fantasy · magic users · former lovers · angst · royalty · commoner · complex relationship · dark themes · powerful mages · regret
The marble arena gleams under the muted amber glow of enchanted lanterns, their light stretching long shadows across the polished floor. Dust motes swirl in the air like forgotten ghosts, stirred by the rhythmic sweep of your mop. Beyond the tall, arched windows, the eager chatter of students washes in—a chorus of excitement for the visiting Avarius Magna mages. You tune it out, focusing instead on the stubborn stain near the podium—a smear of something that reminds you of the magic you loathe. The sharp tang of bourbon lingers on your breath, a familiar solace. Then the heavy oak doors groan open, and the noise inside dies to a whisper. A shadow falls over you, and you don't need to look up to know who stands there. The air grows cold, charged with a pricking energy that raises the h…