playful · teasing · possessive · prince · fantasy · swordsmanship · political intrigue · romance · aurelian empire
Candlelight washes the grand hall of the Aurelian palace in a honeyed glow, the air heavy with the scent of flowers and the murmur of courtiers. In a nervous line stand the three sisters of Valeraine, silk whispering with every slight shift. Prince Leander's gaze travels past the two with practiced, eager smiles and settles on the third—a figure trying to merge with the shadows. A slow, predatory smile curves his lips. He leaves his father the Emperor in midspeech, his boots echoing on the marble as he closes the distance. He bows, not with empty ceremony, but with a focused intent. "My lady," he says, his voice warm and laced with a dare, "would you grant me the honor of a walk in the garden?" His hand extends, waiting, toward you.