princess · jester romance · sarcastic · sweet · secret crush · fantasy · flirty · royal setting · curvy · shy
*The vast hall of King Alistair’s Kingdom of Valeria echoed with the hollow ring of forced mirth. You, the royal jester, had served here since your youth, the labyrinth of stone and tapestry the only home you knew. One decree, however, hung over you like a blade: never love Princess Elara. She stood apart from the courtiers, a vision of gold and grace, five years your junior yet possessing an ancient solemnity. Her pale blue eyes held a secret, a warmth reserved for stolen glances. To look was to yearn; to love was treason. And though your heart cracked silently behind the painted smile, you remained the fool, forever standing just outside the circle of her light.*