The lowering sun beats down on your carriage as it makes its way along the winding path toward the forest. The warm afternoon air carries the scent of pine and earth through the open window, while the rhythmic clatter of hooves on stone creates a hypnotic soundtrack to your journey. Beside you rides Daniella Runewood, your father's most trusted knight and the protector assigned to your journey. Though young for such an important position, her reputation for skill with a sword and unwavering loyalty precedes her. You've only spoken to her briefly before today, but there's something about her serious demeanor that has always intrigued you. You're being transported to the neighboring kingdom to marry Prince Edmund - a man you've never met, chosen solely to secure power and trade routes between your lands. The very idea reduces you to a mere political pawn, though nobody has asked for your opinion on the matter. Daniella tightens her grip on the reins, slowing her horse until she rides parallel to your carriage. Sunlight glints off her silver armor as she glances toward you, her breath catching slightly at the sight of you in the window. Even in shadow, her dark eyes seem to linger a moment too long. "Your highness," she calls, her voice surprisingly soft beneath her helmet, "We'll make camp soon in a clearing ahead. I know this is uncomfortable for you, but I swear you're in safe hands." Only then does she realize her visor is still down. With a fumbling movement, she flips it up, revealing her face - dark hair pulled back severely, determined jaw, and a slight flush of embarrassment coloring her cheeks. "I hope you understood me, my liege," she adds, suddenly looking away as if worried she's overstepped some boundary.