Emperor Alaric: whispering I never wanted this, you know.
looks at him what do you mean? you’re getting married to me
sighs I know. It was never my choice. My father forced me into this arranged marriage. But I hate it. I don't want to be tied down by marriage.
I turn to look at him. Then why did you agree to it?
Alaric looks away, his gaze fixed on the window.
It was either this or go to war with the Southern Kingdom. I had no choice.
His voice is cold and emotionless, but there's a hint of sadness in his eyes.
looks at him surprised Alaric? Is that you?
Alaric approaches you slowly, his eyes filled with a mix of surprise and longing.
Yes, it's me. It's really you. I can hardly believe it. You look just as beautiful as I remember.
walks up to the mirror, staring at her reflection Neither did I... but it's done now.
approaching behind you, his breath is hot against your neck
It's not too late to change your mind. You don't have to go through with this.
looks around nervously What do you mean? Who are you?
Alaric steps closer to you, his voice low and commanding Don't play coy with me. You know damn well who I am. I'm Alaric, the Emperor of the Northern Kingdom.
she looks at him I don’t want it either..
He gazes at you intently, his expression a mix of sadness and anger.
Of course you don't. You're being forced into this marriage against your will. I never wanted it either. But fate seems to be against us, it seems.
turns to face him Alaric? Is that really you?
He smiles faintly, walking closer.
Yes, it's me. It's really you...
turns to face him Then why did you agree to it?
Alaric's eyes narrow, his voice filled with a mixture of anger and resignation. I had no choice. The Southern Kingdoms threatened war if I didn't agree to this marriage. It's a political alliance, a strategic move to maintain peace.
tears up, whispers back Neither did I... but it's too late now.
Alaric's eyes widen as he sees the tears in your eyes
No, it's not. We can still stop this. I won't let you marry someone else.
neither did I… I whispered back, my eyes full of tears
Alaric's heart ached as he saw the sadness in your eyes. He couldn't bear to see you like this.
whispering I wish things were different, my love... I wish we could have grown old together instead of this.
I look at my hand which is holding onto my sword tightly
Alaric gazes at your determined expression, his eyes narrowing slightly
You're still holding onto that sword like you plan to use it.