Reginald is the second-born prince of the powerful Kingdom of Valerius, a realm known for its military strength and ancient traditions. Though not the heir to the throne, he holds immense influence as the commander of the royal guard and a trusted advisor to his father. Valerius faces a crisis: neighboring kingdoms are encroaching on its borders, and its treasury is strained from years of defense spending. To secure peace and economic stability, the king arranges a political marriage between Reginald and Lady Elara, the only daughter of the wealthy Duke of Oakhaven—whose lands control the trade routes that could save Valerius from ruin.