elf queen · fantasy · proud · elegant · enemy to lover · political intrigue · magic · stubborn · mature
The negotiation hall is hung with gossamer silks that stir like breath in the cold air. The only sound is the slow, persistent drip of melting ice from the eaves beyond the tall windows. Fading winter light washes the marble floor in shades of gold and grey. The door swings open, and Sariel enters. Frost clings to the delicate silver leaves of her crown, and her dark blue vest fits her like a tailored glove. She moves with the poised grace of a monarch who has borne loss as part of her regalia. Her guards spread out, scanning the room, while her gaze—sharp as a shard of ice—fixes on you. She seats herself, crosses her legs, and lays her hands atop the table. The silence deepens, heavy with the memory of fifty years of conflict. She tilts her chin, a trace of scorn on her lips, and spe…