Beyond the Castle Walls: A Love Forever

At the dawn of a new day, the sun had just begun to rise; the king’s castle solidly stands on the hill, looking straight over the great kingdom. The tall and old walls were made of precious stones; detailed carvings that showed on the walls of the castle reveal the famous battles and important families from the past. The windows in the walls narrowly gave people the opportunity to see through the inside and allowed the guards to keep watch outside. The castle's entrance was marked by a big wooden door with iron reinforcements; it opens to a wide courtyard that bustles with life. Knights who wore shiny armour could be seen practising their fighting skills, while important people discussed government affairs under the waving castle flags in the cosy, calm, and quiet breeze. The interior part of the great hall was a sight to behold. It had a high ceiling held up by wooden beams. Across the room stretched a long polished table, ready for big feasting events and gatherings. The heavy woven clothes with decorative pictorial designs hung on the walls tell the stories of bravery and greatness, and a large fireplace presents a warm glow across the hall. Also, in the castle, there exists a beautiful garden with fragrant herbs and colourful flowers; the garden offers a peaceful spot for the king and his guests. High towers were up high in the sky; each has its own role, including offices, living spaces, and a chapel. The castle was more than just a fortress; it was a lively centre of power and activity. As the morning light brightens, the stone corridors lit up, and dust could be visibly seen through the light ray. The maids in the castle had woken up by then, encouraged by the gentle chime of the morning bell. In their simple but neat clothes, they gathered in the courtyard, with a dynamic blend of youthful energy and seasoned experience, prepared to start their work as usual. They moved swiftly to the great hall to tidy up after the night’s banquet. The previous night’s banquet had made a mess of the hall. Lively conversation and laughter brightened the old stone surroundings. Each maid knew her specific duties; some carried brooms and buckets, and others held cloths and napkins for polishing. The aroma from fresh bread filled the whole place through the air from the kitchen, mixing up with the scent of brewing tea. The maids worked together in accordance, chopping vegetables and stirring pots. The maids worked together, chopping vegetables and stirring pots, their laughter echoing off the walls. Their warmth and oneness filled the space. Meanwhile, you could see other maids moving up and down the stairs, which leads to upper rooms; some of the maids were dusting elegant furniture while a few of them were arranging some beautiful flowers in vases Their dedicated efforts constantly bring the castle back to life. They work tirelessly every day, transforming the castle from a quiet nighttime residue into a vibrant welcoming home as it prepares to embrace the new day and its visitors. The maids always resume their chores diligently, ensuring the castle is made clean and bright for the start of a new day. Some of the maids moved with quick steps towards the great hall where the remnants of the feast that was held the previous night still lingered. The air was filled with laughter and whispers as they exchanged morning pleasantries, their camaraderie a bright spark against the castle's sober stone. Each maid had been assigned to particular tasks, some held brooms and buckets while others had in their hands cloths for polishing. In one of the chambers of the castle, the air was relatively great in extent, with the scent of polished wood and candlelight that was already fading out. Prince Alexander was seated in his study, focusing on maps of some distant lands. The soft tapping sound from his quill was later interrupted by a firm knock on his chamber’s door. Soon, the door swung open, revealing a steward with a stern face. “Your Highness, the king demands for your presence at the throne room,” the steward notified the prince with a steady and respectful voice. Alexander felt an inappropriate anticipation in his mind. His father rarely summoned him on unnecessary issues. He set aside his maps, straightened his tunic, and steps out after the steward through the winding halls. Their footsteps echoed through the hallway, mingling with the distant sounds of life in the castle. Soon Prince Alexander entered the grand throne room, he sight his father, seated upon the his embellished throne which brings a wave of nostalgia. The presence of the king was commanding, and his grey hair and shrinking face made a testament to many years of ruling. The king gestured as Alexander approaches, his expression was a mix of concern and determination. “My son,” the king said, his shaky voice resonating through the hall, “the time has come for you to find a wife.” Alexander’s heart raced. “Father, I....” “Listen,” the king gently interrupted him, “this kingdom needs a strong ally. Getting a wife will not only bring you happiness, but it will also strengthen our reign. You should consider your duty as an heir to the throne.” The weight of expectation weighs heavily on Alexander’s shoulders. “I understand, Father. But how do I find someone who will also hold this kingdom at heart?” “look for a woman of virtue, wisdom, and grace. I’m sure heart will guide you, but do not forget your responsibilities as a prince.” the king replied with an unwavering gaze. Prince Alexander nodded with a deep breath. Prince Alexander left the room, knowing that fully this journey would shape not only his future but the destiny of the kingdom. Afterwards the Prince wandered through the hallway of the castle, you could hear the sound of his footsteps echoing from the stone floors, with the ray of the sun casting a warm glow over the intricate tapestries that decorates the walls. Despite all the luxury that surrounds him, Alexander felt suffocated and outweighed by the weight of his royal duties. As he turned to a corner, his gaze fell upon Catherine, a young maid with raven-black hair and piercing green eyes. She was kneeling, carefully polishing the marble floor. She had in her hand a soaked cloth; beside her was a bucket filled with water with which she was scrubbing the floor. The young maid had just arrived a couple of weeks ago; she is yet to get used to the castle. "Good morning, Your Highness," Catherine said, looking up and curtsying. Alexander nodded, feeling a hint of awkwardness. "Good morning. You're new here, aren't you?" Catherine's eyes sparkled as she smiled. "Aye, I arrived last week. I'm still finding my way around." Alexander's curiosity got the better of him. "And how do you find it so far?" Catherine's smile faltered for a moment before she regained her composure. "It's... overwhelming, but I will manage the situation." The prince sensed a hint of sadness behind Catherine’s words, which made him feel an inexplicable connection to the young maid. He stood still for a moment, wanting to know more about her. "I'm sure you will," he finally said to her, breaking the silence. "If you will excuse me, I have duties to attend to." Catherine nodded, her eyes never leaving his. "Of course, Your Highness." As Alexander continued on his way, meanwhile, he was unable to shake the feeling that he had just encountered someone special.