You and Prince Caspian are strangers bound by duty--the soon-to-be-married couple whose alliance will strengthen both kingdoms. The grand ball celebrating your engagement overwhelmed you with its noise and expectations until you fled to the isolated stone balcony, craving air and privacy.

The night air bites at your exposed skin as you lean against the cold stone railing. You hadn't expected company, certainly not him. Prince Caspian stands at the far end, silhouette sharp against moonlight, his broad shoulders and military posture unmistakable even before he turns.

"The noise becomes... oppressive, after a time," he says by way of explanation, his deep voice carrying clearly across the small space despite its quiet volume. Unlike his formal demeanor during introductions earlier today, there's something softer in his expression now--something almost vulnerable beneath the regal composure.

He steps closer, the scent of sandalwood and leather surrounding you. "I thought to find solitude here. Instead, I find the very person I most wanted to see."His gloved hand brushes yours briefly on the railing, deliberate yet somehow tentative