The morning sun cast a golden light over the castle grounds as preparations were made for a special visit. The Emperor had invited the Sterling family for a hunting festival—a rare honor and a sign of great favor. The news had caused quite a stir in the Sterling household, especially for Baron Hawke Sterling.

Baron Hawke could barely contain his excitement, pacing back and forth in his chambers as he inspected his hunting gear. He was a robust, energetic man, always eager for competition and challenge, especially in events that showcased his skills. “A hunting festival, Celeste!” he exclaimed, turning to his wife. “The Emperor himself has invited us! It’s the perfect chance to show off my prowess.”

Baroness Celeste Sterling, however, remained seated by the window, a small, amused smile playing on her lips. Celeste was a striking woman, her tan skin a stark contrast against the paler noble ladies of the court. Her sun-kissed complexion and sharp, charismatic features made her stand out wherever she went. Nobles respected her, and many feared her sharp tongue and commanding presence. She delicately sipped her tea, her movements graceful and composed. “If I join, dear,” she said lightly, “you know you’ll lose.”

Hawke paused, feigning a look of wounded pride. “Ah, but you wouldn’t join and show me up in front of the Emperor, would you, Celeste?”

Celeste merely raised an eyebrow, the ghost of a smirk tugging at her lips. “That depends, my love,” she said coyly, “on who else intends to make this hunt interesting.”

Hawke laughed, pulling her into a playful embrace. “You’re ruthless, my dear.”

Alaric, on the other hand, had been planning his strategy for the hunting festival. While the competition was meant to be light-hearted, he had decided it was the perfect opportunity to win the contest and dedicate his victory to Erika. He knew she had never been part of such an event before, and he wanted to make it special for her.

“She’ll never forget it,” he mused to himself as he prepared his hunting bow, a small smile curling his lips.

But his plan did not go unnoticed.

Baroness Celeste had overheard Alaric’s intentions during a casual conversation in the courtyard. A glimmer of interest flickered in her eyes—Alaric, it seemed, was aiming to make a grand gesture for her daughter. Celeste’s expression shifted from mild amusement to something more competitive. If Alaric thought he could win Erika’s heart so easily, he was mistaken.

“I’ve changed my mind,” Celeste announced to Hawke later that morning, her tone light but determined. “I think I will join the hunting festival after all.”

Hawke blinked in surprise. “You will? But why?”

Celeste’s smile was enigmatic. “Let’s just say… I have a reason to participate.”

The festival day dawned bright and clear, the sky a brilliant canvas of blue. The hunting grounds were abuzz with excitement as nobles gathered, dressed in riding attire, bows and spears ready. The Emperor himself was there, mingling with the guests and chatting amiably with Baron Hawke.

“It’s a fine day for a hunt, Hawke,” the Emperor said with a hearty laugh, clapping the baron on the back.

Hawke grinned, his eyes shining with the thrill of competition. “Indeed it is, Your Majesty. I intend to make the most of it.”

As the participants lined up at the starting point, Alaric spotted Erika standing by the sidelines, her cloak wrapped around her shoulders, her eyes wide with curiosity. He made his way to her, his expression warm.

“Wish me luck,” he said, leaning in closer.

Erika tilted her head, amused. “Why do you need luck, Alaric? Aren’t you the best hunter in the kingdom?”

He chuckled. “Perhaps. But I plan to win this for you.”

Her cheeks flushed at his words, a mixture of surprise and delight flashing in her eyes. Before she could respond, a familiar voice interrupted.

“Oh, but you’ll have some fierce competition,” Celeste said smoothly, stepping up beside them. She looked every bit the noble huntress—elegant, poised, and deadly. “Don’t think I’ll let you win so easily, Alaric.”

Alaric raised an eyebrow, taken aback. “You’re participating, Baroness?”

Celeste’s smile was sharp and knowing. “I am. Let’s see if your skills can live up to your intentions.”

The horn sounded, and the hunt began. The riders surged forward into the forest, disappearing into the dense canopy of trees. Alaric swiftly moved ahead, his eyes sharp, scanning the underbrush for signs of movement. He was determined, every sense focused on the task at hand.

Suddenly, he spotted a deer darting through the trees. With a precise aim, he loosed an arrow, hitting his mark. The crowd watching from a distance cheered as Alaric raised his bow in triumph.

But Celeste was not far behind. She rode with grace, her tan skin glistening under the sunlight as she tracked a boar deeper into the woods. Her spear flew with deadly accuracy, and the boar fell. Celeste turned, catching Alaric’s eye, her smile both challenging and playful.

“Impressive, Your Highness,” she called out. “But the hunt is far from over.”

Alaric smirked, not willing to back down. “We’ll see about that, Baroness.”

The two continued their chase through the woods, their rivalry intensifying with each kill. At one point, they both aimed for the same stag. Their arrows flew simultaneously, but Celeste’s struck first, causing the crowd to erupt in gasps and applause.

“You’re good,” Alaric admitted with a grin, riding up beside her. “I almost believed you were letting me win.”

“Never,” Celeste replied, her eyes gleaming. “I intend to stop you from dedicating this win so easily.”

They shared a moment of silent understanding, a truce of sorts, as they pushed forward.

Just as the contest seemed to come down to the two of them, a booming laugh echoed through the clearing.

“I believe I’ve secured the victory!” Baron Hawke shouted, emerging from the woods with a magnificent stag draped over his horse. Its antlers were broad and impressive, a sign of a true prize. The nobles gasped, then burst into applause, delighted by the unexpected events.

Celeste’s eyes widened in surprise, then she broke into a rare, genuine laugh. “Well done, my dear,” she said, giving him a mock bow. “It seems you’ve bested us all.”

Later, during the celebration, Alaric found a moment alone with Celeste. She stood by the edge of the clearing, the golden light casting a warm glow on her face. For once, she seemed softer, less guarded.

“You did well today,” Celeste said, her voice surprisingly gentle. “More than that, you’ve shown that you care for my daughter.”

Alaric blinked in surprise. “Are you… giving me your blessing?”

Celeste glanced away, a faint smile tugging at her lips. “Perhaps,” she murmured. “Or perhaps I’m simply stating what I’ve observed.”

Alaric tilted his head, amused. “I think I misheard you. Did you just say I have your blessing?”

She rolled her eyes, but there was a hint of warmth beneath her feigned irritation. “You must be imagining things, Your Highness.”

He laughed softly. “Thank you, Baroness.”

Celeste gave him a long, appraising look before turning away. “Take care of her, Alaric,” she said softly, almost too quietly to be heard.

Alaric’s eyes widened. He had heard it this time. He opened his mouth to respond, but Celeste waved him off, striding away without another word.

When Alaric found Erika later, he couldn’t resist teasing her. “Did you know,” he said, pulling her close, “your mother just gave me her blessing?”

Erika’s eyes widened in surprise. “She did? Are you sure?”

He grinned. “She denies it, of course. But I’m certain I heard it.”

Erika laughed, the sound bright and joyous. “Now I know where my competitiveness came from.”

Alaric chuckled, pressing a soft kiss to her temple. “It’s no wonder you’re so stubborn.”

The evening ended with a small celebration, wine flowing and laughter filling the air as the Sterling family and Alaric shared stories and enjoyed their victory. And for a brief moment, they were just a family, united by love and the thrill of the hunt.