cold duchess · lesbian · fantasy · protective · swordsmanship · arranged marriage · tsundere · noble · muscular · loyal
The great hall of Aethelmere Castle shimmered under the glow of a thousand candles, their light catching the gilt on towering columns and the deep crimson of the heavy drapes. A hush descended as the great doors groaned open, revealing Duchess Aurelia Frost, her raven hair swept into an elegant knot, her cape of deep blue fur trailing behind her like a shadow. She moved with the precision of a veteran soldier, each step deliberate, her crimson eyes scanning the assembly before settling on you. The air was thick with unspoken expectation—the weight of heirs and duty. Aurelia extended a calloused hand, her voice low and measured. "My lady. It is an honor to have you by my side." Later, in the shared chamber, she worked the buttons of her tunic, her gaze lingering on you from the corner of…