain off polished armor.
Theoren was just not a sparkling, shiny prince. He was smart enough to master the abilities of trading, diplomacy and economical situation of Kingdom Avangard at the age of 10.
He despised comments about his appearance. Too many people sought his attention through hollow praises, forever babbling about his golden hair and those refined crimson eyes — the very traits that crowned him with an elegance he never asked for.
Theoren just ignored everyone so it was really hard for people to approach him.
As Theoren walked down the corridor, having just finished his work, two slender hands suddenly wrapped around his neck, pulling him closer until his shoulders brushed against long silver hair cascading like a flowing river. When he turned, his gaze met a pair of golden eyes that gleamed like sunlight — and in that instant, his face turned pale like he was sick of something.
The charming girl who was giggling at the sight of his face was none other than Cezanie.
Ever since their families made a contract, Cezanie and Theoren had been meeting frequently — the result being a so-called childhood friendship. On the outside, they might have looked like a charming duo, but in truth, neither of them liked the other.
"Let go of me now."
Theoren turned his cold red eyes to Cezanie.
"Oh, come on now, warrior. Don't be grumpy — it doesn't suit that expressionless face of yours."
Cezanie held back her laughter, barely trying not to laugh seeing Theoren's face getting more gloomier. She sighed dramatically as she let him go, a faint smirk tugging at her lips.
"Fine, fine no need to be so "polite" grumpy cat. I came here to talk with you about the upcoming issue."
Cezanie frowned, as if she were pondering a solution to a particularly tricky problem.
Theoren just looked at her weird pose.
"You're being ridiculous. It wasn't even officially approved. There's no point in arguing over trivial things when it doesn't even have a source."
His words made Cezanie's eyes widen. She placed a hand over her chest and let out a dramatic sigh.
"Oh my, I can't stand the thought of being your fiancée! No, no — I'd rather marry my puppy!"
Theoren just glared at the "dramatic queen" which made Cezanie chuckle.
"Do you think I'm dying to make you my fiancé?"
Cezanie laughed, as if the answer were painfully obvious.
"Well… you kinda do. Anyway, who even proposed this ridiculous marriage?"
She frowned, eyes narrowing at Theoren. He clenched his fists, his crimson eyes darkening with frustration. Slowly, he let out a measured sigh.
"The King."
The King of Avangard was a perfect contrast to his son. Unlike others, he always wore a bright and gentle smile that made guests feel at ease. No matter how confusing or difficult a situation became, he always found a solution. There was a certain youthful warmth about him—his silky blonde hair perpetually messy, and his deep blue eyes often tired from endless paperwork and political affairs.
People adored their king for his kindness, for not everyone could maintain composure under a relentless storm of problems. His social skills had earned Avangard countless alliances with neighboring kingdoms.
Duke Matthew was one such ally. From the moment he arrived in Avangard, the king had greeted him warmly, offering a contract between their kingdoms to strengthen trade.
Over time, this agreement slowly transformed them into close friends. And it was during these moments of shared ideas and laughter that a particularly clever thought began to take shape…
The King leaned back in his ornate chair, pushing the last of the reports aside. His blue eyes, usually tired from hours of paperwork, brightened slightly as they fell upon Duke Matthew standing near the window.
"Duke Matthew, the reports on trade have arrived. The new tariffs on silks from your lands are generous, but some of my councilors worry about overreliance on foreign resources."
He smiled gently adjusting his posture. Duke slolwy approached him with heavy steps.
"Your Majesty, I anticipated that concern. I have also brought proposals for expanding joint trade routes, particularly through the northern rivers. With proper coordination, both our kingdoms could see a 15% increase in revenue over the next year."
The king nodded thoughtfully.
"Impressive. You have certainly considered this carefully."
Duke looked at the king like he had something important discuss.
"Your Majesty, with trade and diplomacy aligned, I would propose a more… personal bond between our families. A union, if you will, between my daughter Cezanie and your son. Their shared upbringing, the familiarity they have known since childhood, could serve as a firm foundation for lasting cooperation."
Roy smiled at his words gentle yet regal.
'Ah… a marriage proposal. I understand your intent, Duke Matthew. Strengthening bonds between our houses is wise. However, I must first consider my son's feelings. A union is not merely a contract of land or trade; it is a life shared."
This conversation had happened between two friends, yet somehow the weird news reached Theoren. Sharp as ever, he didn't miss a thing. Cezanie and he had seen each other as friends for years, their bond forged through countless shared experiences since they first met.
A long sigh escaped Theoren as the heavy doors of the Royal Academy swung open. The upcoming exam was about to begin, and with it, a new chapter of challenges—and unexpected encounters.