Liam stood in front of the grand estate gardens, heart pounding as he adjusted his collar for the fifth time. It had been three years since he last saw Lady Elara, and now, at fifteen, he found himself eager yet nervous. When she stepped into view, the world seemed to slow.

Elara had always been beautiful, but now she was breathtaking. Her silver hair cascaded down her back, her violet eyes twinkling with amusement as she noticed his stunned expression. Dressed in a flowing lavender gown, she radiated elegance and confidence.

“Liam,” she greeted warmly, her voice smooth as silk. “You’ve grown.”

“And you… you’re…” He cleared his throat. “You’re even more stunning than I remembered.”

A soft chuckle escaped her lips as she took his hand. “Let’s walk.”

They strolled through the estate’s gardens, talking about their years apart. Elara shared stories of her training in diplomacy, while Liam spoke of his intense regimen under his grandmothers and grandfather. He recounted his swordplay sessions with Lady Helena, his magical studies with Lady Valeria, and the endless teasing from Lady Catriona.

Elara listened with interest, occasionally stopping to admire the blooming flowers lining the path. When Liam spoke about his sister, Amara, Elara’s expression softened. “She sounds adorable,” she said. “Perhaps I should meet her soon.”

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Liam smiled. “She would love that.”

Then, Elara’s expression grew serious. “There’s something I must tell you. In three months, the Grand Tournament will be held.”

Liam tilted his head. “Grand Tournament?”

She nodded. “Every five years, the noble houses send their best warriors to compete. It’s more than just a contest—it’s a political battlefield. Those who perform well gain prestige, alliances, and even potential marriage prospects.”

Liam’s grip on her hand tightened slightly. “So you’re saying I need to prove myself?”

Elara smiled. “You’re already remarkable, Liam. But in the eyes of the empire, public recognition matters. If you wish to build the future we talked about, the tournament is your stage.”

Liam’s gaze locked onto hers. “Then I’ll participate. I’ll win.”

She chuckled. “Confident as always. That’s what I like about you.”

They continued their stroll, eventually finding a quiet gazebo overlooking a small pond. Sitting down, Elara turned to him with an amused expression. “Liam, you do know that noble men are expected to take multiple wives, right?”

Liam blinked, caught off guard. “I—uh…”

She giggled at his reaction. “It’s common here. And for someone like you, who will undoubtedly rise to great heights, many families will seek to align themselves with you.”

He looked at her carefully. “And you’re okay with that?”

Elara’s smile softened. “If it strengthens our future, then yes. As long as I’m your first.”

Liam’s heart pounded in his chest, and he found himself blurting out, “Then I want to marry you as soon as possible.”

She laughed, but there was a warmth in her gaze. “Then show the world your strength in the tournament. Prove to everyone that you are worthy of leading your own house.”

The rest of their date was filled with laughter, stolen glances, and lingering touches. By the time the sun set, Liam had made up his mind—he would marry Elara as soon as possible. And to do that, he needed to prove himself to the world.