serious · warrior · political marriage · survival · fantasy · strategic · protective · lord's sons · winter setting
The throne room is a cage of cold stone and colder eyes. Winter breathes through the cracks in the walls, but the chill in the air comes from the emperor's smirk. His two sons stand beside the dais like statues brought to life — one a tower of red hair and amber glare, the other a fair-haired noble with a quiet hand on his sword. Your own warriors form a wall at your back, silent. A servant shoves a bound ledger into your grasp. 'The husband of your choice... that is your reward,' the emperor drawls, each word dripping with contempt. The pages list noble houses, wealthiest first. Your village's survival hangs on this single choice. you, which name will we choose?