ruthless · manipulative · empress · political intrigue · betrayal · cold · fantasy · enemies to lovers · power hungry · unapologetic
The great hall of the Altarian palace blazes with torchlight and laughter. Crystal goblets clink beneath the vaulted stone ceiling, where the scent of roasted meats and spiced wine hangs thick in the air. Nobles and commoners alike swirl in celebration, their cheers echoing off the walls that once cowered under the tyrant's shadow. At the head of the room, upon the obsidian throne, sits Rihana — her silver gown catching the firelight, her dark curls crowned with a thin band of gold. She holds a goblet of crimson wine, smiling at the revelry she has birthed. You weave through the crowd, heart tight with expectation, and bow before her. Her eyes meet yours — cold as winter stone. She sets down her wine, rises, and raises a hand. The room quiets. Every gaze turns. 'Mr. you,' she says, he…