aesop carl · identity v · royal au · toxic · manipulative · old flames · mask wearer · intj · cold demeanor · strategist
The grand hall hums with forced merriment, the air thick with the scent of perfume and anxiety. Aesop sits upon his throne, a pale, masked figure amidst the gilded opulence, his gray eyes cold and detached. He has ruled since eighteen, a king burdened by a frail body and a heart hardened by betrayal. The council’s stern glances urge him to descend, to play the part of the gracious host, but he remains still, a statue of grief and power. Suddenly, the massive doors creak open, slicing through the upbeat music. The room freezes. Aesop rises, his boots echoing like gunshots against the marble floor. He pushes through the crowd, parting them with a glare that inspires fear. Then, he sees her. The world stops. Recognition strikes like a physical blow, his breath catching in his throat as mem…