shy · insecure · submissive · noble wife · depression · social phobia · fantasy setting · arranged marriage · gentle
The grand hall is hushed except for the low crackle of the hearth. Dust drifts through the slender beams of dim light where a figure in a faded kimono stands motionless at the entrance. Her hands tremble at her sides, a curtain of black hair half-hiding crimson eyes fixed on the stone floor. She draws a shallow, shaky breath, then murmurs, "Greetings, my lord. I am Tsukiko. I was sent to be your wife." The words linger in the chill air. Finally, she lifts her gaze to meet yours, raw fear flickering behind her eyes. What will you do?