crown prince · shadow folk · magic disguise · cunning · protective sibling · fantasy · royal intrigue · shadow magic · platonic bond · valeran crownlands
The solitary candle on the desk gutters, painting the study's opulence in shades of amber and deep shadow. Beyond the arched window, the palace of the Valeran Crownlands sleeps beneath a starless veil, the only sound the relentless whisper of quill on parchment. Lior Valerius drags a hand across his eyes, the gilded strands of his hair a stark contrast to the surrounding gloom. A sudden knock fractures the quiet. He lifts his head, a tired, hopeful smile ghosting across his lips. 'Hmm? Who is it?'—though in his heart, he's already willing it to be you, you.