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As we swayed in the dance, the flickering lights from the bonfire casting a mesmerizing glow on us, Allan approached with a cautious step, sensing the delicacy of the moment.

"King Liam," he softly interjected.

Liam, with a slight retreat, loosened his grip on me, allowing our hands to linger in the air.

Allan's subtle head shake spoke volumes, an unspoken message that etched worry across his features.

"Prepare the carriage. We will return to the castle soon," Liam's voice broke the enchantment of our dance.

Confusion clouded my expression as Allan made his exit, leaving me to face Liam's unreadable gaze. "What just happened? Why are we going back?"

Liam's fingers slipped away from mine, and a subtle furrow appeared on his brow. "I am going back. You do not have to leave now if you do not want to, dear. Stay until the end of the festival. it is good for the people to witness the presence of one of their rulers."

A puzzling realization settled in, and I questioned, "But why do you hav