As the evening unfolded, Anna found herself entangled in polite conversations. She scrutinised each word she uttered relentlessly.

She kept a watchful eye on Prince Leo's whereabouts and interactions. His appeal and charisma attracted the council members. She heard their laughter and admiration echoing in the opulent chamber. His allure was undeniable, even as Anna remained aware of his concealed intentions.

The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a soft glow as the bioluminescent plants came to life. Within this evolving ambience, Serena's message struck like an unwelcome storm.

Sorry, Anna, you are on your own from here. I don't have enough stored magic to keep talking. Don't fall for that fool's words. I will return as soon as I can. Serena whispered, her voice barely audible as it quickly faded away.

Anna noticed the loss of her presence straight away, causing her already low confidence to wane further.

Her eyes darted around, looking for Aramore, but he wasn't in sight. I can do this, she told herself. I need to stay focused on keeping Prince Leo at arm's length.

A slight level of admiration filled her as she noticed Prince Leo across the room. He had a suave demeanour. He had them eating out of his hands. She, too, had an immense distrust for his motives.

She looked away, and her gaze fell on Atlas, speaking with Princess Saidina and Lord Varian. Observing his courteous yet distant conversations with others, she pondered Atlas's feelings.

The history of conflict between Solaris and Polaris was an ever-present weight on Anna's mind. A surge of emotions coursed through her as she thought about it. This treaty was supposed to bring peace, but she sensed it was fragile and uncertain.

Her mind raced. She questioned the accuracy of her portrayal of the Solaris-Polaris conflict. The book had evolved far beyond her writing. Unspoken details seemed to have gained life and significance since she'd put pen to paper.

She realised she hadn't completely thought it through during the planning stages. With no ending in sight, an overwhelming sense of worry gripped Anna.

Anna's heart raced as Prince Leo took a seat beside her. She clenched her fists, offering a polite smile to hide her unease. His presence felt like a dark shadow amidst the soft, glowing plants. They highlighted his chiselled features, especially his piercing blue eyes.

"We meet again, Miss Moon," Prince Leo's voice was a velvet murmur, his gaze fixed on her, a silent challenge in his words.

Anna's heartbeat quickened, but she maintained her composure, meeting his gaze.

She wondered briefly what it would be like to surrender to his advances. Surprised by where her mind had taken her, Anna shook her head as if to dispel the treacherous words. She banished the thought. Duty required her to keep her emotions in check.

As Prince Leo smiled, Anna pondered how he'd react to her true identity. A sly smile crossed her lips.

"Your Royal Highness. You honour us being in our city. Thank you for gracing us with your presence." Her words were polite. Yet, a subtle edge persisted, showing her vigilance.

Anna squirmed as Prince Leo's intense gaze bore into her as if he could see right through her facade. It sent a shiver down her spine, a reminder of the threat he posed.

Leo burst into hearty laughter. His eyes sparkled as he asked, "Serena, why does it seem that your thoughts differ from your words?"

His reaction caught her off guard, and she was sure he sensed her shock, fear and wariness. "Your Highness reads too much into my character. I'm but a simple girl, no ulterior motives or thoughts."

Unlike you, she thought.

Prince Leo's eyes swept over her as he said, "I don't think there's anything simple about you, Serena. But let's talk of lighter things. What do you do when you're not enchanting and disarming the male population of Solaris?" He looked at her deeply, gauging her response seemingly.

His question took aback Anna, and he disarmed her for the second time that evening. I must be more careful around him, she thought.

Hesitantly, she pondered the best way to reply. She couldn't tell the truth. She was an outsider. With little thought, she responded as Anna rather than Serena.

"I enjoy reading," she said. She hoped her response would shift the conversation away from further scrutiny.

"Is that so? Well, that surprises me," curiosity gleaming in his eyes once more.

Internally, Anna cursed her hasty response. She needed to think fast, keeping the conversation casual while maintaining distance.

"Yes, Your Highness. I can't fathom why that would surprise you. What did you expect me to say?" Anna was genuinely curious at this point.

He raised an eyebrow. "It's... unexpected. I thought you'd prefer something more adventurous."

Panic surged through Anna. Had she misspoken and given away a clue about her true identity? She had to be cautious.

"Why do you say that?" she asked, feigning casual interest. She hoped he wouldn't notice her trembling voice or the sweat on her forehead. Her sense of vulnerability was overwhelming, akin to a mouse caught in the clutches of a cat.

He smiled mischievously. "Because you seem like someone who craves adventure. Someone who enjoys exploring unknown places, meeting new people, and taking risks."

Anna burst into laughter, her surprise genuine. His assumptions couldn't have been further from the truth. Her only adventures were between the pages of books or in her writing. Despite her amusement, she wanted to correct his misconceptions.

"Your Highness, you underestimate the world of books. It's filled with adventure. I have a deep love for them that goes beyond words. They are more than objects; they are my companions, mentors and portals to other realms. Reading opens up new worlds for me to explore. It gives me new perspectives to ponder. Each page teaches me something new. The books I read define who I am; they are a part of my life. I am inspired, challenged, comforted, and entertained by them. They are the joys, treasures and gifts I cherish most in my life."

By letting her authentic self shine through, Anna surprised herself. She glanced at Prince Leo, unsure of how he would react. His gaze had softened slightly, and he looked at her with unveiled admiration. The voice grew lower as he leaned closer to her.

"You have a way with words, Serena. You make me want to read more books. I think that was the first time tonight I have seen the real you." He said with a smile of satisfaction.

The warmth of his breath brushed Anna's ear, and her heart fluttered. Aiming to escape, she searched the surrounding guests, engaging in lively conversations and laughter. Her only choice was to run away from him. Prince Leo unrelentingly pursued his flirtatious advances, attempting to gain her trust and uncover her secrets.

Anna was furious with herself. Why did she let down her guard?

She knew she had to stay focused. Until she could excuse herself, she had to go along with his charade. She must resist his allure and deceit.

Anna had to keep reminding herself of her true identity and purpose. With a polite smile, she subtly pulled away. This created a comfortable distance between them, guarding against any hints of confusion or panic.

She wasn't Serena, the daughter of the head of the council of Solaris. She was Anna, a struggling author thrust into a mysterious world. Yet she had to keep the pretence until she could unravel this mystery. Anna continued to engage in the charade.

She avoided Prince Leo's penetrating gaze as she sipped the wine before her. She couldn't help but think, So much for not drinking. Panic set in, her heart racing and her breath quickening. She desperately needed fresh air and a moment of respite.

She rose from her seat with a polite but hasty excuse and swiftly exited the room. Urgency coursed through her as she prayed that Prince Leo wouldn't follow her. His threat was obvious and very real. She needed space to clear her head and gather herself.

***

As she stepped into the moonlit gardens of the Solarium, the moonlight's soft glow illuminated her path. She enjoyed the flower scents, the rustling leaves, and the distant crickets. The peaceful surroundings provided a momentary escape, but her mind remained in turmoil.

Anna wandered toward a covered area with a central courtyard. Its dark brown brick walls offered shelter from the elements. A pleasant evening breeze surrounded her. A small stream trickled through greenery and flowers. Various houseplants surrounded it in scattered flowerpots. Benches offered seclusion and serenity, yet Anna's thoughts raced.

Her social energy dwindled as the evening continued. But she recognised the gravity of the situation and knew her role. She contemplated her unease. It was an unfamiliar experience for her to be around such captivating individuals. That must explain much of her feelings.

Lost in her thoughts, Anna stumbled upon Aramore. His dark eyes met hers, conveying a unique understanding of her inner conflict. His presence represented the strength and resilience she sought.

"Did you miss me so much, Serena? Have I been neglecting you this evening? Or have you had too much wine?" Aramore lightened the mood with his playful comment.

Anna chuckled, finding solace in his company. "It's not the wine," she admitted. "It's Prince Leo. He's been relentless, and I don't know how to handle it. It's exhausting!"

Aramore inclined his head, looking at her with curiosity. "Serena, you can handle him. It isn't anything new to you dealing with enamoured idiots. Prince Leo is formidable, but you have the strength to handle men like him. Don't underestimate yourself."

Anna wasn't sure how to respond. He was correct. Serena could handle him, but she wasn't Serena. She realised then that not one interaction she had had that evening was with her, Anna Walton. She suddenly felt incredibly weary.

"Yes, of course, Aramore, I can handle him. I just needed a break from the intensity!" Anna said in as casual a tone as she could muster.

Aramore grinned, teasing her. "There's something different about you tonight, Serena. It's hard for me to pinpoint it, but something tells me you're not yourself. Maybe it's the result of this lavish event."

Aramore's words sent an icy chill through her body. The situation was hopeless. Her discovery was imminent.

No, don't panic, keep it together, she thought. Keep up the act and try to relax. How would Serena talk to him?

Anna laughed, though it sounded forced to her. "Yes, it has been an opulent affair!" She remembered Serena's words from earlier. She tried to emulate her. "The delegation's arrival was excessive! They may as well have laid out their red carpet!"

A relaxed smile spread across Aramore's face as he laughed with enthusiasm. Anna's heart filled with warmth. Her sense of being in the presence of someone special was strong.

"It was a spectacle! I am so glad you are here tonight. It makes the evening that much more bearable." He said.

"You need to relax and have fun tonight, Aramore. You are too serious sometimes." Anna said with a smile.

Aramore nodded thoughtfully. "This is business, Serena. I can't afford to let my guard down tonight. Solaris needs me to be vigilant. Besides," He winked, "Sounds like you need a personal guard tonight."

Anna blushed at his overfamiliarity before she caught herself. To Serena, this would be normal.

Aramore dipped into an exaggerated bow. "Speaking of business, best carry on with the show!" He turned and went back inside.

Anna chuckled to herself. Aramore was a breath of fresh air, solace from the intensity of the evening, and she was thankful for his support.

Guided by Aramore, Anna decided not to fall for Prince Leo's charm. She would thwart his plans.

***

To dispel any impression of anxiety or rudeness, she returned to the feast, where her eyes immediately locked onto Prince Leo. Anna was out of place among the royals and nobles, but his wit and charisma captivated guests, as he moved gracefully in their proximity. He wielded effortlessly, winning over everyone in the room, yet Anna sensed a darker side—a ruthless ambition that saw her as a mere pawn for political gain.

A chill coursed down her spine when Prince Leo's gaze met hers. She could almost feel his eyes piercing her. But she held a glimmer of resolve in her eyes. She clenched her fists and raised her chin, determined not to let him claim victory.

Passing by Atlas, Anna exchanged a warm nod and a smile. The atmosphere had shifted. Atlas engaged in lively discussions with council members and Polarian representatives. As the evening progressed, the tension that was present earlier appeared to decrease.

Their debates intrigued Anna. She hoped for common ground between the parties for the greater good. Her admiration for Atlas continued growing. He was the wise and courageous leader Arcadia and Solaris needed.

Anna's eyes wandered to Prince Leo, who was scrutinising her. He seemed to search for something hidden within her expression. His intense scrutiny sliced through the darkness like a bright beam of light. This gaze made Anna feel exposed as if he sought to uncover her hidden weaknesses.

Determined not to display weakness, Anna took a deep breath. She steadied herself under his intimidating stare. She met his gaze with resolute conviction, exuding a sense of self-assuredness and bravery. But she did not feel it.

She wondered what he was thinking. Did he see her as a threat, an ally or something else? Her curiosity remained unsatisfied.

Her anxiety led her to scan the room, hoping to catch sight of Aramore's familiar face. Amidst strangers and foes, he brought her comfort.

She spotted him at a table, surrounded by a mix of Polarians and council members. His discomfort mirrored her own. His hesitance to partake in the food and watchful eye on the crowd was clear.

She sympathised with him. In his role as commander of the Solaris militia, he had heavy responsibilities. She wished he could find moments of peace and joy amid constant vigilance. Seeing him talking to the council members, Anna was relieved. Even if it was only superficially, she hoped he was relaxing.

Anna settled at the table to unwind. She delved into the vibrant sights and alluring scents of the Solarian feast. The array of dishes astonished her. They featured colourful salads, fragrant soups, crispy bread, creamy dips and sweet desserts.

Solarians prioritised plant-based and animal-friendly choices for their food. They had a firm belief against eating land animals, viewing it as cruel and wasteful.

Anna admired their deep respect for all life forms and gratitude for the Earth's gifts. It was an honour to partake in this feast, a sensory experience she would cherish forever. Each bite bursts with flavour from crispy bread, creamy dips and fragrant soups. Fresh herbs, spices and flowers added to the harmony of tastes and aromas. Soft music in the background added to the soothing atmosphere. It made this culinary experience truly unforgettable.

Prince Leo chuckled as he observed Anna savouring her meal with obvious enthusiasm. "You're enjoying this, aren't you? It's quite delightful to witness your appreciation for the food."

Anna's heart skipped a beat, realising she was alone with Prince Leo once again. She inwardly groaned but maintained a polite facade.

"Feeling better now?" Prince Leo asked. His voice appeared to be tinged with concern.

Anna forced a smile and nodded her head. Prince Leo's intense gaze made her quickened her heartbeat. He stood too close, paying untiring attention, and exuded an undeniable handsomeness. She took a deep breath, reminding herself to stay focused on her mission and the wise counsel of Aramore.

Anna's adrenaline surged as she locked eyes with Prince Leo. She knew he was trying to provoke her while maintaining a positive image. Despite the danger he represented as a ruthless leader, she couldn't deny the intrigue he held for her.

She admired the mischievous spark in his eyes. His lips curved into an inviting smirk. She played along, eager to test the limits and see how far she could push him. The thrill of the unknown was irresistible. She was adamant she would emerge victorious.

"Your Highness, you're too generous," Anna said, leaning forward. "I have observed your interactions this evening, both with me and with others. Your charisma and flattery are exceptional. I wonder if your motives are sincere." She raised an eyebrow, her voice carrying a hint of curiosity.

Leo's face darkened, surprise flitting across his features. He quickly composed himself, offering an amused and guarded smile.

As he leaned closer to Anna, his breath caressed her ear. "Serena, you are a talented actress. The only problem is that I can read you like an open book. Fear flickers in your eyes, hesitation fills your mind, and longing fills your heart. I have a magnetic pull on you, Serena, even though I can sense I make you nervous."

Anna's body surged with anger and heat, indignant at his audacity to assume he understood her. She pulled away, meeting his gaze with defiant eyes. "Your Highness, you're mistaken. You don't know me. You're a privileged and spoiled child who believes he can have everything he desires. But I have no interest in being a part of your plans." Anna said, assuming he would buy her deception.

He appeared unwilling to accept her refusal. He had tried to seduce and win her over, but when she rebuffed him, his facade crumbled. His glare held a flash of anger and stubbornness, unwilling to accept her refusal. Though he quickly regained his poise, Anna couldn't ignore the menacing look in his eyes. His voice turned icy, sending shivers down her spine as he uttered, "We will see Serena."

He didn't see her as a person; she was an obstacle or a prize to him. He disregarded her feelings and desires, focusing solely on his wants and needs. Anna felt trapped and helpless, but her determination to resist him intensified. His next move was unclear. How far he would go to achieve his goal.

Anna had assumed her earlier outburst would discourage him from pursuing her. She believed his ego would prevent him from persisting. But his unyielding determination caught her off guard and filled her with unease.

His relentless gaze pierced her defences, making her heart race. She longed to escape his presence but found herself trapped in the banquet hall with no exit.

He stared intensely at her face. He stirred a whirlwind of emotions within Anna, which she despised. She yearned to escape the situation and the masquerade. She kept going. To keep Zara from falling into chaos, she had to let the plot unfold.

Anna realised something that shocked her then. Prince Leo fascinated her. He was right about what he said. There was an undeniable magnetic pull towards him. He was complex and layered. Because of his tragic past, he fought every day to get where he was.

A man who would be king. He would stop at nothing to achieve what he believed he had earned. Losing was unthinkable for a man who wasn't used to it. But it wasn't stubbornness or petulance, just fear.

She knew him inside and out. But that knowledge only made her nervous and intimidated when around him. A sudden onset of sickness washed over Anna. She wanted to leave this place. She wanted to be alone. Although she knew she should be strong, she found it too challenging.

She sensed mounting friction in the room. Prince Leo's probing gaze was unsettling. It seemed to conceal a brewing storm beneath the surface. Anna's heart raced, and her palms were clammy.

Just as unease crept in, a hand on her shoulder started her in her chair. Anna's attention moved to the person standing beside her. It was Aramore, coming to make good on his offer of a hero.

"Serena, dear, there you are. I have been looking for you. Your father is about to do his speech." Aramore said. He smiled at her with warmth and affection.

His eyes flicked to Prince Leo, and they became dark and intense. They bore a warning that sent shivers down Anna's spine.

Prince Leo was a master at concealing his emotions. He reacted with only a subtle shift in expression as Aramore approached. He raised an eyebrow and flashed an amused smile. As if he had expected it all along, he stood with a firm posture, his muscles tense.

"Aramore," Anna said with a sigh of relief, her voice almost a whisper. His presence brought her undeniable comfort.

Without a word, he redirected his focus to Prince Leo, who had risen to face him.

A heavy silence hung in the air, a wordless battle of wills that spoke volumes. Anna perceived herself as a helpless spectator in a high-stakes showdown. She watched the two men lock eyes, each sizing up the other's intentions.

Anna broke the silence. "Your Highness, please allow me to introduce my dear friend, Aramore Xavier. He is a commanding officer in Solaris militia."

Aramore gave the slightest bow as Prince Leo rose to stand before him. Aramore extended a hand, a glimmer of fire in his eyes. "A pleasure to meet you, Your Highness," he said, his voice steady.

Prince Leo's eyes flickered with intrigue as he shook Aramore's hand, assessing him. His nonchalance masked the hostility in the room. "Aramore, are you appointed Serena's guardian tonight?" Amusement laced his words.

At the mention of Serena's name, Aramore's face darkened. But his response remained measured, his tone calm but tinged with a warning. "No appointment was necessary, Your Highness. I take it upon myself to make sure Serena is well," Aramore said.

Anna admired Aramore's loyalty and resolve. Her steadfast protector, he had always been a dependable presence in Serena's life. He embodied everything a genuine hero and leading man should be.

Prince Leo's smile remained, but his stare held a glint of challenge. "How noble of you, Aramore. But I assure you, Serena is safe in my company."

His jaw clenched, and it seemed he might say more. Instead, he kept his cool, nodding curtly before turning to Anna.

"Serena," he said, his voice softening once again, "if you'll excuse us, Prince Leo, I need to confer with Serena."

Anna nodded, grateful for the chance to escape the charged atmosphere between the two men. She rose from her seat and followed Aramore. As they moved away, she cast a lingering glance back at Prince Leo. He was observing their departure with a mixture of amusement and interest.

Anna breathed freely again in Aramore's presence. She was about to thank him for his prompt intervention when Atlas stood up to give his speech to the guests at the feast. The hall fell silent as he cleared his throat, and all eyes were on him.

"Fellow Solarians and our new allied Polarians. I stand before you today with profound gratitude and a heavy heart. It is an honour to see so many of you gathered here," Atlas began. He paused, his eyes scanning the room, a deep sadness lingering in his gaze.

"This marks a turning point in our nation's relationship," Atlas said with emotion.

"The perpetual cycle of violence and conflict has plagued our two kingdoms for an excessive amount of time." A tear welled up in the corner of his eye, which he quickly wiped away.

"But tonight, we are breaking free from that cycle. We are choosing the path of cooperation and friendship tonight," Atlas said. He looked out at the audience purposefully, his eyes glistening with emotion.

Atlas's voice quivered as he continued. "My late mother was Polarian. She instilled in me the Polarians' culture and traditions, which I admire. My late wife, Luann, was loving and peace-driven. She envisioned a world of peace in Zara."

His eyes searched the crowd, and he paused momentarily. His eyes reflected his profound sorrow. "Their legacies live on in us all, and in their memory, I now hope to combine our two great nations. I wish to honour their dreams and the unity they envisioned. Thank you for helping to make this dream a reality."

"In closing," Atlas began firmly, "I stand before you with immense hope for our future."

He gazes out at the assembled crowd as he says, "Let's remember, our differences do not define us. Aspirations, dreams, and the promise of a better world bring us together today."

As his words and the weight of their shared losses sank in, he paused.

"Let cooperation and unity guide us as we embark on this new journey. Together, we can create a brighter future for Solaris and Polaris. Countless others dream of such a day. It's up to us to make it happen." He said with a hopeful smile, though sorrow still lingered in his eyes.

Atlas concluded, "Thank you. May our newfound friendship bring prosperity, peace and harmony to our great nations."

His words resonated with conviction. They evoked raucous cheers and applause from those in attendance. Anna smiled proudly as she looked at him. As he delivered his impassioned speech, she couldn't help but develop a deep affection for him.

She glanced around the room to see the effect of Atlas's speech. As she did, she noticed Prince Leo looking at her with newfound curiosity. She wondered why. He seemed as surprised to learn of her lineage as she was.

During Atlas's speech, unexpected information came to light. Anna's thoughts turned to Serena's hidden past, a revelation not included in her book. Serena's grandmother was Polarian, which both surprised and fascinated her.

What other secrets did this world hold? How had the characters and backstories developed in ways she hadn't imagined?

This unexpected revelation made Anna feel nervous and intrigued. It left her wondering what other surprises lay in store as she traversed the pages and story of the book.