Word of the imperial decree swept through the estate like a storm, leaving ripples of tension and disbelief in its wake. Liam, Rylan, and Kael each received the news with their own blend of shock and indignation. As protectors, confidants, and suitors, the thought of Lilian bound to a man she did not choose—especially under such coercive circumstances—was unacceptable.

Rylan, his knighthood still fresh and his sense of justice inflamed, took it upon himself to confront Crown Prince Adrian directly. With his armor clanking softly with each determined step, Rylan made his way to the royal barracks where Adrian was known to train. Finding Adrian overseeing a practice match, Rylan’s approach was swift and his greeting, terse.

"Your Highness," Rylan began, his voice taut with barely restrained anger. "I must speak with you about the decree to bind Lady Lilian to you in marriage."

Adrian turned, his expression one of mild curiosity. "Sir Rylan, isn't it? Newly knighted and already stepping into court politics. Speak then."

"This decree—it’s not just," Rylan asserted, his stance rigid. "Lilian deserves a choice in her future, not a mandate. I urge you to reconsider this, for her sake and for the peace it will disrupt."

Adrian’s eyes narrowed slightly, his interest piqued by Rylan’s audacity. "My decision? You misunderstand, knight. The decree comes from the Emperor, my father. And why should I relinquish a union that strengthens my position? I have my eyes on Lilian’s talents, her power. It’s not just her, it’s the alliance with the First Dukedom that benefits the Empire."

Rylan clenched his fists, the metal of his gauntlets creaking. "It’s a manipulation, not an alliance," he countered. "You're using her, and it’s unworthy of her or your station."

Adrian laughed, a sound devoid of humor. "You speak boldly for someone in your position. My mind is set. The marriage will proceed. I suggest you temper your emotions, Sir Knight."

With the conversation yielding nothing but further frustration, Rylan departed, his resolve turning to a simmering fury. This battle was not over, and his loyalty to Lilian only deepened.

Meanwhile, Liam sought out Lilian, finding her in her favorite part of the gardens, her expression distant and contemplative. His approach was gentle, his demeanor somber. "Lilian," he began, his voice soft, "I heard about the decree. I... I don’t know what to say except that I’m here, for whatever you need."

Lilian managed a small smile, touched by his concern. "Thank you, Liam. Just having a friend right now means more than I can say."

They spent the afternoon together, walking the garden paths, discussing everything and nothing. Liam’s presence was a quiet comfort, a reminder of simpler times and the friendship that had always supported her.

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Kael, on the other hand, was consumed with a mix of helplessness and rage. Unable to confront the prince as Rylan had, he instead focused on supporting Lilian in his own way. Later that day, he joined her and Liam, bringing with him a book of ancient lore that Lilian cherished. "For distraction, and maybe some inspiration," Kael offered, trying to bring a lightness back into her eyes.

Lilian appreciated Kael’s efforts and the moments of normalcy he brought. "Thank you, Kael. Really, having you both here—it helps more than you know."

As twilight deepened, casting a serene glow over the gardens of the estate, Lilian, Liam, and Kael gathered in the quiet library, a place where Lilian often sought refuge in her thoughts and studies. The room, with its towering shelves and the comforting scent of old books, felt like a sanctuary against the storm brewing outside their doors.

Liam, seeing the troubled look lingering in Lilian’s eyes, gently nudged the conversation towards lighter topics, attempting to draw her out of her spiraling thoughts. “You know, Kael, maybe we should start preparing Lilian for court life. I’ve heard the capital’s parties require not just grace but cunning and an excellent sense of fashion. Perhaps we should start with a mock court session right here.”

Kael picked up on Liam’s cue, a small smile playing on his lips as he played along. “Indeed, we might also need to teach her some advanced negotiation techniques, especially on how to deal with pompous princes who think too highly of themselves.” His tone was light, but his glance towards Lilian was full of unspoken support.

Lilian chuckled, grateful for their efforts to cheer her up. “Oh, so now you’re both my royal tutors? I expect only the best lessons then. Maybe start with how to properly throw a royal tantrum. I hear that’s an essential skill for any princess.”

Their laughter filled the library, echoing off the walls and for a moment, diluting the heaviness that had settled around them since the decree. They continued in this vein for a while, discussing outrageous courtly fashions and even more ridiculous court protocols, each absurdity bringing a brighter smile to Lilian’s face.

However, as the laughter died down, the reality of their situation crept back in. Rylan joined them, his face set in grim lines after his confrontation with Adrian. “I spoke to the prince,” he announced, his voice tight with controlled anger. “He’s determined to go through with this marriage. Thinks it will bind Lilian’s powers to the empire’s service.”

Lilian’s expression hardened at this news. Her momentary cheer faded, replaced by a resolve that sharpened her features. “Then we need a plan. Not just to delay, but to protect what’s mine—and that’s my right to choose my own path.”

Kael nodded, his analytical mind already turning over possibilities. “We could look for loopholes in the decree, or perhaps appeal to the council’s advisors for support. There are those at court who owe us favors, who value stability over ambition.”

Liam placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. “We’re with you, every step of the way. You’re not facing this alone, Lilian. We’ll find a way out of this.”

The group spent the rest of the evening strategizing, pouring over old legal texts and council decrees, looking for anything that might offer a reprieve or an alternative. Their discussions stretched late into the night, every member contributing ideas and support.

As they finally adjourned, weary but resolute, Lilian felt a profound sense of gratitude for her friends. The road ahead was daunting, but with Rylan’s passion, Liam’s kindness, and Kael’s wisdom by her side, she felt ready to face whatever challenges the royal decree might bring. They were more than just her protectors or suitors; they were her staunchest allies in the court of life, her truest companions in every battle she must face.

Together, they would stand against the storm, their bonds of friendship and loyalty their strongest defense, and perhaps, their most powerful weapon.