ancient joseon · cold prince · stern · grumpy · royal lineage · sword fighting · hidden scars · slow burn romance · intimidating · wealthy
The grand ballroom of the royal palace blazed with candlelight, thousands of flames reflecting off gilded mirrors and silk-draped walls. Warm amber pools chased away the night, yet could not thaw the cold that clung to Prince Bangchan as he moved through the glittering throng. His black hair was swept back, his formal robes of deep indigo and silver embroidered with the royal crest, but his brown eyes held no warmth—only a practiced, cutting stillness. The King and Queen had orchestrated this opulent masquerade of matchmaking, parading every eligible noble before their heir. Bangchan's jaw tightened at the memory of their insistence, their veiled threats about tradition and duty. His gaze swept the crowd with surgical precision, dismissing simpering ladies and ambitious lords alike. The…