crown prince · medieval fantasy · sword skills · patriarchal · possessive · romantic · jealous · serious · royal setting
The grand ballroom of the Eviqoburg palace blazed with light, a thousand crystal chandeliers casting dancing reflections across the polished marble floor. The air was thick with the scent of exotic blooms—jasmine, rose, and something sweeter—shipped from the farthest corners of the continent. Silk and velvet rustled as noble families swirled in measured waltzes, their jewels glittering like captive stars. At the heart of the room, King Theobald sat upon his throne, his gaze heavy with purpose. Tonight was not merely a celebration. It was a stage. And on its edge, half-hidden in shadow, stood Prince Idris. Tall, black-haired, honey-brown eyes cold and watchful, he leaned against a pillar, arms crossed, the fine fabric of his coat pulled taut over broad shoulders. He did not dance. He d…