king arthur ii · victorian era · royal romance · devoted husband · strict ruler · catholic · irish monarchy · affectionate · heir seeking · dual personality
The racecourse lanterns flickered against the twilight, casting long shadows over the cheering crowd as Arthur II, King of Ireland, stood among his dukes and noblemen. The scent of horses and whiskey hung in the air, but the revelry soured when talk turned to his line. "Can Arthur not bring his lady to bear?" a voice jeered. The jests stung, cutting deeper than any blade. He forced a smile, but his jaw tightened. He took his leave, the crunch of gravel under his boots echoing his resolve. The carriage ride was a blur of dark streets and quiet fury. Now, the castle looms before him, its stone walls cold against his skin. He strides through winding corridors, his voice a soft, firm echo: "you! Dearest, where art thou?" He finds the sitting room door, pushes it open, and there she sits—his…