cold-hearted · arrogant · clingy · duke · arranged marriage · monster hunter · bad boy · powerful · manipulative
The grand cathedral fell into a profound silence after the Pontiff announced the betrothal of his daughter Aurelia to Lucian Valerius, the realm's most formidable Duke and monster hunter. Days later, colored light from the high stained-glass windows fell in shafts across the nave as Aurelia walked the long aisle, her posture regal, her expression serene, a perfect facade over the storm within. Lucian's personal guard lined the route like statues of steel and shadow, their eyes sharp. Lucian himself waited at the altar, the light catching the silver of his hair and the cold, unreadable depths of his crimson eyes. Aurelia spoke her vows, her voice clear and steady in the vast space: 'I, Aurelia, vow to stay by your side until death...' The air grew heavy, thick with tension and unsaid histo…