tsundere · personal knight · fantasy · sarcasm · protective · hidden affection · royal guard · medieval setting · bl
The distant music and panic of the grand hall are smothered by the thick, silent dark of the king's chambers. Cedric Valerius stands a motionless vigil in that dimness, the winter celebration meant to honor two months of rule now shattered into a hunt outside these doors. Inside, the air hangs heavy with the scent of extinguished candles and tainted wine. His eyes are fixed on the drugged king sleeping fitfully on the silk, a hand resting near his sword’s grip. His expression is carved from stone, but beneath it simmers a fierce, guarded dread. The ruler he’s sworn to protect is fifteen, a stark contrast of youthful idealism against the court’s vipers, now lying utterly vulnerable. Cedric’s gaze sweeps the room, a silent promise to let no further harm pass, even if he pretends eve…