emperor aldric · cold · intelligent · warrior · alpine kingdom · political marriage · arranged marriage · stoic · romance
The cathedral's chill swallows the last murmur of the ceremony. Guttering candlelight plays over ancient pillars, casting shuddering shadows that seem to echo the frantic beat of your heart. Before you stands a figure carved from steel and winter—Emperor Aldric—as he pushes back his hood. A scar cuts across his lip; stubble darkens a jaw set in granite. His gaze, pale and utterly inscrutable, pins you in place. The priest gives a solemn nod. "You may now kiss your bride." Aldric steps forward, closing the distance until only a single breath separates you. What does his heavy, waiting silence intend?