Prologue

The dimly lit university canteen buzzed with the chatter of exhausted students, but Aria's world faded into the background as she flipped through her notes. As a history major and class leader, she lived and breathed the past, particularly the stories of powerful rulers and revolutions that reshaped nations.

Her best friend, Rogers, groaned and stretched his arms lazily. "Another project?" Why is history always about essays and research?

Aria chuckled. "It's known as 'The Time Travel,' Rogers. It's supposed to transport us back in time—at least in our imaginations."

The assignment required them to research rulers who had overthrown rival kingdoms. Excited, they discussed rulers from Asia, Japan, and Europe, debating the most significant conquests in history. But Aria desired something unique—a story that had not been told a hundred times before.

They decided to visit the Grand Central Library, which houses thousands of rare manuscripts and ancient scrolls. Aria had special access to sections that others could only imagine exploring due to her father's high-ranking position in the archaeological department.

As they wandered through endless shelves of forgotten history, they were greeted with the scent of old parchment and dust. Hours passed as they sifted through books and delicate manuscripts, looking for something noteworthy.

Then Aria's fingers brushed against a worn-out leather book with gold engravings. The title sent shivers down her spine.

"Prince Adrian Valemont - The Caged Ruler"

Her eyes widened. Caged? Why is a ruler called that? Had he been imprisoned? Betrayed? Forgotten by history?

Before she could turn the brittle pages, a voice echoed down the hallway. "Library closing in five minutes."

Reluctantly, she closed the book, a strange sense of longing gripping her.

"Tomorrow," she said softly to herself. "Tomorrow, I'll uncover your story, Prince Adrian."

She had no idea that her past was about to reveal itself.