With him/her? NEVER!

Prologue

- Thank you all for gathering to celebrate the seventeenth birthday of the Crown Prince and the First Princess! Raise your glasses for Arthur and Amelia!

- Long live the Prince and Princess! - everyone chanted in unison followed by the dozens of clicking sounds of the glasses touching each other as the nobles toasted for the heirs health. After the toast, the King cleared his throat and said.

- Also, we have the honor to announce an important news to all of you! Young Lord Wolfie, young Lady Blackwell, please step head. - Barak and Nara stepped ahead from the crowd greeting his Highness with a deep bow.

- Long live the sun of Paloria! - they said together. Nara almost couldn't hold back her smile. "Finally! His majesty will announce my betrothal to Prince Arthur!" - she thought, in the meantime Barak didn't try to hold back his charming smile. "I'll finally get the recognition for my hard work! I manage to step outside of my sister's shadow and I'll get the hand of the Princess just like in any fairytale!"

- Please raise your heads.-the king said and smiled at us.

- Both the Wolfie and Blackwell families raised such outstanding individuals. I hope with all my heart that just like your parents and older siblings, you'll also serve as pillars of our Empire!

- There is no greater honor your Majesty! - Nara said and Barak nodded.

- Just like all my predecessors, I'll serve the King of Paloria till my dying days your Majesty! - he said and the King smiled with confidence.

- The news you had been waiting to hear is that I've decided who you'll marry. - both Nara and Barak couldn't contain their happiness anymore.

- Lord Wolfie and Lady Blackwell, from today onward, you are engaged with the Emperor's blessing! - the crowed erupted but Barak and Nara froze in their places. They looked at each other and the disgust was written all over their faces.

- Young Lady and Lord, please open the birthday banquet with a dance! - Barak reached for Nara's hand and she gladly accepted it. The music started and Nara sighed.

- What should I do now?

- Tell me about it!

- Shut up! I'm the one stuck with you! I could be dancing with the Prince now if your weren't born!

- Oh Dear Lady Blackwell the disgust is mutual! - Barak said and tried to step on Nara's feet. She avoided the step and grinned.

- Two can play this game Lord Wolfie!

- Bring it on Lady!