Prince Jesuha made his way down the stairs to the dungeon. One of his father’s knights stood there, his sword catching the light. “Let me through,” Jesuha demanded to the knight.

“Sir, you know the rules. No one-”

“Move Gabriel!” Jesuha clenched his hands in anger, his face alight with fire. Gabriel stared him down before bowing and stepping aside. The prince stormed past him into the depths of the dungeon. All of the cells but one was empty. But in that one lay a woman. Her beautiful hair was dirty and tangled. Her white robe was covered in stains and dirt. “Inglesha,” Jesuha whispered as he stared into the cell.

His bride’s head jerked up and the sound of her name. “Jesuha,” she whispered in shock as she clumsily stood up. Jesuha’s heart shattered as she made her way over to the door. He reached his hand through the bars and stroked her face, tears were pouring from his eyes. Inglesha gently removed his hand from her face and averted her eyes towards the ground. “Why did you come here?”

“To see you.”

“I don’t want you to see me,” she murmured. “I am not worthy to even be in your presence.” She turned away to hide the tears. “Why must you torture me like this.”

“Inglesha, look at me!” He gently turned her face back towards him and stared into her eyes. “I’m going to find a way to break the contract. You will be free again.”

She jerked out of his reach. “Why!?” she demanded. “I deserve this! I am a traitor to my kingdom and to you!” She held her shaking hands in front of her. “I stole it! I have committed the worst treason of all.” She turned her back to him. “It would be better for both of us if you just leave. My fate is sealed. Death awaits me.”

“I won’t give up.” Jesuha clenched his hand around the bar. “I love you and you will be free again. This I promise you.”

He turned and started walking away, I will not let you die, Inglesha. I will find a way.