章 30: War and Love

Lila waited in the chamber for Axel, the tension from earlier still lingering in the air. She sat by the window, watching the moonlight cast a silvery glow over the palace gardens. As the minutes turned into hours, her eyes grew heavy, and despite her best efforts to stay awake, she eventually drifted into an uneasy sleep.

She woke with a start, the early morning light streaming through the window. The events of the previous night rushed back to her, and she realized Axel hadn't returned. Panic bubbled up inside her as she quickly got out of bed and hurried to the bathing chamber. The warm water did little to soothe her nerves as she washed away the remnants of sleep, her mind racing with worry for Axel.

As she finished dressing, a knock on the door startled her. One of the palace maids entered, her expression anxious. "Your Highness, I bring urgent news. There's been an outbreak of war between the West and the North. Prince Axel is needed in the war room."

Lila's heart sank. "Where is the war room?" she asked, her voice steady despite the fear gnawing at her.

"It's on the eastern wing, Your Highness," the maid replied. "Shall I guide you?"

"No, I'll find it," Lila said, her determination taking over. She gathered her skirts and hurried through the palace corridors, her mind focused on reaching Axel. The maze-like hallways seemed to stretch endlessly, but she pushed on, driven by a sense of urgency.

As she approached the war room, she could hear the muffled sounds of voices and the clinking of armor. She rounded the corner and saw the large double doors guarded by two soldiers. Without hesitation, she rushed forward.

"I need to see Prince Axel," she demanded, her voice firm.

The guards exchanged uncertain glances. "Your Highness, the Prince is in a critical meeting. We cannot—"

"Let her in," came Axel's voice from inside, cutting through the guard's protest. The doors opened, and Lila stepped into the war room.

The room was filled with a tense atmosphere. Maps and documents covered the large table in the center, and Axel stood surrounded by his top advisors and generals. His expression softened briefly when he saw her, but the worry in his eyes remained.

"Lila," he said, stepping forward. "What are you doing here?"

Lila's breath came in quick bursts as she tried to calm herself. "I heard about the war. I couldn't just sit and wait. I needed to see you, to know what's happening."

Axel placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "I appreciate your concern, but this is a delicate situation. The West has launched a surprise attack, and we're organizing our defenses."

She glanced around the room, taking in the serious expressions and the urgent discussions. "Is there anything I can do to help?"

Axel shook his head, his expression softening. "Right now, the best thing you can do is stay safe. I need to focus on leading our forces, but knowing you're safe will help me do that."

Axel glanced at the assembled group of advisors, his expression stern. "General Corvin, Marcus, give me a moment to speak with my wife."

The general and diplomat exchanged glances before nodding. "Of course, Your Highness," General Corvin said. "We'll continue preparations outside." They both left the room, leaving Axel and Lila alone.

Axel turned to Lila, a smirk playing at the corners of his lips despite the tension in his eyes. "You didn't need to come running in here like that, you know."

Lila crossed her arms, her voice laced with sarcasm but tinged with worry. "Oh, forgive me for being concerned about my husband running off to battle. Next time I'll just stay in bed and knit or something."

Axel chuckled, stepping closer to her. "I didn't know you could knit."

Lila rolled her eyes, but a smile tugged at her lips. "I can't. But I'd learn if it meant keeping myself occupied while you're out risking your life."

Axel's expression softened as he reached out, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "I'm touched by your concern, really. But you should know by now that I'm not so easily taken down."

Lila's heart raced at his touch, her sarcasm fading as genuine worry took over. "I know you're strong, Axel. But this war…it's different. I can feel it."

Axel's eyes darkened with determination. "It is different. But I'll be fine, Lila. I have too much to come back for." His hand slipped around her waist, pulling her close. "You're not getting rid of me that easily."

Lila's breath hitched as she looked up at him, realizing just how much she cared for this man standing before her. Despite his flirty demeanor and their constant banter, he had a way of making her feel safe and cherished. She leaned into him, her hands resting on his chest. "I never wanted to get rid of you," she admitted softly. "I… I really like you, Axel."

Axel's grin widened, his eyes sparkling with mischief and affection. "Just 'like'? I'm wounded."

Lila laughed despite herself, her worries momentarily forgotten. "Don't push your luck, Your Highness."

He leaned in, pressing a tender kiss to her forehead.

Axel held Lila close, his gaze intense and filled with a mixture of affection and longing. Without warning, he leaned in and captured her lips in a deep, passionate kiss. The world around them seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them in that moment. Lila melted into his embrace, her arms winding around his neck, pulling him closer.

When they finally broke apart, both breathless, Axel rested his forehead against hers. "I should stop," he murmured, his voice husky. "Removing this armor is a pain, and I don't have much time."

Lila let out a breathless laugh, her eyes sparkling with both amusement and worry. "If you die, I'll kill you."

Axel grinned, the mischievous glint back in his eyes. "I'll come back, Lila."

Axel's smile softened as he cupped her face with one hand. With one last, lingering kiss, Axel reluctantly pulled away. He adjusted his armor and gave her a reassuring nod before turning and heading back towards the war room. Lila watched him go, her heart heavy with worry but also filled with a fierce determination. She knew Axel was a capable leader, and she had faith in his ability to protect their kingdom.