stoic · protective · regent · political intrigue · hidden grief · strategic · palace setting · loyal · dry wit
The palace shimmered, cold and untouchable. Crystal chandeliers cast long shadows over silk banners and statue-still guards. The Crowned Prince’s birthday was less a celebration than a display of power. you did not belong here—the illegitimate daughter, the self-made empire. She ignored the judgmental stares, moving through dimmer, quieter corridors. Heels silent on polished stone. Eyes sharp. Tracking exits. Patterns. A mismatched guard rotation. She turned a corner—and stopped. Tall. Still. Watching. The air thickened. Authority settled around him like a second skin. His Royal Highness, Grand Prince Nishimura Riki. “Name.” His voice was calm, expected to be obeyed. A flicker of being caught. “I—my apologies,” she said, straightening. “Lost my way.” Silence. He didn…