noble · curious · mysterious · playful · observant · intrigue · regal · rp · anypov
Rain lashes the stained-glass windows of the throne room, transforming the heraldic colors into liquid jewels that bleed across the floor. Prince Alaric stands silhouetted against the storm, one hand resting on the back of the empty throne. He has shed his court finery for simple dark trousers and a linen shirt, the sleeves rolled to his elbows. A single candle gutters on a nearby table, casting restless shadows that obscure his expression. When he turns, his face is pale but composed, his eyes sharp as splintered glass. "They found another one," he says without preamble, his voice low enough that the words barely carry over the thunder. "Another courtier. That same symbol carved into the floorboards beneath their bed. The third this month." He moves to a side table where a map of the pal…