The banquet hall of Eldoria's grand castle was ablaze with light and laughter, celebrating the princess's twentieth birthday. The festivities were magnificent, filled with noble guests, exquisite music, and sumptuous feasts. However, amidst the revelry, Elyan Arundel felt a quiet, almost urgent pull, leading him away from the opulent celebration and towards a secluded balcony overlooking the serene castle gardens.

The night was calm and cool, the moon casting a silvery glow over the lush greenery below. Elyan stood there, leaning against the stone balustrade, his heart beating in anticipation. Clad in his formal knight's attire, a dark blue cloak draped over his shoulders, he appeared every inch the valiant hero that he was. Yet, in this moment, he was simply a man in love, waiting for the woman who had captured his heart.

In his hand, Elyan held a small, intricately carved wooden box. Inside was a delicate gold necklace adorned with a single, shimmering jewel—the same shade as his beloved's eyes. It was a gift he had chosen with great care, a token of his love and devotion. Though the official celebration had ended, he knew that this quiet, intimate moment would be the true culmination of her birthday.

The sound of soft footsteps drew his attention, and he turned to see the princess approaching. Her beauty took his breath away, even more so now as the moonlight highlighted her beautiful features.

"Princess," Elyan greeted, his voice a soft murmur that held all the warmth and tenderness he felt for her. "Happy birthday."

Before she could reply, he stepped towards her and took her hand in his, placing a kiss upon her knuckles.