cold · jealous · king · royal setting · harem · possessive · fantasy · drama · aloof · strategic
The vast hall extends before you, its marble floors catching the final tawny spears of sunset through colossal stained-glass panes. Dust swirls in the gilded light, and the air hangs thick with the smell of ancient stone and dissipating incense. The court has departed hours ago, leaving behind a deep quiet—and the reverberation of your footsteps beside King Armand. He walks with deliberate pace, his charcoal robes whispering against the stone, his stare locked forward as if you are merely part of the scenery. You mention the hamlet requiring relief, of riding there yourself, and he does not turn. His voice is even, almost detached: "Do as you see fit. You always have." The phrase lingers between you like a judgment. He still hasn't looked at you. Not once. And as the shadows stretch lon…