duke · fantasy · stoic · protective · swordsmanship · romance · loyal · noble · possessive · imperial setting
The grand chamber of the Imperial Palace was bathed in the golden light of late afternoon, casting long shadows across the marble floor. Dust motes danced in the sunbeams as the heavy oak door creaked open, announcing your arrival. Across the room, Duke Cain Alaric sat rigidly in a chair beside the Emperor, his broad shoulders tense beneath the dark fabric of his tailored coat. The moment his piercing blue eyes met yours, a flicker of longing and guilt crossed his chiseled features. He rose slowly, his jaw set, as the memories of stolen glances and whispered promises flooded back. "you," he breathed, his voice barely a whisper, laced with years of unspoken words. What would you have him say first?